Getting it in wasn't quite a bad as the manual implied. Of course, I didn't do it the way the manual instructed... the manual wants you to take down a lot more than is necessary.
Since the rear wheel had to come down, I got a chance to check the wheel bearings and final drive splines. All looked good, so after fitting new rear brake pads the rear end was put back together.
A short ride on Sunday proved that it was money well spent - as great as the fork upgrade was by itself, the shock made it that much better. I'd never really understood the difference suspension upgrades could make to a motorcycle until I did my research and then upgraded my forks last year. I couldn't believe that a vehicle could be so badly under-sprung from the factory.
I'm now a believer.
With the upgraded shock, the ride is very different - firm, but not harsh, with plenty of road feedback instead of just bottoming out the rear suspension. I had the stock spring dialed in pretty well, but this is just that much better.
The odometer rolled over 50,000 miles on the ST1300 this weekend. I'm only somewhat ashamed to admit that only about 500 of those miles were put on this year. At least I have a good excuse.
