Carrying Cargo
Use the following guidelines when attaching cargo or accessories to the motorcycle. Where applicable, these guidelines also refer to the contents of any accessories.
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Keep cargo and accessory weight to a minimum, and keep items as close to the motorcycle as possible to minimize a change in the motorcycle’s center of gravity. Changing the center of gravity can cause loss of stability and handling and could cause loss of control.
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Do not exceed the GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR) or the GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING (GAWR) for your motorcycle.
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Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the motorcycle. Maintain even weight distribution by checking accessories and cargo to make sure they’re securely attached to the motorcycle before riding and whenever you take a break from riding. Uneven weight distribution or sudden shifting of accessories or cargo while you’re riding may cause difficult handling, loss of control and driving hazards for other motorists (if cargo falls from the motorcycle).
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For riding comfort and to ensure proper ground clearance, adjust rear shock preload. See the Rear Shock Preload (Ride Height) Inspection section for details.
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Do not attach large or heavy cargo such as sleeping bags, duffle bags or tents to the handlebars, front fork area or front fender. Cargo or accessories placed in these areas can cause instability (due to improper weight distribution or aerodynamic changes) and could cause loss of control.
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Do not exceed the maximum cargo weight limit of any accessory (see accessory instructions and labels). Do not attach cargo to an accessory not designed for that purpose. Either circumstance could result in an accessory failure that could cause loss of control.
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Always obey posted speed limits.
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Do not attach anything to the motorcycle unless specifically designed for that purpose by INDIAN MOTORCYCLE.