Saddle Bags? - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

Suzuki new guy! · 08-18-2005, 03:55 PM

I have about 3000 miles on my 2005 C50 and am about ready to venture out accross the state of Florida. I'd like some feedback and reccommendations regarding good appropriate saddle bags.
Obviously I'm looking for something cool that fits the bike and reflects it's sleek lines.
Also, what about saddle bag supports? Are they really needed and if so, what would be a good source and manufacturer?
Thanks.

blackie1491 · 08-18-2005, 04:48 PM

I have OEM, I find the clasp to be a pain. I have seen some that lock and are waterproof. Some use a easy release bracket. Supports are required, to keeps bags clear of the wheels.
Do a search for saddlebags. Also Willie and Max bags have a website.

92Notch · 08-18-2005, 05:05 PM

I got theese:
http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/...duct_Code=5394

and i got theese to go with them (it's highley recomended ... a requirement as far as I'm concerned).:
http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/...ct_Code=82-209

if you buy online ... do a google search for "phatperformanceparts.com coupon code" or something along them lines ... I was able to find 5% additional off .... and the shipping was free. I was happy as a pig in ****.

anyways, with that said .... I've only had the bike less then two weeks .... and just put the bags on last Sat. .... but so far so good, i'm happy with my choice .... I got the studs because my limited has a studded seat, the studs on the bags and seat match perfectly ... like thay were made for each other.

maniacmedia · 08-18-2005, 05:13 PM

I've had good luck with Willie and Max bags. Had a pair on my Volusia before trading for the C90 last month. Just got a new pair for the C90. I like the Gray Thunder, have (and had) Easy Brackets for both pair. Though the new ones have the zip-off yoke and lockable straps. Synthetic leather, but if you are okay with that...

Got a great deal from Xtreme Suzuki by calling Eric.

BudTheGrey · 08-18-2005, 07:43 PM

I put Willie and Max soft bags on my C50LE; like 92notch, I got the studded version to match the bike. Had to punch extra holes so I could lace them up short enough to clear the pipes and hang right, but other than that I'm pretty happy with them.

Philly Rider · 08-18-2005, 08:34 PM

I have a set of Tour Master Cruiser II Slant saddle bags (XL size 10" x 18" x 6") on my C50. Synthetic leather, mildew resistent, interior lining, yada, yada, with a neoprene backing to protect the bike. With an application of Armor All they have keep a very sharp apperance. The "slant" bags have a nice styling that complements the lines of the bike. A very neat feature is that whle they have a traditional crome buckel (that works), hidden behing the buckel is an easy to open and close latching system. They are not completely watertight, but included in the purchase price are a pair of rain covers. The have a nice zip of feature - the only down side being that the zip off is on the outside of the bag and therefore not "hidden". This has not been an issue so far, and I keep the bike parked outdoors in the city and ride to work in the downtown.

I also have a set of supports and would say that they are really are a necessitity, especially if you are considering anything larger than a "small".

ChicsterMG · 08-18-2005, 08:49 PM

I have the same bags as Philly. I like them a lot. They look great on the C50 and fit really well. I like the features of the zip off (easy to use), the quick snap, and the covers you get with them.

Take a look

trini0 · 08-19-2005, 12:46 AM

A few weeks ago, I put on Saddlemen Extra Extra Jumbo slants, on my C50,
with easy brackets.
Works great. Holds every thing I've thrown at it.

Off Topic: Where in FL are you???

Suzuki new guy! · 08-19-2005, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by trini0

A few weeks ago, I put on Saddlemen Extra Extra Jumbo slants, on my C50,
with easy brackets.
Works great. Holds every thing I've thrown at it.

Off Topic: Where in FL are you???

Mid Florida, about 30 miles N.E. of Orlando. Land of orange groves, 2 lane country roads and the occassional snake, coyote, peacock. Most days there are enough back roads that I can ride 50-100 miles without traffic. Of course eventually the developers will be here but until then I just revel in this area.
I used to life in Coral Springs and no way I'd own a bike down there. Too many people, stop lights, Mercury Marquis and the "seniors" who drove them\
Be careful down there.
Also, thanks to all for the saddle bag info.

mr_resistible · 08-19-2005, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by trini0

A few weeks ago, I put on Saddlemen Extra Extra Jumbo slants, on my C50,
with easy brackets.
Works great. Holds every thing I've thrown at it.

Off Topic: Where in FL are you???

How do the EZ brackets look? I saw some brackets a few weeks ago (not sure what brand) but they were really thick on top and stuck out really far from the bike. It made the bags hang down at an angle. I dont have the money for bags right now but I like the Leatherlyke bags and the Bossbags. I like the quick release option without the stock mounting "Loops"

trini0 · 08-20-2005, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_resistible

How do the EZ brackets look? I saw some brackets a few weeks ago (not sure what brand) but they were really thick on top and stuck out really far from the bike. It made the bags hang down at an angle. I dont have the money for bags right now but I like the Leatherlyke bags and the Bossbags. I like the quick release option without the stock mounting "Loops"

They do stick out a bit, but it doesn't bother me.
I've attached a pic...

Pirate Morgan · 08-20-2005, 07:16 AM

Trinio ... is that a "lay down" license plate bracket ?? If so, where did ya get it? Nice bags !

trini0 · 08-20-2005, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pirate Morgan

Trinio ... is that a "lay down" license plate bracket ?? If so, where did ya get it? Nice bags !

No its the stock bracket.
Eventually, I'll investigate moving the license plate from its current position,
to right below the taillight.

OldManOnBike · 11-30-2006, 02:15 PM

I have the Saddleman Cruis'n bags, but maybe because of the velcro closures, the bags are not watertight. Has anyone had any experience with the PVC bags that are now on the market? They're totally waterproof, look good, and are much lower in price than leather. What's the downside?

bloomfieldrich · 12-05-2006, 12:20 AM

I have these they lock right onto the bike Welcome to Travelcade / Saddlemen Motorcycle seats, luggage and accessories they are nice however I really want the hard bags so I am going to sell these and invest in the hard bags. These are also nice becuase you can lock them with a pad lock

automogul · 12-05-2006, 12:01 PM

I've got the factory bags. They've done the job well for me. I can't complain too loudly. I haven't been thrilled to death with them, but I can't live without them. On my bags, the snaps became difficult to unsnap. I was pulling on them one day and the eyelet on one tore clean through the vinal. So, now only one side snaps. They strap down, however, so it hasn't stopped me from using them. Can't live without them.

My plan is to milk them along until I can afford a pair of leather wrapped hard bags from these guys:

Tsukayu Hardbags and Touring Trunk

Capt Cruiser · 12-07-2006, 06:01 PM

You can get the grey thunders at cyclesportsleather.com also if you wish. Great prices and service.

08-18-2005, 03:55 PM	#1 (permalink)
Suzuki new guy! Seat Tester Joined: Mar 2005 Posts: 54	Saddle Bags? I have about 3000 miles on my 2005 C50 and am about ready to venture out accross the state of Florida. I'd like some feedback and reccommendations regarding good appropriate saddle bags. Obviously I'm looking for something cool that fits the bike and reflects it's sleek lines. Also, what about saddle bag supports? Are they really needed and if so, what would be a good source and manufacturer? Thanks.

08-18-2005, 05:05 PM	#3 (permalink)
92Notch Birthday Boy Joined: Aug 2005 Bike: '05½ C50 Limited Location: Baltimore, MD Posts: 860	I got theese: http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/...duct_Code=5394 and i got theese to go with them (it's highley recomended ... a requirement as far as I'm concerned).: http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/...ct_Code=82-209 if you buy online ... do a google search for "phatperformanceparts.com coupon code" or something along them lines ... I was able to find 5% additional off .... and the shipping was free. I was happy as a pig in ****. anyways, with that said .... I've only had the bike less then two weeks .... and just put the bags on last Sat. .... but so far so good, i'm happy with my choice .... I got the studs because my limited has a studded seat, the studs on the bags and seat match perfectly ... like thay were made for each other. __________________

08-18-2005, 05:13 PM	#4 (permalink)
maniacmedia Ditch Magnet Joined: Aug 2004 Location: Salt Lake City Posts: 159	I've had good luck with Willie and Max bags. Had a pair on my Volusia before trading for the C90 last month. Just got a new pair for the C90. I like the Gray Thunder, have (and had) Easy Brackets for both pair. Though the new ones have the zip-off yoke and lockable straps. Synthetic leather, but if you are okay with that... Got a great deal from Xtreme Suzuki by calling Eric. __________________ 2007 Harley-Davidson Sportster Custom XL1200C in White Gold "Truth is just like time, it catches up and it just keeps going." - Dar Williams "As Cool As I Am" “You can't take the sky from me." - Joss Weadon "Theme from Firefly" "Serenity", the "Firefly" movie now available on DVD.

08-18-2005, 07:43 PM	#5 (permalink)
BudTheGrey Third gear and cruising Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 2005 Suzuki C50 LE Location: Keeseville NY Posts: 476	I put Willie and Max soft bags on my C50LE; like 92notch, I got the studded version to match the bike. Had to punch extra holes so I could lace them up short enough to clear the pipes and hang right, but other than that I'm pretty happy with them. __________________ If you can't stand behind our folks in the military, feel free to stand in front of them

08-18-2005, 08:49 PM	#7 (permalink)
ChicsterMG Refrigerator Magnet Test Engineer Joined: May 2005 Bike: Boulevard C50 Location: Afghanistan Posts: 3,506	I have the same bags as Philly. I like them a lot. They look great on the C50 and fit really well. I like the features of the zip off (easy to use), the quick snap, and the covers you get with them. Take a look Attached Thumbnails __________________ Sometimes you need to ask yourself, "WWGD?"...Just be awesome, that's all! GUT-CUT 2007: 177 LBS. 160 LBS.

08-18-2005, 04:48 PM	#2 (permalink)
blackie1491 I took the All Bran Challenge Joined: Jun 2005 Bike: C50SE Location: Aldergrove, B.C., Canada Posts: 7,243	I have OEM, I find the clasp to be a pain. I have seen some that lock and are waterproof. Some use a easy release bracket. Supports are required, to keeps bags clear of the wheels. Do a search for saddlebags. Also Willie and Max bags have a website.

08-18-2005, 08:34 PM	#6 (permalink)
Philly Rider Ditch Magnet Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 2005 Boulevard C50 Location: Philadelphia, PA Posts: 163	I have a set of Tour Master Cruiser II Slant saddle bags (XL size 10" x 18" x 6") on my C50. Synthetic leather, mildew resistent, interior lining, yada, yada, with a neoprene backing to protect the bike. With an application of Armor All they have keep a very sharp apperance. The "slant" bags have a nice styling that complements the lines of the bike. A very neat feature is that whle they have a traditional crome buckel (that works), hidden behing the buckel is an easy to open and close latching system. They are not completely watertight, but included in the purchase price are a pair of rain covers. The have a nice zip of feature - the only down side being that the zip off is on the outside of the bag and therefore not "hidden". This has not been an issue so far, and I keep the bike parked outdoors in the city and ride to work in the downtown. I also have a set of supports and would say that they are really are a necessitity, especially if you are considering anything larger than a "small".

08-19-2005, 12:46 AM	#8 (permalink)
trini0 Needs an Identity Joined: Jan 2005 Bike: Bad C50 blk Location: Ft. Lauderdale FL, USA Posts: 436	A few weeks ago, I put on Saddlemen Extra Extra Jumbo slants, on my C50, with easy brackets. Works great. Holds every thing I've thrown at it. Off Topic: Where in FL are you??? __________________ Ride to Work, Work to Ride

08-20-2005, 07:16 AM	#12 (permalink)
Pirate Morgan Seat Tester Joined: Aug 2005 Bike: 2005 Boulevard C50 Silver/Black Location: Central NY Posts: 73	Trinio ... is that a "lay down" license plate bracket ?? If so, where did ya get it? Nice bags ! __________________ Positive Vibrations !!

11-30-2006, 02:15 PM	#14 (permalink)
OldManOnBike In Training Joined: Nov 2005 Bike: Suzuki M50 Location: OC, MD and Venice, FL. Posts: 148	I have the Saddleman Cruis'n bags, but maybe because of the velcro closures, the bags are not watertight. Has anyone had any experience with the PVC bags that are now on the market? They're totally waterproof, look good, and are much lower in price than leather. What's the downside?

12-05-2006, 12:20 AM	#15 (permalink)
bloomfieldrich Seat Tester Joined: May 2006 Posts: 68	I have these they lock right onto the bike Welcome to Travelcade / Saddlemen Motorcycle seats, luggage and accessories they are nice however I really want the hard bags so I am going to sell these and invest in the hard bags. These are also nice becuase you can lock them with a pad lock __________________ 2005 C50 K&N Air Filter, K&N Oil Filter, Kuryakyn Levers, Vance and Hines, Memphis Fats 19 Inch With Lowers, Kuryakyn ISO Grips, Vista Cruise Control, Highway Hawk Speedometer Visor, Clear Alternatives Clear Signal Light Covers, Silverstar Bulbs, and Cobra Highway Bar.

12-05-2006, 12:01 PM	#16 (permalink)
automogul In Training Joined: Nov 2005 Bike: k6 C50 & K5 M50 Location: Holly Hill, SC Posts: 141	I've got the factory bags. They've done the job well for me. I can't complain too loudly. I haven't been thrilled to death with them, but I can't live without them. On my bags, the snaps became difficult to unsnap. I was pulling on them one day and the eyelet on one tore clean through the vinal. So, now only one side snaps. They strap down, however, so it hasn't stopped me from using them. Can't live without them. My plan is to milk them along until I can afford a pair of leather wrapped hard bags from these guys: Tsukayu Hardbags and Touring Trunk __________________ My Bike - Black 2006 C50 - C50 & M50 Pictures Wife's Bike - Black 2005 M50 - C50 & M50 Pictures ------------------------------------------------ Teal 1966 Coupe Deluxe w/ Modified 302 - 1966 Pictures

12-07-2006, 06:01 PM	#17 (permalink)
Capt Cruiser Newbie Joined: Mar 2006 Bike: 2005 C50 Boulevard Location: Ludlow, MA Posts: 10	You can get the grey thunders at cyclesportsleather.com also if you wish. Great prices and service.

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