How to Buy Leather Saddlebags for Your Motorcycle

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(4 Ratings)

You'll need more than your pockets to pack your lunch, briefcase and an extra quart of oil. Leather saddlebags are a must, especially for sport bikes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Motorcycle Locks
Motorcycle Clothing
Motorcycle Gloves
Motorcycle Jacket
Motorcycle Owner's Manual
Motorcycle Magazines
Motorcycles
Motorcycle Accessories
Motorcycle Saddlebags

Step 1

Locate motorcycle accessory shops in your area. Find out which ones sell saddlebags that best suit your budget and bike. Saddlebags are usually priced between $100 and $400; most can be adjusted to fit nearly any motorcycle.
Step 2

Bring the bags out to your cycle and lay them across the rear fender to see how they fit before you buy.
Step 3

Install the bags after you've chosen the right pair. It's a simple process and only takes about 10 minutes. First, remove the seat. Then lay the bag yolk on the frame so the saddlebags hang straight down on either side of the frame. Bolt the seat back down over the yolk, and fasten the ties to the forks or shocks on each side.

Tips & Warnings

Avoid motorcycle dealerships when shopping for saddlebags and other leather accessories, and avoid adding them to a new motorcycle finance package. Riders often pay top prices for accessories purchased at dealerships.
Consider bag protectors, metal brackets that attach to the rear fender and push the bags out from the shocks and rear wheel. These are priced anywhere from $30 to $90.
You can rivet chrome studs or "spots" to the bags to personalize them.
Never leave valuables in your saddlebags. Buy buckles with padlock attachments or locking buckles to discourage thieves.
As for size, get a set of bags that'll at least fit a jacket - otherwise they're useless, advises 30-year motorcycle accessory expert Don Oxnam.
Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.