This is exactly why I always removed the RH saddlebag assembly for rear tire changes. I just knew what a PITA removing the muffler would be, i had no desire to dive into the big book of swear words
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I never had to remove muffler or saddlebag for rear wheel/tire changes..
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Glad to find another NT rider who uses the same method as me to remove the rear wheel! The first time I did a rear tire swap, I did it by removing the muffler but it was still a lot of aggravation because of things I COULD NOT see, such as the caliper bracket and how it fits into the swingarm...plus I had to work on my back. With the RH saddlebag lid & body removed, everything is in front of you for easy access! At least for me, it's about 100% easy this way.
Only have to remove the two exhaust bolts near the right side foot pegs.
That allows the exhaust to swing down-n-out enough to change the rear wheel and change rear brakes.
Although I should note; I do not use a torque wrench during rear wheel installation. I just use ratcheting box-end wrenches and use the "good-enough" method of tightening.
I tried removing the right saddle bag ONCE to change rear brake pads without removing the rear wheel.
But I will never do it again. 'CAUSE I cracked the saddlebag while trying to remove it.
And until I find a way to weld that crack; I won't be able to install external latches when the saddlebag's stock internal latches fail.