How to install motorcycle saddlebags: A comprehensive guide from installation tips to choosing the right ones

As a precaution during installation, check that it does not interfere with the exhaust, chain, or tires, and secure it while balancing both sides.

For One-Sided Type

The general methods for attaching a single-sided bag are to secure the bag to the motorcycle with fixing straps, or to attach a side bag (saddlebag) support to the bag and then secure it.

Some side bag supports cannot be installed if there is a rear carrier, so if you are installing it on a motorcycle with a rear carrier, it is advisable to check before purchasing.

Check for Looseness After Installation

After installing the side bag on your motorcycle, check for any wobbling.
Since the bag is constantly exposed to wind while riding, if it wobbles, it can catch the wind and cause you to lose control of the handlebars, so it's important to check thoroughly after installation.

While some bags come with multiple fixing straps, using a side bag support can further reduce wobbling and increase stability.

Precautions When Installing Motorcycle Side Bags

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Please note the following when installing side bags on your motorcycle:

1. Be careful of interference with the exhaust and tires.
2. Be careful of interference with the rider.
3. Be careful of exhaust heat from the muffler.
4. Maintain left-right balance.
5. Apply tension from three directions.
6. Secure it so it doesn't flap.
7. Be careful not to exceed capacity/load limits.

I will explain each point in order, so please refer to them when installing.

1. Be careful of interference with the exhaust and tires.

When installing a side bag, be careful not to let the bag interfere with the exhaust pipe or tires.
If it interferes with the exhaust, the bag may melt from the heat or stick to the exhaust, which in the worst case could cause a fire.

Interference with moving parts like tires and chains during riding can also impede operation and pose dangers, so when installing a bag, be careful to avoid interference with the exhaust, tires, etc.

2. Be careful of interference with the rider.

It's important to check if the bag interferes with the rider after installation.

If the bag interferes with your body, it can hinder steering or constantly distract you, affecting your driving, so be careful.

3. Be careful of exhaust heat from the muffler.

It is important to check carefully during bag installation whether it interferes with the muffler body, and also to confirm whether it is exposed to exhaust heat from the muffler.

Exhaust heat can deform the bag, burn holes in it, and even lead to a fire.

When installing the bag, be careful not to interfere with the muffler and to ensure that the bag is not exposed to exhaust heat.

4. Maintain left-right balance.

When installing two-sided side bags, make sure the bags are at the same height and aligned at the same angle, adjusting for left-right balance.

If the balance is off, the bags can easily loosen due to vibrations, and the weight balance can also be compromised, so it's important to match the left-right balance.

Once the bags are attached, step back from the motorcycle to check, and you'll easily see the balance.

5. Apply tension from three directions.

When securing a side bag, applying tension from three directions will make it more stable.

The three directions are "upward," "diagonally down-right," and "diagonally down-left" when viewing the bag from the side, imagining the center of the bag being pulled equally in these three directions.

First, temporarily secure it with belts from three directions, then gradually apply tension evenly to secure it effectively.

6. Secure it so it doesn't flap.

After installing the bag, check that it is securely fastened and doesn't flap.

Motorcycles are constantly exposed to wind and road vibrations while riding, so if the bag is flapping, it could loosen or detach due to wind or vibration, which is dangerous.

Even if you think the bag is properly secured, it may loosen while riding, so periodically check if it is still firmly attached.

7. Be careful not to exceed capacity/load limits.

Bags have designated capacity and weight limits for luggage, and you should ensure your items stay within these limits.

Specifically, carrying luggage that exceeds the regulated weight can lead to bag damage, so it's important to be careful not to exceed capacity or load limits.

If you want to carry more luggage, it's best to choose a larger bag, but larger bags also mean larger dimensions, so it's important to measure them when choosing.

How to Choose a Motorcycle Side Bag

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There are many types of motorcycle side bags available, offering a fun selection process. However, the sheer variety can also make it difficult for those considering a purchase to decide "which one to choose."

Therefore, in this section, I have summarized key points on how to choose a side bag. Please refer to this if you are unsure which bag to choose or want to know the criteria for selecting a bag.

Choose according to your motorcycle model.

The first point to keep in mind when choosing a side bag is to select one that matches your motorcycle model.

Choosing a bag that matches your motorcycle model, such as a sporty design for a sport bike or a luxurious design made of genuine or synthetic leather for an American cruiser, will eliminate any feeling of incongruity after installation.

It's also recommended to look at images of the same motorcycle models with side bags installed on social media like Twitter for a clearer idea of how it will look after installation.

Choose by size and shape.

Choosing a side bag based on size and shape is also recommended, but the size must be chosen to match your motorcycle.

For motorcycles that are already wide, choosing a thick bag can impede riding or make parking difficult.

Also, large bags are more likely to interfere with the exhaust pipe or tires, so it's recommended to choose a bag that is balanced with your motorcycle.

Choose by bag material.

Motorcycle side bags come in various materials, including fabrics like cloth, genuine leather, synthetic leather, and hard-case types with a shell shape.

Fabrics are characterized by their soft feel and, while not expected to be waterproof, some types can be machine washed. Genuine leather and synthetic leather offer a luxurious feel.

Hard-case types are mainly made of polycarbonate, which is lightweight yet impact-resistant, and dirt can be easily wiped off, making maintenance simple.

Is it waterproof?

For long rides like touring, it's recommended to choose a bag with waterproofing or one that comes with a rain cover to handle sudden rain.

Hard cases and synthetic leather materials generally offer good waterproofing, making it difficult for rain to penetrate to the contents. Fabrics and genuine leather, however, tend to soak up rain easily, so additional waterproofing measures for the bag may be necessary.

Also, if genuine leather gets wet and is left to dry, watermarks can form and become permanent, so if you use a genuine leather bag, rain covers or similar measures are essential.

Can it be used for crime prevention?

If you plan to leave your side bag on your motorcycle, choose a bag that offers crime prevention features.

Some bags have locking mechanisms or crime prevention accessories sold as options, and if a bag has two zippers, you can attach a padlock to the zipper pulls for security.

However, even with a crime-prevention bag, it's dangerous to leave valuables inside when away from your motorcycle, so always take your valuables with you.

FAQ Regarding Motorcycle Side Bag Installation

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I've compiled a list of "frequently asked questions" and "answers" regarding motorcycle side bags.

It includes questions about mounting brackets and recommendations for choosing a bag for the first time, so please refer to it when installing or selecting a bag.

Can it be attached without a stay?

The reason side bags are attached to stays (side bag supports) is to prevent them from getting caught in the tires or chain, and bags can be attached without stays.

However, installing a stay increases confidence while riding, and it will be especially useful for long-distance touring.

You can choose a versatile stay, or some bags offer side bag supports as an optional setting.

Can I make the stay myself?

You can make your own mounting stay for bags, so if you want to save a little on costs, you might consider it.

Stays (side bag supports) sold by bag manufacturers typically cost several thousand to around ten thousand yen, but making your own stay could cost between a few hundred to a thousand yen.

However, while manufacturer-made stays are designed to fit specific bags, self-made stays might not provide stable attachment depending on the bag you're using. If you prioritize reliability, consider purchasing a manufacturer-made stay.

What is recommended for a first side bag?

Here are recommendations for a first side bag, introducing both two-sided and one-sided types.

[Two-Sided Type] 1. TANAX Light Sport Side Bag

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

The TANAX "Light Sport Side Bag" is recommended for those who want easy attachment and detachment of their bag.

With buckle-type straps, it's easy to attach and detach. This two-sided type side bag has a simple design, making it suitable for a wide range of motorcycles, from naked bikes to sport bikes.

• Capacity (L): 15 (per side) x 2 bags
• Reference Retail Price (incl. tax): 15,232 yen

[Two-Sided Type] 2. DAYTONA Divided Saddlebag DHS-11

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

The DAYTONA "Divided Saddlebag DHS-11" has a striking retro design in khaki.

This two-sided bag has an adjustable connection to match the seat width, and the bag's mounting position is higher, helping to prevent interference with the tires.
(A stay may be required depending on the motorcycle model.)

• Capacity (L): 20 (per side) x 2 bags
• Reference Retail Price (incl. tax): 10,930 yen

[One-Sided Type] 3. Xross SADDLE SINGLE Saddlebag

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

For those looking for a stylish single-sided side bag, the XROSS "SADDLE SINGLE Saddlebag" is recommended.

It features a luxurious synthetic leather design that is resistant to water and dirt, and with a compact 1L capacity, it's also recommended for those who only need to carry minimal essentials.

• Capacity (L): 1
• Reference Retail Price (incl. tax): 12,098 yen

Summary

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I have explained motorcycle side bags, focusing on installation methods and precautions during installation.

Since there are various types of side bags available, for those who are unsure "which bag to choose," I have also summarized how to select a side bag.

Installing a side bag changes the appearance of your motorcycle, and if properly installed, it increases the amount of luggage you can carry, improving convenience. So, please install a side bag and enjoy a more fulfilling motorcycle life.