Either soft- or hard-side saddlebags can be installed on most motorcycles.
Saddlebags are used by motorcycle riders for storage and portability of items that would otherwise be difficult to carry on a bike. The design of saddlebags on motorcycles has changed and developed over the years. There are many more options on the market today than just the sI, leather bags that used to rule the market. Installing saddlebags on a bike can add style and functionality to any motorcycle.
Instructions
1. Prepare the fender bolt area on the bike for the saddlebags by cleaning the area to remove any dirt or grim. Failure to properly clean this area could result in permanent scratches to the bike once the saddlebags are installed.
2. Install the mounting brackets to the rear fender of the bike. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for this step as different brands of saddlebags have unique mounting instructions. Contact the manufacturer if the directions are unclear or take the bags and the bike to a cycle shop for help.
3. Position the saddlebags onto the mounting brackets. Inspect the position of the bags before securing them to the mounting brackets to make sure the bags aren't hanging to low or rubbing a part of the bike they shouldn't.
4. Attach the saddlebags to the mounting brackets, using the included bolts and nuts. Align the holes in the saddlebag with the holes in the mounting bracket and insert the bolts. Tighten the bolts with the ratchet set until the bolts are secure and the saddlebags are no longer able to shift. Repeat this step for the saddlebag on the other side.
5. Examine the installed saddle bags for straightness. The bags should sit across the back of the bike evenly to avoid creating an imbalance while riding the bike.
6. Take the bike for a short ride and then recheck the bags. Make sure the bolts are still tight and that the bags are secure.
Tags: mounting brackets, saddlebags installed, this step
