When washing my bike I use a technique that I learned from Travis Fox. Here is the simple procedure:

1. Remove the rear fender.

2. Clean the filter retainer or completely remove the filter and clean the top of the airbox, this is a good time to check the airbox to make sure that it is clean.

3. Install a piece of duct tape over the airbox inlet.

4. Reinstall the rear fender.

5. Cover the exhaust outlet with another piece of duct tape or insert an exhaust plug.

6. Wash the bike.

7. Blow dry the bike with air pressure.

8. Remove the rear fender.

9. Blow dry the top of the airbox etc.

10. Remove the duct tape from the airbox and exhaust.

11. Service the airfilter if required.

12. Reinstall the rear fender.

13. Ride the bike.

Wayne

The 2005 models (in addition to the black plastic vertical shield in front of the airbox) are fitted with a flat rubbershield (part# C686) cut to wrap around the top of the shock, brake reservoir, and air box inlet, to further sealout any water that might rise up around the shock.

P.S. As a word of caution to those (you know who you are) thinking of drilling a hole in the bottom of the airbox to drain it - DONT!. ...but if you do then best to make sure you seal it well once drained, as it would be on the clean air side of the filter!