Motorcycle Luggage - Soft Saddlebags

When most people think of adding luggage to a motorcycle, they think of soft saddlebags. These versatile carriers have been around since before Pony Express riders were hauling mail in the Old West.

Some soft saddlebags attach via a harness that stays on the bike. You then disconnect the bags from the harness, which leaves all your adjustments in place.

Either way, the major drawback to soft saddlebags, like all strap-on luggage, is that they can’t be locked. This can present a problem if you want to leave your bike parked somewhere while you’re sightseeing. You can use a cable lock to secure the bags to the bike, or you could carry your valuables in something more portable, like a tank bag with backpack straps, and figure that no one will want your extra shirts and underwear enough to take them.

Two other considerations are moisture (most soft saddlebags aren’t waterproof and will require rain covers) and comfort, since the straps that hold up soft bags usually sit on top of the passenger seat.