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So, saddlebags ....

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Old May 9, 2015 | 09:28 PM
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Question So, saddlebags ....

Just got my 09 XL1200L and decided one of the first things I'll need is a way to haul my stuff. Admit I'm a bit shocked at the prices of Harley brand saddlebags.

I like the leather ones, not the plastic ones. Would like some sort of security beyond a buckle. Guess I'd like somewhere in the middle size-wise, not huge but big enough to carry a couple days worth of clothes and such.

What are you guys using?

Thanks!
Tom
 

Last edited by WVDevil; May 9, 2015 at 09:49 PM.
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Old May 9, 2015 | 09:53 PM
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Got these on Craigslist for $350, only a year old and look new.
http://www.harley-davidson.com/store/rigid-saddlebags
I have had great luck finding parts on Craigslist.

These are hard leather cover bags with a lock. Expensive but look great on the bike and are big enough for my coat.
 
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Old May 9, 2015 | 09:53 PM
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Originally Posted by wreckwriter
... I'm a bit shocked at the prices of Harley brand [cool new accessory]
You bought into the wrong hobby my friend.
 
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Old May 9, 2015 | 10:33 PM
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Enjoy:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from...idson&_sacat=0
 
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Old May 9, 2015 | 11:11 PM
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Viking bags for around $225.
 
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Old May 10, 2015 | 01:34 AM
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You could go here:
https://www.ussaddlebag.com/motorcyc...her-saddlebags
and spend about $550 to $650 for the locking bags, but then you would have to spend another $170 or so for the mounting bracket. Then you will have to go and buy a turn signal relocation kit to move the turn signals back or to the rear next to the taillight.
 
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Old May 10, 2015 | 09:01 AM
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I have a love hate relationship with my HD Express Rider bags. When they are on the bike I want them off because it looks better without bags. When I grab something from a bag I realize how versatile having bags is and I don't want to give that up.

If I was to do it over again I would get the HD Detachable Locking Leather Saddlebags. Best of both worlds.
 
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Old May 10, 2015 | 09:21 AM
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Originally Posted by Traxxtar
You bought into the wrong hobby my friend.
but...but... think of the money I'll save on gas!
 
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Old May 10, 2015 | 09:23 AM
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Originally Posted by Guzzi
Viking bags for around $225.
Wow, lots of options and significantly less money. Unfortunately I've found there's usually a reason for that. Any personal knowledge of the quality of these bags?
 
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Old May 10, 2015 | 09:47 AM
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I like the concept of a throwover bag, how are they in practice as opposed to hard mount? Any specific issues?

I see that any bags of decent size are going to require turn signal relocation. How much of a PITA is this to do? Would likely use original HD parts for this. Do I want to try it myself or am I better off paying to have it done?
 
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