Another year, another 12,000kms :-) She's at 52,000kms now, which is just over the previous record for my use of a two wheeler, set by an XLR250R.
It turns out that the loosening rear axle nut is a persistent problem. The best solution so far has been a double nut (M16 x1.25 pitch) with thread lock. I will buy a new OEM nut at some point to see if that does it.
The loosening rear axle nut is the cause of the softening rear brake - as it loosens, brake gets softer until it then gets very hard with no real braking action. So I can now tell from the brake lever when the rear axle nut is loosening.
I have a leaking nearside fork seal. I bought new seals to replace it but still haven't had time to do the job and in the meantime (8 months!) most if not all of the oil has now leaked out. It doesn't seem to affect handling much, if at all, so now I'm not sure if I'll bother until I have nothing else to do - i.e. never. I'm really quite surprised that less damping has no great effect - on a motorcycle it's very noticeable.
I got new pair of Seyoun NJK tires and fitted them myself - getting pretty good at that task without doing paint damage now. They are better than the Maxxis so far - very predictable, stable, good dry grip with similar longevity and no front wobble. I haven't had a chance to test them in a downpour yet because it is the dry season still.
I took the rear engine case off at 47,000km to inspect the belt, clutch etc. due a slight increase in mechanical noise, esp when cold. The belt is wearing normally and I reckon it'll be good for 35-40,000kms until it reaches its wear limit. I don't see any way to inspect the clutch or variator without disassembling them, so I'll postpone those jobs until the belt needs replacing in about 6 months or so.
Condition wise, she's looking dull and shabby despite washes and the screen is yellowing from being parked outside while I'm indoors working. The bodywork buzzes a bit, more than before, which is mildly annoying when it gets my attention. She is showing her age and needs some light restoration with plastic polishes etc. However, it's not worth it because she is now 10 years old and has no second hand value at all here. Pride of ownership (and weekend thrills) is why I also have a Kawasaki Ninja ;-)
Well, that's about it. I guess I'll check in again when I do the clutch, variator, belt etc.