update and question

[joderest]

Just a quick update first.
Fitted stainless rear and front brake lines and new EBC pads. I can say that the rear brake is 100% better than stock, I feel I could lock rear wheel now, which I could not before, better feel.
I have read a few threads on here about front fork seals and replacement, I know the correct way is to dismantle the forks and fit seals, but, on my old BMW's, they ate seals, replacing every year. what I used to do is remove the forks, remove dust cover, remove the clip and washer, then using a sharp hook tool I made, hook out the old seal, clean the area up, put cling film over top of leg, and using some fresh fork oil to lube, push the new seal down the leg, and then using a washer same size as one fitted, tap seal into place, refit washer and clip, then dust seal and put the leg back.
Could not the same process work on the V Strom ?, saves about 3 hours of work.

[Hondaman]

Yes, the same set up although I've never been able to hook a seal out so do a full fork strip which gives an opportunity to check the bushes & do an oil change.

[Gert]

Some info on replacing fork seals:
https://blacklabadventures.com/2012/04/14/replacing-front-fork-seals/

[joderest]

I should add, my seals are not leaking, just wondered that when they do I can perform the same. Hooking old seals out was never a problem, just used a piece of round steel, bent at right angle, and then sharpened, knocked into seal then hooked out, carefully.

[greywolf]

I installed fork gaiters on every bike I've owned that didn't have them and have never had a seal fail. Gaiters prevent stones from gouging the fork tubes and keep bugs from hitting them so dried out bug guts don't affect the seals. Rancho RS1952 shock boots fit all V-Strom forks except the Veek. Those running with fork braces just need the bottoms cut off so the flat surface sits on the brace.

[joderest]

have to agree, fitted gaiters to the BMW in last year of ownership, never a problem with seals after that.
May have to consider for the Wee soon.

[imindoors]

I feel naked without my fork gaiters.

Suits the looks of the strom and preserves the stancions. Win win.

It's a proper bikers mod.