To all the Old Skool guys here - Glad to see you still Wrenchin and Rollin.
Those of you who are starting out or fairly new to the biking world are fortunate. Overall better products on the market and between sites like HD-Forums, the internet, and a good shop manual you can tackle just about anything.
BEWARE - while I truly support everyone wrenching on their own scooter, learning what makes it go and stop - know when you're OVER YOUR HEAD.
Unlike a car that might leave you on the side of the road - some mistakes on your bike could get you killed. Brakes - bearing - wheels - gears etc.
Do your work - double check it - do a few low speed test runs and recheck yourself.
Listen to some of the guys that have been down the long road (Biker Codes).
In the day - nobody touched your bike but you and you didn't touch others without being asked. Know your ride, ride what you know, Ride to Live.
See You down the road.

 

I wrote this because I just bought a Shovelhead that I am trying to get roadworthy. To look at her all Shiney, Clean, and looking ready, some might have just jumped on her are hit the road.
Fortunately the last owner told me all the things HE HAD DONE. After checking one or two, now I will be redoing everything he touched, plus checking lots of other things. When I'm done anything may break or go out, but I'll have the comfort of knowing what I did was right.
Ridin is more than just starting your bike and riding off.

 

+1 on this!!! im getting ready to start re-building my first bike. a 1980 ironhead. love getting my hands dirty!!!!

 

Good post. Im re-doing an older sporty for my wife. Every time I take it for a test ride I'm worried that something might break. I know who did the work...ME! lol