I had to cut the trip knob unfortunately to be able to remove the gauge from the old bezel. Not exactly how i would have it done, but didn't have much choice, and that path seemed the most feasible at the time. Now it is all put together.
I cut a section of a clear drinking straw, sleeve it over the plastic rod on the knob side and leave about 1/4" extra sticking out. Then I sleeve the extra end on the plastic rod over on the gauge side and it stays. Fortunately I was able to retain the knob function as the straw is on there really tight. Thinking of adding epoxy to make it more permanent, but from just the friction of the straw the trip knob stays on.
Every weekend I am always presented with two options, ride the CBX or work on the CBX. If i decide the latter, it has always been a difficult experience, however it rewards me with an amazing ride every time afterwards. Plus I learn so much every time I decide to work on it myself. The difficult experience is definitely worth it.