When installing both front (53830-06) and rear docking kits (53804-06) on a 97-08 tourer, both instruction sheets show how to reassemble the rear saddlebag mounting bracket on top of the front docking kit bracket, which in turn is installed on top of the rear docking kit bracket and all attached to the saddlebag support bracket. This puts the saddlebag mounting bracket out further than its original position. However, neither instruction sheet discusses nor shows any instruction on reassembling the front saddlebag mounting bracket, nor provides a proper spacer to bring that one out in line with the rear one. As well, spacing both to be equal pushes the saddlebag out very close to the saddlebag rails. How have others installed the saddle bag mounting brackets using both kits? Has anyone simply installed the rear mounting bracket underneath the front docking kit bracket instead of the spacer, which essentially puts it back to its original position?

 

I did not like the out of alignment when I installed mine either. So I just put the bracket on top of the saddlebag bracket. Works fine for me. Clears everything and is all good. I only installed the front though.

 

That’s what I was thinking. Glad to see it works that way.

 

Let me know if I can get you pictures of how mine is. Those aren’t great, but I can take better and different ones if they will help.

 

While you have it apart, check the bottom of part # 3 for cracks right at the angle. Now would be a good time to weld them if there is any sign of cracking. I had to weld mine, bracket on each side was broken or cracked.

 

All back together, works/looks fine and clearance is good. I put the saddlebag mounting brackets underneath the docking bracket instead of the spacer.

 

My friend’s ‘06 SG has broken this part a few times. I keep telling him it’s because his bags are always overloaded, and they’re deep stretched bags at that. Is there a beefier replacement by chance?

 

Hmmm, interesting post.

 

 

The bracket has an elongated hole that allows for adjustment. When properly adjusted, the weight of the bags, and contents, will be on the support that runs under the bags. If the bracket is too high, in relation to the support rail, it will endure unnecessary stress, and eventually fail.