Should I set the preload to '1 helmet + luggage' if I mount a large topbo

I would send the suspension off to Denzo to give it a good service, it sounds like it is past its best.
You will then know it is working correctly, and different settings should feel different. At your weight you are on the overlap between settings, it all depends on your riding style.
Try all the different combinations of settings so you get a feel for what is going on, you will soon work out you own range of likes.
 
As with any bike, you should measure sag for different scenarios; without the top box, with the top box empty, with the top box full, etc, and with all three preload options to see which preload option brings you closest to the ideal sag number. There are many guides on the internet showing how to do this, it’s not GS specific.

I personally find that the 58L top box with the work laptop, change of clothes, shoes, etc (ahem… the 10kg max load) is fine on the single helmet setting for country roads and city roads. But on motorways it catches with wind and the total force makes the bike squat so I put it on the 1+luggage for this kind of riding.

Your experience may vary and by measuring sag - going through the process logically and scientifically - you’ll have accurate information to go from.
 
Don’t over think it, if it feels ok to you that’s all that matters.

I ride in low preload and road mode most of the time on my 2021 as auto seems to over preload the rear and make it a harsher ride than it needs to be. If I want to stiffen it up a little I run in dynamic mode with preload still on low.
Auto preload and dynamic damping give the sportiest feel, but it’s not a GS at that point and I like that floaty GS feeling.

Prior to the ESA bikes I used to just ride and maybe crank a couple of turns of preload on if I was loaded up with 70+kg of passenger and luggage, that also managed to work for many many thousands of miles.

A 14lb top box isn’t making any massively noticeable difference, stick to what feels right.
 
Nippy Normans supply Touratech, Wunderlich, Desert Fox and many other makes of accessories.
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