First, Give credit to the European and Australian police community, I modified their original design --------- considerably.
I will not dislcose my tech data (including drawings).
I have noticed several messages on the FJR Forum addressing the use and purchase of front and rear bars -------------- separately. I realize riders modify their FJRs based as much on asthetics as function. Separate part purchases likewise increase volume and sales.
The "batwing appearance" of the rear bars without mounted bags can appear awkward, and I understand some owner's reluctance to purchase the rear bars which may distract from the FJRs beauty. This reluctance is especially appreciated from those riders which rarely mount the rear bags; note: the rear bars can be dismounted in less than 5 minutes. From my own selfish perspective, the extra rear hardware does not distract from my FJRs appearance since I always have my rear bags mounted. I would though offer some caution (below) to those buyers considering a front bar only purchase, with the appropriate liability release statements of course.
"As the designer of the crash bar system, I would offer the following concerns. Please carefully consider the purchase of the front bars without the accompanying rear bars. The front and rear bars for each side of the FJR together form a crash protection system (FJR wet weight appraoches 650 lbs). The system affords protection to the fairings, bar ends, rear bags (panniers), rear stays, mufflers, foot pegs, the RIDER (angles and feet) and passenger (ankles and feet). Without the rear bars--------------- the rear bags (panniers), mufflers, rear foot pegs, RIDER and passenger are not afforded the protection otherwise achievable in the event of a crash."
Also, considering the replacement costs (appr $400 each) for bags and mufflers, the bars are a steal. The fairings are pricey as well. A simple drop/tip over can be very expensive ----------- parts only, not including labor.
Trivia: I do not foresee the rear bars being mounted without the front bars, but should the scenario materialize, BOTH bars on the respective FJR side are required to provide crash protection for the RIDER (feet and ankles) --------- with the rear bars providing the majority of the protection. The rear bars only can though suffice for the passenger (feet and ankles), as well as for the bags and mufflers.
All of these concerns and statements will become obvious once you mount your set of bars.
The rear bars do protrude equally on both sides (the photo I provided can appear skewed and misleading since the FJR is tilted ----------- on it's side stand) and further than the panniers, by appr an inch ----------- this is intentional so as to protect the rider, passenger, rear bags (panniers), rear stays, and muffler. Please remember, these bars are crash bars, not just frame sliders.
For the curious: all 4 bars and mounting hardware weigh less than 10 lbs.
I hope you ( and the entire Group buyees) enjoy their new FJR addition !
