[danafwelch]

Roland,
The bike needs to be upright for checking the oil level with the stock OEM dipstick which also needs to be fully screwed in and then removed. Is the optional temp gauge dipstick different than stock in terms of procedure? If not, you could be running low on oil but get a "full" reading by checking the oil while on the sidestand.

 

[danafwelch]

Good plan! I thought the same thing only perhaps using 400 grit sandpaper to give it a brushed aluminum look.

 

[danafwelch]

You know, this is not a bad idea even with the stock plastic dipstick...someone could walk off with it while the bike is parked and you're bike would be inoperative. Here's an idea: since the OEM dipstick would be cumbersome to pack, why not take an extra one, cut it off just below the cap and store it by taping it under the seat? Or even find an aluminum or plastic cap that matches. Anyone know the size and thread specs?