I just received the HD Two-Up Sport Luggage Rack (http://*******.com/en9h8)and noticed in fine print in the installation instructions that the recommended max weight capacity is 10 pounds.

Most larger size luggage bags weigh near that themselves (eg. Kuryakyn's Full Dresser: http://*******.com/zdfj6).

Any thoughts on that? If I end up at 12 pounds back there is the thing going to snap off or something?

 

The weight rating is not based on at what weight the rack will fail at. It is a liability statement to cover the MoCo's *** due to the adverse handling putting a lot of weight back there may cause.

I have a luggage rack on my Road King's detachable backrest. My load for a one week trip is usually about 60lbs.

 

Yeah, that was what I was thinking. I was just worried that their novelty racks might be "novelty" racks rather than functional.

Carry on then.

 

I love all the disclaimers "May cause death or serious injury...". I load my luggage rack and saddlebags way over the recommended limits and ride 2-up on some really long trips. Never had any problems other than having to adjust the drive belt due to the excess weight. Load it up and take a test ride carefully to see how it is handling.

 

As mentioned, mainly a liability disclaimer. A few hints when loading a bike for a trip.
1. Heavy bags go low. Place heavier items in Saddle Bags.
2. Balance Sadlle bags. use a bath room scale to keep bag liners (sacks) balanced in weight from side to side.
3. lighter items go high. The higher you go, the lighter you go. Helps to keep from getting too top heavy and raising the center of gravity.
4. If it gets too heavy, leave the passenger!