2010 Polaris Hammer Owners Manual - Page 19

Carrying Cargo Safety Use the following guidelines when attaching cargo or accessories to the motorcycle. Where applicable, these guidelines also refer to the contents of any accessories. • Keep cargo and accessory weight to a minimum, and keep items as close to the motorcycle as possible to minimize a change in the motorcycle's center of gravity. Changing the center of gravity can cause loss of stability and handling and result in loss of control. • Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the motorcycle. Maintain even weight distribution by checking accessories and cargo to make sure they're securely attached to the motorcycle before riding and whenever you take a break from riding. Uneven weight distribution, or accessories or cargo that shift suddenly while you're riding can make the motorcycle hard to handle and result in loss of control. • Do not attach large or heavy cargo such as sleeping bags, duffel bags or tents to the handlebars, front fork area or front fender. Cargo or accessories placed in these areas can cause instability (due to improper weight distribution or aerodynamic changes) and can cause loss of control. Such items can also block air flow to the engine and cause overheating that can damage the engine. • Do not exceed the maximum cargo weight limit of any accessory (see accessory instructions and labels). Do not attach cargo to an accessory not designed for that purpose. Either circumstance could result in an accessory failure that could cause loss of control. • Do not attach anything to the highway bar except highway footrests. 17