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Home >> Travel Gear >> Motorcycle Luggage Saddlebags

Motorcycle Luggage Saddlebags

For anyone who loves to get on the hog and hit the road there’s only one real choice for motorcycle luggage: saddlebags.  However, many rookies purchase saddlebags that don’t fit their needs; either they rust too easily, the lock is cheaply made, or they lack the metal frame necessary for long term comfortable use. Here is my advice for anyone looking for good, sturdy saddlebags.

First off, you need to decide whether you want throw over or mount saddlebags. Throw overs and literally thrown over your motorcycle; mounts are permanent. Obviously, if you intend to tour a lot on your bike, then mount saddlebags are the way to go. If, however, you have a speed bike and go for a lot of short (but fast) day trips with sharp turns, you may want to remove your throw over saddlebags.

Once you’ve decided which type you prefer, it’s time to consider the quality. Make sure that the metal they use is stainless and will not rust easily. This will literally add years to your saddlebags, and your luggage! Also, make sure the saddlebags can fir snugly around your motorcycle; this will make your long trips much more enjoyable, as you won’t have to stop and retighten your straps.

Think of saddlebags like mattresses; you want one that is firm, and does not give way easily. The firmer your saddlebags are, the longer they will last, and the less money you’ll waste buying a new one prematurely.

Lastly, ensure there is a lock on your saddlebags. It amazes me how many people spend hours fussing over the right helmet, spending a good chunk of change on it, and then drop it in their saddlebags with no lock on it.