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There is one thing to consider, however, regarding the "safety" of the locking bags. A straight screwdriver is all that's needed to liberate locked bags from the motorcycle. Search this site for threads about "stolen bags" and consider the possible sources of cheap bags on ebay or craigslist, etc.
I like the leather bags. I got the 08 RK standard and sold the plastic hard bags to someone on this forum. Then I put plain leather Iron Bags witout studs on them but added quick release buckles and also D-rings on the lid so cargo (jackets) can be strapped on top of the lid. On long cruises I strap a Camel pack on top so I have access to 1/2 gal of ice water through the camel pack tube. Iron Bags are supper heavy duty and have a ridgid interior frame. I can fit a half helmet into them. http://www.ironbags.com/customerpics.html
Had both, Hard bags are the only way to go. The leather might look good but they are hard to keep up with and keep clean. You can order the King STD with cruise and spokes and allways put large white walls on. Really the same bike other than the bags. Thats my 2 cents.
If I were to do it again, i would get the Road King standard instead on the RKC. I've grown to dislike the leather bags with buckles and I'd like to change to the smoother, cleaner look of the Road King Custom or SERK leather bags or the hard bags. I'm also tired of the WW and laced wheels and will replace them soon.
Road King Classic is probably the best looking bike in the Harley line up. If I could only have one bike, the FLHRC would probably be my first choice. I would put an extra large luggage rack on the sissy bar and use a large t-bag for traveling. Couple the t-bag with saddlebag liners and you can easily take everything in the hotel with you.
The leather bags on my 05 Road King Custom are quite a bit
smaller in capacity then the hard bags on my 05 Electraglide.
I could fit my HD half helmet in my hard bags, but it won't
even come close to fitting in the leather bags.
Maybe the new ones are larger?
I thnk I will be changing my bags to hard bags soon, mostly
to be able to fit my helmet in there.
Either bike is a great bike!
Rags
Have 06 RKC and can fit half helmet and leather coat in one bag no problem. The Custome must have smaller bags. I really think this is a personal choice. To me the hard bags do not look that good. You can get around the lock issue as there are after market kits you can buy and add locks to leather bags. JP Cycles makes one it is quite spendy where the lock is hidden. I like the classic looks... I came off a heritage classic to RKC so I am use to leather. have not had to do to much to my leather so far I do not think it is that big of deal that people make it out to be.
Last edited by bowtieman427; Aug 22, 2008 at 10:04 PM.
Get the one you like better. You can change anything after if it's a big issue. I have a Road King Classic and I love it. I do like extended hard bags and maybe someday but for now I'll keep my leather and wide whites. Takes about a couple minutes with a magic eraser for the tires, once or twice a year 10 min treatment for the bags, and a trashbag inside the bag will keep anything clean and dry. ( I've never had issues with this). As for the locks.... if someone is gonna steal from you locks won't stop them.
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