There can't be much of an electrical draw, my battery is OE, and I've killed it twice. Still cranks fine, and has only recently been treated to a regular 'Tender diet. As for weight? Yeah, she's a voluptuous girl, so the electronics are a moot point; can't be much. But, in my opinion,
definitely go with the ES. Not only does it simplify the preload setting when you go from passenger to solo, or loaded like a pack mule to bare bones. But, for me anyway, the best thing is being able to change the rebound/compression when the road conditions change . . . . on the fly. The ES also gets OE heated grips. . . . for when you travel out of California.
I
think Tabasco was referring to the "hardware" of the e-suspension when he mentioned the "refresh". The electronics adjust the hardware, which are the wear items.
I don't blame you for being concerned about reliability. . . . especially after the GS. But, it's a Yamaha. I've had plenty of them, and
never had
any issues with mine. Good luck.