Morning all.
Good to know that you enjoyed your day here Paul, despite the monsoon style weather, & I'm pleased to hear that the bike felt somewhat better on the return home.
Pauls bike did highlight some of the unexpected issues that occur which can catch the the DIY'er out when self servicing. Namely the steering bearings needed replacing, & one of the rear linkage bolts was semi seized & appeared to have been done up by King Kongs bigger brother.
Steering bearings are easy to change if you're experienced, but over the years I have seen many steering stems &/or frames damaged by folks who don't have the neccessary tools or know how to accomplish it.
When it comes to seized or over tightened bolts, I doubt that all but the most enthusiastic DIY'er would have the vast array of different tools that I have acquired over the years. For example I have roughly 6 of each common spanner size, extra long ones for more leverage, & stubby ones for better access etc. Most stay on the rack from one week to the next, but when I encounter a stubborn fastener, or need to access something from a different angle they come into their own.
Then I have a comprehensive 'arsenal' of air tools for when the going gets really tough!
I've never had a problem with working on a customers bike in front of them. As said, it shows that I have confidence in my workmanship, & I work on the principle that as the customer you're entitled to know where your money's going. Also as Paul said you will get to learn a little bit more about your bike.
Cheers.
P.S. The banter is pretty good here too!