From my experience the only way to remove the hood without damaging it is to really take the extra step and completely remove the headlight, loosen the handlebars and pull them up out of the way as far as you can. Another set of hands makes it even easier to pull the hood up and make sure electrical, brake lines, etc. don't get snagged on it as you remove it. It's a real pain but it's the best way to make sure your nice new plastic doesn't get all scratched up immediately by the steering stem.

 Removing or installing old plastic during cold weather can be detrimental to the health of your plastic, unless you have the room at about 100 deg F or higher.