[Okay to Leave On] Recommended Motorcycle Side Bags! From Precautions to Anti-Theft Gear

Is it okay to leave motorcycle saddlebags on all the time?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/a5-415898/

Saddlebags, which are attached to the rear seat area of a motorcycle, are a convenient item that provides storage space on the motorcycle.

If you want to leave your saddlebags on all the time, choose bags made of waterproof materials (such as polycarbonate) or bags that can be key-locked to prevent others from opening them without permission.

It's also effective to empty the bags when leaving your motorcycle.

Since the contents of the bag are what thieves target, you can leave the bags on if you remove the contents and empty them when you leave your motorcycle.

Even with key-lockable saddlebags, it's dangerous to leave valuables inside, so always take them with you when you leave your motorcycle.

If you want to remove and carry them

If you want to remove and carry your saddlebags, we recommend a 2-way type saddlebag that comes with a strap and can be used as a shoulder bag.

Since they are a portable size, they don't have a lot of storage capacity, but some bags have stylish designs, so it's a good idea to choose a bag that matches your everyday fashion.

【Precautions】Tips for leaving your saddlebags on all the time

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When leaving your saddlebags on your motorcycle all the time, pay attention to the following points.

1. Don't put valuables inside.
2. Take measures to prevent theft.
3. Take waterproofing measures.
4. Prevent interference with the muffler to avoid burning.
5. Prevent interference with the turn signals.
6. May affect tandem riding.

We will explain each point in order, so please refer to them when considering leaving your saddlebags on all the time.

Point 1: Don't put valuables inside

Valuables are the most likely items to be stolen, so avoid putting wallets, driver's licenses, and other valuables in your saddlebags.

If you do put valuables in your saddlebags while riding, always take them out when you leave your motorcycle, regardless of how long you'll be away.

The same applies to key-lockable saddlebags; whether they have a lock or not, either don't put valuables inside, or take them out when you leave your motorcycle.

Point 2: Take measures to prevent theft

If you leave your saddlebags on all the time, take anti-theft measures to prevent the bags themselves or their contents from being stolen.

Motorcycle saddlebags are easy to attach and detach, so every year, theft incidents occur where entire bags are stolen in the short time while people are shopping at roadside stations or convenience stores.

In addition to locking the bag to prevent unauthorized opening by third parties, you should also take anti-theft measures by using wire hooks or similar devices to connect the bag to the motorcycle body to prevent it from being carried away.

Point 3: Take waterproofing measures

Motorcycles are constantly exposed to the weather, so saddlebags are also exposed to wind and rain. If you leave your saddlebags on all the time, don't forget to take waterproofing measures.

Especially for bags made of fabric, not only is rain a concern, but fading and discoloration due to UV rays, as well as material degradation, can easily occur. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly inspect your bags.

Point 4: Prevent interference with the muffler to avoid burning

If the saddlebag interferes with the muffler, it can cause the bag to burn or melt, so install it carefully to avoid interference.

When riding, the bag will swing back and forth and side to side due to vibrations, so it is necessary to check during installation that the bag will not interfere with the muffler even if it swings.

Point 5: Prevent interference with the turn signals

If the saddlebag interferes with the turn signals, it may be difficult for other motorcycles and cars to see the turn signals.

Also, it can be a target for traffic violation enforcement by the police, so when installing, be careful to ensure that the bag does not interfere with the turn signals and that the turn signals are visible to others.

Point 6: May affect tandem riding

Installing saddlebags may affect the getting on and off of a passenger during tandem riding.

The bag may interfere with the passenger's legs or prevent the footpegs from being extended, so if you are considering both using saddlebags and tandem riding, it is best to choose a bag that does not affect tandem riding or use a different storage method.

How to choose saddlebags that can be left on

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/93-5940580/

There are various designs and capacities of saddlebags that can be left on your motorcycle, making it easy to get lost in choice. When choosing a bag, it is recommended to keep the following points in mind:

• Choose by single-sided or double-sided type
• Choose by material
• Choose by capacity

Choose by single-sided or double-sided type

When choosing a motorcycle saddlebag, first select between a "single-sided" or "double-sided" type, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of single-sided bags are that they can avoid interference with mufflers and other parts, are stylish, and are inexpensive. The disadvantages are limited storage capacity and the tendency to unbalance the left and right weight distribution.

The advantages of double-sided bags are greater storage capacity than single-sided bags and better balance. The disadvantages include difficulty with tandem riding and a higher price compared to single-sided bags.

Choose by material

Motorcycle saddlebags come in various materials, including polycarbonate, synthetic leather, and fabric products.

Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. They are summarized by material, so please refer to them when choosing a bag.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a type of plastic material that excels in impact resistance and durability, and is used in various places such as motorcycle and car headlights, camera lenses, and road signs.

Its advantages are high impact resistance and durability, while its disadvantage is that it lacks the flexibility of fabric, so its size cannot be changed, and the mounting location is limited.

When installing, it is necessary to be careful not to interfere with the muffler, chain cover, etc., so it is a good idea to check the bag's dimensions before purchasing.

It also has high water resistance, but depending on the shape of the bag, water may seep in through gaps. If you are concerned, it is recommended to use the bag after placing your belongings in a plastic bag or similar in rainy weather and observe the situation.

Synthetic Leather (PVC Leather)

Synthetic leather (PVC leather) is a type of artificial leather made using polyvinyl chloride resin (PVC), where PVC is coated onto the surface of a fabric to give it a leather-like finish.

Its advantages include elasticity, good breathability, strong resistance to dirt, and good antibacterial properties. The disadvantage is that with long-term use or continuous exposure to direct sunlight, the surface coating may crack or harden.

The PVC coating makes it difficult for dirt and water to penetrate, so it is easy to wipe away dirt and water droplets, making it a low-maintenance material.

Fabric Products

Fabric products refer to items made by weaving threads into a mesh or processing fabric, sometimes called textile products.

There are natural fibers, which use natural materials like cotton and linen, and chemical fibers, such as polyester and nylon, made from chemically processed materials. Their characteristics vary depending on the material.

The advantage of cotton, a common natural fiber, is its absorbency and heat resistance, allowing the bag to maintain its shape stably without changes even under scorching sun. The disadvantage is that it wrinkles easily and water can easily penetrate it.

The advantages of polyester, a common chemical fiber, are its tear resistance, quick drying when wet, and relatively low price. The disadvantages include its tendency to generate static electricity and allow water penetration.

Choose by waterproofness

In terms of waterproofness, the order is polycarbonate > synthetic leather (PVC leather) > polyester > cotton products. However, polyester and cotton (fabric products) offer almost no waterproof effect.

Some saddlebags come with a rain cover in addition to the bag itself, and even if it doesn't, you can handle rainy weather by preparing a separate rain cover.

If the rain cover is not the dedicated one that came with the bag, it can be dangerous if the cover swells up during riding and affects the steering. Therefore, secure it tightly to prevent it from swelling in the wind and block the ingress of wind.

Choose by capacity

The storage capacity is also an important checkpoint when choosing a saddlebag, so choose a bag with a capacity appropriate for the amount of items you carry.

While the saying "the bigger, the better" exists, and choosing a larger capacity bag to have extra space is good, large capacity bags may not be able to be installed depending on the motorcycle's space.

Before choosing, check the bag's dimensions and whether there is installation space.

OK to leave on! 9 Recommended Saddlebags

Source: https://www.bikeman.jp/

Here are 9 recommended motorcycle saddlebags that are OK to leave on. If any catch your eye, be sure to check them out.

【Single-sided】1. HURRICANE Sissy Bar Bag Black

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/hr-hg9005

The HURRICANE "Sissy Bar Bag Black" is a stylish synthetic leather (PVC leather) saddlebag recommended for those who prioritize design.

With a capacity of 7L, the storage compartment has a bottom plate to prevent it from losing its shape, and it offers excellent waterproofing, making it suitable for daily use or as an auxiliary bag for touring.

• Type: Single-sided
• Product Code: HG9005
• Capacity: 7L
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 200 × 230 × 150 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 17,602 yen

【Single-sided】2. DAYTONA Saddlebag MIL 15L DHS-10

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-99702

The DAYTONA "Saddlebag MIL DHS-10" from the major motorcycle accessories brand DAYTONA is a saddlebag recommended for those seeking a retro design.

It comes with two types of mounting hardware: a stylish metal-attached belt and a resin-attached belt with a wide adjustment range. It can be opened and closed easily with a one-touch buckle.

• Type: Single-sided
• Product Code: 99702
• Capacity: 15L
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 320 × 365 × 135 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 7,433 yen

【Single-sided】3. DAYTONA Henlybegins Side Bag DHS-9

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-98912

The DAYTONA "Henlybegins Side Bag DHS-9" is a waterproof saddlebag recommended for those who want a casual look.

Designed for easy access to contents, it features a double-layer structure to prevent water intrusion, and can be easily opened and closed with a one-touch buckle.

• Type: Single-sided
• Product Code: 98912
• Capacity: 8L
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 280 × 345 × 90 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 7,869 yen

【Double-sided】4. DAYTONA Henlybegins Saddlebag DH-725

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-98655

The DAYTONA "Henlybegins Saddlebag DH-725" is a double-sided saddlebag with a capacity of 16L per side, recommended for those who want to easily install a bag without using stays.

It's a sporty bag designed to conform to the shape of a motorcycle seat, and it comes with a rain cover, so you can use it with peace of mind even in rainy weather.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: 98655
• Capacity: 16L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 260 × 460 × 180 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 17,488 yen

【Double-sided】5. TANAX Light Sport Side Bag

Reference: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The TANAX "Light Sport Side Bag," popular for its aftermarket mirrors, is recommended for those who want to prevent bag displacement.

It features the K-belt system for easy attachment and detachment of the bag, and the bag is designed to indent according to the shape of the seat cowl, making it easy to fit various motorcycle models and less prone to displacement while riding.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: mfk-263
• Capacity: 15L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 250 × 430 × 200 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 15,232 yen

【Double-sided】6. DAYTONA Throw-over Saddlebag 20L DHS-11

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-99703

The DAYTONA "Throw-over Saddlebag DHS-11" is recommended for those who want a double-sided saddlebag with a retro design.

It can be easily installed without stays, and the bag is designed to be mounted high up, making it less likely to interfere with the muffler or chain area.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: 99703
• Capacity: 10L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 280 × 350 × 100 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 10,930 yen

【Double-sided】7. ROUGH&ROAD AQA DRY Side Bag G.

Reference: https://bikeman.jp/products/rrd-rr5613g-bk

The ROUGH&ROAD "AQA DRY Side Bag G," sold by ROUGH&ROAD, which deals in motorcycle fashion and parts, is recommended for those who want a large-capacity saddlebag.

It's a double-sided bag with a 20L capacity per side, for a total of 40L of luggage. It features an inner frame that prevents it from losing its shape, and a mud cover is standard to protect the bag from dirt and dust.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: rr5613g-bk
• Capacity: 20L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 320 × 420 × 150 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): yen

【Double-sided】8. ROUGH&ROAD SHM Side Bag SS

Reference: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The ROUGH&ROAD "SHM Side Bag SS" is recommended for those who want to ride tandem while having saddlebags installed.

It features a semi-hard molded shell with PP plates on the top and sides of the bag, so it retains its shape even with light loads. It also comes with a rain cover, making it safe to use in rainy weather.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: rr9111h-bk-rd
• Capacity: 9L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 180～220 × 360 × 110～180 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 19,580 yen

【Double-sided】9. TANAX Tour Shell Case Carbon

Reference: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The TANAX "Tour Shell Case Carbon" is recommended for those looking for a smaller shell case bag or for attaching a saddlebag to a small motorcycle.

It's compact at 340mm wide x 200mm deep to fit even small motorcycles, includes a waterproof inner pouch to prevent water ingress, and features a stylish carbon pattern to enhance its sporty look.

• Type: Double-sided
• Product Code: mfk-234
• Capacity: 11L (per side) × 2
• Dimensions (Height × Width × Depth): 220 × 340 × 200 (mm)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 21,154 yen

3 Recommended Anti-Theft Goods for Saddlebags!

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/93-1839003/

When leaving your saddlebags on, anti-theft measures are essential. Here are three useful anti-theft items for bags.

When choosing a bag, consider anti-theft items as well.

1. DAYTONA Stronger Cable Lock

Source: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The DAYTONA "Stronger Cable Lock" is a cable wire that physically prevents theft of your motorcycle and saddlebags.

The outer shell is made of carbon and composite fiber inner, and the inner is detachable and washable. In addition to the main key with an LED, two spare keys are also included.

• Dimensions: 1800mm × φ4.5 (Tip metal part: φ6.5)
• Standard: SG standard (MFJ certified) *Currently under development for acquisition
• Accessories: 3 keys (1 with LED)
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 1,861 yen

2. KIJIMA Cycle Alarm Combat

Source: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The KIJIMA "Cycle Alarm Combat" is a vibration-activated alarm system that deters suspicious individuals with a loud sound.

When the main unit receives an impact, a loud 110dB alarm (approximately the same volume as a motorcycle horn) sounds. If an optional micro sensor is installed, it can detect moving objects within a range of 25cm to 2m (setable as desired), further increasing vigilance.

The sensitivity can be adjusted in three levels, and the alarm does not ring continuously for a long time, making it less likely to cause noise to neighbors. It is also easy to install, making it recommended for those who want a simple alarm.

• Dimensions: 74mm × 74mm × 35mm
• Specifications: Loud 110dB alarm
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 8,250 yen

3. DAYTONA Motorcycle Cover SIMPLE Silver L

Source: https://www.bikeman.jp/

The DAYTONA "Motorcycle Cover SIMPLE Silver" is a polyester item that enhances crime prevention by making the motorcycle less conspicuous.

In addition to its anti-theft effect, it also protects against rain, dust, and sunlight, which helps prevent dirt, discoloration, and fading of the motorcycle and bag.

• Dimensions: W360 × D180 × H220mm (maximum width)
• Material: Polyester
• Recommended retail price (tax included): 4,759 yen

FAQ about Motorcycle Saddlebags

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We've compiled "frequently asked questions" and "their answers" about motorcycle saddlebags. Please refer to them if you're considering purchasing a bag or already have one installed.

Are motorcycle saddlebags uncool?

Motorcycle saddlebags are meant to carry luggage, so it's not a matter of whether they're uncool, but rather a matter of convenience.

Design preferences vary from person to person; a bag one person finds uncool might be considered cool by another. So, don't let others' opinions or preferences sway you, and choose a bag that suits your own taste.

What should I put in my motorcycle saddlebags?

It is recommended to put items that you don't need to take out frequently in your motorcycle saddlebags.

Also, if you have valuables in them, always remove them and keep them with you when you leave your motorcycle, no matter how short the time.

How do I attach saddlebags to a moped?

The method of attaching saddlebags to a moped varies depending on the bag.

Some bags are designed to be mounted on the motorcycle's seat frame, which may not be possible on a moped, so check if it can be attached to your moped before purchasing.

Are motorcycle saddlebags dangerous?

Motorcycle saddlebags can cause imbalance if heavy luggage is placed in them.

Choosing double-sided bags and ensuring the weight of the luggage is evenly distributed on both sides can prevent imbalance, so if you are concerned, double-sided bags are recommended.

However, depending on the size of the bag, it may interfere with the muffler or chain, so it is a good idea to check the bag's size and installation space before choosing.

Summary

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We've discussed motorcycle saddlebags, including the types of saddlebags and precautions for leaving them on all the time.

There are single-sided and double-sided bags. Single-sided bags are less restricted by mounting space, but if they are heavy, the motorcycle's left-right balance can easily be disrupted.

Double-sided bags are less prone to imbalance, but depending on the motorcycle, they may interfere with the muffler or other parts, so it's necessary to check the space and for interference before purchasing.
We've also introduced recommended bags and anti-theft items in this article, so if you're considering purchasing a bag, please refer to them as well.