saddlebags

[andyb]

i am looking for a set of inexpensive saddle bags for my '03 v-rod. these will only be used for a long trip, & will be off for normal daily riding.
any recomondations out there?

[hd-v-rodder]

If your talking about a weekend bag, I purchased the Tourmaster Extra large sissybar bag. It fits right over the sissybar and attaches with a quick release strap. The model # is 82-313. I rode from Greensboro N.C. to Ocean City MD. over the 4th Of July extended weekend, 7 1/2 hr. ride with this bag and it holds may be 4 days worth of cloths, (2 days for a women) When you reach your destination, it comes off the bike like a backpack. Check out tourmaster.com for others. Saddlebags and windshields were not ment for a V-Rod. Hope this helps.

[RC4MAN]

Cortech throw overs, check the "touring" /"saddlebags" section for advice. 3OliveMartini and I use them. While not exactly a celebrity recommendation, they work well. The sissybar bag is an HD model for a softtail I got for $100.
This is my set up, Cortech Sport bags were $135 though you can get them through on-line discounters. They have a zip open expansion joint that makes them two inches wider if you need more room.

[capngeo]

I have a set of Kurys... work well and are HUGE for traveling

[andyb]

rc4man -- how does the cortech bag mount? is it just a throw over? my concern is that if it's just a throw over, my wife is afraid that she will be uncomfortable sitting on the straps for a long distance, & i wouldn't want the bags to dissappear if left unattended.

[mikep]

I use the Cortechs as well... Just a throw over. I have had a couple of people on the back for some very long rides and no more complaining than usual.

As for theft... Lets say so far I've been very lucky. But I take them off and put them somewhere as soon as I get to my destination. Otherwise, generally I am not far from the bike for long.

And if they really want to steal my dirty underwear that bad, they can have them!

Actually I have the set of 3. I use the 2 sides mostly just for clothes, and put things of more value in the third. It is very quick to remove, attache the carrying strap and keep it with you if you must.

As I love the fact that I do take these off my bike as soon as I can.

[RC4MAN]

Originally Posted by andyb

rc4man -- how does the cortech bag mount? is it just a throw over? my concern is that if it's just a throw over, my wife is afraid that she will be uncomfortable sitting on the straps for a long distance, & i wouldn't want the bags to dissappear if left unattended.

There are some clip on loops that I attach to the rear turn signals and shock spacers (see photos) just because, though realistically they're probably not necessary. The thickness of the velcro connecting straps is minimal, they're flexible and I don't see them as a seating issue unless your wife is the proverbial "Princess".
The carry handles are convenient and they come with drawstring waterproof covers

[mikep]

My water proof covers flew off on the first major trip I took.

[RC4MAN]

Originally Posted by mikep

My water proof covers flew off on the first major trip I took.

Damn Mikey, too bad, I've used mine cruising (85 mph) down I-75 from GA to FL, 550 miles and managed to keep them on.

[Black Knight]

Check out some of the bags from the Dyna's, they seem to fit also, since there slanted with the shock like ours are. I have seen them mounted on some of the vrods, even some of the hard bags can be used. They got the cut outs for the turn signals and also for the shock's. I could probly hunt up some pics if you like. I plan to use throw overs, since i wont be making this into a bagger.