What A Difference Hard Bags And Fairings Make
Anyone in the market for a new Harley-Davidson touring model should take a moment to reflect on what they may already own or can acquire at a much slimmer price. This is, however, the realm of customization, and there are oftentimes prefabbed kits to feed your healthy imagination. With that said, let's try an idea on for size, shall we? What about considering the Sportster as a viable bagger solution? Think about it: The Sportster is light on its feet, agile, and its performance parts aftermarket is exceedingly bountiful. Who wouldn't want this bike as their next bagger? True, the one thing the Sporty does not come factoryequipped with is, well, bags. Come to think of it, it doesn't have a fairing, either-but don't let these minor setbacks kill your dream. It can be done. The Sportster can, in fact, become the next bagger you take to tour the country.
There are many touring accessory options for that new Sporty of yours or for the old-school model that has been collecting dust in your garage. Bolt-on bags and fairings make for a quick and inexpensive alternative to owning your first custom bagger or for a small rider who may struggle with the considerable size and weight difference of an H-D FL model. With many companies producing quality Sportster conversion parts, it is quite a temptation not to invest a few bucks into creating an entirely new bike for your personal riding pleasure. With the right parts in hand and your vision steadfast, you can successfully transform your Sportster into a bag- and fairing-wielding machine.
FatMax Sportster Hard Bags
FatMax's quality fiberglass bags feature chrome locking hardware and are delivered with a black, high-gloss painted finish. A quick-release mounting system allows the rider to remove and reinstall the bags in mere seconds. The bags conveniently utilize an efficient bolt-on installation system-absolutely no drilling is involved during the mounting process. Twentyeight liters of storage space will definitely prove helpful during the next long-mileage tour. To further enjoy your newfound storage space, FatMax also sells waterproof, cordura bag liners, which are fitted with a heavyduty top zipper and double carry handles. The hard-bag kit also includes a complete bracket relocation package for the stock rear turn signals. Simplicity is key with the FatMax hard bags-easy installation and everything you need in one great kit.
* Gloss black hard-bag kit: $695
Hoppe Industries Vanilla Zilla Fairing
This well-balanced and size-proportionate fairing features a full finished inner and is constructed from hand-laid fiberglass for strength and minimal weight. Tipping the scale at only 7 pounds (including the brackets and windshield), Hoppe's Vanilla Zilla fairing promotes the Sportster's quick and nimble character. Windshield options include a 5-inch clear, 5-inch tint or a 9-inch clear selection. Paint options are also abundant, as the inner and outer surface of the fairing can be custom-sprayed with satin or gloss black finishes. The fairing also integrates your H-D quick-detach windshield brackets and requires a front turn signal relocation kit. The installation of this fairing was a breeze, and its removal is just as simple. Any average weekend wrench should have no problem mounting this offering from Hoppe.
* Vanilla Zilla fairing with black gelcoat: $799
* Inner satin black paint: add $100
* Inner gloss black paint: add $175
* Outer gloss black paint: add $175