Ventura+Soft Panniers+Pillion?

Hey there,

I guess the title pretty much sums up my question. As its getting warmer here in the land of OZ I am looking to do some lite touring (3-5days) with my lovely lady on the back. Have a 5th gen which runs great, and a Ventura rack which i absolutely love for my day to day luggage needs.

However i really would like to add a set of smallish soft panniers just to stash a tad more gear.

Has anyone else run a system like this? Have there been issues with pillions legs being cramped by the bags? I understand there are benefits of hard panniers but for the total usage+cost I cant really afford/justify them. Also any thoughts with regard to attaching them securely? Any help/pics appreciated.

thanks in advance,

j.

 

Ventura have coordinated systems including soft panniers and magnetic tank bags.

Motorcycle luggage, hard soft motorcycle luggage, racks, touring luggage | Ventura

 

I can't answer your question, but that's a great quote you have...

 

I use RKA saddle bags in conjunction with my Ventura rack. Don't use any Ventura luggage.

 

i have used the set up described, altho not on a VFR. i used it on an FJ 1200 so it possibly had a bit more seat length to play with. my pillion was of diminutive proportions also which helped.
other than that there were no comps with the rider/pillion positions or comfort.
but see if you can find a shop that will let you fit up the intended gear while your there with your pillion so you can test it out.

dont forget to inrcrease your rear preload to compenasatefor the extra wieght.

+1 on that quote as well, very cool.

 

"Float like a papillion, sting like a bee."

M. Ali.

 

Ok cool, thanks for the advice guys. Think i will go to mcas and do some fitments whilst the lady is with me, figure i can get a good idea of what works.

And yes its an amazing quote, Milan Kundera is a beautiful writer, for me that paragraph sums up so elegantly what riding a motorcycle is all about. If you have an interest in great literature I urge you to read any of his stuff.

Cheers,

j.