Looking for hard mount saddlebags to go on a Fat Bob equipped with Howard's piggyback Ohlins shocks. I have discovered this is not a simple thing. I would like detachable but my understanding is none of the usual bracket systems will accommodate the shock reservoirs. Anybody got any suggestions?

 

Back when I was running bags that were way to big and entirely the wrong shape for a Dyna, I had the same issue with trying to clear the shocks. I was forced to use throw over supports to push the bags away from the bike and shocks, and use 3/8 threaded rod to hang the bags. I already had the support brackets so all it cost was some hardware. Not sure I have ever seen brackets you could buy that will clear those reservoirs, but maybe others will chime in and help. I foresee you making something yourself, unless your talking about small slanted bags you could move toward the rear with something like EZ Brackets (if Easy Brackets themselves would clear the shock reservoirs). Otherwise, it sounds like you'll be stuck with throw overs.

 

You may be able to change the shocks so that the reservoirs are on the front. I've seen them mounted that way before...

 

Seen them flipped as well to the front. Pretty sure the shocks won't loose any performance that way but you may want to call them just to make sure.

 

No problem. I just flipped the reservoirs forward...and they fit fine with my Boss Bags ('97 WG).

 

EricInNCa & Bo_Jangles are correct. Because the shocks are a separated system (no nitrogen mixes with the shock oil by a separator piston, you can mount the all 4 ways. I discourage mounting them with the shaft up because the dirt washes down into the shaft oil seal and makes wear. Depending on what I am doing, I mount my ressys out front and so does many others. IN no way mounting the shocks in this manor will cause any difference in performance. It does make the compression valve much easier to change and if you have a cool chick you can teach her to change the settings while underway. Better than a computer!

 

That's the way to do it then. I thought I'd just fish a bit for a bag that might fit with the shocks in the conventional position.

This is a great forum by the way.

 

are the ohlins worth the price for a daily rider?

 

That's a tough one. I can only try and answer that with reference to my context. I ride my bike on a lot of roads in ordinary condition and I like to push it a bit. I also weigh in the region of 240lbs (120kg). In my opinion/case, a suspension upgrade is mandatory.

I also intend to keep this bike for a long time and I am willing to spend money to make it how I want it.

I also rode a lot of dirtbikes when I was younger (still do; slowly) and I believe Ohlins is one of the few products that can back up the hype. They make well-put-together stuff that works; in my opinion.

As soon I installed the shocks the bike felt genuinely better; safer. Again; in my opinion.

The first ride after you install the rear shocks really shows up the forks for what they are. Not good; especially if you're big and heavy. This is where I was headed. It's all about stopping and turning for me; I mean a HARLEY that stops and turns. I don't listen to this train of thought that says 'if you want a sports bike by something else'. I think Harley's are a rider's bike and I want to ride mine as hard as I can. I went for Ohlins cartridges in the forks as well. Turning the standard 49mm forks into something performing equal or better to a modern sportsbike was a no brainer for me. You can have your cake and eat it too; at a price. However, on this one, I understand the benefit/cost ratio scrutiny and it isn't for everyone. Do something with those front forks though.

These days there seem to be smaller companies popping up that make more sophisticated suspension options that will fit Harley Dyna's (I guess some of it is branded stuff made who-knows-where). There are options in these that would get the job done at a cost below Ohlins; however I went with Ohlins because of the above. I also went Ohlins because Howard gives you a complete package and some good conversation.

Sorry for the long winded reply. I guess I should have just said I'm more than happy with the shocks.