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Custom Vehicle Discussions => CVO™ Softail® Convertible => Topic started by: jtsgro on December 01, 2011, 02:23:58 PM
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Update: The dealer hooked me up took care of replacing bag no charge!!!! Well done HD
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You can search and find several threads on this forum about the problem you experienced. Would suggest you read through them, others have found ways to get satisfaction.
You also may want to jump over to the New Member thread and introduce yourself. Lots of folks on here to commiserate and with and learn from.
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I would recommend NOT getting this bike.
Welcome to the forum. Having been a newbie myself a couple years ago, please don't be so hasty to put this bike down. It has many redeeming qualities but the 'disappearing' bags have been an issue for some. Not for me........yet. now watch; tomorrow mine will fly off :nervous:........take the time to look over this forum (thankfully there aren't as many topics as in other models; really!) Yours is a mechanical issue and may be something you yourself can resolve. Just saying take some time to look over things that some of us have had issues with and most have overcome with the recommendations and insight from others. Might just pay off in spades, know what I mean? It is a great bike, all in all, (all 3 models so far) and certainly capable of doing some things that the other, larger bikes just cannot. Fine-tune that creative instinct I suspect is within you and you just may be the next member we all learn from. :2vrolijk_21: Again, welcome! Pork...ster
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Same thing happened to me on my 2011, almost exactly as you described. Not to repeat the great advice you have already been given, but check the previous threads on this subject. Like you I came to this site as as result of, and doing research on the saddlebag problem. Now I'm hooked, I comeback and check out this site frequently. I consider myself a long distance cross country rider (20 years experience), but the experience of the more senior members here on this site make me feel like a true newbie. Give their opinions some heavy weight because they know what their talking about.
JB
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Maybe make a "Sticky" about the subject of bags falling off with remedies. If anyone crafts a letter to send to state/federal agencies or Harley let me know I would love to send a letter off about this safety issue. Let the Feds bark at Harley.
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https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/index.xhtml
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I know when I got my 2010 and was playing with the bags one of the latches did not feel right and wouldn't latch correctly. I took it apart and re-installed it and now it works fine. When I install the bags I make sure each latch snaps into the locked position and then I bang the bag toward the catch. Put over 5000 miles on the bike this summer and no problems so far. Good luck with HD.
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Take the bags and rear pegs off, Go get a swing arm bag.
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Well, that would be taking abouot $1100 and throwing it over the cliff. Plus the expense of the swing arm bags. Examine what the problem really is (i.e. maybe the silver keeper is not dropping into the hole) and make what you paid dearly for function. Maybe try that first. then throw the stuff over the cliff. Or donate it to some good charity. Pork.
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It's funny that I read about this SNAFU now. When I picked up my 2012 yesterday, the sales staff pointed out that the right side bag had been replaced because when the Tech. took it out for it's test run, the right side fell off and the dealership had to eat the $1000 replacement. :oops:
You can bet that I will be checking this latch system out very carefully. :2vrolijk_21:
WD
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Hi Guys,
Here is what I have done to my 6 day old, 2011 Convertible.
I have read about the issue here regarding the bags "falling off"
I am a tinkerer and enjoy looking at mechanical things and seeing how they work. I also have a patented product not related to motorcycles that I market to security and burglar alarm companies
I have closely examined the latching mechanism on the bags and if I were a Harley designer, I would have made the bags remove in a forward direction instead of rearward, but that is not the issue. The fix for this is fairly simple in my opinion.
Make sure the bags are installed properly...turn the latching knob inside the saddlebag till the little lever seats itself and the small round post is in the full outer position. At that point the bags are installed properly and secure.
Now...take a medium sized, black wire tie, and position it around the bracket so it keeps the little lever in the "up" or locked position. Tighten the wire tie, cut off the extra. You can hardly notice it being there, and if the lever can't vibrate down from the locked position...the bags can't fall off.
No need to always re-invent the wheel, sometimes a simple solution works. Of course if you want to remove the bags you need to snip off the wire tie, but so what? Keep a few in your bag and re-install it when you put the bag back on...It takes about 5 seconds.
Hope this is helpful.
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sjr, that is exactly my procedure with my bags. :cucumber: Zip ties are wonderful little things to have available. I use them to secure most items which I place on the bike, travel bags for example, instead of bungee cords and straps. I have a small side cutter to remove them, then discard. Putting on new ones take less time and are more secure than other means and you can buy lots of different sizes cheaply.
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Hi Guys,
Here is what I have done to my 6 day old, 2011 Convertible.
I have read about the issue here regarding the bags "falling off"
I am a tinkerer and enjoy looking at mechanical things and seeing how they work. I also have a patented product not related to motorcycles that I market to security and burglar alarm companies
I have closely examined the latching mechanism on the bags and if I were a Harley designer, I would have made the bags remove in a forward direction instead of rearward, but that is not the issue. The fix for this is fairly simple in my opinion.
Make sure the bags are installed properly...turn the latching knob inside the saddlebag till the little lever seats itself and the small round post is in the full outer position. At that point the bags are installed properly and secure.
Now...take a medium sized, black wire tie, and position it around the bracket so it keeps the little lever in the "up" or locked position. Tighten the wire tie, cut off the extra. You can hardly notice it being there, and if the lever can't vibrate down from the locked position...the bags can't fall off.
No need to always re-invent the wheel, sometimes a simple solution works. Of course if you want to remove the bags you need to snip off the wire tie, but so what? Keep a few in your bag and re-install it when you put the bag back on...It takes about 5 seconds.
Hope this is helpful.
Hey sjr, great suggestion. Well done!!
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Same solution I have been using (black wire ties). I was fortunate in that the MoCo agreed to pay for my right side bag so I wasn't out any money, but I didn't want to take any additional chances. Five thousand miles later, and plenty of that on rough roads, and no additional problems.
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Brukus Saddle Bag Secure. Easy and cheap, why bother with zip ties?
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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.628106,-0.278567
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The bags that come with all the convertibles make the bike look cheap, that's why I went with hard bags, no problems
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The bags that come with all the convertibles make the bike look cheap, that's why I went with hard bags, no problems
Very Nice ! :bananarock:
changes the whole look, but at what price ? :coolblue:
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Brukus Saddle Bag Secure. Easy and cheap, why bother with zip ties?
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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.628106,-0.278567
We are offering free shipping for a limited time! Great stocking stuffers...
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Brukus - please correct me if I am incorrect, but your company doesn't make a product to secure the ConV saddelbags. I have emailed you before with no respose and I contacted your company and they said that you didn't have anything that would accommodate the special mounts on the ConV. If that has changed please let us know, all the ConV's have tempermental mounts.
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The bags that come with all the convertibles make the bike look cheap, that's why I went with hard bags, no problems
I like it lots but the wife says no!
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FYI - We are offering FREE Domestic Shipping on our products and REDUCED Shipping for our International Friends for a limited time! Brukus® products make great stocking stuffers! We have never offered free shipping before, so make sure you take advantage of it.
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Very Nice ! :bananarock:
changes the whole look, but at what price ? :coolblue:
cycle Visions makes the bracket kit, as does a company up in Canada (RnR custom cycles, I think)
Then cost of bags and painting to match. Did the same thing on my '03 Fatboy.. loved it.
I had about $1200 into the whole thing including shipping all the stuff to Hawaii.
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cycle Visions makes the bracket kit, as does a company up in Canada (RnR custom cycles, I think)
Then cost of bags and painting to match. Did the same thing on my '03 Fatboy.. loved it.
I had about $1200 into the whole thing including shipping all the stuff to Hawaii.
I gotta say they really do look Awesome, and Hey, it's only $$$$$$$ right.
Sure wish I was where you are this morning . . . . 22 degrees here. . Brrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
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Brukus Saddle Bag Secure. Easy and cheap, why bother with zip ties?
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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.628106,-0.278567
Brukus is the way to go :2vrolijk_21:
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I gotta say they really do look Awesome, and Hey, it's only $$$$$$$ right.
Sure wish I was where you are this morning . . . . 22 degrees here. . Brrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
Yeah.. that was before I realized I could ride a Touring bike with no mods.... so I did all of that to the fatboy.. then gave it to my wife when I bought the FLHX... then the FLTRSE3...
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I had both the right (2x) and left saddle bag fall off in the first 2 months of owning my 2010 ConV. I was luckily able to recover both with minimal damage and was convinced that there was something wrong with the latching system. Ever since then I ALWAYS make a point to double check the bag mounting points and locks to make sure they are securely latched into place before every ride. In the 2 years since that time I have not had another bag fall off. I hate to say it but the statistics are on the side of human error - at least in my case. Now prior to this I would have sworn under oath that I latched the bags properly prior to each ride when the bags fell off but the data doesn't seem to support that. Now giving the latches a twist to make sure they are locked into place and secure is part of my normal preflight check. I can honestly say I am comforable enough with them to use the bags again without adding any 3rd party product to secure them further.
MikeV
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I had both the right (2x) and left saddle bag fall off in the first 2 months of owning my 2010 ConV. I was luckily able to recover both with minimal damage and was convinced that there was something wrong with the latching system. Ever since then I ALWAYS make a point to double check the bag mounting points and locks to make sure they are securely latched into place before every ride. In the 2 years since that time I have not had another bag fall off. I hate to say it but the statistics are on the side of human error - at least in my case. Now prior to this I would have sworn under oath that I latched the bags properly prior to each ride when the bags fell off but the data doesn't seem to support that. Now giving the latches a twist to make sure they are locked into place and secure is part of my normal preflight check. I can honestly say I am comforable enough with them to use the bags again without adding any 3rd party product to secure them further.
MikeV
The Brukus set-up is really and antitheft item and but doubles to secure the bags better while moving down the highway. Good stuff :2vrolijk_21:
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I had both the right (2x) and left saddle bag fall off in the first 2 months of owning my 2010 ConV. I was luckily able to recover both with minimal damage and was convinced that there was something wrong with the latching system. Ever since then I ALWAYS make a point to double check the bag mounting points and locks to make sure they are securely latched into place before every ride. In the 2 years since that time I have not had another bag fall off. I hate to say it but the statistics are on the side of human error - at least in my case. Now prior to this I would have sworn under oath that I latched the bags properly prior to each ride when the bags fell off but the data doesn't seem to support that. Now giving the latches a twist to make sure they are locked into place and secure is part of my normal preflight check. I can honestly say I am comforable enough with them to use the bags again without adding any 3rd party product to secure them further.
MikeV
I had my left one pop off a week ago. The only thing that I can think happened is that we had stuffed it pretty full and upon removing the items the latch wasn't completely secured. Hit a nice pothole and it came bouncing down the road. My local dealer is not who I purchased the bike from, but they were really easy about getting it ordered. About 15 minutes for him to do some research on individual parts or fully assembled and will get it after the 20th since it is on back order.
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I too just picked up my 2012 CVO convertible and almost made it home after my first 50 miles. Hit a speed bump and lost the right saddle bag in traffic. So sad. I researched this bike for three years and felt like I knew it inside and out. Should have gone to this site first to see the problem. I love the bike. The dealer said they would take pictures and order a new one. Surely Harley will come up with a fix.
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I had both the right (2x) and left saddle bag fall off in the first 2 months of owning my 2010 ConV. I was luckily able to recover both with minimal damage and was convinced that there was something wrong with the latching system. Ever since then I ALWAYS make a point to double check the bag mounting points and locks to make sure they are securely latched into place before every ride. In the 2 years since that time I have not had another bag fall off. I hate to say it but the statistics are on the side of human error - at least in my case. Now prior to this I would have sworn under oath that I latched the bags properly prior to each ride when the bags fell off but the data doesn't seem to support that. Now giving the latches a twist to make sure they are locked into place and secure is part of my normal preflight check. I can honestly say I am comforable enough with them to use the bags again without adding any 3rd party product to secure them further.
MikeV
I'm with you I gotta believe human error. If your riding home from the dealer after picking up your new bike and the bag falls off its the dealers fault absolutely.
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I have 2800 miles on my FLSTSE3 to date, and have NOT had any problems.
I think it is easy to NOT have them hooked properly - I have had mine off for cleaning many times and I just make sure they
are installed correctly.
JMHO :2vrolijk_21:
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Until Brukus make a secure hold for the ConV's, the answer is cheap black cable ties..
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just make sure they are on , on all 3 points, and the locking mechanism is activated....... not rocket science guys
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I have 2800 miles on my FLSTSE3 to date, and have NOT had any problems.
I think it is easy to NOT have them hooked properly - I have had mine off for cleaning many times and I just make sure they
are installed correctly.
JMHO :2vrolijk_21:
x2
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X2, just make sure all attached properly and pin is out. Never had a problem.
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I own a 2011 CVO Softail Convertible, along with 3 other HD's. I had my first right saddlebag fall off after picking it up from the dealer with 50 miles on it! After much arguing and months of waiting I picked up the bag. Not wanting to ride the bike there with one bag, I took the bag home and installed it myself. Of course, after that incident, I made absolutely sure that it was locked securely and checked that it was on correctly. I rode the bike for no more than 30 miles and under hard acceleration, the bag fell off again! I immediately took it to my dealer who also immediately called HD. Their response- "rider error" in installing the bag!! After 30 years of riding and wrenching HD bikes, they tell me I can not install a saddle bag! There is a definite issue with the mounting of these bags. My friend purchased the same bike several months before me. He did not have any issue until early this month while riding to The Americade in Lake George, NY. While riding on the Northway, his bag fell off and bounced down the road! I recently went to Bergen HD in New Jersey and the sales manager there told me that he had 3 bags fall off of three seperate bikes. In addition to the bag issue, I alos had major engine issues. The bike would not run properly when hot. After a while (and twice while in a turn) the bike stalled. New Roc HD picked up the bike. After several weeks it was determined that the wirig harness was run above the frame and under the seat pan. This killed the BCM and ECM and shorted everything out! In short, there is a major issue with the bags which will end up killing one of us and the CVO build quality leaves a lot to be desired- especially for a $30K bike!!!!
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Brian. I am with you bud. I was not the first to report this issue, and I won't be the last. Funny how all the other guys are so sure this is a simple as checking your bags until it happens to them and then they are like, WHAT THE H*LL. This is a serious problem the MoCo is hiding, at least until someone gets killed. All that being said, I love my ConV but I do not trust the quick connect and use black cable ties.
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I guess I am one of those other guys. I know myself that the bags are not as easy to install as they are to "uninstall". Remember the original video when the windshield, sissybar, rear seat, and saddlebags could all be removed in under 2 minutes? That is a true statement. However, to do a complete job, it takes probably 5 minutes to reinstall all that stuff. Specifically with the saddlebags, there are 3 points to line up, it is true, but some of them must be lined up independently of the other; this makes it difficult at best. It's not like the ladder that slides across the library wall on a track so you can easily gain access to your book of choice. I remember the '10 mounting bracket by the rear footpeg had to have the loop cover a pin and then slide forward, locking the pin inside the narrow part of the loop as I recall. The '11 and '12 are almost identical design to themselves. Most difficult part for me is lining up the inside of the bracket of the saddlebag with the 2 pins on the fenderrail of the bike. And getting the C-bracket aligned with the groove behind the rear footpeg at almost the same time. Once you get those all 3 lined up, then you do your best to drive them home (foreward motion). When all 3 points are firmly (I said firmly!!) fastened as they should be, you pull out the levered knob inside the saddlebag and rotate it upward which allows the locking bolt to slide into the slot and it is a done deal. Then you observe again that the bag is aligned correctly on the rail and that the C-bracket or loop is fully engaged in that footpeg point. If something is wiggling just a little bit, it is not firmly engaged at that point and needs to be repositioned and tightened. When I got my '10, whoever assembled the left bag was not trained well and just jammed it on and consequently cost me time and energy to have a new black grommet replaced as I could barely get the bag off because of a chipped grommet. We do need to learn our bikes (as best we can) so when faced with mechanical issues, we can be successful. I can't do much with the electronics of this bike but I sure can about the mechanical parts. The alternative is expending more energy in waiting for the MOCO to rule in our favor and less time riding. At fast approaching 60 years old, I have now had 3 years of convertibles as well as the Heritage I started with. Something falls off my bike, I have a pretty good feel if it was something I did or something they didn't do. right is right and wrong is wrong but if it's an easy fix, I try to get the new part and take ownership myself. My experience has been in 8 years of owning Harleys, the dealerships are hard-pressed to find anybody (that's anybody including those old wrenches that are spending more time enjoying their legendary status rather than painstakingly really caring for my bike as if it was their own) that treats your bike like it was theirs. they are all about the mighty dollar$ these days. Once it hits the dealership, my experience has been they treat it like it was just another used bike and (with rare exception) if anybody believes otherwise, they are fooling themselves. there is a frame of mind in today's shops that Harley has been around so long, your bad experience isn't going to change anything and you will just keep coming back for more. so, my fix is I am going to try to do absolutely everything mechanical that I can do myself. This includes making double sure my saddlebag is on correctly and when I tug on it, it looks and feels solid. Maybe it could be a loose pin bolt or something else that doesn't give it that solid feel before you take out on the highway. Once the bag goes sailing down the highway isn't the time to be cursing yourself or the dealership. We can't rely on them to make sure stuff is secure or we will be sadly disappointed. So, go the extra mile and familiarize yourself with this "rocket science" of 3-pin alignment so that when you install your bag after washing the bike, you know in your own mind that it is hundred percent going to stay on. The knob on the '12 does seem like it is a bit larger and more surely allows the locking bolt to slide into place................. Now, I've ambled on and on but I hope at least one person new to the Convertible bag topic will gain something from this and never experience the tragedy of a scarred bag that may end up bouncing up and thru someones windshield; something much worse! Black tie-straps won't do much for a bag that is already installed incorrectly. And why in the world would I want to entrust the bag of my $30,000 motorcycle to the "security" of a 10c wire-tie or what about baling wire? Plus wire-ties sort of defeat the concept of "quick-disconnect" or even worse, "quick-connect". Let's all do our homework, learn from other people's mistakes, and make absolutely sure you have the bag installed correctly or fix what doesn't line up. I believe the design is correct. The Porkster.
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Pork, over time I have read and agreed with many of your posts. Generally I think of you as a pretty smart guy, however, as someone who has been riding my whole life, and is very familiar with this problem, your post here comes across as condescending. Congrats that you have never had this problem and I hope you never do, but please do not mistake your disciplined pre-ride checklist as a fix-all to a problem you have never had. Every one of the three dealers in my area has reported this problem to the MoCo, that tells me that the failure rate is high enough (either by design or rider error) that the quick connect system should be reviewed by engineering. If a fatality is ever reported due to this issue, you can be sure it will be reviewed by the National Highway Safety Administration.
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My apologies if I came across as condescending; it was not my intention. I have more respect for you and the others here on our forum. I am not the first that states cases from my own point of view; I can't put myself on anybody elses's bike because that bike is theirs. As I said in my post, it can take as long as 5 minutes to put all the stuff back on the bike. Including the saddlebags. It is not easy putting the saddlebags back on. I did not say it was. There are a number of things to line up and it does take some effort to get them assembled correctly. There has been more than one time that I have not had them on correctly and discovered a check-point that I did not have in the right place, so it looked right but was only jammed. Aligning the parts resolved the problem and then it slid together firmly. And I had assurance that they were not going to fall off. Or bounce off. Try this yourself: Take the bags off and then put them on slowly and deliberately. then wiggle each part of where they attach, including the locking bracket. Hopefully it feels as sound as the rock of Gibralter. As I said, I had a problem with the '10 bag on the left not being able to get it to remove initially. Upon inspection, I realized that whoever put the bag on, had it misaligned and jammed it so hard that it broke the black plastic mounting bracket. And then sent the bike to me, the customer. That was not a design flaw; that was inexperience on the part of the (Harley rep, wrench, salesman, etc.) or poor training or both. I'm not much on trusting the work quallity of the 'wrenches' at the dealer anymore; they don't even tell you if they damage your bike while it is in their care. So, their integrity is not very high in my eyes. I think they just don't care any more. Therefore, I simply choose to double and triple check this item that a number of people are having issues with so I don't become the next one to experience it. I don't have to personally experience the problem to be able to offer some concrete advice as to how to remedy it. when I had the speedometer issue a couple years ago, do you know how many people told me "I don't even use the speedometer anymore; I just count and keep track of my mileage". They just decided to circumvent the real problem and work around it. I am very much a mechanical-minded person and if I can wrap my mind around what the real issue is, I can deal and relate to it and resolve it. And relay my findings to others so they too can benefit from it. But when people start relaying intangible theories and nobody offers to put their finger on the real problem, I too get frustrated. Another thing that can add to the issue is the amount of weight one is carrying in a saddlebag. I believe they are rated for 10 lbs is all and if someone puts double and tripple that much weight or more in the bag, I could see where something is going to give and that could begin tipping the scales. this stuff is only mechanical and I also believe if a fatality occurs, the National Highway Safety Administration most certainly will review it. I hope it never comes to that. So, if everybody out in Forum Land will remove their bags, thoroughly inspect their mounting points and the like, and reassemble them (correctly), hopefully there will be some success stories testified to here on the forum and the stories of disappointment on this topic will minimize. So, Jasray, again, I offer my apology to you personally that I was condescending in my last post. I really am a nice guy (and my wife also thinks I'm smart as I married her :)) I like to keep my bike in good repair and I really like to help other people fix their bikes as well so we can all keep riding. and if you are anywhere close, drop in and I'll cook you a good ribeye! And shake your hand. Pork.
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Well said Pork, I too have not had any issues with the bags on my 2012, but like you said, I am very mechanical and have worked in the industry. I have had my bags off many times to facilitate cleaning, have been very deliberate in making sure that all 3 points line up correctly. So far so good!
I totally agree with your assessment of so called PHD trained Techs. No one will work on or do the job like it should be done, and if by chance they do get a good Tech. He will not be there long, because he may take too long to complete a service. When I ask what the 1000 mile service would cost, I was floored, $338.00 and it is just a glorified Oil change.
I did my own with Syn3 for $83.00 WTH- most labor rates run from $65-$89 around here, so how long does it take them to drain 3 holes, check belt tension and a few other ket wear items, then refill the Trans, Primary and Motor?
I have not had any issues with my Speedo cluster since the Re-Flash !
Headed for Maggie Valley this Saturday for some riding and a stop at the Wheels through Time and of course some board scrapping on the Dragon. Yee ha
Keep your knees in the Breeze :2vrolijk_21:
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The fact that so many people, including dealership personnel, have had issues getting the bags secured properly tells me there is a basic underlying problem with the design or the execution of that design. While it's wonderful that people who are technical, or just obsessive, have figured out how to take a 30 second job and spend 5 minutes tweaking everything to make it work, I don't remember seeing anything in the catalog description of that detachable system requiring an engineering degree or advanced mechanical skills to operate it. If every detachable accessory they sell was subject to this kind of failure rate, smart folks would avoid the stuff like the plague. If people's tour paks or hard bags or windshields were flying off going down the highway, I'd imagine we would eventually see the NHTSA get involved. Since this particular model is very low volume, the problem is too small to hit the radar. But that doesn't make it any less of a problem for those involved.
I commend folks giving a heads up to prospective victims so they can take the extra precautions to hopefully keep their bags from becoming roadside trash or causing a crash, but I don't think it's doing anyone any favors by implying it's not a bad design but just a user problem. That's like blaming a Pinto driver for the fire because he stopped too fast in front of that speeding car.
JMHO - Jerry
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Since this particular model is very low volume, the problem is too small to hit the radar. But that doesn't make it any less of a problem for those involved.
If it was only one (1) bike that they made and it was a defective design, it wouldn't be off the radar at all. Some are just saying take the time to double check your gear prior to taking a ride on your bike. One can read about mishaps everyday that were the result of someone not checking their bald tire before the blow-out occurred, not checking their tank level before they ran out of gas, or not checking their head/signal lights before they got taken out by that car that didn't see them in the intersection. With the sissy-bar and trunk quick-releases on this bike, one must line up the plastic swivel-joint to receive the chrome post or it just will not go over the post. And one must remember to lock it in place......or it just might come off and you may lose your......... passenger. When installing the windshield on these bikes one must spend some time getting this corner inserted and snugged down and then those other slots over the posts, etc or the windshield may come off going down the road. We learn by doing or someone else's misfortune. I'm saying for the people experiencing the problem, try giving some of these positive tips some consideration and don't be so quick to blame design. This is a very dangerous game we all play; we all haul precious cargo (us) on our bikes and to play to win requires way more attention even than driving a Pinto. And if one day I have to eat my words that it at least "involves" a heightened installation awareness, I will eat them with purpose and a "they were right" expression on my face. Now where is that moderator that is fixin' to pull my post for exacerbating this issue and replace it with :beatdeadhorse: Pork.
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Now where is that moderator that is fixin' to pull my post for exacerbating this issue and replace it with :beatdeadhorse: Pork.
I doubt that will happen here. . . . most of them ride the BIG bikes, with HARD bags that have a totally different locking system. I love my FLSTSE3, and glad I made the purchse this year, as it appears to be the last year ?
JMHO :nixweiss:
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Absolutely do not want to beat a dead horse, but: Here is my small history on this issue- When I picked up my bike from the dealer (Jan 2012), there was back and forth small talk between the salesman and the mgr. about being sure the bags were on right. Evidently on the prior sale they guy took his new bike and on the way home "lost" a bag. So my salesman was super sensitive to this subject and spend a lot of time with me showing me how to make sure it was on right, and how you can easily make a boo boo. I thought it was simple enough. Several weeks later before going on a ride I happended to glance at the mounting points on one of my bags and noticed it was Not hooked up properly on one of the sprockets (don't know what else to call them). Even so I tried to move the bag and could not. The locking park was done right but it still was not mounted correctly. It was my fault. When I had taken it off the last time to clean I must have missed propertly hooking it on one of the sprockets totally. So I immediately removed the bag and reinstalled it the correct way. Don't know how the 2010, or 2011's work (I assume the same way), but once the internal lock is totally clicked in it would be very difficult for me to see how it could fall off. But anything is possible. It's not the best engineered solution for a locking mechanism in my opinion. (I am not a mechanic or engineer, but even I can say this). But since that one error on my part, no matter what, before riding I always inspect all the connecting points on the back (to make sure it's mounted in the right slots), and also touch the internal lock to make sure it's really locked. So far so good. Long winded story I know, but that's my personal experience..
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I think the only solution is a class action lawsuit against the motor company. I went over the bike with a friend that is an expert HD mechanic ( and I mean expert- not a delaer prima donna!) and the lacthing system is flawed. The last bag I had fall off, he and I put on together. The latch was locked and all points were securely on. This is a real issue and the only way it will be fixed is through legal action. The motor company has had issues with the 103 and 110 motors for years now and has done nothing to correct them. Welding flywheel plates together is not an answer HDI!!
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As sad as this is, my husband and I had read this string prior to picking up my 2012 CVO Convertible 3 days ago. When the dealer rep was going through the bike with me and showing me how to detach/reattach everything my husband specifically said to the guy "make sure that bag is back on correctly, we have seen multiple reports of them falling off". So, fast forward about an hour later when my husband was riding it home and I was following him in my car (I take my riding lessons next month).......sure enough, not two miles from the dealer, off pops the right bag :o (the same one demonstrated to me earlier)......I slam on my breaks (almost getting rear-ended in the process), pull over and chase down the bag. We immediately returned to the dealer. Both the sales manager and the rep who was working with us were very apologetic and they are ordering me a new one (on them). They are making it right, but really? I would like to think you would be able to get a CVO home from the dealer without parts falling off. I am giving serious consideration to the zip-tie option.
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Only solution a class action lawsuit...Really...Wow
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Wow
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I know that once this has happened to you it shakes your confidence in the future reliability of having the bags stay securely on the bike. Until the MoCo comes up with a better fix, I am a big believer in the zip ties. I have been cross country a couple of times now and I don't fear loading them or hitting a big bump and seeing one fly off the bike.
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plain and simple ... the bag wasn't installed correctly
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plain and simple ... the bag wasn't installed correctly
I am very sorry, but after once again closely inspecting the locking mechanism, in my opinion ( I am no expert, but I do own the bike) if it is installed properly..with the lock "clicked" in, and you double check it, I cannot see how it could fall off.
Anything is possible..but this would require some very odd circumstance to allow it to come off. Again, if they were mounted correctly and locked I can't see it. This being said it is very easy to believe it is installed correctly and locked, but in fact it was not. Have to be careful. Just my opinion...
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plain and simple ... the bag wasn't installed correctly
That is what everyone says until it happens to YOU, then magically your perspective changes. Please, please don't defend the MoCo here. As stated well by poster GRC;
That's like blaming a Pinto driver for the fire because he stopped too fast in front of that speeding car.
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That is what everyone says until it happens to YOU, then magically your perspective changes. Please, please don't defend the MoCo here. As stated well by poster GRC;
I agree with you, no defense for HD from me..Truth is, it is way to complicated in design, and way to easy to make a mistake. Should be more or less "idiot proof". Idiot being me :huepfenlol2:
There should not be two or three ways to attach them....incorrectly, appearing correct..
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Guys it's not a design flaw in that if you secure them correctly they will NOT fall off. In the first 2 months I owned my ConV I had the bags fall off THREE times - twice on the left once on the right and I was convinced that it was mechanical issue or design flaw. I had to replace the mounting arm on one of them that got bent when it fell off and I noticed that the bag did not go on as easily as before. With the bag properly mounted I loosened the bolts to the lower arm from inside the bag and re-tightened them. This allowed the arm to align the bag to slide in place much more easily. I did this to the other side as well.
During this time wrestling with the bags I noticed you can still look them on and not have the lower arm in place. You have to be careful when you mount them and not only check the lock but ALL the mounting points to make sure they are secure. I do this three point inspection before every ride with the bags. After losing a bad 3 times you get a bit paranoid. Anyway in the 2 1/2 years since I adjusted the arms and do my safety check I have NEVER lost a bag. I ride the same roads and hit the same bumps I did when they fell off previously.
Did the design flaw magically go away or did I learn to take the extra 20 seconds to make sure they are secure on all points? You decide...
MikeV
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Guys it's not a design flaw in that if you secure them correctly they will NOT fall off. In the first 2 months I owned my ConV I had the bags fall off THREE times - twice on the left once on the right and I was convinced that it was mechanical issue or design flaw. I had to replace the mounting arm on one of them that got bent when it fell off and I noticed that the bag did not go on as easily as before. With the bag properly mounted I loosened the bolts to the lower arm from inside the bag and re-tightened them. This allowed the arm to align the bag to slide in place much more easily. I did this to the other side as well.
During this time wrestling with the bags I noticed you can still look them on and not have the lower arm in place. You have to be careful when you mount them and not only check the lock but ALL the mounting points to make sure they are secure. I do this three point inspection before every ride with the bags. After losing a bad 3 times you get a bit paranoid. Anyway in the 2 1/2 years since I adjusted the arms and do my safety check I have NEVER lost a bag. I ride the same roads and hit the same bumps I did when they fell off previously.
Did the design flaw magically go away or did I learn to take the extra 20 seconds to make sure they are secure on all points? You decide...
MikeV
I just washed my bike from a dusty ride yesterday and took off the bags. When it was time to put them on I was showing my wife those exact 3 contact points you discussed. I also showed her how someone could think they were installed correctly but they weren't. Point is, yes I believe if installed correctly they will not fall off. The only issue is that it should not be so easy to make a mistake as evidenced by this tread.
Stan
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Guys it's not a design flaw
MikeV - Sorry but you and I are going to strongly disagree on this one. Very happy to hear you figured it out, but the point is you shouldn't have had to put that much work into it so YES IMHO it is most definitely a design flaw. I travel extensively (weekly) throughout the Central US and I have not been to a dealer yet that didn't have this exact same problem with the ConV's they sold in their stores. Just because it is POSSIBLE to put everything on correctly does not mean that it is PROBABLE that everything will be put on safefly and securely as evidenced by all the problems experienced on this board and nearly every dealer.
I don't expect to convince you and you most definitely will not convince me. I LOVE my bike and would not sell it in spite of the bag problem, or the electrical faults many experience with the digital readout/lo fuel/fuel range issues. However I also won't give the MoCo a gimmie on the bag issue; they need to address it.
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Well, you can now count me in the believers group. Since seeing this on the forum I have diligently checked the locks especially after removing the bags for cleaning. I always thought that the folks who's bags were flying off didn't have them latched correctly.Yesterday in a group ride my left bag mysteriously flew off. When I picked it up it was still in the locked position. I don't get that!!!! So now I'm not so sure. If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck and a whole lot of people think it's a duck; I'm guessing it's a duck. So, MoCo buck up and get it right
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When my right bag came off I had just hit a pretty large pothole, it was quite a jolt followed by my right bag flying across 6 lanes of Interstate traffic. I caused quite a few cars to steer out of the way until a pickup truck ran over the bag and got it stuck in his undercarriage. In all 12 cars had to veer out of the way and pull over to the side of the road. It was a real blessing that no one was hurt and that I didn't cause anyone else to have an accident. It took another 30 minutes on the side of the road to get that bag out from under that pickup undercarriage and he was unbelievably kind about the whole thing. I think this is such a big deal to me because I was almost responsible for a lot of damage to other people vehicles. I just can't let that go.
My opinion, and my opinion only! The whole problem is the fork that connects to the passanger peg. During times of heavy body flex (like hitting that pothole) it simply come of that mount and put extra stress on the only locking point in the whole connection. Since that locking point is spring loaded, the force overcomes the spring, the lock pops open and the bag slides right off. In some cases I think the spring pops the lock back closed but only after it has already become dislodged. The 2010 model has a more secure connection at the peg location and I think that is why you see most of the problems on the 2011, which also might be why there is not going to be a 2013 model. I think a simple solution would be to make both of the bag mounts as locking units instead of just one, but that is just my opinion. Until the I use zip ties on all three connection points.
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When my right bag came off I had just hit a pretty large pothole, it was quite a jolt followed by my right bag flying across 6 lanes of Interstate traffic. I caused quite a few cars to steer out of the way until a pickup truck ran over the bag and got it stuck in his undercarriage. In all 12 cars had to veer out of the way and pull over to the side of the road. It was a real blessing that no one was hurt and that I didn't cause anyone else to have an accident. It took another 30 minutes on the side of the road to get that bag out from under that pickup undercarriage and he was unbelievably kind about the whole thing. I think this is such a big deal to me because I was almost responsible for a lot of damage to other people vehicles. I just can't let that go.
My opinion, and my opinion only! The whole problem is the fork that connects to the passanger peg. During times of heavy body flex (like hitting that pothole) it simply come of that mount and put extra stress on the only locking point in the whole connection. Since that locking point is spring loaded, the force overcomes the spring, the lock pops open and the bag slides right off. In some cases I think the spring pops the lock back closed but only after it has already become dislodged. The 2010 model has a more secure connection at the peg location and I think that is why you see most of the problems on the 2011, which also might be why there is not going to be a 2013 model. I think a simple solution would be to make both of the bag mounts as locking units instead of just one, but that is just my opinion. Until the I use zip ties on all three connection points.
I'm in agreement on this. The one time mine came off (2012 model) was hitting a deep pothole with my wife on the back. It hit so severely that I have a mark in the paint on the swingarm from it being struck. That event caused the bag to release and tumble down the road. If the support arm had a center rod with a spring or have the mount point on the bag have a slide to take out the compression that would alleviate it.
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Now we are getting somewhere. In some cases it's just possibly human error..but now it sounds like we have a "logical" explanation as to cause and effect. This makes very good sense, and to me can certainly explain why some are so adamant about the fact they did indeed install them correctly, and yet a bag comes off. This makes sense, but does not explain why going over a bad pot hole should cause such a stresser on the bike. It should be able to handle it without a hiccup. Obviously a bad design for the detachable bags. They never imagined such a thing. Other than what others have said by way of "bandaides" I can't think of a HD solution.
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I am very sorry, but after once again closely inspecting the locking mechanism, in my opinion ( I am no expert, but I do own the bike) if it is installed properly..with the lock "clicked" in, and you double check it, I cannot see how it could fall off. :nixweiss:
Anything is possible..but this would require some very odd circumstance to allow it to come off. Again, if they were mounted correctly and locked I can't see it. This being said it is very easy to believe it is installed correctly and locked, but in fact it was not. Have to be careful. Just my opinion...
Agree Completely. After 7500 miles and having the bags off for cleaning and to check the air pressure in the rear tire, I have NOT had any issues.
JMHO
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I think a simple solution would be to make both of the bag mounts as locking units instead of just one, but that is just my opinion. Until the I use zip ties on all three connection points.
We placed zip ties near the locking mechanism on each bag. How do you have it zip tied at the two other attachment points? Can you post a picture?
Thanks!
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Yes, I can post a pic but it won't be until this weekend.
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Just some information for anyone who lost a bag...... I have a 2011 model (Black Bags with Alligator inserts)
I took the bags off the first week I had the bike and they have been wrapped up and stored ever since.
I don't think I will ever use them since I have another Bagger I use when I need to carry something, so.....
They are for sale.
If interested, let me know. I know new ones go for just under $800 each. I will take less of course.
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Will those bags fit the 2010?
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I think they will but you should probably check with a Harley dealer to be sure
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We placed zip ties near the locking mechanism on each bag. How do you have it zip tied at the two other attachment points? Can you post a picture?
Thanks!
tttdoc, here are the pics. First one is of the arm with the split fork that fits over the passenger peg mount. I have two ties on this arm, the first circles around the arm itself and the second goes through that tie and then around the peg mount.
I also tie the front bag mount around the quick connect peg. Combined with the harley locking mount on the rear bag peg, this locks all three mounting points.
None of these are visible to an observer.
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pic 2
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wow I'm speechless
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Jasray,
Thanks! I appreciate you taking the time to take and post the pictures of your three point bag zip tie!
tttdoc
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Nice!
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
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If they are securely locked in place with the metal tab through the hole and in the locked position there is no way they can fall off...........sounds like pilot error !!
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SteveO
I wish we were all as smart as you and we knew without a doubt what could and couldn't happen with absolute certainty. You must be a rep for the MoCo, only they are that arrogant.
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It's like your Tailgate falling off going down the road. Equipment is engineered so a cave man can do install it. These bags..... not so much.
These threads are great, have a problem lets find the answer or better the product. I put zip ties on my bike. Not the most desirable thing on a $30k bike but I would rather that than a bag flipping down the road.
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X2
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Hey Riders,
A few months ago I purchased the blue 2012, love the bike! I traded in my 09 Electra Glide for it, which I purchased in Afghanistan. I am very interested in this thread becuase guess what it happened to me! Here is the story.
My best friend killed himself, and I am stationed in San Diego. Well he is from Arizona so the funeral was there. His wife wanted me to arrange the Patriot Guard Riders for his funeral which I did and I also joined them, great bunch of people. I drive 6 hours to Arizona (my buddy was on his slow honda and couldnt keep up so he slowed me down), did the ride for his funeral, and drove all the way back, and yes my saddlebags were on. Went to work the following Monday (didnt ride upon my return), rode all week long not once taking the bags off, becuase I go on base I always put things in my bags and prior to closing I alwasy check to make sure its connected properly. Well that Friday I am cruising around 80 and I heard a noise, looked back and saw my left saddlebag bouncing down the road. I couldnt believe it.
I let my dealer know and they were in shock, not sure if they believed me or not however they were doing everything they could do to help me out, they got in touch with Harley and I received the there is no way that the bag will fall off when it is properly installed. Now I beg to differ becuase I know it was properly installed. I am an honest person, and if it was my fault I would go in there, tell my story, be pissed off at myself, but I would drop the money to get a new bag however when it is not my fault I will fight tooth and nail for what is right. After the dealership told me this I called Harley, I told them the same story as above except I also told them I received a Bronze Star over there, and they said sorry but there is no way that it would fall off.
I am sorry but something needs to be done. I spoke with a guy named Dave, he would not let me talk to his boss but I think the head guys name is Bill. I am going to raise some hell on this now. I have read every post, people who this has happened to and others that find it hard to believe this has happened.
Riders I am telling you it is a legitimate problem, I dont know how it does it but I think it could be what people said on the previous page. My biggest concern is 1 how do I get a new bag at no cost to me and 2 what is Harley going to do about this wait until someone dies as a result of this before fixing it? I will post again once I get some type of a response from them.
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Hey Riders,
A few months ago I purchased the blue 2012, love the bike! I traded in my 09 Electra Glide for it, which I purchased in Afghanistan. I am very interested in this thread because guess what it happened to me! Here is the story.
My best friend killed himself, and I am stationed in San Diego. Well he is from Arizona so the funeral was there. His wife wanted me to arrange the Patriot Guard Riders for his funeral which I did and I also joined them, great bunch of people. I drive 6 hours to Arizona (my buddy was on his slow Honda and couldn't keep up so he slowed me down), did the ride for his funeral, and drove all the way back, and yes my saddlebags were on. Went to work the following Monday (didn't ride upon my return), rode all week long not once taking the bags off, because I go on base I always put things in my bags and prior to closing I always check to make sure its connected properly. Well that Friday I am cruising around 80 and I heard a noise, looked back and saw my left saddlebag bouncing down the road. I couldn't believe it.
I let my dealer know and they were in shock, not sure if they believed me or not however they were doing everything they could do to help me out, they got in touch with Harley and I received the there is no way that the bag will fall off when it is properly installed. Now I beg to differ because I know it was properly installed. I am an honest person, and if it was my fault I would go in there, tell my story, be pissed off at myself, but I would drop the money to get a new bag however when it is not my fault I will fight tooth and nail for what is right. After the dealership told me this I called Harley, I told them the same story as above except I also told them I received a Bronze Star over there, and they said sorry but there is no way that it would fall off.
I am sorry but something needs to be done. I spoke with a guy named Dave, he would not let me talk to his boss but I think the head guys name is Bill. I am going to raise some hell on this now. I have read every post, people who this has happened to and others that find it hard to believe this has happened.
Riders I am telling you it is a legitimate problem, I don't know how it does it but I think it could be what people said on the previous page. My biggest concern is 1 how do I get a new bag at no cost to me and 2 what is Harley going to do about this wait until someone dies as a result of this before fixing it? I will post again once I get some type of a response from them.
First of all, I a very sorry about your friend. Also, thank you very much for your Service..I personally appreciate you very much.
I have the same bike as you do, even same color. I have posted on this tread a bit, and was also sure that if the bag was attached properly there was no way for it to fall off period. I was very sure about my theory. However, I believe you. Therefore my opinion has changed. There must be a way, even though we don't know how, when the bags are on correctly, something can cause them to fall off. It's impossible that so many people have suffered this. Yes some of them might have been caused by human error. But it's illogical that "all" of the bags came off due to human error. I will be anxiously awaiting to here the outcome of your quest. Thank you, Stan
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Porschestan,
:pepper: :carrot: :jalapeno: :cucumber: Holy Cow....we actually have a convert :carrot: :jalapeno: :cucumber: :pepper: Welcome to the dark side brother.
Turkish,
Don't let the MoCo give you the "we never heard of this problem before" speech. I lost my bag a year ago and spoke with multiple dealers that were all aware of the problem. Like you, I called MoCo customer service and got the same speech. Then I mentioned how often I had read about this happening on the Harley Forums, and they softened their opposition. Still, I had to threaten to go to the NHTSA before they agreed to pay for my bag. Perhaps that is what you should do, better yet, maybe we should actually call the NHTSA! Your a soldier (thanks by the way), go to War!!!!!
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Porschestan,
:pepper: :carrot: :jalapeno: :cucumber: Holy Cow....we actually have a convert :carrot: :jalapeno: :cucumber: :pepper: Welcome to the dark side brother.
Turkish,
Don't let the MoCo give you the "we never heard of this problem before" speech. I lost my bag a year ago and spoke with multiple dealers that were all aware of the problem. Like you, I called MoCo customer service and got the same speech. Then I mentioned how often I had read about this happening on the Harley Forums, and they softened their opposition. Still, I had to threaten to go to the NHTSA before they agreed to pay for my bag. Perhaps that is what you should do, better yet, maybe we should actually call the NHTSA! Your a soldier (thanks by the way), go to War!!!!!
Yes I am a convert...you win!
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I have been a believer from day one that the bags can come off and DO come off. It really doesn't matter whose fault it is, IMHO.
For a 5 dollar bill you can buy a bundle of zip ties and use 2 at a time to make sure "no body gets killed" and "you don't have to buy a very expensive replacement". Cut them off when you want to take the bags off. Simple solution to the problem. I have used them from day one and NOBODY has ever noticed them, ever.
Yeah I know that HD should do something, but that is after the fact. Be proactive, Be safe, Be happy. :bananarock:
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X2 on the zip ties. Secure and practically invisible.
Yes I am a convert...you win!
We will all win when the MoCo admits that there might be a problem with the design. However I am smart enough to not be holding my breath for that day.
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I agree that the zip tie idea is a good way to be proactive about temporarily solving the problem. But ultimately the MoCo needs to stop claiming ignorance and innocence and just admit there is something not quite right in the design or the execution of the design. So yes it's a great idea to help yourself by using ties for now, but I wouldn't drop the issue and just resign myself to having to do that for as long as I owned the bike. Btw, using zip ties that have to be cut off and replaced each time you remove the bag kind of defeats the quick release nature of the design. See if you can find some of those reuseable zip ties that have a little release lever molded into the catch.
As for the ignorance and innocence thing, never forget that Harley has a long history of claiming no knowledge of widespread problems and blaming the customers for anything and everything. Sometimes they get away with the subterfuge, but sometimes when enough people raise hell they are forced to take action. Kind of like when they spent the first full year of 110 engine production refusing to admit or address the many problems of that product. Halfway through the '08 model year they made changes in production and launched a big upgrade program for the older bikes to fix some of the concerns. So don't just give up, give 'em hell!
Jerry
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Just another story of my saddle bag falling off. I was doing 70 mph on I-90 while out at Sturgis this year when the bag left my 2012 bike. I don't know if it was user error or not. I do know it's dangerous either way because it could have caused an accident on the freeway. If it is user error with this many people than MoCo needed to educate us better on the correct technique. Didn't they leave the bags off on the 2013 model?
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there is no 13 model. It is a completely different bike. No windshield, sissy bar, bags, etc.
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Mine fell off once.. I took it in to have a new rear tire installed and they either forgot to secure them or they didn't know how... I never went back to that H-D Shop again :-X
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Hey everyone, I appreciate the posts on thise thread and all the thank you's after mine. It is appreciated and it means alot coming from you all.
Been an extremly busy week but more to come, and I will do the zip tie fix once I get a new bag after I kick Harley in the nads! I should start something on Friday as I am off work that day. I wish I would have known about this problem before.
Oh 1 last thing, the 2013 model Breakout does not have bags and comes with an ugly paint job (sorry not a big fan).
Hmm the next fight after the bags is going to be either the read pegs that keep coming down (got a fix for that already) or with garmin and why the media player doesnt work half the time. I figure you pay 30k for a bike everything should be pristine. No matter what I still love the thing!
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i still think that bags fallen off is human error my latch knob inside my bag is tight when you put your bag back on the bike and turn that knob it must spring back into lock position if you can still turn it back to unlock postion with out pulling it inwards then the bag wasn't properly latched to began with hence it will fall off
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i still think that bags fallen off is human error my latch knob inside my bag is tight when you put your bag back on the bike and turn that knob it must spring back into lock position if you can still turn it back to unlock postion with out pulling it inwards then the bag wasn't properly latched to began with hence it will fall off
:o :nervous: Here we go again!
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:beatdeadhorse:
Its kind of like Religion; to those that believe no proof is necessary, and to those that don't believe no proof will ever be enough.
JB
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the proof will not be enough until it happens to them, which I hope it doesnt. Heck I rode 6-8 hours round trip, no problems, rode to work all week, no problems, did not take the bags off once as I planned on doing a major cleaning during the weekend, then the day before the weekend it fell off.
zip ties for me once i get a new bag!
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this has nothing to do with religion or the supernatural
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this has nothing to do with religion or the supernatural
Not literally, but then again how many of us have gremlin bells on our bikes! ???
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
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Lever,
Then lets look at it from a historical point of view. How many times in the past has the MoCo had design problems that it absolutely refused to admit to, until they finally fessed up. Just the problems with paint and engine issues alone is phenomenal for a 100+ year old company. I personally never had any of those issues (I was lucky), but I wouldn't dream of being so self assured of my own experiences that I would tell someone who was experiencing those problems that it was all their fault. The paint problems were real, the engine problems were real, this bag problem is real.
I am very happy that you have not had this unfortunate experience, but there are just too many incidents, I have spoken to far to many dealers, and even the conversations I had with the MoCo, all lead me to believe that there is a design flaw lurking in the shadows. As a practical point, Harley is very clever about taking something that works on one bike and carrying that innovation to other models as it rolls out new products. Have you seen this specific quick release system expanded to any other bikes? Why would that be?
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Lever,
Then lets look at it from a historical point of view. How many times in the past has the MoCo had design problems that it absolutely refused to admit to, until they finally fessed up. Just the problems with paint and engine issues alone is phenomenal for a 100+ year old company. I personally never had any of those issues (I was lucky), but I wouldn't dream of being so self assured of my own experiences that I would tell someone who was experiencing those problems that it was all their fault. The paint problems were real, the engine problems were real, this bag problem is real.
I am very happy that you have not had this unfortunate experience, but there are just too many incidents, I have spoken to far to many dealers, and even the conversations I had with the MoCo, all lead me to believe that there is a design flaw lurking in the shadows. As a practical point, Harley is very clever about taking something that works on one bike and carrying that innovation to other models as it rolls out new products. Have you seen this specific quick release system expanded to any other bikes? Why would that be?
EXACTLY. If you look at what they offer in the catalog you will not find the mounting system they use on the Convertible. I have no idea why they thought they needed to change the system from what they've been selling for Softails for years. I also haven't heard of any issues with those other designs having bags falling off riding down the highway. So yes, there is no doubt there is a design issue. And yes, Harley is famous for trying to blame customers for Harley mistakes. And yes, if people just meekly accept the BS from Harley rather than fight, Harley will never fess up and make it right. I wonder how many people so far have been given the BS story and had to pay for a replacement bag out of pocket.
Jerry
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the reason why you havn't seen this specific quick release system expanded to any other bikes?
cause there is only 1 convertible model the reason the convertible was designed is it 2 bikes in one ...in less then 2Min's. you can change a bagger bike to a Friday nite boulevard cruiser that was the big selling point on the convertible model's
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A similar system does exist on the Dyna Switchback. The only difference between the two is the lower support arm does not exist on the Switchback. Some of us think that is the flaw in the Convertible design. When the suspension is compressed by a large amount it is left uncompensated for in that support arm, subsequently putting pressure between the support arm contact point and the contact points for the support pins.
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TxDrifter, That makes the most sense to me. I have never had that problem personally, but it seems possible.
If you were to hit a big enough bump with the rear wheel, perhaps the lower bracket is actually pushing the upper bracket to the rear and dislodging the bag.
If that is the case, it sounds like a recall should be announced to replace or update the lower bracket.
Just my humble opinion.
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The one time it happened to me was hitting a series of bad potholes in the road with my wife as passenger. The last one I couldn't avoid and it hit hard. It slammed so far that I have a chip in the paint of the upper arm where the chrome trim from the fender hit it.
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X2, lost mine on a hard bump from pothole
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OK folks not sure how a pot hole affects the bags the swingarm moves not the fender where the upper mounts for bags and the lower mount doesn't move either it comes off the passenger peg mount ...take your bag off stand back and look for yourself better yet pushed down on your bike and you will see the swingarm moves only not the bag mounts
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That's what I was thinking, Lever
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
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With HD taking it off the Breakout, maybe it simply wasn't worth the hassle. However, reading this post, I do check, at least twice, any time I take off with the bags on, that they are mounted correctly and pin showing.
While I was going to post this picture for a different reason (text up top), I was looking at it and noticed I didn't have the bag on correctly (or if I did it moved). This was before I was reading this thread, so I hope to NOT have a repeat.
Not sure HD will come out with a recall, but with the item no longer on new bikes, doubt there will be a mechanical change any time soon. I will be sure not to bring the topic up at the bar, as I too think it is like religion or politics, everyone at least knows what the topic is now and choose their course to follow.
Still love the bike, and the fact that I can strip it down or put it all back together faster then tying my boots.
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Yep, I agree! :) :)
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X3 on still Love the bike. It looks like that is the one thing we can all agree on.
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True aint that the truth I am so happy I purchased this bad boy! so any of you have any problems with the media player on the GPS? About 50% of the time I have to resart it so that it will find my music.
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OK folks not sure how a pot hole affects the bags the swingarm moves not the fender where the upper mounts for bags and the lower mount doesn't move either it comes off the passenger peg mount ...take your bag off stand back and look for yourself better yet pushed down on your bike and you will see the swingarm moves only not the bag mounts
You might want to revisit the mechanics of that. Pushing down on the fender will prove my point. The fender closes with the top swing arm as it is compressed. The fender itself may be fixed, but the gap between the fender and that swing arm closes with more pressure.
As for the Dyna and a similar setup. It also has three points of contact. ALL of them are on the fender.
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when you pushed down on the fender your not affecting the bags mounts there are stationary the mounts don't move look look at the chrome strut on your rear fender it doesn't move the tire assemble moves the last mounting point on the passager peg mount don't move either the tire and swingarm moves inside the fender
as far as the Dyna you really cant compare it to a softail suspension two different setup all together
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Lever,
I assume you have been riding for a while so I know you have hit a few hard bumps in your time on the road, we all have. The reason we feel them and sometimes even hurt our backs is due to the suspension (although better than a hard tail) not being 100% efficient. In my non-engineering humble opinion, that up and down jolt combined with the odd three point docking system, causes the bag to twist slightly from the torque of absorbing the shock load. In some situations, not all, that torque overcomes the spring tension holding the locking knob in place and the locking pin pops out of place. Since the bike is moving forward and the bags are removed by pulling them backwards, physics takes over and the bags simply slide off the back of the bike.
Maybe some off those locking knob springs have higher tension than others, or maybe the bags should have been designed to come off by moving them forwards instead of rearwards, I really don't know, but having experienced it I can say that it is lucky that as my bag slid across a 6 lane highway no one was hurt.
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thank you for the compliment ..i have been riding for a long time ,
those bumps that hurt our backs my friends and i call those spine shots hehe and boy do those hurt
..chiropractor loves me on a long bumpy ride
anyway
I'm are going to have to agree to disagree with this whole saddle bag, baffling, enigmatic, incomprehensible, indecipherable, indescribable, inexplainable, inscrutable, insoluble, mysterious, mystifying, obscure, odd*, peculiar, puzzling, strange, unaccountable, undefinable, unfathomable, unintelligible, unsolvable bag falling off
have a super weekend my friend and keep the rubber side down ;D
thanks Lever
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i agree........ :)
Best to you as well
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Jasray .....question
When your bag came off did the locking mechanism break or was it still full functional ?
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Just when Lever and I agree to take a vacation from this topic, you guys suck me back in... ;)
The truth is, it would be hard to say accurately. The bag was run over by three cars and ultimately got stuck in the undercarriage of a pickup truck and was dragged down the road for about half a mile before the guy could pull over. I did recover the bag and the metal locking knob and pin still appeared functional but I wouldn't want to put money on it.
However as a side note to the story that I have never told before is that the other bag (riders left) also came loose (it was a very big pot hole) but I managed to reach back with my left hand and stabilize it before it slid off the back. That bag although loose still had fully functioning hardware and is still on my bike today (with zip ties).
If anyone else wants to tell me how wrong I am, be nice about it. Its been a tough week.. :drink:
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so the moral of the story is......dont hit any potholes while your bags are on lol.
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Wow again.......
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Ok went to my dealer, told the Manager Harley was not helping, then I mentioned these forums and he said I know I know it happened to us! My dealership knows about the problem as well, anyway they said they are going to make some phone calls and get me a new bag. After that ZIP ties for me.
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With HD taking it off the Breakout, maybe it simply wasn't worth the hassle. However, reading this post, I do check, at least twice, any time I take off with the bags on, that they are mounted correctly and pin showing.
While I was going to post this picture for a different reason (text up top), I was looking at it and noticed I didn't have the bag on correctly (or if I did it moved). This was before I was reading this thread, so I hope to NOT have a repeat.
Not sure HD will come out with a recall, but with the item no longer on new bikes, doubt there will be a mechanical change any time soon. I will be sure not to bring the topic up at the bar, as I too think it is like religion or politics, everyone at least knows what the topic is now and choose their course to follow.
Still love the bike, and the fact that I can strip it down or put it all back together faster then tying my boots.
two different times I had my bags look like this, both on the left bag. looks impossible to pop off and still have the pin showing out.
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Again, if secured correctly you won't have a problem.
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Have not had the problem with the saddlebags falling off but I now zip tie them as a precaution but I did have a new problem on my last trip. The lid popped open on the right side and when I stopped I saw that I lost my zip in liner vest to my jacket. One other time that side had opened so I just got in the habit of locking it and it hadn't happened since then. This time I checked and the lock was still in the locked position but I also had run into some very stiff cross winds. I just put a bungee around it till I got back and of course had to hit a couple of passes in CO and the temps were in the upper 30's and could have used that liner.
It looks like it wasn't hooking low enough in the latch and the wind if strong enough could flip it open if it got under it. I did some bending and will see if that helps. Just something else for you to check on the saddlebags of the 11's and 12's.
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Again, if secured correctly you won't have a problem.
:2vrolijk_21: i HAVE TO AGREE.
I have had mine off and back on many times, and have NOT had a problem.
JMHO
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:beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse:
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Gotta love the folks who have been lucky so far and thus seem to feel superior to those other folks who obviously don't know how to install the bags properly. I'm waiting for one of them to come back and report that even they have finally been bitten. Assuming they would fess up to being wrong of course.
With all the variability in Harley's bikes and accessories, why is it that some people can't seem to believe it's possible that some bags, even when properly installed, have and can come loose? Most of the many faults found on Harley's aren't in the 100% category, some fail and some don't. If you have one that doesn't suffer a particular failure that is common on other bikes, it's much more likely to be related to chance and not some superiority of the guy riding the bike.
As the fireman once said, where there is smoke there is often fire.
Jerry
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whoa Jerry i respect your opinion on this forum ...however as a convertible owner myself i don't feel superior to the other members ..yes i have been fortunate that my bags haven't falling off ..i have said my 2cents about the bags issues here and I'm done with this topic ...the optional fix has been posted
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(http://)
:beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse:
X2,X2.X2.X2
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True aint that the truth I am so happy I purchased this bad boy! so any of you have any problems with the media player on the GPS? About 50% of the time I have to resart it so that it will find my music.
I have the same problem with the media player. I have to restart mine every now and then also....I talked to a tech at Garmin who told me that they were aware of this problem and were working on a software update to fix it. Keep looking at the MyGarmin website for software updates.
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I have the same issue. Garmin acted as though I didn't know how to download music. Never got any where with it. Will anxiously wait for a fix.
BTW, how did this get in a saddle bags falling off thread?
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:jack:
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cpm83 is new and possibly doesn't understand how threads work just yet. We all can collectively (and compassionately) educate him or her in the ways of the threads and they will be productive participants in no time at all. :2vrolijk_21: Pork.
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Pork, I always new you were a compasionate philosopher at heart. ;)
Maybe CPM did us a favor, perhaps this thread should be jacked, Lever and I haven't had anything else to disagree about lately! ;D
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:D
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cpm83 (he) knows how threads work. On Sept 20 Turkish posted reply #105 in the saddlebags falling off discussion and in it he asked if anyone had problems with the media player. I know this was off topic but I`ve had this same problem and thought I would let him know what I found out from Garmin. Maybe I should have started a new thread...sorry...
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No problem brother, welcome to the forum. You have a great bike and in spite of our minor differences of opinions on a wide range of topics, we all love our ConV's, however our love for the MoCo depends on our mood at the time.
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Thanks!!
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we all love our ConV's, however our love for the MoCo depends on our mood at the time.
[/quote]
I could not have said it more concisely myself. Today, I got the voltage regulator replaced (recall item, so hopefully a couple electronic issues will go away) as well as the speed sensor (supposed to keep the CC from kicking off, which is a problem I have been experiencing for the last 5K) and afterward they offered to wash the bike for me (to which I promptly replied, "gosh that'd be great; however don't let them wash the bike without covering the air filter with some sort of bag; I learned a lesson a year ago") and he said they would and I said ok. So, an hour later I was riding out on a beautiful red bike and feeling on top of the world. Even seemed like it shifted and ran better. Way to go, MoCo!! My hero!........................................sigh............................................... :-) And then I looked back and yup, sure enough, my saddlebags were still intact! And that, my fellow forumers, is how to stay "on thread" and not hijack anything. ;) Pork.
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I had both the right (2x) and left saddle bag fall off in the first 2 months of owning my 2010 ConV. I was luckily able to recover both with minimal damage and was convinced that there was something wrong with the latching system. Ever since then I ALWAYS make a point to double check the bag mounting points and locks to make sure they are securely latched into place before every ride. In the 2 years since that time I have not had another bag fall off. I hate to say it but the statistics are on the side of human error - at least in my case. Now prior to this I would have sworn under oath that I latched the bags properly prior to each ride when the bags fell off but the data doesn't seem to support that. Now giving the latches a twist to make sure they are locked into place and secure is part of my normal preflight check. I can honestly say I am comforable enough with them to use the bags again without adding any 3rd party product to secure them further.
I totally agree, I had the same problem, resolved by preflight checks.
MikeV
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:beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse:
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Gotta love the folks who have been lucky so far and thus seem to feel superior to those other folks who obviously don't know how to install the bags properly. I'm waiting for one of them to come back and report that even they have finally been bitten. Assuming they would fess up to being wrong of course.
With all the variability in Harley's bikes and accessories, why is it that some people can't seem to believe it's possible that some bags, even when properly installed, have and can come loose? Most of the many faults found on Harley's aren't in the 100% category, some fail and some don't. If you have one that doesn't suffer a particular failure that is common on other bikes, it's much more likely to be related to chance and not some superiority of the guy riding the bike.
As the fireman once said, where there is smoke there is often fire.
Jerry
After checking install and loading gear, lost left bag on I-15, 4 lanes of heavy high speed traffic, after 10 miles. Everything was destroyed. Don't trust the system anymore. Don't like the idea of creating a fail-safe for HD. Love this bike, but feel that a $30,000 ride should have a rethink on bags. When considering the number of these built, it seems someone would take a serious look. HD wants over $1,000 for parts to replace one bag. How many of these occurrences does it take to alarm HD?
Wagggs
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They don't get alarmed because they don't care....
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I had my left bag fall off, decided it was pilot error. Next time I will make sure it is properly latched. A lesson learned.
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I have a 2011 CVO Softtail Convertable , my bags have fallen off on three separate occasions . Each time was during a long trip ,and fairly high speeds.It not only scared the crap outta me and my passenger, but was VERY dangerous, as it took my mind TOTALLY off the road and my surroundings. Each time I picked the bag up ,from the highway or street , and thankfully the bag was intact,but the vinyl and locks were torn up and scratched to the point of needing to be recovered and replaced. Each time I had the bags recovered at my own cost , 400 each time.... and replaced the locks 150 a pair....
This last incident was the final straw, I called Harley and they told me to bring it to Dealer, the Dealer tugged on them a few times and told me they seemed fine and they couldnt send the bag to Harley cause it cost them money and Harley wont reimburse them. I know will get my bag recovered for the third time and change the lock again.....
I buy only American vehicles ,cars and Bikes .... I have spent 50,000 dollars at Harley on bikes since 2006.... I am looking for a new bike as we speak, maybe time to check out some Victory cycles.....
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cvobreeze, consider your options carefully, the ConV is a great bike. I am the poster boy for complaining about the bag issue yet I love the bike. I have owned several metric bikes and 4 different Harleys and this bike is the perfect fit for the kind of riding I do now. We all understand your frustrations with the MoCo but if the bags are the only issue you have with this bike, a few cheap cable ties will solve the problem quickly.
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I am trying to consider my options wisely Jasray, I thought Harley may be a little more understanding and possibly have me send the bag and back and look at it ....... I called twice and got a very rude reprisenitive,who would only repeat over and over to refer to my owners manual.Did not want to hear anything about it. they could have offered to recover it and change the lock for me ,even if at a discounted price.... they blew me off. plain and simple .I have spent alot of money to own an american classic motorcycle.... a HARLEY DAVIDSON ,only to be treated like a customer of another chinese monster cooperation , who just pumps out cheap bikes and parts to make billions of dollars , no quality and no time for those who buy them. It was a sad realization, I bought a 20,000 dollar bike in 06, and a 30,000 dollar bike in 2011, You think they could have given me a little more consideration. So much for Americans watching each others backs , so much for American pride.... Thats all I have to say.
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:beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse:
I feel your pain, but - I do believe they made a change on the 2012 - FLSTSE3 - I have over 14k on mine and have NOT had a problem. I know - some of you say "wait it will" - but IMHO - most of the times it is OE. :nixweiss:
Good luck to Ya'LL :-\
For my $$$ this is one of the best CVO's I have owned so far :2vrolijk_21:
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If you don't want your bags falling off anymore and don't want to spend money on repair or replacing your bags :pepper:, have hard bags put on. :pepper:
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I have been thinking about this for a while now. When I first got the ConV I had both bags fall off on 3 different occasions. One time the lower bracket on the left bag was bent enough that I had to replace it. I installed the bracket loosely, mounted the bag and adjusted the position and tightened everything down. After that I noticed was that the bag was much easier to mount and unmount so I loosened adjusted and re-tightened the right side brackets as well.
Now consider these bags and the mounting hardware. Why do some guys have this issue and others do not? They are essentially the same exact parts and if you discount occasional human error what's left? Can it possibly be that alignment (or HD's misalignment) of the brackets is that critical? :nixweiss: Who knows but as I have said before since adjusting the brackets with the bags mounted AND my compulsive double checking that the bags are mounted properly and locked in place before I ride, it has not happened again. These are the same bags and same bike and I went from 3 bag drops the first season to ZERO in the subsequent 2.
I too wish the MoCo would replace my bags as I do not appreciate the road rash patina on my otherwise pristine ride but until someone collects and compiles all the data on how many ConV owners have had this problem, HD will continue to live in denial.
MikeV
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Mine has just fell off again!!!
I think its down to the location nearest the seat not being fully located, ie human error but there is too much room for human error!
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OUCH !!!
Best insurance is 10 cents of zip ties.
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We feel your pain brother :'( . Second the suggestion for zip ties......
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Don't use the bags that often! but when I do! its always with the zip ties!! too many horror stories!!!
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Don't use the bags that often! but when I do! its always with the zip ties!! too many horror stories!!!
I sure hope they are official Bar & Shield zip ties. You should never trust cheap inferior aftermarket ties to protect your Harley bags. ;D
I would think that Harley should at least send all you guys a supply of zip ties, if they don't intend to fix the root cause of the problem.
Jerry
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Zip ties do come in CHROME ;D
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:beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse: :beatdeadhorse:
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Come on Lever, we're not complaining, just having a little fun with it.....
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me too ;D
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Looks like there`s still room for a few more beaten dead horses on that post............!
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lol those where decaying fastest so I posted them to get rid off them ...still have more when needed
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I have a 2012 Conv and have lost my 2nd bag on the way to the 110 party in Milwaukee. My husband and I both checked the bags before leaving on the trip. The bag was on correctly and I don't believe it was human error that caused the bag to leave the bike going 50 mph down the road. The first time it happened was in 2012 in Sturgis. I didn't know that much about the bags so I can't say whether that was human error or not. This time, no doubt, it was NOT human error. I love the bike but totally frustrated with the bag issue. Luckily, I was able to retrieve the bags and the stuff inside was intact.
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If you love the bike like most of us do, there are several previous posts regarding simple solutions to secure the bags. Glad to hear that you recovered all your stuff, and welcome to the board.
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welcome to the boards...sorry also to hear about your bags issue's
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Better get Brukus or the other one on the site.
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I have a 2012 Conv and have lost my 2nd bag on the way to the 110 party in Milwaukee. My husband and I both checked the bags before leaving on the trip. The bag was on correctly and I don't believe it was human error that caused the bag to leave the bike going 50 mph down the road. The first time it happened was in 2012 in Sturgis. I didn't know that much about the bags so I can't say whether that was human error or not. This time, no doubt, it was NOT human error. I love the bike but totally frustrated with the bag issue. Luckily, I was able to retrieve the bags and the stuff inside was intact.
Had I been you, I would have found some of the HD CVO folks at the gathering and asked them to explain their engineering theory behind the bag attachment. You are certainly not alone on this issue.
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Sorry for your issue with the bags, but simple to get a good/safe feeling.
2x 5 seconds to work and reusable zip ties.
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+1 :2vrolijk_21:
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I have read about this for years and always thought what a crappy design. Then I actually bought one and after seeing how it works and the way it "snaps" into place, I just don't get it. I put my bags on, the lock snaps into place and I ride worry free down the road. Am I just being stupid?
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Nope
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please, lets not start this debate again. If you have had success with the bags, God bless you and best of luck. If you have had the unfortunate experience of them coming off while riding, sorry for your pain, I recommend zip ties. To those that have had a great experience with the locking system, please don't try to explain to me what I did wrong, or how great the system is, or that it is all rider error and in turn I won't try to convince you that all of us that have had this issue know something that you don't.
The weather is still great outside, the sky is blue, I just finished a 3200 mile ride from Texas to California and back and would rather we focus on the things we can all agree upon rather than opening up this can of worms again and getting me all riled up.
Peace, love, happiness.....
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:2vrolijk_21:
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please, lets not start this debate again. If you have had success with the bags, God bless you and best of luck. If you have had the unfortunate experience of them coming off while riding, sorry for your pain, I recommend zip ties. To those that have had a great experience with the locking system, please don't try to explain to me what I did wrong, or how great the system is, or that it is all rider error and in turn I won't try to convince you that all of us that have had this issue know something that you don't.
The weather is still great outside, the sky is blue, I just finished a 3200 mile ride from Texas to California and back and would rather we focus on the things we can all agree upon rather than opening up this can of worms again and getting me all riled up.
Peace, love, happiness.....
:2vrolijk_21:
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I have a new 2014 ultra classic with 2K miles and today my right saddle bag fell off on the freeway and needless to say its toast.. WTF?? Called the dealership.. "it happens".. I hope they replace it.. this is ridiculous and a poor design by Harley.
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I bought a new 2011 CVO Convertible a little over 2 years ago. I had the right bag fall off immediately after the dealer installed Some Vance & Hines Pipes for me. First ride after that, right bag falls off. Did not even know it until we stopped for gas. iPhone 4 in the bag also as well as a jacket etc. Dealer said "not the first time that has happened" and that's it. They replaced the bag at no charge. I thought the mechanic did not properly put the bag on after the pipe installation. If the service manager had just said "you may want to just put a plastic zip tie on each time after you remove and reinstall the bags so this can't happen in the future" I WOULD HAVE! I have removed the bags and reinstalled them a few times with no problem. However, I removed both and reinstalled both during a routine cleaning. I have been paranoid to a certain extent ever since the first incident, but had not had a repeat since the first bag fell off. After installing the bags this time I tug back and forth horizontally to make sure it is secure and the latch is good. The latch pops up! I reinstall the bags again making sure all three mount points are correctly installed and latch again making sure that the latch pin is in the correct position and the latch is latched. I perform the back and forth pull and the latch pops open again on one bag and not the other. Then I tell myself "I am not supposed to be pulling back and forth on the bag so it probably will be fine during a ride, I am just paranoid" I go for the ride and BOTH BAGS COME OFF! Now I have to go back to the dealer and get two more new bags free of charge. Anyone want to speculate how that is going to go? If only the dealer would have suggested plastic zip ties or had admitted that this is a widespread problem among this model, I would have done some research and used the ties.
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I have a new 2014 ultra classic with 2K miles and today my right saddle bag fell off on the freeway and needless to say its toast.. WTF?? Called the dealership.. "it happens".. I hope they replace it.. this is ridiculous and a poor design by Harley.
Rusty - YOU have a different bag and different model bike - :nixweiss:
sorry to hear that you lost a bag :coolblue:
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I have a new 2014 ultra classic with 2K miles and today my right saddle bag fell off on the freeway and needless to say its toast.. WTF?? Called the dealership.. "it happens".. I hope they replace it.. this is ridiculous and a poor design by Harley.
y
You can use Brukus saddlebag locks on yours. They work very well and are worth the extra time to take the bags off for peace of mind.
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If the latch is popping up then the cylinder is not going into the hole. Check and see if maybe it's dirty and needs some wd40 to get it to spring out into the hole easier.
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Wish I'd have seen this CVO forum when/before I bought my 2012 CVO soft tail convertible!!! Now a 2-year old bike with a mere 7500 miles on it, the right side bag decided to fall off the bike on a recent ride… didn't even know it!! Got to my destination and when I lifted my right leg to get off bike I saw my right side bag was GONE!?!?! Luckily I was on a solo ride - when my girlfriend rides her bike with me, she insists on riding behind me -- could have been a major disaster!!
HD could give a rip and denies they have a problem (not sure why after how many years of this CVO forum posting they DO HAVE A PROBLEM)… I know the right-side bag was secure when a I took off on the ride (open and closed the bag getting my jacket out)… of course, HD says it had to my "my fault"! I had a BMW 1200C for 14 years prior which had similar, single lock removable bags - NEVER had a problem with those.
HD wants $1100 to replace the, now recovered, very messed up saddle bag… police found the bag and turned into the local HD dealership. Out of principle - that primarily being safety - I'm taking this to the hilt. I am working with an attorney, the State Transportation & Safety officials, and local police. This HD bag problem could/will kill someone riding behind a motorcycle with similar saddle bags that DO have this problem.
IF YOU CAN HELP ME WITH YOUR SIMILAR STORY, please let me know. Thanks! JD
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has more to do with design flaws that caused saddlebags to fall off
https://www.yahoo.com/autos/s/harley-davidson-suffering-major-recalls-153052038.html
Enjoy!