Looking for "soft bags" and /or backpack suggestions.

[KEITH KRAUSE]

Never thought I'd be asking for this kind of help, but I'd like to try some "light" touring on my GS1000. By "light" touring, I mean 1-4 days and 300 miles or less a day. If it doesn't work out, I'll look into a new touring bike.
I'd like to know what soft bags you like? I don't want the hard luggage bags and brackets and I don't want to mount anything on my tank. Soft bags for the sides and maybe a bag that sits on the seat. Because I plan to keep the trips fairly short, I don't need a huge amount of storage space. I'd like to take along a few cables, smaller misc' stuff like bulbs, sparkplugs, fuses, flat repair kit, basic tools, towels... A couple changes of clothes, an extra light jacket, camera, 1 liter water bottle. I can imagine you start wanting to take all kinds of stuff with you but I think I could be happy with some small or medium size storage bags.
I'm also interested in any backpacks you like. I have a Cortech pack but it doesn't have enough strap cushioning under the arms and gets uncomfortable after awhile. If you own a pack that's comfortable for all day and works well by itself or in combination with some soft bags, I'd like to know what you suggest.

 

[cowboyup3371]

I have the Cortech saddle bags as well as the tail bag for my GS - I really like them and they fit everything i need for a long ride. In fact, I had some really nice clothes rolled up in large gallon sized ziploc bags when I rode it out to Fort Wayne Indiana a couple of years ago for work.

 

[Baatfam]

I've had good luck with the Nelson-Rigg stuff. Got two sets of bags, small and large, plus a tail bag that buckles to the saddle bags.

Hard to see in this pic, but it was a good set up. These are the larger ones.

Red River Rally, KY by Bob Thieda, on Flickr

 

[Gorminrider]

If you are logged in, try an advanced search. search for "saddle bags" in "posts" and "contained in title"

or maybe a link to my search will work for you...

https://www.thegsresources.com/_forum/search.php?searchid=2656952

 

[trevor]

I have a set of Wolfman's that I quite like

 

[gustovh]

I am still using a 20 year old set of Givi expandable bags, small or large, you chose with a zipper.

V

 

[Mr.humbucker]

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-65-034-010401-PL-Motorcycle-Saddle-Bags/dp/B07D9NP2BV

I have two sets of these with the top bag and tank bag that my riding partner and I have used many time. I've done five day trips and had plenty of room for my stuff. They're inexpensive and have a bright yellow fold out cover which "helps in the rain" and is super bright for hi-viz. I ALWAYS pack my stuff in a kitchen size garbage bag for a second dependable layer of protection for heavy rain days on the road.

These use to be sold under the Classic Motogear brand/label but it appears Amazon may have picked them up and is selling them under Amazon Basic brand ... if there's such a thing as they don't mention Classic Motogear. The tank bag seems to be sold out on Amazon but frequently shows up on ebay. These are not huge bags but they certainly fit the bill for the trips I take.

 

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I appreciate the replies.

 

[Spyder]

If you look at the "suggested" in that Amazon link. The Chase Harper bags look, and sound really nice. I may be trying them out myself...

 

[salty_monk]

I have a set of Cortech or Nelson rigg or something (they are all somewhat similar to what Bob posted on his 1100). They work well. I made a plate that goes behind the number plate that allows me to fix the rear fixings back there.

It's just a piece of aluminum strip bent into a U with a slot at each end. I can get you a picture if you like. You may be able to see the end of it in my sig...

 

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I appreciate all the help. Decided on a tail bag. I'm going to buy the Nelson-Rigg Commuter Sport. $89 at Amazon. 13 length x11 width x9 height when expanded (22 liters). Will mount to both my GS and my 14. Looks good and it'll hold enough for me.