As some may remember, I installed a headlight modulator a short time back. Had a headlight go out Friday. After I got the bulb out it appeared that it was the victim of water damage. The rubber boot had come off when I put the modulator in. I had the bike on the tip-overs and fussed for a half hour trying to get it back on the housing.

After a short temper tantrum in the garage I went out and sealed the driveway. After that I went back to the garage, put the bike on the lift and proceeded to de-skin the bike and remove the headlight housing. Put 2 new bulbs in, installed the boots properly, neatly tied up the wires, and put the bike back together.

 Conclusion: Having done it once I found removing the headlight housing to be no big deal. Depending on how nimble your fingers are I may be able to change bulbs faster doing this than you can standing on your head trying to avoid doing it. Lost no skin, didn't get frustrated, and got the opportunity to clean and inspect some stuff you normally can't see.