R1100RT/P Newbie question about brakes and susprnsion

[gerrywide]

Hi
My name is Gerry and I live in Phoenix AZ and am new to this message board. I recently purchased a used 2000 R1100 RT/P from, believe it or not, an auto dealership. The owner thought he could take advantage of the last round of high gas prices by selling motorcycles auctioned off by the California Highway Patrol. Anyway my son and I got a really good deal on a pair of them.
I only have pdf files of the maintainance manual and the graphics are real poor. I'm trying to find out how to check the front brake pad wear without having to disassemble the calipers. The instructions point to some indicator marks but I can't make them out in the picture. Are there better photos online somewhere that better describe these marks. Also I notice the front suspension seems rough, small bumps are really jarring. Is the front shock easily replaced? Are there any GOOD service manuals availible for this bike?

Thanks

[iowabeakster]

I am not very familiar with the R1100's. But I think pulling the caliper off to take a look at the pads would take you less than 5 minutes.

If your suspension is jarring on small bumps, I would first try adjusting the shock "softer." I am assuming that there is an adjustment. Like I said I don't know the r1100's.

[single650]

Welcome to the forum.

I always check the pads by looking up by the disk from the wheel centre (you need a torch) less than 1/8" I think about changing them

[Sit]

Gerry, look at your pads from the front using a flashlight, you should be able to see several slots in the edge of the pad, as long as the slots are still there, you should be good. If the pad is worn to the point of not seeing the slots, you need new pads. If you would like, I can try to send you a photo of my manual that shows the slots and what to look for on the rear brakes. You can take the calipers off, but not needed and if not careful, you may scratch your rims.