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How do you remove the side cases?

12K views 18 replies 13 participants last post by  tailscookieiron  
#1 ·
I need to install the rear crash bars on my 2021 GTL, but I need to remove the side cases first. The manual has no information, and I can not find a YouTube video. Ilium Works video starts with the side case off. Has anyone seen a video or instruction for the removal?
 
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#4 ·
@Frogman , when reinstalling the side cases NEVER force the latch back down! It should smoothly go down when the case is properly aligned. Some, including me, have had trouble with installing the cases. No one knows why, but on some you'll need to apply pressure with your knee about 1/3 of the back from the leading edge of the lid to get the latch to go down.

Duane
 
#5 ·
I just took them off, why doesn't my manual have instruction to remove case?
Grevens-Thank you again.
Gunnert-Thank you for the addition info.
Now I can install the rear crash bars. Then I'll deal with re-installing the cases.
I had all this down with 45 yrs riding HD, now I'm back in grade school again!
 
#8 ·
I just took them off, why doesn't my manual have instruction to remove case?
Grevens-Thank you again.
Gunnert-Thank you for the addition info.
Now I can install the rear crash bars. Then I'll deal with re-installing the cases.
I had all this down with 45 yrs riding HD, now I'm back in grade school again!
The rear protection bars are easy to do will take about 10 mins a side at the most. Just one thing sometimes if you have the key turned the wrong way you will find it difficult to close the handle so make sure once you have them back on the key aligned with the dot on the case. then gently apply pressure to close the Handel. Double-check they lock using the central locking system if not you have the key turned in the wrong direction. After having Harleys you will love the GTL handling, speed and so much more about the bike.
 
#11 ·
If you have rear protection bars and have dropped the bike, the pannier may become harder to remove and reinstall because the tongue receiver for the pannier has been bent out of alignment. As Duane said above, do not force the handle up when removing the pannier or down when replacing it. I have to jiggle mine into place.
 
#14 ·
@Arizona Jim , neither for me. Knee pressure is required to install my left pannier. Shaking and/or wiggling does nothing for my issue.

Duane
 
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#18 ·
I sent this vid to my best friend, who rides an FJR, a few years ago. No, that's definitely NOT the best way to remove the panniers.
 
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