This is piggy-backing on a thread I posted in the cafe, but I am needing direction now versus conversation.
I need new saddlebags and am wanting a hard mount versus throw-over as I currently have.
I am looking at these, or very similar styles:
https://www.vikingbags.com/suzuki-boulevard-s40-universal-medium-slanted-moto...From what I gather here and from Viking is that their hard mount system does not work on our bikes because there is not a through-bolt on the rear of the pillion, only the front. Viking also said their bags on our bike require rear turn signal relocation to the license plate.
So, my questions are:
1) I have the stock saddlebag supports that I have bolted to the underside of my rear fender, not on the outside. Considering how this bracket is made and how the Viking hardware kit is made, why can't I make my own support out of some small steel strapping that has a top and bottom base plate for the Viking bag to bolt to, but bolts to the bike under the fender just like the stock one does? As long as the strapping is thick enough to support the weight and not bend under pressure, right? I would just need to ensure that I step the bag off of the bike the same distance on the L and R side so it looks right, but clears all of the stuff on both sides.
2) Is to necessary to relocate the rear turn signals, or can I just position the bags forward enough to clear the turn signals so long as I like how it looks? My current bags rub the turn signals when I open them but it's no big deal to me.
Thoughts, opinions, suggestions?