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Message started by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 16:23:49

Title: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 16:23:49

My question/project for now is saddle bags.

I have a pair of saddle bags...17' wide...that i want to use temporarily.

They actually fit/lay over the rear suspension thing ...which holds it out some away from the wheel.
They have a hard backing and bottom thing.The other end of bag fits up against turn light signal.

My question is: Do you really need bag supports?
I'm also still going at slow speeds while learning.

I probably also need more info on the purpose of mounts. But I really can't afford them right now,so I'm wondering if I can get by without them temporarily.

Thanks for any help!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 16:34:41

I'm laughing at myself now.....I couldnt decide if they were called mounts or supports.....but I am talking about the supports,things that keep the bags away from tire.

Ohhhh.....too much on my mind :-) I need to fix up this bike,learn to ride well and take a long vacation :-)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by skatnbnc on 08/25/07 at 17:05:01

No you do not need bag supports.
Mine never has had any, and they are fine. Yesterday I took them off to repair some torn stitching, but that had nothing to do with interfering in any way with the wheels or shocks.

The only thing that bugs me is that they don't sit further back, but until I do the mod of putting the rear turn signals in a better place, that is it for now.
http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/07/11/bikepics-958880-800.jpg

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 17:23:28

Thanks Skatnbnc.....

One less thing I have to buy :-)

So what is the purpose of the bag supports?
I've read somewhere,but dont have any idea where :-)

Are they just to prevent the bags from sagging?

I figure since mine have the hard back and bottom,it probably wont sag much or go anywhere.

Do most throw over bags have snaps connecting them(to each other)?
These do!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by WD on 08/25/07 at 17:28:59

The supports keep the bags from getting sucked into the belt or rear tire. Not so much an issue with hard lined bags. True soft bags NEED some kind of support. I like the 1970s type, basically a pipe with a flattened end, hole drilled in the end. Bend to suit the angle needed (use a vise). I can get them all day long out here for a couple dollars per stick, you need 4.

That said, I use Saddleman Drifter bags on mine. Right (non-belt) side is directly bolted to the fender. The left bag is set out on spacers to clear the belt guard (mostly).

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-11/1112724/pokeydone2.jpg

I really need some updated pics... But I need to fix the bike first, it croaked (spectacular flame show out the pipe).
-WD

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/25/07 at 17:45:25

FreeSpirit wrote:

Aloha FreeSpirit,
My bags didn't need any guards either, but I did end up putting some on (they came with the bike but the owner had broken one and taken them off), cause I did find it hard to tie them on the shocks (didn't have any other place to tie them on to). I do my groceries on the bike, and I was afraid that not tying them on would cause me to loose my balance in the curves because the heavy bags would probably tip like the bike and fall outward. Now I'm just thinking on using some kind of climbers tool to quickly latch the bag on and off, instead of tying. It's amazing how many times I've removed the seat since I've had the saddlebags, each time untying those straps!! AAhh

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/25/07 at 17:50:55

skatnbnc wrote:

Aloha skatnbnc,
Let me know how you are planning to resolve the turn signal issue. I have the same problem with my bags, they are pushing the turn signals back. On top of that it makes it hard for the passenger to get their feet on the pegs. my daughter tried. Now I ended up raising the bags a little and am using the guards. The pegs are more open now.
Not that I'm anyway ready to take on passengers, but I told my daughter one day!!
She can't wait, wants me to pick her up from school on the bike, to make her look cool I guess!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 18:10:30

What is a climbers tool ?

My bags snap together underneath the seat/somewhere and zip off each side/bag.

Are all bags like this....snap together?

Oh...I didnt think about the bag leaning out with the bike....guess I need to tie them down somehow!Just looked at them...they do have places to tie down!!

And thanks WD for info,hope you get your bike fixed :-)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 18:28:35

Oh....now I feel really uneducated to ask this, but....how do you remove the passenger seat?

I do not see this anywhere in my manual!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by verslagen1 on 08/25/07 at 19:08:51

remove drivers seat first. 2 bolts, 1 on either side.

Then 1 bolt in front of pillion. ;D

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by WD on 08/25/07 at 19:14:29

No worries.
-WD

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/25/07 at 19:24:34

verslagen1 wrote:

remove drivers seat first. 2 bolts, 1 on either side.

Then 1 bolt in front of pillion. ;D

Oh....thank you....no wonder I couldnt see how to with the drivers seat on :-)

Thanks a bunch :-)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by ALfromN.H. on 08/26/07 at 05:27:46

Quote:

Aloha skatnbnc,
Let me know how you are planning to resolve the turn signal issue. I have the same problem with my bags, they are pushing the turn signals back.

here's what mine looks like with the relocated rear turn signals:

http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/08/bikepics-987494-800.jpg

http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/08/bikepics-987497-800.jpg

http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/10/bikepics-989958-800.jpg

http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/10/bikepics-989959-800.jpg

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by skatnbnc on 08/26/07 at 08:02:07

ALfromN.H. wrote:

here's what mine looks like with the relocated rear turn signals:
http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/08/bikepics-987494-800.jpg

And this is EXACTLY what I want to do, but have not had the nerve to tackle the electric part, so other mods have come first.

Also, I hated having to untie the leather thongs to remove the saddlebags (especially in this super humid climate), so I devised a strap lock system.
The straps are connected to the frame, the saddlebags sit on TOP of the pillion seat, and when the bag flaps are buckled shut, it double secures the locking snaps.
Now it is one unsnap and they are off.
http://w2.bikepics.com/pics/2007/08/26/bikepics-1004175-full.jpg

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/26/07 at 11:45:49

FreeSpirit wrote:

What is a climbers tool ?
:-)

I don't know the name for this gadget, but it's just a teardrop shaped clip that opens up on the wide side. The bottom (narrow side) I have attached to the loop on the saddlebag, and the top part of the clip that has like a spring lock, I just clip on the guard. Really quick and easy to take release now in case I need to get to the seat bolts.

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/26/07 at 11:53:25

Thanks ALfromN.H. and skatnbnc. Looks great!
I guess the is no reason why I can't do something similar but further apart is there? Maybe use a longer extending bracket? People here barely see me as is, even with bright colored clothes. I want to make doubly sure they see my turn signal, and on which side it is blinking! I think Hawaii is the only state where you are allowed to pass on the right of the vehicle on a regular road by using the shoulder or any other space that's available. I want to make sure they can see I'm turning right and not left and then end up getting swiped!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/26/07 at 11:57:28

FreeSpirit wrote:

Are all bags like this....snap together?
:-)

Mine actually tie together!
Right now though, cause I did not want all that weight on my voltage regulator, I ended up modifying the strap over the back. I cut it so not it goes around the regulator instead of being draped over it. Groceries can get pretty heavy!
I am not able to remove my bags like yours, with a zipper. Well that's what you get for $40.00 bags. Bet yours where a tad more expensive.

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by skatnbnc on 08/26/07 at 12:01:39

islandwahine wrote:

Starts with a C....arrggg its in my head and can't get out!
CARBINER! thats it!

Can you tell its raining here so I am not out riding?
;)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/26/07 at 13:15:16

Sorry,Trying to ask all my questions in one post :-)

Where is the voltage regulator? All I have is the owners manual and I swear I cant find that anywhere in there.

I think I need more than the owners manual....any suggestions? A service manual for the Savage?

You put your bags on top of the pillion? With just the strap attached to the frame? They dont slide or move?
That would work for me if they stay on good,do they?

Oh....and the cost of mine....they were "used" ,that's why just temporary,I'm going to get ones I like better eventually :-)(already have them picked out) Although if these serve the purpose,may keep awhile....the zip off(part) of the bags are nice.I didnt pay full price though,so fairly inexpensive :-)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by skatnbnc on 08/26/07 at 17:29:21

You need the Clymers manual for Suzuki LS650 Savage and get the one that covers your bikes year.

I have a 2006, but the manual I use is 1986-2004 and it works fine. Check Amazon and ebay for good price deals. Once you get the manual, combine it with this forum and you will have ALL the answers! ;D

Yes, my bags tie together on top, and they sit on TOP of the pillion seat. They are heavy leather, with nylon straps to hold them on the sides.
Once my laptop, purse and other stuff is loaded to go to the office, they don't move an inch.

I've toted groceries galore in them, no trouble. On occasion I even add a 20lb bag of dog food to the pillion when the bags are full. Good little workhorse, this Suzuki.

And the price does not matter on the gear you get - if it's functional and safe, it's worth however much you did or did not pay for it. With a bike like this that you can fix or mod yourself, lots of people enjoy the hunt for good deals as much as the results!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/26/07 at 18:26:12

FreeSpirit wrote:

Mine is under the pillion (sorry but that's a weird name!) that's why I had to modify the strap that ties the bags together.
By the way, here is where I got my manual, cheaper then anywhere else I found.
http://www.themotorbookstore.com/suzlssav19.html
And they ship superfast! had mine in 4 days.

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/26/07 at 18:28:06

skatnbnc wrote:

Starts with a C....arrggg its in my head and can't get out!
CARBINER! thats it!

Can you tell its raining here so I am not out riding?
;)

Yep that 's the one!
Except that It is a smaller version then the ones the climbers use (a lot smaller!) ;)
Yeah I was wondering about that (the not riding part).
I took a short hour ride this morning, I promised myself I would do the laundry and dishes. Next weekend is the fork oil change so I wanted to get some cruising in.

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/26/07 at 18:50:24

Thanks guys for all the help.....and I will get the Clymers manual.... I'm sure it will cut down on my frustration level big time :-)

I'm going to put the s.bags over the pillion for now (and yes where did that name come from :-) and tie them down....it will be so nice to finally have saddle bags!!

Thanks again :-) Don't know what I'd do without ya'll !!

Oh,I tried to start my MC today and forgot about the kickstand.....I think I ran my battery down(after 3-4 trys)....will it possibly start tomorrow? or do I need a new post on this? I tried to check battery level and I cant even see it through the window!! All I see is a battery sticker showing.

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by eglidegirl on 08/27/07 at 10:58:46

islandwahine wrote:

IslandW - How bout this one at the link below:

This is exactly where my 06 headed as far as mods go this winter. When the snow flies...... 17 inch Memphis Fats Wind Shield, Sissy Bar, Pad & Luggage Rack - 17" Saddlebags for my laptop, muffler swap, fork brace, the list keeps going and going and going, just like the energizer bunny!

http://suzukisavage.com/cgi-bin/YaBB.pl?board=RubberSideDown;action=display;num=1177478901;start=2#2

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/27/07 at 11:16:06

Now you're talking!
I love the way those turn signals look!
s soon as I have some extra time on hand I'll look into changing the way mine are. Fortunately it too hot here for the windshield thing! I have to ride with my jacket open just to cool off!
Wouldn't it be nice if they had something legal that could change us into energizer bunnies!! Keeping up the energy level is a tough one!!

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by eglidegirl on 08/27/07 at 11:33:54

islandwahine wrote:

Wouldn't it be nice if they had something legal that could change us into energizer bunnies!! Keeping up the energy level is a tough one!!

I like the way you think ;D

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by Starlifter on 08/27/07 at 18:25:32

Main Entry: 1pil·lion
Pronunciation: 'pil-y&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Scottish Gaelic or Irish; Scottish Gaelic pillean, diminutive of peall covering, couch; Irish pillín, diminutive of peall covering, couch
1 a : a light saddle for women consisting chiefly of a cushion b : a pad or cushion put on behind a man's saddle chiefly for a woman to ride on
2 chiefly British : a motorcycle or bicycle saddle for a passenger

~Starlifter

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by FreeSpirit on 08/28/07 at 19:13:39

Starlifter,

Thanks.....no wonder it sounds strange.....its not an original american word :-)

Title: Re: Do all Saddle bags need Mounts?
Post by islandwahine on 08/29/07 at 01:33:32

Starlifter wrote:

I don't think you could have been more informative than that!!
You know, I've always wondered why women were given pillows or cushions or pillions if in reality women (most of the time) have a bigger but. Don't you think that's weird?