Installing universal saddlebags may require some modifications.
Motorcycle saddlebags are available in a staggering assortment or shapes, sizes and mounting possibilities. Installing a set of saddlebags designed primarily for your motorcycle should be as simple as installing a mounting bracket and replacing a few bolts to suit. However, universal saddlebags may be harder to install, since the saddlebags and their mounting hardware are made to fit most motorcycles with a small amount of modification. Care must be taken when mounting these universal saddlebags to prevent damaging or interfering with the motorcycle's wheels, chain or suspension. Allow at least one hour to finish this project.
Instructions
Throw-over Saddlebags
1. Remove or open the motorcycle's seat, either unlocking the seat release mechanism with the ignition key or removing the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench.
2. Lay the saddlebags over the motorcycle's frame and rear fender, centering the bag's connecting strap between the frame's rails. Adjust the position of the saddlebags by moving them forward or backward along the frame. Check to ensure that the saddlebags will not prevent the rear suspension from moving freely or rub against the rear wheel and chain. Reposition the saddlebags as needed.
3. Secure the saddlebags to the frame using the quick-release straps provided with the saddlebags. Wrap the strap over the motorcycle's frame rails and pull the bottom of the strap through the loop at the top of the strap. Clip the straps' connectors onto the saddlebag Tighten the straps with their sliding adjuster clips until the saddlebags are fastened securely to the frame.
4. Reinstall or lower the seat onto the motorcycle. Tighten the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench or lock the seat release mechanism with the ignition key.
Hard-Mount Saddlebags
5. Remove or open the motorcycle's seat, either unlocking the seat release mechanism with the ignition key or removing the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench.
6. Remove the bolts from the right side of the rear fender support with a socket wrench. Place the saddlebag mounting brackets over the fender support and insert the fender's mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts with a socket wrench.
7. Place the right saddlebag against the mounting brackets. Adjust the position of the saddlebag on the brackets until there is at least 1inch of clearance above the mufflers. Check that the saddlebag does not interfere with the motorcycle's suspension and rear wheel. Mark the position of the brackets' mounting holes on the back of the saddlebag with a permanent pen. Pull the saddlebag away from the brackets.
8. Lay the saddlebag on a towel, facing the back of the saddlebag upwards. Drill holes into the back of the saddlebag with an electric drill at the marked areas.
9. Mount the right saddlebag onto the mounting brackets using the bolts included with the saddlebags. Insert the bolts from the back of the brackets and into the saddlebag. Screw a nut onto the mounting bolts from inside the saddlebag and tighten them with a socket wrench.
10. Mount the left saddlebag and brackets following the same procedure. Reinstall or lower the seat onto the motorcycle. Tighten the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench or lock the seat release mechanism with the ignition key.
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