Somehow I missed this little problem until a couple of weeks ago when I noticed an unusual amount of looseness in the saddlebag when it was closed. Like many others I found that all four of the mounting posts had cracks and one was about to fall loose. Never did find all the little pieces but enough to reconstruct the posts initially with JB Kwik Weld which really did not have enough holding power and then later with Devcon plastic epoxy. Uncertain if even this will be sufficient in the long run.
I believe these cracks were a fatigue failure. It is interesting that the cracks are only in the bag that carried a small amount of this and that-certainly not above the weight limit. My bike is one of the older models in time but not in mileage. Bought it in November 09 so that may have some significance. Also the problem is in the right bag which is above the muffler. Wonder if heat exposure is relevant.
I am surprised that this failure has not been refered to the appropriate governmental agency. I certainly would not want a bag to come open at speed.
I believe these cracks were a fatigue failure. It is interesting that the cracks are only in the bag that carried a small amount of this and that-certainly not above the weight limit. My bike is one of the older models in time but not in mileage. Bought it in November 09 so that may have some significance. Also the problem is in the right bag which is above the muffler. Wonder if heat exposure is relevant.
I am surprised that this failure has not been refered to the appropriate governmental agency. I certainly would not want a bag to come open at speed.