User's Manual Part 1

13
Safety
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.
• 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.
• Adjust ride height as needed. See pages
89-91.
• Do not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for
your motorcycle.
• 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).
• For riding comfort and to ensure proper ground
clearance, adjust rear shock air pressure as specified on
the label located under the left side cover. See page 90.
• Do not attach large or heavy cargo such as sleeping bags,
duffel 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.
Such items can also block air flow to the engine and cause
overheating that can damage the engine.
• 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.
• Always obey posted speed limits.
• Do not attach anything to the motorcycle unless
specifically designed for that purpose by INDIAN
MOTORYCLE.