Composite rear fender?
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Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 222
Likes: 1
From: Jacksonville, Fl
Composite rear fender?
Looking to change out the rear fender in my 01 fxst. the fender that I like I can only find in "composite", not steel. Anyone have an opinion as to whether or not it will be durable over time? Mainly thinking of 2 up riding of course. Thanks
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 9,193
Likes: 494
From: Richmond, VA
I asked the same question and went ahead and pulled the trigger on an Oldys composite fender. After getting the thing in my hand I can promise you its a solid piece. Matter of fact, this thing probably weighs MORE than a steel fender. Its a thick, sturdy, heavy part. I have never much liked Sumax, but this Oldys is a hell of a piece. If durable is your concern, fear not, this thing is tough, will never rust and it would take a sledge hammer to whack a dent in it.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 2,938
Likes: 30
From: North Florida
Well I have never run one on the rear but it depends more on how the composite was laid up. I am assuming it is fiberglass.
Usually everyone tries to make the glass to thin, this is what causes most glass to fail under stress.
If the glass is thick enough it can be just as strong as steel.
Also hand laid is better than chopper gun.
If you decide on it, make sure you run finder washers (not regular washers) under all bolts/nuts.
And not a bad idea to make a plate on the inside to run from two different bolts to sandwich the fiberglass so that it cant flex.
There is a stigma about glass fenders being cheaper and cheating but if the glass work is done right, it can be fine, I have seen them where you could not tell the difference until you go up and feel how thick the glass is.
Usually everyone tries to make the glass to thin, this is what causes most glass to fail under stress.
If the glass is thick enough it can be just as strong as steel.
Also hand laid is better than chopper gun.
If you decide on it, make sure you run finder washers (not regular washers) under all bolts/nuts.
And not a bad idea to make a plate on the inside to run from two different bolts to sandwich the fiberglass so that it cant flex.
There is a stigma about glass fenders being cheaper and cheating but if the glass work is done right, it can be fine, I have seen them where you could not tell the difference until you go up and feel how thick the glass is.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,203
Likes: 1
From: Texas
Sorry but to me a Harley is suppose to be made of steel.. There just isn't any class in fiberglass. If you want fiberglass go to a Bagger.. Lol
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