I want to remove the ugly bumpers from my bike. It looks like I can get the darn bolts okay, but noticed the brackets had little tabs on them that make it impossible to get a socket on them. Is there an easy way around this? Is it necessary to buy the bracket for the rear?

 

on my 2008, I used a long-handled straight screwdriver and flattened them to get at the bolt. I went thru the rim, and was able to get them. you can rebend them from the outside when done. A major improvement from stock...I haven't done the rear bumper though. Awesome bike you have.

 

Thanks pnehms!

 

According to the dealer, if you remove the rear bumper it will have to be replace with a support bracket.

 

On the front, bend back the tabs and you should be able to get it done without removing the wheel although it can be a pain just work from opposing sides. The rear is a piece of pie and I dare say YES, you'll need to purchase the bracket for the rear fender.

 

You beat me to it. I kinda like the rear bumper on my '09.

 

You should not need the support bracket after removal of the rear bumper. That is only up to 08 models. IIRC, the 09's have a different rear setup and you can take off the bumper without buying the support bracket. I took both off my 08 and like the look. I also used a flat blade and bent the tabs back. Did it all without having to remove the tire.

 

yup, bend the tabs fer da front...no need to put that cheap azz 'bracket' thingy back after. the rear, 09's and 10's have the hidden bracket...pull the bumber and seperate the bracket, reinstall.

 

This was the exact technique I used for the front bumper and yes you need th hidden bracket for the rear to tie the saddlebag support rails together.

Tim

edit----forgot about the 09 10 frame change---only need rear bracket of 08 and earlier

 

How long does it take to do it this way? I just removed my front wheel, which simplifies matters greatly. It doesn't take more than 15 minutes to r&r the front wheel, so why bother with a work-around? With the wheel off, it only takes a couple of minutes to remove the bumper.

Don't get me wrong, I'm all in favor of work-arounds if it saves time. I would get all kinds of frustrated trying to get at the inside of the fender with the wheel still on the bike.