Reddit mentions: The best powersports saddle bags

I do a lot of motocamping. I prefer to stay in camps with bathroom facilities--a hot shower and a modern toilet are great after riding twisty roads all day. I did the primitive thing when I was in my early 20s.

The foundation of my motocamping setup is my riding suit and gear. I often spend more hours riding than sleeping/camping. My suit is the Aerostitch Roadcrafter. In addition to crash protection, this suit really helps you deal with wet and/or cold conditions, while still being bearable in the hot, southern summer. When motocamping, I always take both my mesh summer gloves and my waterproof winter gloves regardless of location or season. I have a Shoei Neotec helmet and Cardo G9 bluetooth headset. I don't listen to music much, but audible GPS prompts and rider-to-rider communication are helpful in unfamiliar territory. Finally, I wear Dainese Nighthawk boots because they are all-season comfortable and waterproof.

• Aerostitch Roadcrafter
  
• Shoei Neotec
  
• Cardo G9
  
• Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots
  
  Now in terms of actual campsite gear:
  
  
• Kelty Gunnison 2.1 This tent packs small and light, but is very long when setup. I'm 6'1" and I can sleep without my toes or head touching the tent walls. It also has two vestibules which are handy for gear storage. I purchased the optional tent footer as well. I usually grab some 7 mil plastic sheeting at Walmart for less than $2 to put under the footer--it keeps sand and dirt off your tent and therefore out of your luggage.
  
  
• I prefer mummy-style backpacker sleeping bags. They pack very small and keep you warm, but are fine in warmer climates when left unzipped. Mine is a Kelty Light Stalker, but options abound online. I also use a Thermarest inflatable sleeping pad--essential in cold weather to prevent the ground from making you cold.
  
  
• Browning makes a very comfortable camping pillow that packs fairly small. It's worth the space in my opinion. 10 years ago, I would use my clothes for a pillow, but these days I prefer a pillow.
  
  
• A headlamp is essential. When you arrive at a campsite after dark, a headlamp gives you vision and two free hands at the same time. I prefer this model because it has a red-light mode that will preserve your night vision and is less obstructive to other campers.
  
  
• Always take a knife and a multitool. My multitool of choice is the Leatherman.
  
  
• I carry two JetBoil cooking systems. I take a canister for each. That lets me boil water for food and coffee at the same time, and gives me a backup if one of the stoves breaks. I can santize water if needed with these, and I know I can have a hot meal anywhere.
  
  
• I use Starbuck Via instant coffee. I've done the french press thing, but the via packets are smaller and ready faster.
  
  
• I take Mountain House freeze-dried food packs. They pack very small, and are easy to prepare.
  
  
• Two plastic coffee mugs and some plastic utensils are always in my pack.
  
  
• If cold weather is expected, I take a jacket and a fleece sweater with a neck on it. Layering these with the RoadCrafter keep me comfortable on the bike all the way down into the 20s.
  
  
• I always take a cargo net. That way I can pack my wet towel outside the bags and let them dry while I ride.
  
  
• Likewise, I always take a 60L and 30L dry bag. They are absolutely tiny when empty, but give you options if your bags get full or you have to pack in a hurry. They can always be strapped outside your bag.
  
  
• I have both hard luggage and soft luggage. I very much prefer hard bags due to better fuel economy and improved handling. My hard bags are the Honda OEM bags for my bike. My soft bag is this one. It comes with a lot of straps, and mounting options.
  
  
• Take a first aid kit.
  
  This is all off the top of my head, so I'm sure I'm forgetting something.
  
  Here's an imgur album with a few of these things visualized.

I have a 2012 ruckus that I got used from craigslist. I got it for 2000. Works like a charm. Steers easily. Haven't had any issues with it in the year or two that I've had it. I'm in love. I love Honda scooters and smaller motorcycles. One of the reasons I chose ruckus is because of the option to put a storage bag under the seat. I don't have a car, so my ruckus is my way around town. Unless I need to get on the highway, then I use uber or car share. But, for the most part, I scoot everywhere. The bag comes in handy, since I can just take it with me into the store. I also have a backpack that I take with me when I need to do a little bit more shopping. Between the two, I can fit all of my groceries for the week. Mine only goes up to 40 mph(unless I'm going downhill) despite going up to 45 on the speedometer. I usually like to cruise at 35 though, because that's my happy speed. One of the reasons I chose a ruckus over a motorcycle/bigger scooter is I didn't want to go through all of the extra paperwork, lines, test, and classes to get a motorcycle license in my state. I REALLY like that it only costs me 2-3 dollars to fill up the tank(1.1 gal) and I get 117 miles on each tank. I haven't ridden in about 9 months due to health issues, but I can't wait to get back on!

The Honda Elite 80 would be worth looking into if you want a bit more speed.

The Honda Elite 150 can go up to 60-65mph, but I wouldn't feel comfortable with that on the highways(at least not in my area with the way people drive).

The Helix looks like it can accomodate two, and go highway speeds comfortably.

To get the right scooter for you, you have to think about what your needs and wants are. Are you going to use it for mostly fun rides around town? For quick errands? Daily? Weekly? Seasonally? Do you need storage space? Or will you just wear a backpack? Do you want a scooter that has space for a helmet underneath the seat or on the back? If so, do you want room for a full face helmet or half helmet? What speeds are you wanting to do when riding? Are you wanting to ride solo or be able to have someone else with you? Do you care about aesthetics at all? What are the laws in your state for scooters/motorcycle licenses(here, you don't have to have one for 50cc)? What price range do you want to spend on insurance? Is gas mileage important to you?

For that trip I would then definitely steer away from the KLR 650, and lean to the CB500X. You're going to do be doing practically nothing but long terrible stretches of highway going 80+ mph across kansas for probably two days as road fatigue will get ya on I-70 hard. The reason the KLR is the ak-47 of bikes is they are "indestructable" and universal. They aren't however, the most comfortable, and especially not when cruising at those speeds on the highways for any length of time. They go anywhere and do anything, but nothing exceptionally well.

This is why I recommend the honda as its less torquey, lighter, better gas milage, and more comfortable on the highways, where you will be spending the majority of your time. Going south of the border? Then absolutely go KLR, roads are sketchy at best in a lot of places and that is where the KLR has gotten its legendary reputation, but middle of the US? You're much better going with a more comfortable bike.

Personally I have all my gear (backpack, sleeping bag, tent, gun, machete, air pad thing, pillow, medical kit, flashlight, glowsticks, rope) fit into one bag that I clip on the back and go in <10 minutes. Travel light, you're traveling through the US where wally world is never more than a few hours away, and just stop at the local grocery spot to grab food/beer/whatever.

I've got a Honda 919 (hence the name :D). Naked standard with a retro 'hoodlum' look. I got a nice size tank bag that holds the CamelBac backpak and other stuff.

They are kinda like these: https://www.amazon.com/Cortech-8230-0305-36-Black-Super-Saddlebag/dp/B008Q5J6UG

But bigger and square shaped. The outer part of them expand with a zipper to about 2X the size. If you put a bracket between them, below the seat where the rear fender would be, they can handle some pretty good weight. I lock mine under the seat and have a net and straps in case things are larger.

What I want now, is a fold down cloth bag that has rigid foam that folds out to cover the rear seat and attaches to the bags, for things like pizzas and larger orders.

Basically if you look at a truck organizer, but with rigid foam board for the side and have it break down for storage.

Like this: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Collapsible-Folding-Trunk-Organizer-Caddy-Car-Auto-Truck-Storage-Bin-Bag-New/107440840?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=709&adid=22222222227042534523&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=107048086637&wl4=aud-566049426705:pla-172685740638&wl5=9032530&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112343202&wl11=online&wl12=107440840&wl13=&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAiA7vTiBRAqEiwA4NTO67bl_-NI_2bkPKGVcqfSdeBWjlj5e9VwqcxFAD3_xZcaUMIjvy6bahoC4z8QAvD_BwE

But smaller and add some foam sides and straps.

Here's the deal. It costs me about $0.08/mile or so to ride for gas. We get $0.58/mile for tax write off for regular maint. So far, it looks like most of my earnings are tax free, meaning (if I understand it correctly) I have about as much write offs as I have earnings. So the game is, best MPG you can get and most orders in the least time you can get.

If you get to $15/hr after taxes, account for gas, etc... You're close to maybe the $20 gross earnings range. Meanwhile, I'm riding around listening to music and getting food for people... Laughing at people stuck in traffic :D

First of all, I am glad you asked for advice, this is what this community is for, and some are just being friendly by making a little fun. It's really cool that you are planning this out and looking way in advance. I am also a 48 owner so I know what its like to have fuel anxiety. You are going to need layers, water, power bars and basic bike stuff . I have ridden in Arizona in the winter, and even though the sun is shining, 50's is very cold once you factor in the wind from motorcycle riding.

• Layers, go get some type of wool underlayer, it stays warm when wet and also cools you off when sweaty. Seriously, get wool.
  
  
  
• Water, you need more water. Here is why. That time of year you have a chance of low humidity which means you need more water. I know you are not going to die if you don't drink enough water for one day, but you can get mood swings, joint aches, lack of mental acuity, all which can be dangerous on a bike.
  Power bars and trail mix are fine for quick energy and keeping the belly from grumbling.
  
  
• For the bike you need a few things. Tire repair, fuel and storage. For tire repair , you need a way to plug it,and a way to inflate it. I carry this and a couple of c02 cartridges to get me out of a tight spot. This guy does a great video.
  
  Now you need fuel reserves, I carry a larosa bag with a small can and add a bigger cans depending on how nervous I am about fuel consumption. I have been stuck on the side of the road on highway 10, 40 miles west of blythe, and it sucks. Do not store these on the wive's backpack. Get some cheap fuel bottle holders
  
  
  So I would do two things from here until November.
  Find a way to get your bike ready to be more of a pack mule. And get your wife more seat time, and maybe a gel pad?
  You can get cheap bags at revzilla
  
  Best of luck and post some pictures!

Do you have a windshield or fairing? If so mount one of these behind it and cover it with something like this. Cut a hole in the bottom of the bag and slide it over the holster rig. You'll have to figure out size and location but that's what I present for a concept. You might be able to pull this off even without a wind screen. The point is to have to opening of the bag facing you.

Concealed carry will always present a level of inaccessibility on the bike. I carry IWB. No matter what, you're going to have gloves and whatever is concealing your weapon to slow you down. Clutch, throttle and brake occupying your hands doesn't help either. That's not to say you should open carry if you don't want to, just a fact. The fewer who know you're carrying the more effective and safer you are.

I hope this suggestion was worth wadding through the shit storm of anti-gun folks.

> ... and buy some saddlebags :)

I use and recommend these Chase Harper bags

Really like their expandle tank bag too. With some clever packing you can fit a full 24 cans of 12oz beer into one ... or so I'm told. ;-)

Might I recommend this seat

https://www.steadygarage.com/store/two-wheels/mc-parts/honda-rebel/steady-garage-x-rogelios-tnr-hazel-brown-seat

And this swingarm bag?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008R0JSU8

The seat will add some tasteful color to your bike and AFAIR it is more comfortable. I think there's an option for extra padding

The bag isn't big, but it also isn't bulky like side bags. Great for registration, insurance, a lock, and a few burritos. It also looks really cool just behind your left leg

I've just done it to my Fazer, for the same reason as you (also it's more comfortable for her). On the cost, yes that is what it will cost, it's a ball-ache, but there's nothing you can do about it unless you can find the rack and plate on ebay.

On size, I have a V47NT. It's pretty big, will take 2 helmets easily. Depends what you want to carry really.

On the plus side, when you switch bikes, you should be able to keep the box, and get almost all your money back for the rack and plate on ebay.

Little on the expensive side but perfect for what I use it for and looks good.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008R0JRY0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483814331&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=willie+and+max+belt+guard+bag&dpPl=1&dpID=41fwo94MeWL&ref=plSrch

Side bags wrap around the tail of the bike then cinch down to the frame/passenger pegs

https://www.amazon.com/Cortech-8230-0305-36-Black-Super-Saddlebag/dp/B008Q5J6UG/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=ya_aw_od_pi

Top bag snaps into it, but can be standalone too

https://www.amazon.com/Cortech-Super-24-Liter-Motorcycle-Tail/dp/B009RIG4UQ/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=ya_aw_od_pi

All the stuff I bought was in the super 2.0 line, it was well made stuff

Maybe something like this would fit? Would probably be a lot easier than trying to fit all your stuff into one backpack.

Thanks!
These are the bags. Not the greatest but they’ve got about 5k miles and still holding up. Only annoying thing is since they aren’t bike specific the backs are soft, so despite the cheap metal frames inside, over time they’ve indented from the saddle bag fairings and it can be a struggle getting things in and out. Definitely better than a backpack for stuff you need to keep handy like rain gear, tools, and whatnot tho. I like the way they look on my bike too!

I have these-

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008Q5J6UG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Not sure if they're available in the UK- They're good bags for the price, fit the grom nicely

Agree with this kind of suggestion. If you don't plan on having them on the bike very often, who cares what they look like. Nylon bags are functional and cheap.

I picked these up for about $50:
http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-MotoGear-73707-Motorcycle/dp/B000RN4FK6/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_y

Here is a list of upgrades to the bike, and some of the gear I brought with me.

2001 Triumph Bonneville:

• TEC 2>2 Sprint Exhaust
  
• 135 main jets, 42 pilot jets, 1 shim on each needle
  
• TEC Triumph Chrome Luggage Protector Racks
  
• TEC Bonneville Center Stand Kit
  
• BellaCorse 1" Superbars
  
• Universal Black 3" Round Bar-End Mirrors
  
• Arkon iPhone Handlebar Mount
  
• SAE to USB Motorcycle Quick Disconnect Charger
  
• Omni-Cruise Throttle Lock
  
• BellaCorse Mini Rear Fender with LED Tail Light
  
• BellaCorse Motone Turn Signal Mounting Brackets (rear of frame version for the rear, front version fits under the rectifier)
  
• BellaCorse Cat's Eye Turn Signal Indicators (front and rear)
  
• 2014 Thruxton Flyscreen, sanded and painted semigloss black
  
• Airhawk 2 Medium Seat Pad
  
• Cycle Gear Bilt Explorer Dry Bag (large)
  
• MotoGear Motorcycle Saddlebags
  
• Bridgestone Trail Wing TW22 Enduro Rear Motorcycle Tire 130/80-17
  
• Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Front Tire 100/90H-19
  
  Camping Gear:
  
  
• Helinox Chair One camping chair
  
• Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) Junglenest Hammock
  
• Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) Dry Fly Rain Tarp

I second this! Sounds like a great deal if it's actually running well!

I suggest this thing to ever Ruckus owner too:

https://www.amazon.com/Chase-Harper-5000-Water-Resistant-Tear-Resistant/dp/B000WJ75J8

Life saver for real.

Nelson Rigg make about the best saddle bags I have encountered (as far as ease of use and affordability) They are weather resistant, cheap, and you can adjust them by modifying/adjusting the straps.

Amazon Link

thanks for the heads up!

i think i ll go (in addition to the normal tankpad) for the stompgrip pads to somewhat protect the paint
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-OEM-StompGrip-Traction-ABA-13S55-10-06/dp/B0081K67BC
they also come in black
http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=322222

You're not going to be able to fit bags directly to those pegs. You can fit a number of accessories to it including sissy bars, back rests, luggage racks, and saddle bag supports.

Here's the bags I used. They're actually side bags for harley frames, but the contours worked nicely with what I wanted. From what I've seen, saddle bags tend to add a lot of size to the back of the bike, so I went with something smaller and with more unique lines. The bags I got are here and here

I just bought a cooler made to fit in a saddlebag. There's a smaller one that seems to be the most popular. Good reviews, and it seems to be of decent quality. I haven't used it yet but I plan on using it with frozen water bottles.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AMUMNPI/ref=pe_344980_30548220_email_1p_4_ti

I was thinking of getting this set, there faux so I might just buy the more expensive set that is $250. The faux ones are on Ebat for $159 b/o as well, and the real leather ones are $259 for the set, I wish I could see them or knew someone that has the faux ones to see how they hold up.

Nelson Rigg CL-1060-S2 Black Commuter Sport Motorcycle Tail/Seat Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KZ3CQH5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4-GhDbHW18JH9

I have this one and it fits my needs for daily use perfect, it is also expandable and gives you a couple more inches of height if you need it.

So do you have the ammo cans or are you getting them for free? if not you have $30+ for the cans 11" x 5.5" x 7" or

http://www.amazon.com/GALLANT-Kg-Deluxe-Saddlebag-Red/dp/B0055DN7C0/ref=sr_1_460?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1371265944&sr=1-460&keywords=saddle+bag

for $35 14" x 12" x 6" and a lot less work and weight.

Got it from Amazon, super cheap but decent quality (esp considering the price):
vintage crafts Genuine Goat Leather Messenger Satchel Motorcycle Tool Bag Brown Handlebar Sissy bar Travel Bag Saddlebags Panniers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C4QLX66/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_v7f0Cb78P194M

I have these and the tail bag and they've been awesome for the 6 months I've been using them. You really can't beat them for the price, and the tail bag snaps onto the saddle bags so you don't really have to mess with latching it under the seat.

These Cortech bags. They were good, did their job. The waterproof covers are a bit of a joke, but hey, what do you expect at 70 mph in the rain.

How do you like those saddle bags? I'm tempted to change my leather bags to a fabric, like these.

I used to have these saddlebags and go through drive thrus all the time. I'd quickly unzip the top, drop the food in, and take off. Most of the time the person handing over the food was impressed, because they had no idea how I was going to get my dinner home on a motorcycle!

To echo what everyone else has said I only have one on that side. As there would be no easy way to rock one on otherside with the exhaust an all...

Now that bag is made by a company called Willie and Max...
http://www.jpcycles.com/product/632-661
http://www.amazon.com/Willie-Max-59776-00-Synthetic-Harley-Davidson/dp/B008R0JSFI

I got a universal one and I just made my own slits. The one I got had velcro strips vs leather belts. Its pretty damn sturdy but doesnt hold much. I honestly only got it because I wanna to hide the driveshaft lol.

It’s this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07C4QLX66?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

The actual color was lighter then what the amazon photos show so I dyed it darker.

I want to add a couple of these to my bike for longer trips soon;

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015I0GE6/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_8?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

mounted with this;

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005HEJ24Y/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_7?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A4KBP2A3U6C7U

vintage crafts Genuine Goat... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C4QLX66?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

There are also underseat bags and saddlebags.

ETA - Sorry, didn't realize this was so old :P

Bike cover and cheap saddlebag recommendations? Hoping to spend under $200 total. Currently looking at the Cortech Super 2.0 but have no idea what to look for in terms of covers. About to go back to school and will be losing my garage, thus the cover need. The saddlebags would be used for holding my gear while I'm not riding, as well as a small gym bag or other miscellaneous items. I'm not particularly worried about locking the bags as motorcycle parking at school is all in high traffic areas and well covered by cameras.

Nelson Rigg makes a nice big set that looks like it'll hold quite a bit. Make sure to check dimensions against your exhaust spacing so you don't burn the bottoms of the bags.

http://www.amazon.com/Nelson-Rigg-CL-855-Formerly-Touring-Saddlebags/dp/B00BQ0FM8S

I personally use a cheapo set I got on Amazon and they work fine, but look cheap and don't hold as much as I'd like them to.

http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-73707-MotoGear-Motorcycle/dp/B000RN4FK6

I also run the top bag and the tank bag with that Classic Accessories set when in full touring mode. For a given trip, it holds enough for:

• Tire plugs with a Moto Pumps 12v pump
  
• Roll of paper towels and water for cleaning the visor
  
• Spare cell phone in case my primary is down
  
• GPS (when it's not mounted to my RAM mount)
  
• Roll of toilet paper in case I have to stop in the woods and shit
  
• 2 bottles of drinking water, bag of chips or candy
  
• Pair of sneakers (assuming I'm riding with my Alpinestars boots)
  
• Bag of dirty laundry (on the return trip)
  
• Spare SAE to USB charger for my phone/GPS
  
• Rain Gear
  
• Spare visor for my helmet (if I'm wearing my helmet that doesn't have an internal visor)
  
  And as mentioned before, 2-3 days worth of clothes, toiletries, medicine, and my laptop are in my backpack.
  
  

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008R0JSU8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
No modification needed.

I've got this and these on my bike and they're excellent. I hold my tools, 1/2 gallons of gas and my papers in it and I have enough room to fold my jacket up and stash it away if I don't want to carry it with me. I've never had any issues with water, and they have a little mini-pocket that has a blaze green bag that goes around each one that you absolutely can not miss, it's like they're glowing in the day light. They just catch your eye.

You really can't beat these for $100(total), and they're Prime! I would give them a 9/10, the straps can be a pain as you have to kind of tie off the loose ends to keep from flapping or catching on something.