Motorcycle pannier basics for beginners

Toolbox, bicycle papers, some useful spare parts, first aid kit, your machines, gadgets and other little essentials – you can safely store and transport all these things in your motorcycle saddlebag. The new, small but spacious models add to the comfort and appearance of your machine. You can place these generally hard panniers / panniers next to one or each side of the rear wheel of your motorcycle, under the passenger seat. Attaching them to the luggage rack at the rear of the passenger seat is also a good option. They may seem simple, but choosing saddlebags for your ‘street’ motorcycle requires some research. Here are some helpful tips to learn more about motorcycle saddlebags:

  • Suitable: Any saddlebag does not fit on any motorcycle. You choose these bags according to the type of your machine: cruiser, touring, sports touring, sports bike, double sports and standard. You have more custom options if your machine is like Harley Davidson (HD), Suzuki, Honda, Indian, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Victory, Triumph or Universal. So, buy saddlebags according to the type and manufacturer of your motorcycle.
  • Material: Motorcycle saddlebags are made primarily of fiber (PVC), nylon, leather, synthetic or faux leather (vinyl), and plastic. While nylon bags are the most durable, faux fur is the easiest to maintain and the most popular. Except for the nylon saddlebags, the rest of the lots have hard surfaces.
  • Weather resistant: The weather shouldn’t affect your saddlebag. It must be resistant to environmental changes and your things must remain intact.
  • Lock system: An integrated and secure locking system helps ensure the safety of your belongings.
  • Buckle: Look for quick release buckles to easily operate the bags.
  • Flexible mounting: Try opting for the flexible bags to ride as much as pull and hard bolt. You can carry the strips with you like backpacks. Bolt-ons provide a secure hold on bags and are therefore good for long road trips.
  • Metal frame: Synthetic or genuine leather saddlebags lose shape over time. However, thanks to the metal frames, they help prevent your leather bags from sagging, while increasing their durability. Stainless steel frames are preferable to brass or any other metal. Make sure the one you choose has this non-slip stainless steel metal frame in place.
  • Purchase point: Look for deals online when shopping for motorcycle saddlebags. Various gifts backed by competitive prices give you true value for money.

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