Motorcycle Saddlebags

Successful Saddlebag Search
Please Note: Article continued from Genuine Saddlebags page.

Synthetic leather and nylon saddlebags are more resistant to rain and less susceptible to cracking and stains. And many of the synthetic saddlebags mimic the look and feel of real leather real well.

Some features to consider as you’re saddlebag hunting are reinforced frames, liners and heat shields. Steal or ABS plastic frames help the bags maintain their shape as you fill them up with gear. And liners and heat shields help protect your stuff from hot exhaust pipes and cold weather.

The Latest Hardware Makes Life on the Road Easy
A convenient feature found on the better saddlebags are quick-release snaps under traditional-looking buckles and straps.

Snaps and Velcro (sometimes refereed to as hook & loop) clasps are used under a traditional-looking buckle design found on cruiser-style saddlebags. The snaps allow you to get at your gear without fumbling with buckles but still give your motorcycle an old-school look.

Another handy feature to consider is detachable saddlebags. Zippers or quick-release mechanisms unhook bags from your bike at a moments notice. Handy when you want to travel light.

Some detachable saddlebags also include handles or shoulder straps for easy carrying off your bike. Detachable saddlebags are also very convenient when you’re cleaning or working on your bike and need to get at the rear fender or wheel assembly.

There are a few different mounting configurations offered by saddlebag manufacturers. The most popular arrangement is the throw-over style that includes a center yoke that usually fits under, or occasionally over, your seat.

Some saddlebags are designed to bolt directly onto your bike or to quick-release brackets that are usually sold separately.

Essential Saddlebag Accessories
Depending on the style of motorcycle you’re riding and type of saddlebags you’re after, you may need turn signal relocator brackets. The good news is signal relocators are inexpensive, usually fairly easy to install and allow good-size saddlebags to be added to many types of bikes. Signal relocators are usually priced around $30.00.

Another accessory to consider to protect your new luggage are saddlebag supports. The supports help attach the saddlebags to your motorcycle more securely and keep them from getting caught in the rear wheel. Supports are typically chrome tubing that bolt to the rear fender. Saddlebag supports are manufactured to fit each motorcycle model and are typically priced around $75.00.

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