Direct mount saddle bags

[diamond_jim]

I had these saddle bags laying around so I decided to try something. I've got saddlebag mounts but I don't like the way they make the bags stick out so far nor do I care for the gap they leave between the side of the bike fender and the bag itself. Before I started the fabrication, I took some measurements to ensure clearance because I lowered my bike 3" a while back.

I cut out 1/4 inch aluminum plates that fit inside the bags. I then found some M8 bolts that were about 1/2 in longer than stock.


I removed the fender straps and riveted the back of the bags to the aluminum brace. I added rubber washers to ensure it would not scratch the chrome fender braces.


Then mounted them.




I like the clean look of the bags snug up against the fender. It cost me about $25 for the aluminum plates, bolts and washers and about 2 hours of time. For me, that beats the cost of $50-70 for the usual saddlebag braces and looks better to me. Even though my bike had been lowered, there's still enough clearance for full rear suspension travel.

[Cirquerider]

DJ, Nice job and great finish.

Stock exhausts?

Originally Posted by diamond_jim

I had these saddle bags laying around so I decided to try something. I've got saddlebag mounts but I don't like the way they make the bags stick out so far nor do I care for the gap they leave between the side of the bike fender and the bag itself. Before I started the fabrication, I took some measurements to ensure clearance because I lowered my bike 3" a while back.

I cut out 1/4 inch aluminum plates that fit inside the bags. I then found some M8 bolts that were about 1/2 in longer than stock.
Attachment 13019

I removed the fender straps and riveted the back of the bags to the aluminum brace. I added rubber washers to ensure it would not scratch the chrome fender braces.
Attachment 13020

Then mounted them.
Attachment 13021

Attachment 13022

I like the clean look of the bags snug up against the fender. It cost me about $25 for the aluminum plates, bolts and washers and about 2 hours of time. For me, that beats the cost of $50-70 for the usual saddlebag braces and looks better to me. Even though my bike had been lowered, there's still enough clearance for full rear suspension travel.