Captain Chaos

could be from the choke circuit, in the plastic float holder thing. They tend to fall out. Compare with another carb as Koko said.

yes it's possible and yes it's worth.

yes wrong. The back end lifts when opening the throttle.

one of the very few shaft driven bikes I like.

yes, 750 has 10mm lower engine mount, 1200 has 12mm

good semi-synthetic oils can handle up to 140 degrees. But 110 is a safe maximum. When I took Fatty for a ride in 30 degrees and sunshine the oil gauge didn't show more than 90-95. Is the oil cooler clear? Not blocked?

those are low friction brakes.

http://old-skool-suzuki.proboards.com/thread/5886/sbs-friction-rear-brake-pads

faulty oil temp gauge?

I was 28 in 2004 as well. Young and stupid. Now I'm just stupid. Nice pics by the way. I have never been at an OSS party (living a bit far away doesn't help) but I recognise many faces and bikes.