Installing a Harley Davidson sissy bar is a rewarding upgrade that enhances the comfort, style, and functionality of your bike. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, adding a sissy bar to your Harley can be a simple and satisfying process. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing your Harley Davidson sissy bar to ensure a smooth and successful upgrade.
Why Install a Harley Davidson Sissy Bar?
Before we dive into the installation process, let’s quickly review why adding a Harley Davidson sissy bar is a great idea:
- Passenger Comfort: The sissy bar provides back support for your passenger, making long rides more comfortable.
- Increased Storage: Many sissy bars come with luggage racks, adding storage space for longer trips.
- Style: A sissy bar adds a distinctive look to your bike, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
Now, let’s get started on installing your Harley Davidson sissy bar.
Tools You’ll Need for Installation
Before beginning the installation, make sure you have the following tools:
- Socket wrench and a set of sockets
- Torque wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Hex key set
- Motorcycle stand (optional but helpful)
- Harley Davidson sissy bar kit (including the bar, hardware, and any necessary brackets)
Step 1: Prepare Your Motorcycle
The first step in installing your Harley Davidson sissy bar is ensuring that your bike is stable and ready for the installation process. It’s a good idea to use a motorcycle stand to keep your bike upright and steady during the process.
Make sure to check that the seat and any existing accessories or attachments are removed. This will give you easy access to the rear of your bike.
Step 2: Install the Mounting Brackets
Most Harley Davidson sissy bars come with specific mounting brackets that are designed to fit your bike’s frame. To begin, take the mounting brackets and align them with the rear fender of your motorcycle.
- Position the brackets: Place the brackets onto the frame or fender and ensure they are aligned with the screw holes.
- Attach the brackets: Use your socket wrench to securely fasten the bolts that hold the brackets in place. It’s important to ensure the bolts are tightened evenly to avoid any misalignment.
Step 3: Attach the Sissy Bar
Once the mounting brackets are securely attached, it’s time to mount the Harley Davidson sissy bar itself.
- Align the sissy bar: With the help of an assistant or on your own, carefully align the sissy bar with the mounting brackets.
- Secure the sissy bar: Use the bolts provided with your sissy bar kit to attach it to the mounting brackets. Tighten the bolts with a wrench, ensuring that the sissy bar is firmly in place.
Step 4: Attach the Seat
After the sissy bar is installed, you can reattach the seat to your Harley Davidson. The seat may need to be adjusted slightly to accommodate the sissy bar, so make sure it’s positioned comfortably.
- Position the seat: Slide the seat into place, ensuring it fits snugly around the mounting hardware and sissy bar.
- Secure the seat: Use the bolts or screws that came with your motorcycle seat to fasten it securely. Double-check that the seat is stable before moving on.
Step 5: Check Alignment and Tighten Bolts
Now that the sissy bar and seat are installed, it’s important to ensure that everything is properly aligned and secured.
- Check the alignment: Stand back and examine the sissy bar to ensure it is straight and positioned correctly.
- Tighten all bolts: Using a torque wrench, go over all the bolts you’ve installed and ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. This step is crucial for ensuring that your sissy bar stays secure during rides.
Step 6: Final Inspection
Before you hit the road, perform a final inspection to make sure everything is properly installed and secure.
- Test the stability: Gently push on the sissy bar to check for any movement. If it shifts, re-tighten the bolts.
- Check for clearance: Ensure that the sissy bar doesn’t interfere with any other components of your bike, such as the rear wheel or exhaust pipes.
Step 7: Take a Test Ride
Once you’re confident that the sissy bar is securely installed, it’s time for a test ride. Take your Harley Davidson for a short ride to make sure the sissy bar provides the desired comfort and stability. Pay attention to how the bike handles and how your passenger feels during the ride.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Harley Davidson Sissy Bar
Installing a Harley Davidson sissy bar is a straightforward process that can significantly improve both the comfort and style of your motorcycle. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll ensure that your sissy bar is installed correctly and securely, ready to provide you and your passenger with a more enjoyable ride.