Bandit 400's were imported into the US only in '91-'93. The US and UK models came
stock with a rear hugger fender. These are available for $112 at Bikebandit.com (previously thought they were $54-sorry).
Also available from powerbronze.co.uk as aftermarket for $75 and from Parts Depot in the US for $86 (1
800 245 3101 ask for Robert). I got mine from a Bandit 400 forum used for less, but it took time. Bandit 400 forum can
be found in the links page. This may be the only option for a hugger since an aftermarket one isn't available. Bandit 600
aftermarket hugger is also an option but is a completely different looking hugger. See Joris' install description at bottom
for a Bandit 600 hugger install.
1) Remove left side heel guard (or peg bracket assembly) to access the front chainguard
attachment screw.
2) Remove chainguard by removing two screws.
3) Slide hugger in place to get an idea of what has to be trimmed. First you'll
notice you have to trim the front right section to clear the brake stay arm attachment point. You'll also have to trim the
rear right section to clear the brake caliper and hoses. I used a dremel tool on slow setting then sanded the cut edges. Mark
location of chainguard holes since hugger original hole locations do not line up.
4) Redrilled the chainguard holes-rear one installs on same side as original chain
guard (with mounting bracket on inside), fit is best with front part of hugger on back side of front install tab. I don't
have a screw holding it on there yet. Will zip tie for now.
5) Right side on with zip tie temporarily, strung through
one of the existing slots in hugger. make sure edge of hugger is inside brake line and resting on swingarm. This is necessary
for proper alignment. You will likely have to play with it a bit to get alignment over wheel just right. I will JB-Weld
a tab to screw attach hugger to swingarm in the future to eliminate the visible zip-tie. Make sure final mounting hole
location you choose allows you enough room to get a screwdriver or ratchet on underneath the exhaust canister.
- - - -
The stock hugger is very large-meaning that it
covers the wheel farther than top center rearward and the tail end past top center becomes flat. This seems to overwhelm the
stock wheel. I cut the rear top edge about 6" back and cut/rounded the side edges of the hugger about 3" to finish
out the look.
