Harley-Davidson Motor Company cannot test and make specific recommendations concerning every accessory or combination of accessories sold. Therefore, the rider must be responsible for safe operation of the motorcycle when installing accessories or carrying additional weight.
WARNINGSee ACCESSORIES AND CARGO section within the SAFETY FIRST section in your owner's manual. Improper cargo loading or accessory installation can cause component failure and adversely affect stability, handling and performance, which could result in death or serious injury. (00021c)
WARNINGDo not exceed the motorcycle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Exceeding these weight ratings can lead to component failure and adversely affect stability, handling and performance, which could result in death or serious injury. (00016f)
- GVWR is the sum of the weight of the motorcycle, accessories, and the maximum weight of the rider, passenger and cargo that can be safely carried.
- GAWR is the maximum amount of weight that can be safely carried on each axle.
- The GVWR and GAWR are shown on the information plate which is located on the frame down tube.
WARNINGDo not pull a trailer with a motorcycle. Pulling a trailer can cause tire overload, damage and failure, reduced braking performance, and adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00018c)
Accessory and Cargo Guidelines
The following guidelines should be used when equipping a motorcycle, carrying passengers and/or cargo.
WARNINGTravel at speeds appropriate for road and conditions and never travel faster than posted speed limit. Excessive speed can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00008a)
- Do not exceed the legal speed limit or drive too fast for existing conditions. Always reduce speed when poor driving conditions exist. High speed increases the influence of any other condition affecting stability and increases the possibility of loss of control.
- Pay strict attention to road surfaces and wind conditions. Any two wheeled vehicle may be subject to upsetting forces such as wind blasts from passing trucks, holes in the pavement, rough road surfaces, rider control error, etc. These forces may influence the handling characteristics of your motorcycle. If this happens, reduce speed and guide the motorcycle with a relaxed grip to a controlled condition. Do not brake abruptly or force the handlebar. This may aggravate an unstable condition.
- Keep cargo weight concentrated close to the motorcycle and as low as possible. This minimizes the change in the motorcycle's center of gravity.
- Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the vehicle.
- Do not load bulky items too far behind the rider or add weight to the handlebars or front forks.
- Do not exceed maximum specified load in each saddlebag.
- Luggage racks are designed for lightweight items. Do not overload racks.
- Be sure cargo is secure and will not shift while riding and recheck the cargo periodically. Accessories that change the operator's riding position may increase reaction time and affect handling of the motorcycle.
- Additional electrical equipment may overload the motorcycle's electrical system possibly resulting in electrical system and/or component failure.
WARNINGIf Equipped: Front and/or rear guards are not intended to provide protection from bodily injury in a collision with another vehicle or any other object. (00022d)
Large surfaces such as fairings, windshields, back rests, and luggage racks can adversely affect handling. Only genuine Harley-Davidson items designed specifically for the motorcycle model should be used with proper installation.
WARNINGHarley-Davidson parts and accessories are designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Using non-Harley-Davidson parts or accessories can adversely affect performance, stability or handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00001b)
WARNINGOnly Touring Harley-Davidson Motorcycles are suitable for sidecar use. Consult a Harley-Davidson dealer. Use of motorcycles other than Touring models with sidecars could result in death or serious injury. (00040a)