Removing with rear tire in place is easier said than done (experience speaking...) I have NO issues with sidewall clearances using my Michelin 140/90 15 with my saddlebag brackets though.    If you do want to pull the brackets, do it when the new tire is being mounted on the wheel. it'll only take a couple of minutes at that point.  

Thanks guys, I'm dropping the bike off tomorrow to get the tires mounted, I'll let them know about the bolts. I'd prefer to leave the brackets on just in case the backpack gets old... I'll just ask em to look at them and take em out if space is an issue. (hopefully they can tell just by looking   Thanks again!

I just got my bike back from the tire change, loving the new wider tire. The shop did not remove the bracket for me... And it rubbed a lot on the ride home, not when cornering but when hitting even small bumps. This is with the shocks on the 5th setting and I weigh about 175. I was however able to get in there and remove the saddle bag brackets and all is well.

The bolt nearest the rear is a 10mm which I was able to access and remove after breaking it free with a hammer and wrench... The bolt closest to the front was another story. It is a 12mm which was actually much easier than I thought. I removed it with a socket from the outside of the fender. If you look at the sissy bar there is two bolts, it is the lower bolt. You can look in the fender and see which one it is. Now there is only one bolt on the side of the sissy bar and a hole where the other one used to be but it's plenty sturdy and no more rubbing.

Hope this helps anyone else!

What would you take for the brackets?