If you are an avid Harley Davidson Softail Deuce fan and looking to enhance your bike’s appearance by replacing the stock rear fender with something new, then this article is for you. We will outline the steps that come with the Softail Deuce rear fender swap, such as adjusting your seat or modifying fender struts if needed. Additionally, we’ll explain all of the benefits and drawbacks of picking one aftermarket option over another so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to upgrade.
Why Do A Softail Deuce Rear Fender Swap?
Unleash your creativity and customize the iconic Softail Deuce with an aftermarket rear fender. Even just a small change can make all the difference in giving your bike that one-of-a-kind look. While you may be eager to swap out the initial, long straight fender for something new, it is important to remember that installing this new part doesn’t come without further adjustments – depending on the specific model of fender selected.
What Are Your Options for A Softail Deuce Rear Fender Swap?
If you’re looking to do the Softail Deuce rear fender swap, there are a few options. The simplest solution is to retain the stock version and adjust it according to your wishes – like relocating the tail light with a side-mounted tag holder and patching up any holes on the back of it. But if an aftermarket one tickles your fancy, be prepared for some alterations such as replacing or modifying fender struts plus changing out your current seat too.
When it comes to replacing the rear fender, you have two choices: use curved struts or trim the stock struts to match the new fender’s shape. Though cutting the struts may necessitate having them coated or painted again. Alternatively, you can choose a self-supporting rear fender that eliminates all need for strutting, but then requires customizing your seat accordingly.
Heartland USA’s E-Z D Rear Fender Conversion is the perfect solution for you if you want to install a 200mm rear tire on your Softail Deuce. It comes with an easy installation, no need to cut off fender horns and includes components such as over-the-frame fender strut design, 9.5 inch steel fender, billet aluminum struts and a solo seat plus rock guard -all that together make it worth considering.
Do You Need to Change the Seat?
If you want to upgrade your rear fender with a longer or differently shaped one, then it’s likely that you’ll need to get yourself an all-new custom seat too. Aftermarket fenders require a special fitting for the optimal fit and performance – something the stock seat just can’t provide. However, depending on which aftermarket accessory you choose, different changes may be necessary; so make sure to double check before making any decisions.
Do You Need to Modify the Fender Struts?
When selecting a curved aftermarket fender, you may need to switch out or alter the default Softail Deuce struts. This is because their length was built for the original straight fender that extends further back compared to its replacements.
Taking the time to mount an aftermarket fender can be all too arduous, especially when you don’t have curved or shortened struts handy. Without these necessary components, your struts will likely not fit along the curvature of the fender unless you take it upon yourself to cut them so that they do — a tedious and lengthy task if one is doing it by themselves.
Pros and Cons of Swapping the Rear Fender
Installing a Softail Deuce rear fender swap can be both advantageous and detrimental. Consider the following potential benefits or drawbacks:
Pros
- Customization: Customizing your Softail Deuce with a new rear fender is an excellent way to make sure it stands out from the rest and shows off your signature style.
- Improved Style: Optimizing your bike’s aesthetics is easy with the perfect fender. Make it stand out from the crowd and give it a custom, eye-catching look that you can be proud of.
- Increased Tire Options: Replacing the rear fender will open up a larger range of tire sizes, resulting in better bike performance.
Cons
- Cost: Installing a new rear fender can be pricy, particularly if you must alter or replace the struts and adjust the seat.
- Time-Consuming: A Softail Deuce rear fender swap can be a laborious process that necessitates thoughtful preparation and execution.
- Compatibility Issues: With the abundance of aftermarket fenders available, it can be quite a struggle to locate one that is suitable for your Softail Deuce.
The Verdict – Softail Deuce Rear Fender Swap
Changing the back fender on your Softail Deuce is a massive undertaking that necessitates careful preparation and implementation. You must figure out the cost, time, and compatibility issues before deciding to doing a Softail Deuce rear fender swap.
Moreover, you have to consider if you need to switch up the seat or modify/switch out the fender struts. Planning ahead of time will ensure a smooth process with excellent results.
If you choose to personalize your Softail Deuce with an aftermarket fender, carefully look into the E-Z D Rear Fender Conversion by Heartland USA. It’s straightforward installation option obviates the need for cutting off those pesky horns.
However, it is essential to ponder whether a swap of such magnitude really fits within your style parameters and needs — it could be great way to make sure that you leave a lasting impression on onlookers, but may not be suitable for everyone.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Softail Deuce rear fender swap:
Can I do a Softail Deuce rear fender swap myself?
If you possess the technical know-how and have the appropriate equipment, absolutely – feel free to give it a go yourself. But when in doubt, entrust an expert with servicing your bike as they are trained for this purpose.
Do I need to change the seat if I swap the rear fender?
Installing an aftermarket fender with a different length or shape than the stock version may necessitate that you switch out your seat to accommodate it. The original seat is created to work harmoniously with its corresponding factory fender, so if they no longer match up, a custom piece might be essential depending on which new fender you go for.
Do I need to modify the fender struts if I swap the rear fender?
If you decide to install an aftermarket fender that has a curved shape, you may need to either replace or modify the existing Softail Deuce struts. The stock length of these struts are relatively longer than usual due to the straight form of the original fender which sticks out further back.
When mounting this new fender without using curved or shortened struts, its rear edge will be uncomfortably close with just regular-length struts in place—leading perhaps into a lengthy process involving cutting them down for better contour fitment.
What are my options for a Softail Deuce rear fender swap?
You have the choice to either customize your stock fender or pick up an aftermarket model. If you decide on a new one, it is possible that modifications may need to be made to the seat and/or fender struts as well. The E-Z D Rear Fender Conversion from Heartland USA could save you time by eliminating cutting of the fender horns – making installation a breeze.
How much does it cost to do a Softail Deuce rear fender swap?
When it comes to changing the fender of your Softail Deuce, money is a huge factor. Depending on what type of aftermarket fender you choose and if any modifications or replacements need to be done for the struts, custom seats etc., this project can range from a few hundred dollars all the way up until several thousand. Ultimately, how much you’ll spend depends on how extensive these changes are.
Will a Softail Deuce rear fender swap affect its performance?
Although primarily a cosmetic alteration, swapping the rear fender of your Softail Deuce can have implications for performance. If you select an oversized tire size, it could impact how your bike handles and necessitate adjustments to its suspension system.