2002 Polaris Touring Cruiser Owners Manual - Page 26

Safety Precautions Loading Use the following guidelines when attaching cargo or accessories to the motorcycle. Where applicable, these guidelines refer to accessories and their contents. S Keep cargo and accessory weight to a minimum, and keep it as close to the motorcycle as possible, to minimize a change in the motorcycle's center of gravity. Changing the center of gravity can lessen stability and handling and could cause you to lose control of the motorcycle. S Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the motorcycle. Maintain even weight distribution by checking accessories and cargo to make sure they are securely attached to the motorcycle before riding and whenever you take a break while riding. Uneven weight distribution, or accessories or cargo that shift suddenly while you are riding, can make the motorcycle hard to handle and cause you to lose control of the motorcycle. S Do not attach large or heavy cargo such as sleeping bags, duffle bags, or tents to the handlebars, front fork area, or front fender. If you add accessories to the handlebars or the front fork area, they must be as small and as lightweight as possible. Cargo or accessories placed in any of these areas can cause instability due to improper weight distribution or aerodynamic changes, and can cause you to lose control of the motorcycle. Such items can also block airflow to the engine and could cause overheating that can damage the engine. and do not attach cargo to an accessory not designed for that purpose, as either of these could result in an accessory failure that could cause you to lose control of the motorcycle. S Do not exceed the maximum cargo weight limit of any accessory (see accessory instructions and labels), S Except for highway footrests, do not attach anything else to the highway bar. 12