To Rack or Not to Rack
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 815
Likes: 0
From: GA
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
Use painter's tape to place under the rack while you are getting the placement right and leave it ther while you drill, use a lower drill speed and it shouldn't slip. Felt same as you before I put mine on but can't do without it now.
Beside I will have to save for a year to get a good trailer
Beside I will have to save for a year to get a good trailer
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From:
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
I kmow of a guy that ownes aVet, it issoMINTthathe won't drive it! Asbad as having great lady and not taking her out. There are people who ride and people who talk about riding. Drill the holes in it ! Take your Harley out see and feel life.
I say a 1,000,000 miles, one mile at a time ! RIDE ON !!!
I say a 1,000,000 miles, one mile at a time ! RIDE ON !!!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,150
Likes: 1
From: Tallahassee, Fl
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
Gotta have that rack !! I don't like the looks of the bike WITHOUT one, JMO. Put down the tape on the tourpack, mark the holes, use smaller bit to drill pilot holes (unless you are a klutz, the drill won't move) move up to proper hole size, drill it, install rack, wipe big grin off your face and you and mama will love it !!!!!!
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 268
Likes: 1
From: Georgia
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
Whole lotta truth in that hair dryer comment! Love my wife, but don't dare leave home without her and the kitchen sink. I understand your reluctance to do it-me too, but I will be putting one on mine.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,210
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee, WI
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
I am toying with the idea as well on my tourpack. Mine is not on all the time so I am not as worried about the looks. So far I have not needed the extra storage but I agree on a trip like the one you're doing the extra space would be worth it. If my wife decides she wants to go on longer trips (more than a weekend) I will probably add the rack. At the end of the day it is just plastic and paint. IMO the usefullness is worth risking the install. Have a great and safe trip.
Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 1,314
Likes: 5
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
Measure 6 times and drill once!! I have one on mine, but so far haven't used it....looking for a good, but smaller bag to use on it...don't like some of the really big ones I've found so far. I have and use a trailer when on longer trips, so I may never have a need for it, but personally I think the bike looks better with the rack on.
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 1,551
Likes: 2
From: Contributor to HDForums.com
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
I had the same anxiety you did about drilling the holes. First thing I did when I bought my rack was to toss the template in the trash, put blue painter's tape on the tour pack and line it up, measure a few times, mark with a felt pen and drill.
Start with a small bit first, then work up to the correct size. A very easy install and it looks great.
You'll need it to haul your gas money for the trip. Might as well get 'er done! :-)
Start with a small bit first, then work up to the correct size. A very easy install and it looks great.
You'll need it to haul your gas money for the trip. Might as well get 'er done! :-)
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Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 10,920
Likes: 6
From: Upstate New York
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
Trips with "mama" ,, rack is a BIG plus,,, no matter what, never enuff room when women are on board.
On our trips,, my Rack carrys a large bag, where our rain suits,and bike cover,her extra shoes, are stored,
When caught in rain,,no need to fumble around in saddle bags,tour pak for gear,,its all right there,
when getting to destination,,, bag goes into room.
another thing, you always seem to come home with more than you brought,,
rack + bag,, saves a lot of hassle!!
EZ to install,,,Look god, very practicle
On our trips,, my Rack carrys a large bag, where our rain suits,and bike cover,her extra shoes, are stored,
When caught in rain,,no need to fumble around in saddle bags,tour pak for gear,,its all right there,
when getting to destination,,, bag goes into room.
another thing, you always seem to come home with more than you brought,,
rack + bag,, saves a lot of hassle!!
EZ to install,,,Look god, very practicle
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 827
Likes: 5
From: Ohio
RE: To Rack or Not to Rack
I put one on my 08 it was a piece of cake and I like the look. It adds some chrome there. Follow the hints above with the painters tape and felt marker. Line it up, check it 2-3 times, stand back and look at it, check it once more, mark the spots, drill it, small pilot hole first, locktite the bolts and tighten it up. You and the wife will be glad you did it the day you leave for your trip