Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB - XT600E 2002 (Standard)

Hi all,
After following a few forums and a fair bit of research, I decided on the XT600E over other makes and models for my long lusted Africa excursion.
I based my choice of bike on the facts that the pre 2003 XT appears a simple, tough and reliable form of transport (fingers crossed).

The bike I have bought appears to be in a good condition. It only has 1,100miles on the clock, never been dropped, been started fairly regularly (even if not ridden), no funny noises or smells. The bike is due for a service and MOT in 2 months time so this should pick up a few of the unknowns. In the mean time, I have enrolled on a 10 week mechanics course which hopefully will teach me the basics of how to self service, fix punctures etc etc....

(Any suggestion on what I need to learn would be appreciated!!!)

So now I have a stock standard XT, my question is what do I need to do to the bike to prep it for the trip - I am hoping to find a travel companion, and then do a good bit of dirt track......as well as tarred roads.

Below are my thoughts....
1. I would imagine that a long range tank is fairly imperative - are the only tanks available Acerbis ? or are there any other suggestions besides filling up water bottles and burying them in the paniers ?

2. A sump guard

3. I was wondering if the standard lights are sufficient or is one needs to mount additional spots ?

4. Does one need to strengthen the rear frame to handle additional load ? - I usually travel light, however unsure of the weight of all the additional gear - tent, spares, fishing rod...etc....

5. Panier rack/ mount - any suggestion on what is best ?

6. Additional dials (Oil temp) and mounted Plug sockets. How many sockets should one mount ? - and I have also read of them being mounted underneath or along side the seat so that one can charge items in ones luggage on the back of the bike ? I was considering 2 or 3 power sockets...one for the GPS, another to charge rechargeable batteries...and one "just in case" - may be over kill. Can one buy a mount for the dashboard ?

7. I read that stronger rims are a good option to prevent having to tighten the spokes every few days, especially after long days off road ?

8. A wind shield - I am amazed that the wind buffering is not worse at 50mph. Any suggestion on what should be bought ?

9. I am used to riding my CBR600. The little brake light at the rear of the XT makes me slightly nervous.....was contemplating mounting a lighthouse near the rear to make me more noticable...esp on London roads. Any ideas on whether one can beef up the rear lights...add a few LED's ? - or am I being a baby ?

As I said, the bike appears in fabulous condition. I do feel slightly sick making changes to a perfectly good bike....but I suppose these can all be seen as enhancements.

Appreciate any advice given or suggestions for things that may be NB but I have completely over looked.

Thanks