I just installed the BRP top case on my 2016 F3T, and found out that the side panel kit is not exactly "Optional".
Specifically, When I discovered that there were no side panels in the box, I called my dealer and they opened a incident with BRP for me, and were told that the top case comes without any side panes included. This is really pretty crazy in my opinion, since not only is the top case much less attractive without the side panels, due to the contour the the case without them, but the wiring harness for the tail light and radio antenna are exposed to the weather. Even if this were not enough. the installation of the radio antenna uses the left (non-existent) as the mounting point.
I had expected that a funky set of panels would be included, thus allowing a compete install, but at the same time encourage the ordering of a nicer looking panels, but I was, and remain blown away that no panels are included with the base price AND the side panels are described in the catalog as being "Optional".
One last note. Though BRP describes the case as "Quick Installation and Removal" this is also a bit misleading. while neither the install nor removal is difficult, it is not something most would want to do in a motel parking lot. Removal is essentially an uninstall. It involves two mounting Torx screws, and I believe 4 electrical connections (one of which requires a wrench/socket). Plus, since the top case replaces the panel that covers the area behind the passenger, unless one want to leave that area exposed to the weather, and passersby, then the pedestal to which the case mounts must also be removed (4 more Torx screws) and the stock rear panel reinstalled (consider how to carry that panel with you on a road trip).
I do not plan to remove/install case more than a few times a year, and even then it will be done at home, so it becomes almost a non-issue for me.
Now, just to be clear, I love the top case, even though I had to order the side panels and the Inner bag (MSRP $200 and $130). For me personally, I could not be happier with the case, but do feel that I was mislead.
Specifically, When I discovered that there were no side panels in the box, I called my dealer and they opened a incident with BRP for me, and were told that the top case comes without any side panes included. This is really pretty crazy in my opinion, since not only is the top case much less attractive without the side panels, due to the contour the the case without them, but the wiring harness for the tail light and radio antenna are exposed to the weather. Even if this were not enough. the installation of the radio antenna uses the left (non-existent) as the mounting point.
I had expected that a funky set of panels would be included, thus allowing a compete install, but at the same time encourage the ordering of a nicer looking panels, but I was, and remain blown away that no panels are included with the base price AND the side panels are described in the catalog as being "Optional".
One last note. Though BRP describes the case as "Quick Installation and Removal" this is also a bit misleading. while neither the install nor removal is difficult, it is not something most would want to do in a motel parking lot. Removal is essentially an uninstall. It involves two mounting Torx screws, and I believe 4 electrical connections (one of which requires a wrench/socket). Plus, since the top case replaces the panel that covers the area behind the passenger, unless one want to leave that area exposed to the weather, and passersby, then the pedestal to which the case mounts must also be removed (4 more Torx screws) and the stock rear panel reinstalled (consider how to carry that panel with you on a road trip).
I do not plan to remove/install case more than a few times a year, and even then it will be done at home, so it becomes almost a non-issue for me.
Now, just to be clear, I love the top case, even though I had to order the side panels and the Inner bag (MSRP $200 and $130). For me personally, I could not be happier with the case, but do feel that I was mislead.
