Installation steps for the Short Rib Fender XL (Sportster) - shared with the Frisco Fender
Installation steps for the Short Rib Fender for Sportster (XL). Covers, with photos, removing the stock fender, fitting the rubbers and collars, setting it on the bike, securing the sides and front, and filling holes with hole plugs.
- Assembling the rubbers, collars and nut collars onto the fender
- Order for setting it on the bike and securing the sides and front
- Points to check before installation, such as the stock taillight and inner fender
The Short Rib Fender is a ribbed short fender that replaces the stock rear fender on the Sportster (XL). It is installed using the stock mounting points. The instructions are shared between the Short Rib Fender and the Frisco Fender.
This page covers removing the stock fender, assembling parts onto the fender, securing it to the bike and dealing with unused holes, in the order of Chapter.01-08 in the instructions.
01 Points to check before installation
Stock taillights other than the taillight with integrated turn signals cannot be used. You will need to install something like the "LED Inset Tail" or the "Adjustable Side License Plate Bracket Kit for XL."
- The stock under-fender support cannot be used.
- The stock plastic inner fender (rear fender extension) can be installed with the bolts supplied with this product after removing the stock rivets.
- The Frisco Fender requires wiring modification to suit the bike when installing.
02 Preparing the fender
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Chapter.01 Remove the stock fender.
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Chapter.02 Insert the rubbers and collars into the holes in the fender. Insert the collars over the rubbers.
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Chapter.03 Fit the stock nut collars into the holes in the fender and insert the supplied pins.
If the paint is too thick, the seat mounting hardware may not come all the way through to the surface. You will need to adjust the paint film or file down the underside.
03 Installing on the bike
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Chapter.05 Set the fender on the bike.
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Chapter.06 Secure the fender from the sides.
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Chapter.07 Secure the front of the fender.
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Chapter.08 Close any unused holes by inserting the supplied hole plugs.
Close any seat mounting holes not used for mounting the seat with stock Part No. 761 PLUG (black) or the supplied hole plugs. If you use the stock hole plugs, they must be glued in place.
After installation, be sure to check that all bolts and nuts are tight. Descriptions of the tools used and general procedures are omitted. Due to individual differences between bikes, some adjustment or ingenuity may be required. If you are unsure about installing it yourself, please be sure to have the work done by someone with the proper knowledge or by a custom shop. If you have any questions, please contact us via our contact form.
Products covered in this article
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*Installation is at your own risk. If you're unsure about doing the work yourself, we recommend consulting your local motorcycle shop.
*The content and photos reflect the time of writing. Please check each product page for current specifications, fitment and stock.