Style vs. Functionality Question!
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 26
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From: Maryland
Style vs. Functionality Question!
Hey everyone I have an 09 Street Bob and this winter I plan on doing some work to it. I've run into the age old question of style vs. functionality and I need everyones advise! Either I want to chop the rear fender and put on the Voodoo fender from RocketBobs (which would also include lowering it 1" and LED turn signals etc) OR keep the stock fender and put a nice pair of saddle bags on it. I already know each are two different ends of the spectrum and styles of riding which is whats killing me. Chopped fender for short rides (aka no long stays anywhere out of state lol) and looking nice, or bags so I can go on long trips outta state and pack whatever I need. If anyone has some good advise my ears are open.
(The picture is of the Voodoo fender made by RocketBobs and is exactly how my bike would look. Sorry I don't have a picture of the bags because I haven't decided on which I would get)
(The picture is of the Voodoo fender made by RocketBobs and is exactly how my bike would look. Sorry I don't have a picture of the bags because I haven't decided on which I would get)
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,938
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From: NC
I actually was seconds from buying a Rocket Bobs rear fender as we all know its the coolest rear fender for the StreetBob. I decided to pass on it and spend the $$ on other goodies. Then later on I decided to look into luggage options after trucking 400 miles with a backpack stuffed and realized that it sucked not having some kind fo luggage carrying ability. I looked into luggage options and discovered just how versatile the bike can be with keeping those struts. A guy can basically have a touring bike just buy having a set of quick detatch saddlebags/ quick detatch sissybar with a T Bag Super T/ and a quick detatch windshield. These parts can be on and off in a 1/2 hour and will make the difference between a enjoyable trip or a miserable trip. My vote is whatever you do keep the struts. I actually like the 06 Streetbob full rear fender, but the chopped one looks good with a 180/200 tire as well.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2,289
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From: Beautiful Downtown Burbank
I'm just guessin here, but since you bought the Bob instead of another model, you already know what direction youre headed in. I say go with whats in your heart, and salute the rest of us with an opinion
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Joined: Jun 2010
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From: coast to coast
The fender looks great, but I was chose not to down this road for a couple of reasons...
1. have to chop off the struts (irreversible) so no passengers...ever. My kids ride with me sometimes, so this was a no go.
2. Don't like the handling on lowered bikes. Too rigid on bumps and tracks poorly in turns, especially aggressive turning...which brings me to last reason...
3. Loss of turning clearance. You have plenty of twisty roads, as I do in SoCal, and I'm no racer but i like to be able to lean when i want to. Plus I have to keep up with my wife on her Ducati from time to time.
Not everyone has a problem with these things...some tour on rigid frames with out rubber mounted engines either and love it. Does look damn good, but I ride everyday and that's not a ride I'd enjoy.
1. have to chop off the struts (irreversible) so no passengers...ever. My kids ride with me sometimes, so this was a no go.
2. Don't like the handling on lowered bikes. Too rigid on bumps and tracks poorly in turns, especially aggressive turning...which brings me to last reason...
3. Loss of turning clearance. You have plenty of twisty roads, as I do in SoCal, and I'm no racer but i like to be able to lean when i want to. Plus I have to keep up with my wife on her Ducati from time to time.
Not everyone has a problem with these things...some tour on rigid frames with out rubber mounted engines either and love it. Does look damn good, but I ride everyday and that's not a ride I'd enjoy.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
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From: NC
I want to also add that now I officially hate the Original Poster. You have rubbed salt in an old wound! I freakin love the way the Street Bob looks with that rear fender! I stand by my original post.... I think? 
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 26
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From: Maryland
Im def taking what everyone says in. I don't have kids or wife so I ride alone so I dont have a need for a seat. I know Parts Eeter is going to hate me for saying this but I just dont know bout the look of the Bob with bags on it, it looks like its trying to be a bagger but smaller. Are there any smaller bags that would look good on it?