2002 954. With 18K miles should the fuel filter be replaced? Is there an alternative to the $47 OEM?

Are you talking about the in tank fuel filter? I havent replaced mine and I have 26k. If the bike isnt having a problem with fuel flow then I dont see a reason why you should need to. You do realize the procedures to replacing it right? You can also add a inline filter.

Yes, I was talking about the in tank fuel filter. It doesn't seem to have a problem with fuel - I'm just in the habit of changing fluids and filters when I purchase a vehicle. Based on your advice I will wait until I have a problem as I wasn't looking forward to trying to get to it. Thanks.

Its not that hard to get to, you just have to completely remove the tank, then unbolt the fuel pump from the bottom of the tank and pull the whole thing out then replace it. Although I agree with you on the replace fluids and filters I just have not done that.

There really isn't any aftermarket filters out there, just because there isn't any market for them to make a profit from fuel filters on fuel injected bikes. So you are stuck with OEM if you want to replace it. Now it is always good to replace it and I'm sure that your bike will love you to do so. But unless you are running into any running issues you don't really need to replace it. Also if you are using the bike on a reg. basis and not letting some gas go bad and varnish your tank, or let rust collect in the tank. All these things can clog a filter, and if you use race fuel that may break down the filter. Under those reasons you should replace your filter on a reg. basis. But I have about 55K miles on mine and I haven't replaced it yet. It is used daily with the exception of a few days out the year.

Buy some sea-foam n run it through your tank. It's a great fuel injection cleaner and it only cost a couple of bucks. I noticed a little better performance and fuel economy when I used this stuff.