How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Saddlebags for Your Ride

Motorcycles are a fun way to get around town or go on a road trip, but they have some disadvantages. One big drawback is they don't have much room for storage. This makes installing saddlebags a viable option for many riders to overcome this obstacle on their motorcycles. When you're looking for saddlebags to add to your ride, look no further than Desperado Harley-Davidson in McAllen, Texas! We proudly welcome customers from Edinburg, Texas, too!

Hardcover Saddlebags

The first factor to decide with saddlebags is which type you want to go for. The first type is hardcover saddlebags, which are designed explicitly around your particular motorcycle. They have a hard exterior that is waterproof and durable. This fact alone makes them a popular choice for riders. 

Another significant factor for hardcover saddlebags is that they are great for security. They're more difficult to install and uninstall since they're designed for the width of your motorcycle. Thus, thieves will be less likely to try to take your belongings. Plus, if you'd like, you can have them customized to your preferences. 

Softcover Saddlebags

Next, softcover saddlebags are great since they're flexible and can be taken on or off easily. Unlike hardcover saddlebags, softcover saddlebags are not always waterproof and are less durable. However, this saddlebag type makes storage easy since they're portable and can be taken into a bike meet or other building. 

Backpacks 

Finally, you can find various backpack options, depending on your preferences and price range. They generally have many pockets for all of your belongings. Perhaps the best part of using a backpack is that no installation is needed since you carry it on your back. 

You can also decide on the type of saddlebags you need by where you plan to go. For example, if you plan to go to areas in the wilderness, you may want hardcover saddlebags for extra durability and water resistance. Quality should be a deciding factor as well. You should choose quality saddlebags that will serve your purposes and not just your obvious needs. Security and protection are given, but you need to check if you'll have enough room for all of your items and how much width your bags will add to your bike. 

If you take long trips or short ones, you should have storage for essential items, such as emergency tools, cell phones, and your other valuables. With this guide, you can determine which type of saddlebags are going to work best for you. Come on by Desperado Harley-Davidson in McAllen, Texas, for all your motorcycle needs, and we also serve Edinburg, Texas!