Saddlebags, or panniers, are a form of load-bearing luggage attached to a motorcycle, usually placed behind the rider's seat and over the rear fender.
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Historical Usage
Saddlebags were used before the invention of the motorcycle by horse riders, who attached bags to their horse's saddle to carry supplies.
Function
Saddlebags are designed to carry supplies, clothing or equipment by placing the weight of the load onto the motorcycle's frame. This allows the rider to eliminate the burden of wearing a backpack.
Types
Saddlebags are found in two distinct forms: soft bags and hard cases. Soft bags, often made of leather or nylon, are lightweight and easily mounted or removed by the rider. Hard cases offer a greater degree of protection as they're made with a hard plastic or fiberglass shell, which can be permanently or temporarily mounted to the frame.
Benefits
Normally considered standard equipment on cruisers and touring style motorcycles, saddlebags allow the rider and passenger to carry more amenities for longer rides.
Considerations
Use caution when loading your saddlebags as overloading can interfere with the motorcycle's handling. Overloading also can damage the saddlebag or its mounting hardware.
