If you've just indexed a new Sharknose, choosing the best 2024 road glide extended bags is probably the first thing in your to-do list to create that bike really yours. Let's be real, while the stock bags upon the new 2024 models really are an action up from the particular older ones, they still leave a bit of the "gap" if you're choosing that slammed, custom look. The 2024 redesign changed the particular lines of the bike considerably, producing it look faster and more modern, plus a set of extended bags will be the perfect method to finish off that will silhouette.
Why the 2024 design year changes the game
The particular 2024 Road Glide isn't only a minor update; it's the massive overhaul of the touring platform. Using the new fairing style and the built-in lighting, the bike looks more aggressive in the front. Nevertheless, the rear end can sometimes feel a little unfinished with the standard factory bags. When you set up 2024 road glide extended bags , you're effectively closing the visual gap among the bottom associated with the saddlebag and the exhaust pipes.
It creates a seamless series that flows from the front associated with the tank right to the back again from the rear fender. If you've invested at any time looking at custom baggers, you know that the particular "low and slow" look is just about all about that constant line. On the 2024 models, the particular side covers also have a somewhat different shape, therefore getting bags that are specifically molded with this year ensures that will the transition from the side cover to the handbag looks factory-clean rather than like a cheap afterthought.
Selecting the right quantity of stretch
Main questions people request is, "How much stretch is too much? " Generally, 2024 road glide extended bags come in a several different lengths—typically 4-inch, 4. 5-inch, or even even 5-inch stretches.
In the event that you're someone which actually likes in order to lean the bicycle over within the corners (and let's face it, the 2024 handles much better than any Road Glide before it), you might want to stick with a 4-inch or 4. 5-inch stretch. This gives you that custom look with no constant fear of scratching your expensive color on a hill switchback. If you're read more about the bicycle show life plus stick to the highways, a 5-inch stretch looks incredible, but a person definitely need to be even more mindful of entrance inclines and rate bumps.
Material matters: ABS vs. Fiberglass
Whenever you're shopping around, you'll notice a huge cost gap between different types of 2024 road glide extended bags . Most of the time, this particular depends upon what they're made from.
ABS Plastic material is definitely the most common choice these days. It's what the particular factory bags are made of. It's lightweight, durable, and handles vibrations really well. The best part regarding ABS is that the inside is usually soft, which is nicer for the gear. Plus, modern injection molding has gotten so good that these bags often fit better than some associated with the hand-laid choices.
Fiber glass bags are usually present in the high-end custom world. They're stiffer and heavier, which some riders prefer because they sense more "solid. " If you're setting up on doing a huge audio setup with multiple 8-inch or even 10-inch speakers in the bags, fiberglass is often the way to go since it doesn't flex as much as plastic below the pressure of the bass. However, they usually require more prep work before painting.
Dealing with the exhaust cutouts
This is a large one. When you're looking at 2024 road glide extended bags , you need to know what your exhaust situation will likely be.
- Dual Cutouts: This particular is the traditional look if you're keeping the stock dual exhaust or went with a good aftermarket true-dual setup. It frames the pipes perfectly.
- Single Cutout: In the event that you've switched to a 2-into-1 performance exhaust (which is super popular upon the new 117 and 121 engines), you probably want a bag established with only one cutout on the right side.
- No Cut-outs: To the "shorty" exhaust system crowd or individuals running "under-the-bag" get out of pipes. This provides the cleanest look possible, as the bottom from the bags is completely solid.
Matching your own bags to your own exhaust is essential. Nothing ruins the particular look of a custom bike faster than a giant empty hole on the particular left side where a pipe was previously.
The struggle with 2024 paint shades
Harley-Davidson really stepped up their paint game with regard to 2024. Whether you've got the Whiskey Fire, Blue Break open, or Alpine Natural, these aren't simple "flat" colors. They have a lot associated with depth and flake.
In case you're buying 2024 road glide extended bags pre-painted, make sure the particular company is making use of high-quality paints that match the factory codes. There's nothing at all more frustrating compared to getting a place of bags within the mail only to realize the "Vivid Black" has a slightly different hue than your fender. Most reputable sellers offer color-matched options, even though they price a little more, they save you the substantial headache of finding a local painter who are able to actually match these complex 2024 Harley colors.
Installation: Is it the DIY job?
The short reply is yes. In case you can convert a wrench and have a bit associated with patience, installing 2024 road glide extended bags is definitely totally doable inside your garage.
The beauty of the 2024 design is that the particular mounting points are still very obtainable. Most extended bags are designed in order to occurs factory hardware. You'll just require to swap over your rubber grommets, the metal assistance "wear" plates, and, of course, your own lids and latches.
Pro tip: While a person have the bags off, it's a great time to clean the areas of the framework and rear wheel which you usually can't reach. Also, verify your wiring in the event that you have rear lighting or loudspeakers. It's much easier to tuck those wires neatly once the bags are taken care of.
Practicality versus. Style
Let's talk about the particular "extended" part. Besides looking cool, perform 2024 road glide extended bags actually hold even more stuff?
It all depends. Most extended bags are "wrapped" across the exhaust, meaning the bottom associated with the stretch is definitely often more regarding show than regarding heavy storage. However, that extra several inches of level at the rear of the handbag is perfect intended for those items you don't have to grab every five minutes—like a tool roll, a rain fit, or a little compressor.
Just keep within mind that given that the bags are usually deeper, things may get "lost" at the end. I always recommend benefiting from bag liners or organizers. They will stop your things from rattling close to against the tough plastic and make it a lot easier to discover your wallet or keys when you're stopped at a gas station in the middle of nowhere.
Last thoughts on the upgrade
Improving to 2024 road glide extended bags is a single of those modifications that offers a huge bang for your buck. This completely changes the profile of the motorcycle, giving it that will premium, custom experience without requiring you to definitely cut the frame or do something permanent.
Whether you're taking a performance bagger appear with a 2-into-1 pipe and the 4-inch stretch, or a full-on present bike with a 5-inch drop plus no cutouts, the particular market for the 2024 models is usually finally catching upward. Just take your period choosing the correct material and making sure the color match is spot on. Once you note that rear end tucked low against the pavement, you'll know it has been worth every penny. Happy driving, and enjoy that fresh 2024 Glide—it's a hell of a machine.