We haven't been slacking around here, either (well, not too much). Since it's the time of year we normally start rounding up our next set of long-term rides,
Motorcycle Cruiser is ramping up for a different kind of project-one incorporating a Willie & Max kit slated for launch later this year.
The touring upgrade kit is dubbed Build a Bagger, and after delving into the details, we decided it was a grand opportunity to outfit one of our long-termers for touring duty, and relatively quickly.
The kit includes a full ABS inner and outer fairing that mounts with sturdy steel brackets to existing mounting points-no additional drilling required. You also get a pair of hard saddlebags (also constructed of durable ABS plastic) that feature rubber isolation mounts, polished stainless steel bezels and sealed lids. Those are topped with an automotive-grade, gloss black finish, and are lockable for added security. You also have the option of adding an amplified marine-grade stereo and speakers with MP3 capability.
At a projected MSRP of $1500 for the entire kit, it looks to be more cost-effective than outfitting your rig using an OEM accessory catalog. We'll see if it's an easy way to freshen up an existing ride without having to go into full-bore, hardcore modification-mode. We're especially stoked that it's available as a full kit, or as individual components that can be obtained and installed independently of each other.
The Build a Bagger Kit includes:
•A full inner/outer fairing
•Hard saddlebags (lockable)
•Windshield
•All mounting hardware
With the grand scheme hatched, we've now settled on a Honda Stateline as the test mule because, frankly, Honda simply doesn't have a hard-case bagger available in its cruiser lineup-at any displacement point. So now we're waiting for the first component to arrive from Willie & Max. Stay tuned...