Ventura luggage system vs OEM bags

Does anyone here use the Ventura luggage system, and if you do, do you have any pictures of it on your bike? I'm undecided on the hardbags vs the Ventura system. They both have positives, Ventura can hold more due to the variety and size of the bags, I do like that it mounts behind you, better aerodynamics and touches no bodywork. The hardbags do look good though and are waterproof from the get go, never had panniers though, so I don't know what it's like to have them mounted on the side of the bike. I guess there is a possibility they could break or come off, and I guess they will get scuffed up with use. Any thoughts on these two systems?

 

I do, admit the Hard bags of the Gen 6 look better integrated to the motorcycles design and maybe better to tour on but I like the Ventura rack due to its versatility of options and ease of use, it literally takes seconds to clip on or off so great for a works commute to work or going for a 3 day ride.

For a 3 days ride with the Aero Delta bag I have the ability to zip together a reverse facing 2nd Aero Delta bag for immediate double storage capacity...Two up, for some reason the few times have had the missus on the back she has felt safer with the rack and bag behind her sort of like a backrest I guess, this is only psychological but important just the same for her confidence.

Even though they are well made in NZ over in Aus once out of the city Ventura racks are a bit like arses in that nearly every bike on tour seems to have one. :thumbsup:

My VFR with Ventura Touring Rack and Aero-Delta bag:


Ventura Aus information Link:
Ventura Motorcycle Luggage Rack Bike Pack System

 

Here is a pic of mine. I had planned on getting hard bags before I bought the bike but it came with system. After using it and seeing it I am very happy with it. I also like the fact that the passenger can use it as a back rest or at least have the feeling like there is something that will keep them from falling off.

 

It does seem like a versatile system, and does seem to have a ton of capacity with all the different bag options.

 

I just got the Ventura system for my 07 about a week ago; it took less than 15 minutes to install. The L brackets mount so that I get to keep the grab rails (an unexpected plus!). I got the kit which came with the sport rack and the taller one; so far I've only used the sport rack and sport bag. I like that the bags are so easy to take off and carry along.

I did not like the idea of mounting hard bags to my bike when I'm still getting comfortable with the weight of the bike. Like you, I like the idea of having the luggage behind me rather than below. I'm very happy with my choice. I'll try to post a close up picture after I get home this evening.