Seat Removal

JohnChris

JohnChris

new rider
Joined
Mar 15, 2026
Messages
4
Location
Canada
Hey everyone — new member here, hoping for some help from those with boots on the ground experience.
I have a 2023 Svartpilen 401 and I'm 29 days out from departing on a solo 7,000km motorcycle pilgrimage from Ontario Canada to Vancouver Island via the US Pacific Coast.
I'm trying to remove the seat to install a rear luggage rack and I've run into a wall. I've found conflicting information online and yesterday managed to strip a couple of bolts in the process — not ideal.
Specifically I need to know —
The correct procedure for seat removal on the 2023 model
Which bolts actually need to come out
Any tips for dealing with stripped bolts in this location
The bike did not come with the rear grab bar or its associated bolts — can anyone tell me the correct bolt specifications needed for mounting the aftermarket rack, and where I might source them? Hardware store, dealer, online?
Also open to hearing how others have solved rear luggage on this bike without a rack if that's a simpler solution.
Thanks in advance — this community looks like exactly the resource I needed.
 
There are no bolts to remove the seat, you use the key and lift up the back.

You don't have instructions for mounting the luggage rack that you purchased.?
 
I bought the bike used from another rider, and it didn't come with the manual.
Also, the mounting rack came with basic instructions for the rack, not detailed instructions for how to remove the seat.
Also, my specific model does not have a key hole where it says there should be one. It's my understanding that the 2023 model saw that phased out on some of the models produced that year.
Well, If the information I found is truly accurate.
I guess I have to ask if I am looking for a keyhole where there is none?
Where is this keyhole located?
Thanks!
 
I don't have a 2023 401 either, but it literally took 10 seconds of google to get the answer you are looking for. Left side of the bike, up front under the tank.

'2023 svartpilen 401 seat removal key location' typed in a google window.
 
I will try it once again today. I am in the middle of dealing with a major life event and I guess I'm struggling to find the patience, presence and resolve needed when working on something of this nature.
Thank you for lending a helping hand, my friend.
 
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