When you picture a Harley Davidson Softail, what comes to mind? Probably the open road, the rumble of the engine, and the freedom of the ride. But as any rider knows, a great ride often means carrying a few essentials. That’s where saddlebags come in. They’re not just accessories; they’re your trusty companions for every adventure.
Choosing the perfect saddlebags for your Harley Softail can feel like a bumpy road itself. There are so many styles, materials, and brands out there. How do you know which ones will look good, fit perfectly, and hold all your gear without looking out of place? It’s easy to get lost in all the choices, and the wrong pick can even affect your bike’s handling.
This is where we come in. We’re here to make that decision a whole lot easier. By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what makes a great saddlebag for your Softail. We’ll break down the different types, what to look for in terms of quality and fit, and how to choose the ones that best match your style and needs. Get ready to gear up for your next journey with the perfect storage solution!
Our Top 5 Saddlebags For Harley Softail Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Saddlebags For Harley Softail Detailed Reviews
1. FVMOTO Universal Motorcycle Saddlebags Saddle Bags Luggage Bags Travel Knight Rider Storage Bag Fit For Harley Softail Dyna Super Glide Sportster FXR
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to hit the road and carry your essentials? The FVMOTO Universal Motorcycle Saddlebags offer a practical storage solution for your motorcycle adventures. Designed to fit a wide range of Harley models like the Softail, Dyna, Sportster, and FXR, these bags provide a decent amount of space for your gear. They are made from tough 1680D Ballistic Nylon, which should hold up well on your rides. Plus, they come with everything you need to get them mounted up, including brackets and waterproof covers.
What We Like:
- Made from strong 1680D Ballistic Nylon for durability.
- They are water-resistant, keeping your stuff dry.
- Installation is straightforward with included brackets and straps.
- The yoke adjusts to fit different bikes.
- Comes with helpful waterproof covers for extra protection.
- MOLLE attachments offer extra ways to secure the bags or add more gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The brackets might not fit all models, specifically 2018-2023 Harley FatBob.
- You need to make sure you have at least 11″ or 14″ clearance between your shocks and blinkers.
- The zipper can be a bit stiff; you need to lift the brim first for smoother operation.
These FVMOTO saddlebags provide a good way to add storage to your motorcycle without breaking the bank. They offer decent durability and come with helpful features for riders.
2. TCT-MOTORPARTS Hard Saddlebags+ Conversion Bracket Fit For Harley Softail Heritage Classic Fatboy Springer Night Train Bad Boy 1984-2017
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your Harley Softail with these TCT-MOTORPARTS Hard Saddlebags and Conversion Brackets. They offer a sleek Vivid Black finish and are designed to fit a wide range of Softail models from 1984 to 2017. You get plenty of storage space for your gear, and the included brackets make installation straightforward.
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What We Like:
- The saddlebags come painted and ready to go in a stylish Vivid Black finish.
- They include sturdy black metal brackets and all the necessary mounting hardware.
- The package comes with free carpet liners to protect your belongings.
- These saddlebags offer a good amount of storage for essentials.
- The price is attractive for a complete saddlebag and bracket kit.
- The ABS material of the saddlebags is high quality.
- Installation instructions are not included, which can be a challenge for some riders.
- You will need to relocate your turn signals for most models, and a kit is required.
- These brackets are not compatible with single-sided dual exhaust systems.
- The fitment excludes Softail Slim and Softail Deuce models.
- Make sure your exhaust sits below your rear axle for proper fitment.
What Could Be Improved:
Overall, this saddlebag set provides a practical and stylish storage solution for your Harley Softail. Just be sure to check compatibility and be prepared for a little extra work on the turn signal relocation.
3. Motorcycle Saddlebags
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your ride with the Nubelety 30L Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags! These stylish and practical saddlebags are designed to add both flair and function to your motorcycle, whether you’re cruising on a Harley Davidson Sportster or a Honda Shadow. They offer ample storage for your essentials and are built to withstand the elements, ensuring your gear stays safe and dry on every journey. Plus, the built-in cup holders are a game-changer for those longer rides!
What We Like:
- Made from premium PU leather that looks and feels great, and is more durable than regular leather.
- Features secure locking clasps to keep your belongings safe, even at high speeds.
- Universal design makes them easy to install on many different motorcycle models without needing extra tools.
- Offer a generous 30L of combined storage space, perfect for carrying everything you need.
- Includes two convenient cup holders for easy access to your drinks.
- Waterproof and dustproof design keeps your items protected from the weather.
- The elegant retro punk design with rivets makes your motorcycle stand out.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the PU leather might not be as long-lasting as genuine leather for some riders.
- The universal fit is great, but some specific bike models might require minor adjustments for perfect alignment.
These Nubelety saddlebags offer a fantastic combination of style, security, and practicality for any rider. They are a solid choice for adding much-needed storage and a touch of luxury to your motorcycle.
4. XFMT Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bag Turnk W/Black Conversion Brackets For Harley Heritage Softail Deluxe 1984-2017
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your Harley Heritage Softail Deluxe with these sleek XFMT Hard Saddlebags. They offer a fresh, modern look with their straight-sided design, setting them apart from other bags. These bags are built to last and provide ample storage for your rides.
What We Like:
- Durable Construction: Made from tough ABS plastic with a shiny Vivid Black finish.
- Increased Storage: The stretched design helps you carry more gear for longer trips.
- Secure Storage: Latches and locks keep your belongings safe and protected.
- Easy Installation: No complicated adjustments are needed, making setup a breeze.
- Stylish Look: The new style without the arc gives your bike a clean, custom appearance.
- Waterproof Lids: The left and right stock-style lids fit perfectly and keep your items dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Turn Signal Relocation: You’ll need to move your turn signals on most models (except Deluxe).
- Exhaust Clearance: Your exhaust must sit lower than the rear axle for proper fitment.
- Model Exclusions: These bags do not fit Softail Slim or Deuce models.
These XFMT saddlebags are a fantastic upgrade for storage and style. They provide a practical solution for carrying your essentials on any adventure.
5. KUAFU Saddle Bags Trunk W/Lid & Latch Key with Black Bracket Compatible with 1984-2017 Harley Davidson Softail Models Saddlebag Conversion Bracket Kit Support Mounts 2 Packages
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson Softail with the KUAFU Saddle Bags Trunk W/Lid & Latch Key with Black Bracket. These sturdy ABS plastic saddlebags offer waterproof protection for your gear, ready for any weather. The included black bracket kit makes installation straightforward, letting you haul more on your rides.
What We Like:
- Durable, waterproof ABS plastic construction keeps your belongings safe.
- The black bracket kit is made of strong metal for reliable support.
- Easy installation means you can get back on the road quickly.
- Includes lids and latch keys for secure storage.
- Designed to fit most 1984-2017 Harley Davidson Softail models.
What Could Be Improved:
- Turn signal relocation is needed for most models, adding an extra step.
- No installation instructions are provided, which might be tricky for some.
- Some specific Softail models (Deuce and 2013 Slim FLS) are not compatible.
These KUAFU saddlebags are a solid choice for Softail owners looking to add storage. They provide good value and a clean look for your bike.
Get Your Harley Softail Ready: The Ultimate Saddlebag Buying Guide
So, you’ve got a Harley Softail, a true classic. Now, you want to add some style and practicality with saddlebags. But where do you start? This guide will help you find the perfect match for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
When picking saddlebags, think about what you need.
- Capacity: How much stuff do you want to carry? Some bags are small and sleek, good for essentials. Others are big and roomy, perfect for longer trips.
- Locking Mechanism: Do you want to keep your gear safe? Look for bags with locks. This keeps your belongings secure.
- Quick Release: Sometimes you need to take the bags off fast. Quick-release systems make this easy.
- Waterproof/Water-Resistant: Will you ride in the rain? Waterproof bags protect your stuff from getting wet. Water-resistant bags offer some protection but might not be fully waterproof.
- Style: Saddlebags add a lot to your bike’s look. They come in many shapes and sizes. Choose ones that match your Harley’s style.
Important Materials
The material of your saddlebags matters for durability and looks.
- Leather: This is a classic choice for Harley riders. Genuine leather looks great and lasts a long time. It can be a bit heavy and needs care to stay in good shape.
- ABS Plastic: These are hard cases. They are very durable and offer great protection for your gear. They are often waterproof and lockable.
- Synthetic Leather/Vinyl: This is a good option if you want the leather look without the high cost. It’s usually lighter than real leather and easier to clean.
- Cordura/Nylon: These are tough fabrics. They are lightweight and water-resistant. They are a good choice for a sportier look.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes saddlebags great or not so great?
- Stitching: Good stitching holds the bags together. Look for strong, even stitches. Loose or uneven stitching can mean the bags won’t last long.
- Hardware: The buckles, zippers, and mounting hardware should be sturdy. Cheap hardware can break easily.
- Fitment: Saddlebags need to fit your specific Harley Softail model. Make sure the bags are designed for your bike. A poor fit can rub against your bike’s paint or exhaust.
- Mounting System: How do the bags attach to your bike? Some come with easy-to-use mounting brackets. Others might need more work.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your saddlebags.
- Daily Commuting: If you just need to carry a few things like a lunch or a jacket, smaller, sleeker bags work well.
- Weekend Trips: For longer rides, you’ll want more space. Larger capacity bags are better here.
- Long-Haul Touring: If you’re going on cross-country adventures, you need durable, waterproof, and secure bags. Hard cases or large, well-made leather bags are good choices.
- Show Bike: If your bike is mostly for shows, style might be your top priority. Classic leather bags often look best.
Choosing the right saddlebags can really upgrade your Harley Softail experience. Take your time, consider these points, and you’ll be riding in style with plenty of room for your gear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in saddlebags for a Harley Softail?
A: The main key features are capacity (how much they hold), locking mechanisms for security, quick-release systems for easy removal, whether they are waterproof or water-resistant, and the overall style that matches your bike.
Q: What are the most common materials used for Harley Softail saddlebags?
A: Common materials include genuine leather for a classic look, ABS plastic for hard cases that offer protection, synthetic leather or vinyl as a more affordable leather alternative, and tough fabrics like Cordura or nylon.
Q: How does the stitching quality affect saddlebag quality?
A: Good, strong stitching is important because it keeps the saddlebags together. Loose or uneven stitching can mean the bags won’t last very long and might fall apart.
Q: What is the benefit of a quick-release system on saddlebags?
A: A quick-release system makes it very easy and fast to take the saddlebags off your motorcycle when you don’t need them.
Q: Are hard case saddlebags (like ABS plastic) better than leather saddlebags?
A: Hard case saddlebags are usually more durable, waterproof, and easier to lock securely. Leather saddlebags offer a classic look and can be very stylish, but they might require more care and are not always as waterproof.
Q: How important is the fitment of saddlebags to my specific Harley Softail model?
A: Fitment is very important. Saddlebags designed for your specific Harley Softail model will mount correctly without damaging your bike’s paint or other parts, and they will look and function best.
Q: What kind of saddlebags are best for someone who rides in the rain often?
A: For frequent rain, you should look for saddlebags that are advertised as fully waterproof. Hard cases or bags made from waterproof materials like certain nylons are usually the best choice.
Q: Can I install saddlebags myself, or do I need a mechanic?
A: Many saddlebags are designed for DIY installation, especially if they come with specific mounting brackets for your Harley Softail. However, if you’re not comfortable with tools, it’s always a good idea to have a professional help you.
Q: How do I clean and maintain leather saddlebags?
A: You should clean leather saddlebags with a leather cleaner and then condition them with a leather conditioner. This helps keep the leather from drying out and cracking.
Q: What are the use cases for different types of saddlebags?
A: Smaller bags are good for daily commutes, larger bags are better for weekend trips, and durable, secure bags are ideal for long-distance touring. Style-focused bags are great for show bikes.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Luigi Smith, the voice behind carrepairmag.com. As a passionate car enthusiast with years of hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining vehicles, I created this platform to share my knowledge and expertise. My goal is to empower car owners with practical advice, tips, and step-by-step guides to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a beginner looking to learn, carrepairmag.com is your go-to source for all things car repair!