I have read where the 16 and earlier hardware that holds the bags on fail and bags have even fell off going down the road. Thus the reason Harley changed the hardware in 17. I was going to change the hardware to the new Harley hardware, but I didn't like the way the bolt stuck out into the bag. It looked to me it would hang everything going in and out. I was looking at the rickrack strapless bag system and noticed they have a hardware set that doesn't stick out into the bag, looks like a great idea. I had some questions and I called Shane at rickrack and he couldn't have been any nicer and answered all my questions and concerns. I ordered the hardware and a bag system. So check them out and the products they have, lots of neat stuff.
Allen

 

There was a recall for '14 and '15 models. I haven't seen anything about the '16s, nor did I have any trouble with the bags on my 15. Here's a link to an article that discusses the issue and models involved.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/news...sue/ar-AAdoXYw

 

I went with the HD "upgrade"....they work great!

 

yes, the new hardware sticks out in the bags a little. but i have not found that they interfere with anything putting in or taken out. also, if you notice, the u-nuts that are provided in the kit are much more substantial than the ones that are 'pieced' together from the hardware store. the bolts themselves have built in lock washers and as you tighten them down, will 'click' and not back off on their own. and if bought from a discount dealer, you can get them for around the $35.00 mark.