vfr1200f saddlebags

Does any one know about any alternatives to the factory saddlebags. I will not use them very often so I dont want to spend an arm and a leg for the factory ones.
I also want to try to avoid a bunch of mounting hardware so that if I take the bags off I dont have to fool with a bunch of unsightly hardware.

 

I have Kappa V35 sidebags mounted with SW-Motech's removable mountings.

 

When I bought my factory top box and hardware from accessories 4 bikes they had a special on the side boxes for $800.00 I didn't get them now they are $1,100. I wouldn't use them that much but the top box I use every time. If I wanted side boxes I would go a head and pay just because I like the way the bike looks without any more mounting hardware plus setting the lock to work with one key is pretty sweet too.

 

I like my Honda saddlebags very much. They are high quality, look good, go and off with ease and leave nothing on the bike when they are off. I do wish they were a bit bigger. However, they work very well. If you can't find them for an acceptable price, may go with a set of high quality soft luggage. They may a good solution to the occasional use you mention. Ride safe.

Mark

 

I only just got my VFR, but I can say that although a little pricey, the saddle bags are well worth the price. Not having to bolt up extra hardware or backets alone is worth it. Then the ease and ability to lock them on with the factory key, you just cant beat it.

 

I would second this comment.

 

I've only had my VFR12 a few weeks myself and the only reason I bought it is because I found out there was a good alternative to the factory side cases. The factory side cases are simply not big enough for two-up touring IMO. But the Givi V35 side cases are much more spacious and a fraction of the price. And with the SW Motech quick release brackets there's nothing left on the bike when I'm not touring. All for a total investment of about $800 bucks + shipping. As far as the single key thing...if the wife wants to get something out of the side cases while I'm trying to fill the tank, I don't have to do the ignition key doe-see-doe. I like that better. And allegedly, the SW Motech brackets even tuck the cases in tighter to the bike than the stock Givi brackets. I can't say this firsthand, but that's what the literature says. It'll be another month or two before I can report firsthand, but that's the direction I'm heading.

Just my $.02
D Dave

 

Check out Iron Pony in Columbus, its a motorcycle superstore that has all kinds of stuff. I stopped there last year to check out alternatives to the Honda sidebags, it may well give you some idea's for your bike.

 

The Givi V35s are $55 less from Twisted Throttle, but that doesn't factor in shipping, which I haven't priced out yet. I wonder if I/P price matches??

 

I called. Iron Pony does NOT price match. But I also haven't priced shipping from TT yet. Might still be cheaper from IP by the time you add shipping.

 

iron pony

Will look into IP

 

I have been looking into Shad cases and their 43 litre side cases and rack system can be purchased between $500 to $550, flat black or colored top panels. Is any one familiar with these. They make cases for BMW.