Abstract: A quick release system for mounting a backrest to a motorcycle includes a side bracket plate with a pair of notches which are configured to receive and hold bolt heads attached to the motorcycle. Disposed adjacent one of the notches is a retaining mechanism to prevent the bolt head from being withdrawn from the notch unless the retaining mechanism is moved by the user.

Abstract: A quick release saddlebag system includes a saddlebag and a mounting structure which enables quick removal of the saddlebag from a motorcycle without the use of tools. The mounting structure typically includes a mounting bolt attached to the motorcycle, and a mounting pin carrying the saddlebag. The mounting pin is selectively attached to the mounting bolt to enable removal of the saddlebag by simply removing the mounting pin.

Abstract: A bolt for use in for mounting a backrest to a motorcycle or otherwise for attachment to a surface includes a shank, and head, and a transverse recess transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shank for holding the head while a nut is being tightened on the bolt.

Abstract: A bolt for use in for mounting a backrest to a motorcycle or otherwise for attachment to a surface includes a shank, and head, and a transverse recess transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shank for holding the head while a nut is being tightened on the bolt.

Abstract: A bolt for use in for mounting a backrest to a motorcycle or otherwise for attachment to a surface includes a shank, and head, and a transverse recess transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shank for holding the head while a nut is being tightened on the bolt.

Abstract: A quick release saddlebag system includes a saddlebag and a mounting structure which enables quick removal of the saddlebag from a motorcycle without the use of tools. The mounting structure typically includes a mounting bolt attached to the motorcycle, and a mounting pin carrying the saddlebag. The mounting pin is selectively attached to the mounting bolt to enable removal of the saddlebag by simply removing the mounting pin.

Abstract: A brake for motorcycles includes an improved brake lever assembly having a brake pad arm configured for attachment at one end to a brake pad, and connected at an opposing end to a brake actuator arm by a rotatable collar. The brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm are disposed relative to one another such that the angle of the brake pad arm is lower than the prior art, thereby enabling actuation of the brake with less foot movement and causing less fatigue in frequent braking situations. While the prior art typically has an angle of 30-35 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm, the present invention maintains a preferred offset angle of 50 to 65 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm.

Abstract: A brake for motorcycles includes an improved brake lever assembly having a brake pad arm configured for attachment at one end to a brake pad, and connected at an opposing end to a brake actuator arm by a rotatable collar. The brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm are disposed relative to one another such that the angle of the brake pad arm is lower than the prior art, thereby enabling actuation of the brake with less foot movement and causing less fatigue in frequent braking situations. While the prior art typically has an angle of 30-35 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm, the present invention maintains a preferred offset angle of 50 to 65 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm.

Abstract: A brake for motorcycles includes an improved brake lever assembly having a brake pad arm configured for attachment at one end to a brake pad, and connected at an opposing end to a brake actuator arm by a rotatable collar. The brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm are disposed relative to one another such that the angle of the brake pad arm is lower than the prior art, thereby enabling actuation of the brake with less foot movement and causing less fatigue in frequent braking situations. While the prior art typically has an angle of 30-35 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm, the present invention maintains a preferred offset angle of 50 to 65 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm.

Abstract: A method for improving motorcycle braking includes selecting a motorcycle brake with an actuator arm and a brake pad arm disposed at an angle of 50-65 degrees from one another, and attaching the brake to a motorcycle. Preferably, the brake is attached to a motorcycle having foot boards and disposed at an angle of between about 20 and 35 degrees relative to the foot board.

Abstract: A brake for motorcycles includes an improved brake lever assembly having a brake pad arm configured for attachment at one end to a brake pad, and connected at an opposing end to a brake actuator arm by a rotatable collar. The brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm are disposed relative to one another such that the angle of the brake pad arm is lower than the prior art, thereby enabling actuation of the brake with less foot movement and causing less fatigue in frequent braking situations. While the prior art typically has an angle of 30-35 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm, the present invention maintains a preferred offset angle of 50 to 65 degrees between the brake pad arm and the brake actuator arm.