2014-2024 Touring Models This Section Is For Rushmore and Gen 1 M8 Touring models from 2014 to 2024
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 09:20 AM
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Default Must Haves

I have a new to me 14 SG that is basically bone stock. What are the "must haves" as far as accessories/improvements that I should be looking at? I'm not as worried about cosmetics as much as function and riding comfort. Performance is also secondary, I already have a fast bike(not this one.) This bike's purpose is more of a 250-600 mile a day bike.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 09:26 AM
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Gas in the tank.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 09:49 AM
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Highway pegs, handlebars that fit you. Seat that is built for the long haul. Some good riding tunes on a thumb drive. I've gone on line and googled "Epic Heavy metal music" "Epic battle music" etc and found hour long cuts of real good jammin music that keeps ya awake and alert on long trips. My recent trip I covered over a 1000 miles in three separate days with that music stuff.
 

Last edited by EasternSP; Aug 12, 2017 at 09:51 AM.
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 10:05 AM
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Don't over fill the engine oil, half way up the stick is good or a little less cold then check it hot, half way or 6/10's up the stick to minimize blow by.

Make sure your shocks are adjusted for your weight, one adjustment on the left rear shock, makes a big difference in your ride.

Make sure your headlight is adjusted, normally they are too low, makes a big difference.

The above 3 items don't cost anything but some of your time to set up the bike.

Safe ridding.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 10:53 AM
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Suspension upgrades would be at the top of the list for function & riding comfort, followed by windshield & fairing air deflectors. For better visibility, swap out front turn signal/running lamps with CD's Dynamic Ringz.

Lots of suspension pieces to choose from. I'm using Ohlins in the back, H-D single cartridge kit in front. Custom built shocks designed for your weight & riding style will provide the best results. Most of the companies I've listed can do this.

There are many companies making windshields that fit. I use Freedom Shields because of product quality & customer service. Not the cheapest out there, but probably the highest quality available (subjective; you'll get other responses saying other brands are better too).

The adjustable fairing mounted wind deflectors will add to your comfort.

The CD Dynamic Ringz are pretty much a no-brainer for visibility in traffic, especially with Street Glides w/o Aux Lamps.

This list should be a good starting point. Others I'm sure can provide even more items (seats, heated grips, highway pegs, etc).


Shocks:
Front Suspension
Windshield

Fairing Air Deflectors

Turn Signal/Running Lights
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 01:01 PM
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Originally Posted by kickstartfan
Gas in the tank.
Do this and ride, you'll figure out what is a must have for you.
You don't want somebody else's bike.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 01:33 PM
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Most typically change handlebars, windshield, and seat. Everybody is built different so there's no 1 size fits all for these items. You either find somebody who already has em installed and see for yourself or buy trial and error method.

From there suspension is usually next and additional lighting like LED turn signals or fog lights or Daymakers headlights. Then you got things like passenger backrest or luggage frack or touring pack. Depending on how much additional storage you'll need on trips.

Final touches would be upgraded stereo or XM radio or other things like heated grips, phone or bottle holders etc.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 02:07 PM
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Accessories - More lights in the rear, for safety, Windshield the proper height for you.

Improvements - A seat that is comfortable for 5 or 6 hundred mile days, or better shocks.

P.S. Welcome to our Forum, lots of good info here.

John
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 02:21 PM
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Heated grips. A friend raved about them, so I put them on my RGU. After a couple chilly rides, I know I'll never have another touring bike without them.
If I was in Minnesota, that would be first on the list.

Highway pegs, seat and windshield to make the bike fit you, more/better brake lights and driving lights for visibility and safety, upgrade the suspension for more comfort and better handling, more power just because.

It never really ends. How much money do you want to spend?
 
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Old Aug 12, 2017 | 02:28 PM
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Originally Posted by deadhawg
Heated grips. A friend raved about them, so I put them on my RGU. After a couple chilly rides, I know I'll never have another touring bike without them.
If I was in Minnesota, that would be first on the list.

Highway pegs, seat and windshield to make the bike fit you, more/better brake lights and driving lights for visibility and safety, upgrade the suspension for more comfort and better handling, more power just because.

It never really ends. How much money do you want to spend?
.......................................
 
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