Strap-on Saddlebags - Above or below the seat?

[Anonymous]

I got tired of being the pack mule for the group and always having to ride with a backpack ... so, I got a set of strap-on, universal fit saddlebags for my '80 GS1100E.

They are the Nelson Rigg Deluxe Saddle Bags (DLSB-500) and they went on pretty easy, although a diagram or two in the directions would have been helpful, if only to identify the part of the bag they were talking about at any given time.

The tops of the bags are connected with two wide strips of velcro and there are a pair of buckles on the bottom of each bag to connect to the frame (or the other bag) to secure the bags.

Do those of you with similar packs ride with the top straps over the seat or under?

I put mine over the seat figuring I can take the bags off a lot quicker and they sit more "vertical" on the bike (away from the rear wheel) when secured over the seat. The only reason I used to have to get under the seat was for my toolkit, which is now in one of the bags.

When I first get on the bike, I can feel the strap on the seat (these are thick and wide straps), but, after a few minutes of riding, I don't even notice them.

Once I've ridden with them for a while, I'll put up a review.

- Tony

[beby99]

I put mine under the seat just so there always locked.
(already had a helmet stolen...gone in 30 seconds)

[jtcrespo]

I put mine over the seat so I can get them on and off quickly and if I put them under, they ride on the pipes. I also have Nelson Rigg and they are great bags.

What it comes down to is your personal preference. You can do it either way providing your bike design will allow it. Just play around with them and figure out what you like most.

[bwringer]

Mine have to go on top -- they'd be too low if they went under. They wouldn't hit the pipe, but they'd be in danger of swinging into the rear wheel.

I like it that way anyway. I can easily pop the buckles and take the bags into the hotel or tent with me. The tops of the bags also sit mostly even with the top of the seat, leaving a nice wide platform for more stuff.

With soft bags, all a thief needs is a knife to slash them open or cut them off, so there's really no such thing as secure soft bags anyway.

If my wife is riding along (a very rare occurence), I put a sheepskin over the straps or just leave them.

It all depends on the particular bike/bag/seat combination.

[Bert Patterson]

I've got the Tourmaster Cortech bags (and tailbag). I put them over the seat, but I rubbed a hole in the corner of each from contact with the rear shocks. Have to figure out a way to rig it away from the shocks for this summer.

[Evil Hobbit]

I have the same Nelson Rigg Deluxe Saddle Bags. I had to put them over the seat because the seat would not lastch with them under. It also makes it easier to remove thim.