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Hey guys I have a 04 1150 R and I need the 18 k service done. I am having it done like everything else I have ever had done at the dealership and it's gonna cost me around $300. Is there a way for a guy like me (knows extremely little about mechanics but can follow pictures in chronological order) to be able to service the bike myself? I do not have many tools just the basics in the toolbox. Also, I heard you need a specail tool to get the oil filter off and is there a site that has pictures on how to do the oil change. Hopelfully somebody here can help me save some money!!!! Thanks!

You can, and should, learn to do this yourself. It is not that hard if you carefully follow directions. Get a manual like from Clymers' or Haines and search the archives of this board for procedures, tips and tricks.

Working on your bike yourself is rewarding in many ways:
It saves you money,
It lets you know what's going bad that you might not have noticed otherwise,
You'll do a better job than anybody because you'll take the time work carefully,
and it's good to know you can (probably) fix it if you need to on the road.

Good luck!

If I can fix a bike anyone can. Honestly if you can read and follow basic instructions you can do all maintenence. You will save enough to pay for all the tools you need a by doing the first maintenence. Just remember NOTHING needs to be forced to go back together, don't ask how I learned this costly lesson.

Wando,
Get in with a group who has Tech-Daze when lots of knowledge is generously shared. Your other option is to find a capable friend who will work with you for the first few times until you are skilled yourself.
Whatever you pay for tools and equipment, you'll get it back in savings on your first service.

Check out the other forums on this site here, we have a maintenance section:

http://www.r1150r.org/board/viewforum.php?f=14

Also MikeCams Barbie pictorial in the FAQ:

http://www.r1150r.org/board/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=6837