Too many accessories...

I have removed the highway pegs, fork wind deflector things, passenger backrest, rack, leather tank pocket and spot lights that were on my bike when I got it. To me too much unnecessary stuff detracts from the ride. In Summer I take the screen off too, so I can feel the speed.

Anyone else feel they have (or had) too much crap on their bike?

Depends on the bike and its purpose but I mostly feel the same way. Many of the guys I ride with have Harleys loaded up with hundreds of pounds of what is to me, just crap. And then they keep dropping very serious bucks on getting even more crap to stick on them!

Having said that, I also have a Harley Fat Bob and the only reason I like that particular Harley is the ride, styling and lack of superfulous crap... Sure as Hell isn't the performance if you have a Rocket!

I keep my bikes naked all year, do not like in fact hate windshields, radios, passenger seats, long frilly things that hang from the end of the handlebars

I have a tail bag that stays on mine, along with a small racing screen.

I also have a set of saddle bags that are "quick release," and only mount those when I need to go to the store, or when the wife is riding pillion, and wants to haul some extra crap along.

Both bikes are set up the same. Sissy bar and rack. Carry a bag that fits the racks for cold weather gear and odds and ends. Had a set of high dollar saddle bags for the Harley but did not like the way it looked and sold them. Still do not understand the popularity of the baggers.

My bike stays in chameleon form ...... full dress out, in between or naked.

“De gustibus non est disputandum”

Whatever suits. I like naked pragmatic minimalism. IE: Improved ergos/comfort, better horn, lighting(if riding a-lot at night), GPS is almost without saying, and possibly Adventure-bike style handguards for cold weather. The below is on my wish list for Prudence.

I have several additions to my bike that I find to be beneficial. The BeadRider keeps my bum dry and cooler in the summer. The HippoHands keep my hand viably warmer when the temperature starts dropping to freezing and below. The bike came with engine guards and I put chaps on them, helps deflect the rain.
I like the idea of feeling the speed when riding without the windscreen on, but I find it is better to keep it on as often as I ride. The passenger back rest is handy with the rack as I use it for carrying something weekly. The two bags are loaded with a first aid kit, tire repair kit, air pump, reflective vest, (in case I ride onto a base that requires it), spare clothes, (I get caught in unexpected rain at times without my rain gear), helmet lock, ball cap, extra sunglasses, water bottle and snacks.
I feel that I have not added anything for looks, but instead because I use the addition.
And like @D04011, I like the Fat Bob becasue it is a fat tired stripped down ride. For its intended purpose, it works well. If I had that bike, it would stay stock as it wouldn't be my primary communter. Likewise, if I get another VMAX, I may add a windscreen but that is about it.

As others have said, it depends on each rider's preference and why they bought it. Personally I'm with you and like to keep my Roadster uncluttered.

scot in exile said:

I keep my bikes naked all year, do not like in fact hate windshields, radios, passenger seats, long frilly things that hang from the end of the handlebars

Click to expand...

Always felt the same way as youse, BUT age does strange things to you.
Now I run panniers and windshield on long rides and use a GPS.
What a Pus*y I be!