I just did this to install the gators. It is you must romve the tire to get in there. If your just removing the whole assembly the tire can stay on. Easy job, took maybe an hour total. (off and back on)

Best looking black girl around! 2004 SM-spokes, solo seat, lowered rear, 14 in apes, bobber rear fender, no front fender. Flat black all the way around. Jeff