Picking my new ride up this week and am wondering how easy it is to install the quick release sissy bar and rack or should I let the dealer install it. Also, is anyone aware of an after market fixed sissy bar and rack that fits?

 

I put mine on myself and it was pretty easy. You'll need to buy the docking hardware kit to install first and that's about the hardest part of the whole job. Take your time and only do one side at a time. Instructions are pretty good except they forgot to mention a couple of things. There's a spacer between the fender and support you're suppose to remove and discard. But it has a thick washer that is glued to it. I popped that off and reused on the docking hardware. There's also a couple of plastic rivets with barbs on them you'll need to carefully push in till they fall off. You'll also need some dental floss to cut the reflectors off and some goo-gone to take any sticky stuff left behind.
Very easy job. Just take your time, get a six pack and turn on some music. You'll save yourself a couple hundred dollars.

 

I put mine on last night and wasn't too bad. I did find some issues with the new set up being so tight it didn't want to latch in place with the docking hardware torqued down. I simple left them a little loose popped the sissy bar in place and tightened down. Worked for me.

My local shop wanted $200 labor to install mine. To hell with that!

P.S. Like Cecharles mentioned.. Be sure to get the docking hardware. Runs around $30 for the kit. Also snag you some red and blue lock tight for instillation.

 

were you guys able to do everything without disconnecting the shocks?

 

Shocks stay on. No need to disconnect them.

 

web,

are you reading this too?

he and I were both wondering as we each have this to do next.

 

I did it without moving shocks by myself, another pair of hands would have helped, but when doesn't it. It's not hard, just takes some time, don't force it. I did cross thread one bolt but had a thread chaser. Under the fender is a bracket with built in bolts, kinda soft.

 

Yeah man I'm reading it. Thanks.

 

did mine yesterday, i posted some hopefully helpfull photos on the swithback site

 

The Docking Hardware kit for the Switchback is ~$99 - not $30. It's a lot more expensive than the other docking kits. This is because of the chrome plates which are included. Also it's very important to remember to add the tape to the saddlebag lid edges as instructed. Otherwise the paint will chip when it strikes the mounts.