Backpack?
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 65
Likes: 0
From: Orem, UT
I wear a backpack while riding to work, the commute is pretty short so its not that big of a deal. When going on trips though I put the saddle bags on or sissy bar bag.
Last edited by coachchris; Apr 2, 2011 at 12:10 PM.
Road Master
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 979
Likes: 351
From: Wisconsin
I don't like riding with a backpack but I have plenty of jobs that I need to bring my laptop. If it's a nice day I'm not going to take my cage just because a backpack is unfashionable.
Last edited by 02fx4dude; Apr 2, 2011 at 11:47 AM.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 14,778
Likes: 69
From: Badlands of ND
Many Harley riders do not use their bikes as transportation, but instead as a escape. I commute all summer on a bike. If you use your bike as transportation you need some storage. My commute bike is a Ninja and I will wear a backpack when needed. I keep one at home and at work.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 212
I wear a backpack on my Sportster just about every day to school. It's very convenient not to have to put everything in bags or strap it down. I also don't have to worry about something flying off or coming loose. The only time it sucks is summer because you get no air flow on your back. For that I use bags.
I don't recommend it for long trips though, too much extra stress on your back. Bags are the way to go for touring.
I don't recommend it for long trips though, too much extra stress on your back. Bags are the way to go for touring.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 14,778
Likes: 69
From: Badlands of ND
Agreed, anything over a short commute will cause back pain issues. Those little back packs put the weight in all the wrong places for the long haul rides. Still they are a great way to have enough storage to run errands or get to work when you need to carry a couple small items. If not I would have to take the car, and what fun wold that be?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 28,842
Likes: 16,582
From: Wisconsin, USA
saddlebags rock
I used a backpack for a couple of months when I first bought my 2004 Kawasaki Vulcan. Was glad to get rid of it when I bought saddlebags, which did require tailight relocation so I could fit large saddlebags. Now I bought a FLHTCUI so I should be GTG (if I don't tip over). I do wonder what all the Harleys,, and sport bikes with no bags do when they need to stop at the hardware or grocery store. Do they only ride for fun? I use my bike to commute.. definitely the best part of the day is leaving work, going second, work comes in about 10th!
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