GaryF wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:07:While this isn't really about what size bags will fit, I am wondering if anyone has experience or suggestions on what works best to fasten the bags to the bike-- can't imagine just throwing them over the pillon and having them stay during the ride. Want to be able to remove reasonably easily. Any suggestions??
I put my saddlebags OVER the pillion seats (and I quote from another forum member, "I never ride with a pillion - the screaming is distracting").
With the bag flaps on TOP of the pillion seat, I shortened the distance as far as the adjustment allows, making them as high from the ground as possible.
Then I added 2 straps, one for each bag, that have plastic buckle type lock-snaps. The nylon straps attach (tied on) to the rear turn signal light in back, and the shock top connection in front right where it meets the fender.
The flap of the saddlebag is OVER the nylon strap, and buckles in place, thus securing it even further.
Bag removal is literally a snap - with the leather saddlebag buckles undone, unsnap the nylon strap, lift the bags off. Never had them go flying anywhere, not even when I dropped the bike earlier this year.
The straps can be adjusted to hold the bags really tight, and buckled back together and tightened to ride without bags.
If I have the bags on for extended periods or long rides, I take the extra leather thong that is on the bag adjustment area and tie it down on whatever part of the bike is handy - usually the turn signals, sometimes to that little panic strap on the seat itself.