Aftermarket Motorcycle Saddlebags
Keep your gear organized and your bike looking great with motorcycle saddlebags direct from J&P Cycles. Saddlebags stow critical gear on the side of the bike, including rain suits, spare inner tubes, highway flares, a change of clothes, flashlights and other equipment. Choose from leather saddlebags or hard saddlebags to create the perfect look and function for your ride. You can even go old school with throw over saddlebags. Explore our collection today and find the various styles, colors, and materials that make this luggage option as unique and stylized as you and your ride.
Discover top brands at great prices, including Arlen Ness, CycleVisions, Eagle Leather, Givi, HogWorkz, Leatherworks Inc., Pac-Kit, Saddlemen and Willie and Max. Best of all, you'll experience top-rated customer service including our famous free tech support when you choose J&P. Don't forget you'll need mounting hardware to match your new set of saddlebags. Check out
Motorcycle Saddlebag Rails and Motorcycle Saddlebag Extensions to finish the job.
Throw Over Saddlebags vs Bolt On Saddlebags
The two main categories for motorcycle saddlebags are throw-over vs bolt-on options. The difference is pretty self-explanatory, but the pros and cons may surprise you. The versatility and ease of installation associated with throw-over saddlebags means they're less secure, so you may not want to leave the mon your bike while it's unattended for too long. Conversely, bolt-on options can't be swiped off your bike as easily, but if you ever wanted to take them in to protect them against the weather or secure what's inside behind locked doors, you may have a harder time getting them off the bike than their throw-over cousins.
Regardless of which style you choose, saddlebags remain one of the the most useful an aesthetically pleasing luggage options for motorcycle riders. Their enduring presence in the world of two wheels speaks to their timeless style and undeniable utility.
Motorcycle Saddlebag FAQ's
What's the difference between "hard" and "soft" saddlebags?Hard saddlebags are made of fiberglass or hard plastic. They are lockable, secure, and weatherproof, which is why they're standard on "bagger" and touring bikes. Soft saddlebags are made of leather or textile (like cordura). They are lighter, more "classic" looking, and often much cheaper.
Do I need "saddlebag supports" (or "stays")?Yes! If you're using "throw-over" soft saddlebags, you must install saddlebag supports. These are simple metal frames that keep the bag from folding inward and getting caught in your rear wheel or rubbing on your chain/belt. It's a critical safety item.
How do I choose the right saddlebags for my bike?First, check for fitment using our "Shop my Ride" feature. Many bags are "bike-specific." Next, think about your needs. Are you just carrying a sweatshirt and a water bottle? A small set of "throw-over" bags is fine. Do you need to lock up your laptop while you're at work? You'll want a set of locking hard bags.
What are "quick-release" saddlebags?Quick-release systems (like "Ghost Brackets" or "Easy Brackets") are a great upgrade. They allow you to remove your hard-mounted saddlebags from the bike in about 5 seconds, with no tools. This lets you turn your "bagger" into a "cruiser" for bike night and then pop them right back on for your weekend trip.