A Motorcycle saddle bag can add an elegant and functional flair to any ride. Available in both hard and soft options, these customizable accessories can be further customized by straps, studs or fringe to meet any need for customization.
Hard bags typically mount to a bike with bolts and can be locked using a key. Although more costly, hard bags offer superior protection while being easier to take off when parking the bike.
Materials and Tools for DIY Motorcycle Saddle Bag
As any motorcyclist knows, riding can offer incredible freedom and self-sufficiency. A DIY motorcycle saddle bag can help provide all of the storage you need on any ride - whether that be going out for a quick errand run to the grocery store, traveling cross-country, commuting to work or simply enjoying leisure time on a leisurely leisure ride.
If your bike doesn't already come equipped with one, you can easily find or make one to fit. When making the decision of which saddlebag to purchase for yourself or make yourself, make sure it was specifically made to fit it - these tend to be made of high-quality materials which won't easily deteriorate and damage over time, plus are easy to install onto the bike for convenient transportation on trips.
Not only is a bike saddlebag tailored specifically for your bike easier to mount, but it will also be more comfortable due to its better fit. Furthermore, having one with an attached lock will keep out thieves who might attempt to make off with valuables from inside your bag.
These bags can be found online or at local stores. Convenient to carry, these bags allow you to carry all the essentials that you'll need for your ride - including pump, multi-tool and spare tube - plus any additional items you might wish to bring like snacks, locks or cameras.
Leather motorcycle saddlebags are the go-to choice. Their classic aesthetic can hold all your essentials while still looking fashionable over time. However, for those on a budget looking for alternatives such as faux or vegan leather products that provide similar styles but at much reduced costs.
To create your own saddlebag, start with a piece of Cordura fabric measuring 30"x 18". Cut this into two rectangles measuring 10" x 16", stitch 11" pieces of loop Velcro onto each rectangle so they can attach directly to your motorcycle saddle rails; and sew 1" hook Velcro onto its lower corners so you can secure its strap to your tool roll and close it securely.
Step-by-Step Building Guide
Motorcycle saddlebags can drastically expand your storage space. No matter whether you ride a Scrambler, Cruiser, or Modern Classic motorcycle, soft saddle bags should complement its lines perfectly and enhance its vintage aesthetic. Alternatively, for something more rugged or specific it might be worthwhile exploring rigid saddlebags, panniers or similar variants tailored specifically for your bike.
Kemimoto Motorcycle Saddle Bags offer high-quality saddlebags at an economical price point. Crafted of black synthetic leather that's water-resistant, these saddlebags have a pin and quick release buckle to easily open or close them and large enough capacity to store jackets, gloves and earphones; though one pair of bulky pants may still fit.
Hard saddlebags tend to be stronger and more secure than soft ones, yet can also be more expensive. Some come equipped with thick leather yokes designed to slide over or under your motorcycle seat while others attach via mounting brackets; regardless of their construction method, hard saddlebags tend to be harder to fill due to special mounting hardware that must be purchased separately.
Hard saddlebags can also be less accessible than soft ones; accessing your left saddlebag when parking on the side of the road may prove more difficult, which may pose risks if something needs to be quickly retrieved from it.
Soft saddlebags may become even more of a nuisance on rough roads. Their shifting can cause them to collide with parts of your bike such as exhaust pipes or rear tires and rub against moving components such as exhaust or rear tires, causing rub-marks. Furthermore, their bungee cords may stretch out of shape as you ride quickly and become loose over time.
Strengthening Your Homemade Saddle Bag
Motorcycle saddlebags are an indispensable part of riding. Available in different styles and sizes to meet every rider's needs, these durable bags come with quick release buckles and covers; quick release buckle covers; quick release studs/tassels; key locks for added security and come equipped with reflective triangles for night riding - these saddlebags make a statement about you as an individual rider!
Saddle bags offer an easy and efficient way to transport numerous items while riding a bicycle. Ideal for tools, first aid supplies, extra water and snacks needed during short or extended rides, saddle bags can be attached directly behind the driver or suspended between the front and rear wheels depending on their size.
When purchasing saddlebags, it is crucial that you find high-quality sets. Lower quality bags may not be strong enough to withstand the weight of gear they will contain, and may sag easily. You can test the strength of potential pairs by attaching them to your bike and filling them up with several pounds - after a few minutes they should remain upright without falling over!
Leather saddlebags are a timeless classic among motorcycle enthusiasts. Available as single or double pouches, these bags can easily fit on either the back of the saddle or around its horn for convenient transportation of gear and passengers alike. Choose the size that best fits your trip from small for day-long excursions up to extra large options for multi-day tours across town or states.
No matter the style or brand of motorcycle saddlebag you prefer, they can be found online or in local stores. Or why not DIY them yourself using one of many available kits available today? DIY projects allow you to customize the bag specifically to match the color scheme and style of your ride while saving money - many kits include all necessary parts for easy installation!
Customizing Your Motorcycle Saddle Bag
As long as your equipment fits comfortably and fits securely onto the bike, motorcycle saddle bags can help. There is an assortment of types and styles available that fit with both your style and bike perfectly; all that matters most is choosing where and when you put the bag for optimal performance impact - ideally nearer the center of gravity (CG) of the motorcycle for balanced and responsive riding - such as heavy toolbag strapped directly to the sissy bar will negatively affect handling while lighter sleeping bag or wallet can have less of an effect.
Hard saddlebags are a favorite choice among many riders as they provide ample storage capacity without interfering with their bike's CG and have sleeker appearance. Installation typically is also easier. Unfortunately, hard cases tend to be more costly and may even require modifications to the bike frame itself.
GIVI motorcycle saddlebags feature both hard and soft models that can be attached to either your luggage rack or seat, using biomorphic principles to position gear where it belongs on the bike, such as keeping heavy items below seat height with legs that support them below seat level - this minimizes performance impact while eliminating the need for luggage racks, stays, or bulky rear fender.
Motorcycle saddlebags equipped with lock systems offer additional security, enabling you to lock up your motorcycle without having to remove your saddlebags first.
For an affordable option, saddlebags in the $50-$100 range offer an ideal solution. These soft saddlebags typically feature either PU leather or heavy-duty canvas exteriors and make an ideal starting point for beginners who don't require too much storage space or additional features.
When purchasing high-quality motorcycle saddlebags, expect to spend around $200 or more for a pair made of sturdy materials and designed specifically to your bike's frame with mounting brackets for easy installation.