| djb>
As far as checking oil is concerned, I've said it before, but just use a small "shaving" type mirror. Prop it at about 45 degrees (against a wall?) on the floor by the side of your bike. Sit astride the bike and look at the sight-glass in the mirror. I can do this quite easily even in the dark, by shining a torch on the mirror. You have to wait a while for the oil level to move up, especially when the oil is cold. If you're too impatient, you may panic yourself into thinking that the level's lower than it really is.
BTW even on bikes without quick-release fuel fittings (mine's like that), there's no need to drain the tank to remove it. Honest! | 
Threaded Mode