I'm installing a sissy bar on my 2009 street Bob from Kicker Parts. It fits...when I don't have my mounting brackets on...

Do I need to have these on the bike? I have tried everything to get this thing on and the only result that works is running it without the brackets.

One end of the brackets is threaded so I would switch out the torx bolts for hex bolts and a nut... Here's a pic of the bracket.

 

Of course it will work without, but I guess with these brackets it would be easier on the fender.

 

I don't think I've said **** so many times in 3 hours