Today I stripped down the bike and took off the fuel tank.  Took about an hour of research, hesitating and triple checking the manual, then the actual job took about 15 minutes.  I had to do this to install the wiring, switch, and relay for the running lights which arrived the other day. I also managed to drop the bike on its side for the first time as I was shaking it back and forth to find a bolt that fell down somewhere.  Never did find it....

Hi Folks
Worked on some safety modifications today.  Most motorcycle accidents are a result of a car not seeing the motorcycle.  Studies show motorcyclists who wear bright colors and high visibility gear are significantly less likely to be involved in a motor vehicle accident.  As a "cager", as I found out car drivers are called, I know the feeling of seeing a motorcycle come out of nowhere.  We've all been there.  A lot of risk is associated with motorcycling, and one has to be aware and accept this risk.  One can also do things to mitigate the risk.  We've all seen the douchebags riding down the highway doing 90 in shorts and flip flops, and no helmet if it's legal.  That's not for me.  I don't want to end up as a red smudge on the pavement.  ATGATT is a mantra of the adventure riding community. It means All The Gear All The Time.  Period.  If I ride 2 miles down the road to the hardware store, I spend the 15 mins gearing up.  Boots, armored suit, helmet, gloves.  No exceptions.  So in this spirit I added some high visibility reflective tape to my panniers. (side luggage for you cagers)

Here you can see the night time reflective tape.  Also have some front spot lights on order, as the stock headlight is pretty weak.  I don't plan on doing a lot of night riding, but you never know, so I want to be prepared.  I'll post up when they're on and installed.  2.5 months to go......