How to remove O2 sensor

[CB1100AZ_imp]

I have a 2013 CB1100 that I am planning to remove the header and have it Jet Hot or ceramic coated. I have a 17mm deep socket that I am going to cut a slot in in order to accomodate the sensor wire when I remove the O2 sensor from the header. Should I disconnect the sensor from the wiring harness and remove it along with the header or is there enough slack in the wire to allow me to drop the header down far enough to remove the sensor from the header while the sensor is still on the bike? Also can I expect the sensor to unsrew relatively easy from the header or will it be difficult to remove because of the heating and cooling of the header?
Any tips on the removal process will be appreciated.