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Saddlebags come in various sizes, shapes, styles, and price ranges. They are made of reinforced leather and can be bolt-on or hang-on. DIY methods can be used to lock them, but they are commonly used to transport valuables. Quick release mounts are important for touring enthusiasts, and third-generation Ghost Brackets are suitable for day cruises. Sling panniers can flap in the wind, so it’s important to check that they don’t interfere with the motorcycle’s operation or come in contact with the exhaust pipes.
Saddlebags are the equivalent of a leather motorcycle trunk, and they come in many sizes, shapes, styles, and price ranges. They consist of two semi-box-shaped main storage carriers that hang on either side of a motorcycle’s rear fender. The compartments have hinged lids, secured with leather straps. The design of any particular motorcycle is key to choosing the right saddlebags, as rear shocks, exhaust line, and other considerations can all play into proper fit.
There are two main types of saddlebags: bolt-on or hang-on. The bolt-on version can be secured to a permanently installed pannier mount, or a quick release pannier mount. The slingover type is attached by a leather sling that clips under the rear fender pad or passenger seat. Wheeled panniers are aimed at those who only need them occasionally, as is often the case with riders with non-touring bikes.
Quality leather saddlebags are reinforced with plastic to make them more rigid, preserve their shape, and allow them to carry heavier items. The inner wall of the bag, closest to the bike, could also be reinforced with steel. Many have external pockets for easy access to small items that might be needed more frequently.
Various DIY methods can be used to lock saddlebags, but the fact remains that they are reinforced leather at best. When the cycle is parked among a crowd of other bikes at a local watering hole or popular restaurant, the average cyclist might not worry about being targeted. But as these bags are commonly used to transport valuables and some cyclists prefer to carry their bags with them when they dismount, especially if the bike will be out of sight or in a place away from other cyclists.
A traditional quick release pannier clamp stays attached to the bike while allowing for easy release and reinstallation of bags. This is an especially important consideration for touring enthusiasts. Without a quick release mount, bags will have to be emptied of your valuables each night and repacked each morning. This can be tiring on a long drive.
The third generation Ghost Brackets created a completely unique system suitable even for day cruises. The pannier brackets mount to the back of the panniers themselves, rather than the bike, retaining their original appearance. This is a good thing for day cruisers and V-Rod-style motorcycles that don’t necessarily lend themselves to the “saddlebag look” associated with touring bikes. The mounts slide on slightly elongated chrome bolts on the fender struts, barely noticeable when the bags are removed. The stands also provide a convenient folding handle for carrying the bags in a suitcase configuration for easy transport.
A potential downside to some sling panniers is that they can “flap” in the wind, without being anchored to the brackets. One remedy is to carry heavy items, such as water bottles or drinks. If you use bags with slings, it is especially important to check that the bags do not interfere with the operation of the motorcycle or come in contact with the exhaust pipes.
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