I removed the front plastics on my '05 GS this weekend. I did so for a few reasons. First, I wanted to just see how it looked (awesome). I also am nervous about dropping the bike and busting them. And finally, it makes the bike a little thinner and easier to get into its parking area (narrow path behind my house).
So I got the bolts out and saw that it was still connected to the headlight fairing with a black plastic rivet on the left and right. It's some deal where there's a ring and you put this screw-like thing in and it stays put. How do you get these out correctly? I just pushed them out a little and grabbed the screw with pliers and pulled. Of course, I broke/damaged them. So for future reference, I need to know how they are meant to be removed.
Also, now I think I need new ones. Any clue where to get them? I am probably asking the stupidest question ever, and they may just be at a hardware shop. But I wouldn't know.
Dave :dunno:
Check the dealer; little plastic bits shouldn't be much, even with a 300% markup.
I popped them out from the back without damaging them. Little hands help.
To get them out correctly, you push the center IN, then pull the whole thing out. When you put them back in, the center will be out, and you push it flush to lock it.
You can get similar fasteners at most any auto parts store.
It seemed like such a simple removal, but my hands wouldn't fit in there and I was so excited to ride that I didn't have the patience to go look at a manual or anything. So I'll go pick up some new ones soon. But for now I have it naked and it looks really nice. People have asked "why buy a bike with fairings if you want a naked bike?" And the answer is that I bought a fairinged bike because that's what I wanted but I wanted to see her with no clothes on. I'll put them back on in time, but she's too good looking to dress her back up already. :)
Speaking of which, will the dealer give me any grief when I take it in for the 500-mile maintenance if the fairings are off? It would make their job easier, but I don't want to hear any warranty crap or anything. I'm at 250 right now (I got it May 26th and I am doing all I can to get to 500, but it is Oregon) and will hopefully be taking it in before the end of the month.