Looking for opinions on luggage racks for my 08 FLHT. I have the two up detachable backrest on my bike.
Of the HD models, one (53011-98) attaches to the backrest, the other (53743-97) is detachable. I like the idea of taking it off and leaving the backrest on but not sure how the hardware looks and if the hardware is a hassle to put on. I like the looks of the one that mounts to the backrest but a bit of hassle taking off.

 

I put the detachable on mine and love it. The docking hardware is easy to put on if you don't read the directions. They are so screwed up they will confuse you. Look up the prior post on the subject, there are some good instructions that have been posted.

 

Quote:

Detachable Two-Up Lugage Rack*

Quote:

Smooth sweeping curves and a brilliant chrome finish
defines the look of this Luggage Rack. This sleek and functional
rack is an elegant solution for carrying your luggage
across the country. Designed to work with or without
Detachable Passenger Backrests, this rack can be installed
or removed from the Docking Hardware in seconds, creating
a truly versatile ride.

54215-09 $219.95

Fits ’09 FLHR, FLHRC, FLHT, FLHX, FLTR and FLTRSE3.
Requires separate purchase of Docking Hardware Kit
P/N 54205-09. FLTR and FLHX models require separate
purchase of Antenna Relocation Kit P/N 76561-09. Some
FLHRC EU registration plates may interfere with rack.

 

Same here, trying to decide between the contured rack or the premium luggage rack for my trip. Do they have something that covers the holes if you take it off to prevent leaks in the TP?

 

They're talking about a different animal. You're talking about the luggage rack on top of the tour pak lid. Generally, once you put it on you leave it on. However, if you wanted to go through the hassle of installing it and uninstalling it, you could get rubber plugs for the holes.

 

How does the hardware, that stays on the bike, look when rack is off? Any pics with rack off?

 

That rack is just for the 09's.

 

How about this one? I trying to determine if it will fit with my Short Sissy Bar 52935-04. It isn't pretty but it looks like it goes on without tools. It would only be used when you actually have a bag on it.

http://www.coolsac.com/ProductGroup....de=ACCESSORIES

Luggage Rack (ABS Plastic)

$69.95
General Features:
Removable ABS plastic luggage rack.
Mounts to base of sissy bar. No screws or brackets required.
Available for Harley-Davidson frames only.
Compatibility is simply based on the width of your backrest.
Must have a square (not round) bar.
Not compatible with mini rail backrest.

Available for the following:

6 3/4 inch wide Backrest

7 1/2 inch wide Backrest

 

Someone has to have one of the HD luggage racks on their bike, with an opinion. With the detachable I'm curious how the hardware looks on the bike with the rack off. With the one that mounts to the backrest, I'm curious if it's a pain to take off the back rest.
Do you like one better than the other?

 

Here is a better picture without the rack on