I bought some new handlebars and associated bits to get them installed. I was going to do the job myself, but I also determined my neck bearing is a bit loose. That's more than I want to chew on. Also, I figure at 54,000 miles, I might as well have the bearing replaced while it's open.

I found an local independent shop who quoted a fair price for labor. They'll be doing the neck bearing and the handlebar install - along with new handlebar bushings. I've never been there before, but the bike goes in Tuesday.

Wish me luck!

 

Part of aging gracefully is understanding when your capabilities and schedule may not allow you to do a proper job. Good on you for not getting in over your head.

 

Sometimes it is best to have someone that you trust take care of things. There are a lot of really good, independent mechanics out there and when you do find one - be sure and frequent them often. Good luck!

 

Look at it this way, you just saved yourself from being the next guy to add to the hundreds of "I just installed new bars and..." threads

 

As Clint Eastwood said, "A man's got to know his limitations."

I've done most of the maintenance on my bike, but for various reasons over the years I have had a dealer or indy do work on it. I'm not too proud to pay a professional to do a job if I don't feel qualified or just don't have the time or proper tools. The ones that come to mind for me are tire changes and the ABS brake flush.

 

20 years ago Id have scoffed at someone who couldn't change their own bars. It used to be about 8-10 fasteners and a 30 minute job. 'Back in my day' I could do just about anything short of re-boring cylinders by myself. Nowadays Im scared to death to even change my own brake fluid for fear of it turning into a 500 dollar trip to the dealer.