Has anyone put soft saddlebags on their 02 or newer vfr? I'd like to use soft bags, but am concerned about the heat from the (factory) exhaust pipes being right there. Looking at using some GIVI brackets to help protect the bags and my stuff from the heat, but it'll be a pricey set up. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
Well - after doing a lot more research, I still hadn't come up with a solid conclusion about whether soft bags would be safe. While some posts (and other sources outside VFRWorld) indicated that factory exhaust wouldn't get hot enough to ruin the bags, there were a couple of stories I heard about needing to stop because the bags were "burning". Even a couple stories is too many for me.... So I ended up with the Givi hardbags. Pricey - but I suppose that's not too high for peace of mind that my equipment is going to hold together for the long ride we want to do in June. I've had them on for a few weeks now, about 1000 km - and so far so good. Cheers
I want some hard bags too but they are expensive as hell. Even the used Honda offered ones ive found were like $500+
Hmm. I just did this earlier today on a "Cortech" thread, but; They get warm, but don't burn. If you don't want your paint to scuff, you should put some clear shipping tape on it where the bags rub against it. I ended up doing the following; http://vfrworld.com/forums/gear-accessories/19273-soft-luggage-support-rack.html This helps support them and keeps them away from the muffler shields.
