I thought I remember something about removing the front fender off a late model touring bike? Is there a trick or is it simply removing the 4 bolts that go from the inside out thru the fender into the lower legs.

 

You will need to remove the front wheel before you'll be able to remove the front fender.

 

Righty tighty, lefty loosey!!

 

seriously?

If I do that I might as well swap the brake pads. this is how my projects always end up over budget.

 

Don't forget the front wheel bearings.

 

I know the feeling.

 

A small thin screw driver to bend back the locking tabs that lock the four bolts is handy. Get new locking tabs to ensure the bolts do not back out. I know many say locktite will work but I myself would rather trust a positive lock like the tabs provide.

What is the reason for removal?

 

you do not have to take the wheel off to take the fender off. It makes it easier but it is not necessary. Bend the tabs back on the bolt retainers and take the bolts out one by one. Leave the two front bolts in but loose until the end, then take them out and gently squeeze the fender and lift it out. Done it alot of times. Putting the fender back on is just as easy.

 

If you're going to take the front wheel off, you're going to have to take the calipers off first.

 

Sometimes you can get a long screwdriver up against the tabs and bend them with a whack.

I'd say pull the wheel so you can slip the fender down. It's tight in there with the wheel on.