I need to service my forks (1999) and it looks like fairing removal is required for adequate access. ...
Looks can be deceiving...
Loosen up the bar riser pinch bolt, the two cap screws on the riser(s), then loosen the fork cap FIRST!
Jack under the oil pan, remove calipers, wheel, fender, and chromed brake line bracket/guide thingies.
12mm box wrench on one side of the pinch bolts, a 12mm deep well socket (3/8" drive) on the other and turn.
A second method (you need tools/luck) is to remove wheel, calipers, fender, and guide thingies. Remove lower bolt from inside the lower fork (impact wrench), oil will puke over everything. Slip dust wiper up off the lower fork tube, remove 'clip' holding fork seal in, 'slide hammer' the lower fork tube off.
The major issue with the latter method is seating the fork seal back in.
Rick