Need a straight answer?
FAQs
Fitment, install, and what happens after you order.
Fitment and install
Does it drill into my bike?
No. Your bike already has the holes. The rail bolts to the mounting points the factory put there, two bolts a side, and that is the whole job. No measuring, no tapping, and nothing to undo if you ever take it off.
If you spotted a power tool in our video, that is a screwdriver gun driving those two bolts. Not a drill.
How long does it take, and can I do it myself?
Yes, you can do it yourself. One piece, two bolts, then repeat on the other side. Under ten seconds a side once the bolts are started.
No shop visit, no appointment, no special tools.
Will it fit my year and model?
The rail system is built around specific Harley-Davidson models and years, and some models need tail light relocation. Use our fitment guide to check your bike before you order.
Not sure? Email support@deadbolt.net with your year and model and we will confirm before you buy.
Does every bag need a rail?
No. Every bike needs a pair of rails. The rails stay on the bike. You only need two rails per motorcycle.
Can I move one bag between two bikes?
Yes, as long as both bikes have a DEADBOLT rail installed. The bag moves from one bike to the other in seconds, no tools needed.
Can I still carry a passenger with the bags on?
Yes. The bags sit clear of the factory passenger seat. Passenger comfort can vary by motorcycle model and bag size.
Security and weather
Do the bags lock, and can somebody walk off with one?
Yes. Every bag comes with a push button lock and key, and locks to the rail when attached.
No system is completely theft-proof, but removing a locked bag is not a quick walk-away job.
Are the bags waterproof, and what happens in real rain?
The bags are built for everyday riding, but vegetable-tanned leather is not waterproof. Keep them dry for the first month. If you get caught in the rain, wipe them down with a cotton cloth and let them air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Avoid long exposure to heavy rain or storing them wet.
How should I look after the leather?
DEADBOLT bags are made from vegetable-tanned Italian leather, so no two hides are identical and the color will deepen over time. Keep the bag dry for the first month. To clean, wipe gently with a 100% cotton cloth slightly dampened with warm water, then let it air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. To bring the color back, lightly apply vegetable oil with a natural sponge, paying attention to the stitching, and wipe off any excess with a dry cotton cloth.
The bags
Where are they made?
The bags are made in Italy from 100% vegetable-tanned Italian bull leather. The rails are machined in the USA. Every DEADBOLT bag works with the same rail system.
How much can each bag hold, and how much weight can it carry?
Capacity varies by bag. Each product page lists the internal volume and recommended load limit.
Deciding between sizes? Contact us and we will help you pick the right one for what you carry.
Ordering
How fast do orders ship?
Orders received by 1:00 pm PT ship in one business day. Orders received after that ship in two business days.
Where do you ship, and what does it cost?
We currently ship within the United States only. Shipping is free on orders over $50.
Does everything arrive in one box?
Your rail, hardware and one bag ship together in one box. A second bag ships in its own box.
What about returns and warranty?
Every DEADBOLT product is covered by a 10 year limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship, for the first owner. We repair or replace covered items. Normal wear, color variation in the leather, and damage from shipping, misuse or storage aren't covered. Full details are on our Warranty page.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Open and inspect your order within five days of delivery. If anything is damaged, keep all the packaging and email support@deadbolt.net for a Damage Notification Form, then return it to us within five days. If the damage is visible when it arrives, note it with the carrier before they leave.
Need more answers?
Give us a shout. Don't forget to tell us your year and model. Thanks for your interest and see you on the road!
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