[Lonestar4459]

When I got my V Star Classic a few years ago it came with basic saddlebags which are falling to pieces now. I have looked at several and basically need something somewhat large but also VERY durable. I have been looking at some from River Road. I saw them in a local store and they were leather looking and very rigid it seems on the inside meaning hopefully they will hold their shape. Has anyone any comments on this brand or could you suggest something better that's under $200 for a pair?

 

[bevo1981]

man, i wish someone would respond to this thread. i'm in the market for some saddlebags now and i'd like some advice as well. to answer your question above, i can't really recommend anything as i have zero experience in saddlebags myself, but i've found quite a few websites with tons of bags listed between $60-$150. i'm not gonna advertize on here, but just Google "motorcycle saddlebags" and check out the first few sites that you find.

from what i've observed, bags made of PVC tend to be cheaper, cheaper looking, but more weatherproof. bags that are leather or leather synthetic look a lot better, cost more, but might not be as waterproof. since most bikers tend to stay out of the rain, i don't think weatherproof or waterproof should factor in all that much, but durability is a must.

so which is better? PVC or leather? if you get cheap bags, are they really gonna fall apart in a few years? any suggestions?

 

[purvissp]

Really like the Max and Willie Bags

I have a V Star Classic. Originally I had a set of River Road Small Slant Bags. They were not bad, but not much room.

I have since replaced them with a set of Max and Willie Small Bags. They are really nice. They are vinyl lined to hold their shape and are much larger than the River Road bags. They are not leather, but really look and fit well and the bike. Very easy to take care of, just wipe them off with a damp rag.

Most of the leather bags I have seen look pretty tired after a couple of years and don't hold their shape very well.

http://www.cruisercustomizing.com/detail.cfm?Category_ID=41&manufacturer_ID=45&product_ID=27443&sblid_name=Willie_and_Max_Revolution_Throw_Over_Belted_Synthetic_Saddlebag__Small&model_id=0

They want $166 on this site, which is not too bad. I found them somewhere on the web for $139 with free shipping, but sorry I forgot where.

Try Google to fine better price.

 

[devilfish79]

You can also look at http://www.saddlemen.com as they have some decent bags. I have a set of their jumbo basics and they come with a plastic-type liner which I believe will hold shape over time. The bags I have also have 2 mesh pockets inside each one. I consider that a bonus since I don't use any type of liner.

 

[vstar23]

Good value, i am using the saddle bags, window bag, and roll bag on the rear carrier. I used the tool bag also, but didnt really like the way it hangs on some of the cables, but it wasnt the cause of the bag, it was just where you have to hang the tool bag across the front forks, i removed it, i need the cables working correctly more that the tool back. there is also a small sissy bar bag and a backpack that can be tied to a sissy bar. Alot of accessories for the inexpensive price.

$93.00 from 7 piece set including bags


http://www.jillianleather.com/catalog/Motorcycle_Leather_Saddlebags-28-1.html

Description
This Stone Leather Motorcycle Set includes a pair of saddlebags, windshield bag, tool bag, sissy bar bag, barrel bag and backpack. This set is excellent for those last minute trips. Easy on & off means you can turn your sleek boulevard cruiser into a touring bike in a matter of minutes. Universal fit.

Measurements of each bag:

* 14" x 10" x 5-1/4" pair of saddlebags
* 9-1/4" x 6 x 2-1/2" windshield bag
* 10" x 5" x 2" tool bag
* 7-1/2" x 8-1/2" x 3" sissy bar bag
* 14-3/4" x 9-3/4" x 9-3/4" barrel bag
* 11" x 14" x 4-3/4" backpack





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[vstar23]

I messed up one of my saddlebags, the right one closest to exhaust pipes. i didnt have a support and the tire rubbed a hole in the edge. anyone had any repairs done, i am thinking about a shoe /leather shop.

i am going to try to have a leather/shoe shop repair the bag and then i will put supports on to prevent in future.

thanks