RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
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Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2007
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RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
I have had my '07 RK Custom for a little over a month. It started off slightly, but now, the leather on my saddlebags is very loose along the sides of the lids and the sides of the bags. It looks like a bunch of air pockets underneath, but the entire leather seems detached from the hard shell below it.
Is this normal, and is anyone else having this same problem?
Thanks for the feedback.
Is this normal, and is anyone else having this same problem?
Thanks for the feedback.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 6,913
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From:
RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
Many on here have the problem with the RKClassic bags. The solution reported by some is to apply the leather treatment that came with the bike and park it in the sun or apply heat (hair dryer, etc). They say that works.
Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 723
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From: Jacksonville, FL
RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
Definately not normal. Since it is 07, would take back to dealer and get replacement bags. The leather on my 04 RK Custom is solid as a rock and all I have seen are the same way. My only issue is that the latched are molded plastic and can crack / break easily. I had one break, but was able to rig it so I can sitll close and lock the bags. Good luck!
Mike
Mike
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Joined: Apr 2007
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RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
I just did a photo search on Google, and looked at as many on here as I could, and I couldn't find one that is defective like mine. I am going in for my 1000 mile service tomorrow and plan on bringing it to the dealerships attention. I just wanted to get as much feedback and info from you guys as I can before I go in.
If I can go in and say that 50 guys on the HDForums site say this is not normal, I have a lot more to stand on. Thanks for the feed back. I do appreciate it.
If I can go in and say that 50 guys on the HDForums site say this is not normal, I have a lot more to stand on. Thanks for the feed back. I do appreciate it.
Thread Starter
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Intermediate
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RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
ORIGINAL: txfxstrider
Many on here have the problem with the RKClassic bags. The solution reported by some is to apply the leather treatment that came with the bike and park it in the sun or apply heat (hair dryer, etc). They say that works.
Many on here have the problem with the RKClassic bags. The solution reported by some is to apply the leather treatment that came with the bike and park it in the sun or apply heat (hair dryer, etc). They say that works.
Hmmm, thanks for the tip. I just wonder if that will be a permanent fix or temporary. Mine's really bad.
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Charlotte
RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
RKCustom07
I suggest that you go to page 424 in your HD catalogue and read the info on the RK Classic saddlebags and consider taking it with you to your dealer just in case they balk at replacing your bags.
Per the description on the saddlebags "The bag is formed from a leather-covered plastic composite that holds it's shape and features embossed leather accents, a Road King classic medallion and easy-open snaps hidden behind chrome buckles"
I suggest that you go to page 424 in your HD catalogue and read the info on the RK Classic saddlebags and consider taking it with you to your dealer just in case they balk at replacing your bags.
Per the description on the saddlebags "The bag is formed from a leather-covered plastic composite that holds it's shape and features embossed leather accents, a Road King classic medallion and easy-open snaps hidden behind chrome buckles"
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: May 2006
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RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
I have a '05 rk custom and have no problems with the bags at all. I have been in nearly monsoon conditions ( as near as I can in NM), and once home, I just dry off the bike until I can clean it. And to be honest, don't shoot me, but just after I cleaned her up for the season, I applied my first coat of conditioner. So I would say your problem is isolated on the rk custom. Get a replcement bag.
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Road Master
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,143
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From: Snowflake, Arizona
RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
Another 'not normal' if you need it. There is bonding/glue that was not applied evenly, and/or the air bubbles were not worked from the inside out when it was bonded.... Monday morning workmanship.... or maybe Friday.... well, whatever, it is workmanship.... or the lack of it... The conditioner has nothing to do with the attachment process... only the life and leather condition....
Hogback
Hogback
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2007
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RE: RK Custom leather saddlebag problem....?
I had the dealer replace one bag after I bought the bike in Feb 07. After the bike sat in my garage for a monthI learned that one bag would not latch. Dealer was very understanding (Worth HD in KC) and replaced it without issue. I am thinking about selling my custom bags and buying a set of hard like on the reg. R.K. The custom bags just dont seem as big as the hardbag. What ya think ?
I do not see any sag issues with my custom bags also.
I do not see any sag issues with my custom bags also.