Removing the rear shock (on an AR)

[PJCRM]

Hi. I am looking to remove the rear shock and am part way stripped down. (bike not me...) Reading the manual it indicates that the air box should be removed and in order to do that the rear sub frame and silencer should be removed. Although I am happy to proceed if that is the right approach, I thought I would check with forum members before going any further. Can anyone advise?
Thanks, Phil.

[knackeredMk1]

Makes it almost impossible if you don't do as you say.