Motorcycle saddlebags are essential for long trips out on the open road. They’re the easiest and most convenient way to carry large amounts of gear on your motorcycle, and they are all but required for any touring rider who spends days and nights traveling long distances on scenic byways. Saddlebags can also be compact and convenient for carting around personal effects and roadside tools while you ride around town.
We looked at dozens of motorcycle saddlebags and have identified the best for the vast majority of motorcycles on the road today. While researching these saddlebags we considered factors like material quality, fit adjustability, and storage versatility in choosing our top picks. Then we put together a long list of many other great saddlebags for you to consider.
Once our research was complete we chose the Dowco Willie and Max Warrior Series as our overall top pick. These bags have a classic design that’ll look great on a variety of motorcycles, and the zip-off yokes make them exceptionally portable.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Motorcycle Saddlebags
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Motorcycle Saddlebag Overall | Dowco Willie and Max Warrior Series | 4.7 |
| Best Motorcycle Dry Saddlebag | Vuz Moto Dry Saddlebags | 4.1 |
| Best Budget Motorcycle Saddlebag | Stansport Saddle Bag | 4.1 |
| Best Hard Shell Motorcycle Saddlebag | SUDOO Extended Hard Motorcycle Saddlebags | 3.6 |
| Best Leather Motorcycle Saddlebag | Leather Native Classic Saddlebags | 3.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Motorcycle Saddlebag Overall: Dowco Willie and Max Warrior Series
The Dowco Willie and Max Warrior Series saddlebags feature a timeless design that is mated with modern conveniences. As a decades-old brand in the motorcycle industry, Dowco Willie and Max has evolved as motorcycles themselves have evolved. The legacy of these two legendary riders is represented in the traditional design of these classic saddlebags, and contemporary elements such as high-quality synthetic leather, zip-off yokes, and quick-release buckles make the bags a convenient choice in the modern age.
Made of UV and water-resistant vinyl, these saddlebags have the strength, feel, and appearance of real leather, but they won’t crack as they age. These bags have been designed to universally fit any common motorcycle on the road whether by the use of a throw-over yoke or a hard mount directly onto the motorcycle’s frame. The zip-off yokes allow you to quickly remove the bags from your motorcycle when you arrive at your destination, and the sewn-in carry handles make it easy to haul the bags inside your home or a hotel.
These are mid-sized saddlebags with plastic interior reinforcing that’ll hold the bags’ shape when they are empty and provide adequate support for heavy loads. Each bag as a 10 liter storage capacity with semi-rigid sidewalls. They are made in Wisconson, USA, just like all Dowco Willie and Max products, and they are backed by a lifetime warranty. They’ll protect your gear from the sun, wind, and rain for the many years and miles ahead.
Dowco Willie and Max Warrior Series Key Features:
- Universal fit with zip-off yokes
- Classic braided and fringed design
- Made of UV and water-resistant vinyl
- Lifetime warranty
Best Dry Motorcycle Saddlebag: Vuz Moto Dry Saddlebags
Designed specifically to keep your gear dry, the VUZ Moto Dry Saddlebags are an excellent choice for all-weather travel. They are large capacity bags with 24 liters of space in each, and they both cinch down tight like a backcountry backpack thanks to the waterproof roll-top design and the four compressions straps on each bag. These saddlebags have been fabricated to attach to any adventure bike, dual-sport bike, or any other bike that has a tubular frame.
The PVC tarpaulin fabric is completely waterproof and quite durable. All seams have been welded, and that roll-top design ensures that no water can find its way in no matter how strong the wings or how big the splashes may be. Velcro straps hold the bags together over the saddle and are quick-release for when you’re ready to unload your supplies. Bonus scrambler straps have been included for bikes with a high exhaust that can only mount a single saddlebag onto their motorcycle body.
Each bag has been fitted with rear-facing reflector strips for enhanced nighttime visibility and they have been protected with neoprene heat shielding. An air valve has been installed so that you can pack the bag down tight with the combination roll-top and multiple compressions straps.
Vuz Moto Dry Saddlebags Key Features:
- Dual 24L PVC tarpaulin seam-welded saddlebags
- Roll-top enclosure with air valve
- Neoprene heat shield
- Four compressions straps per bag
Best Budget Motorcycle Saddlebag: Stansport Saddle Bag
The Stansport Saddle Bag is an unassuming saddlebag made from heavy-duty that has been reinforced at the seams and is backed by vinyl for improved strength and looks. Combined, the two bags have a storage capacity of 1,056 cubic inches, or about two one-gallon milk jugs in each. They’re more than capable as a daily rider to haul essentials around town. They are water-resistant and have double-strapped flap covers that are fitted with easy-to-use metal d-rings.
Metal grommets have been set in the throw-over section of the saddlebag as extra tie-down points to secure the saddlebag to your motorcycle. Though this bag yoke is not adjustable, it is of a size that will fit most common motorcycle saddles. Users have modified this saddlebag in different ways to find the perfect fit for their motorcycle, most of which have been described as simple modifications in the user reviews.
For the price, you would be hard-pressed to find a more practical and durable set of saddlebags. They are simple, yet well made, and they can carry a fair amount of gear.
Stansport Saddle Bag Key Features:
- Thick cotton construction with vinyl backing
- Double strap flap covers
- Grommet tie-downs
- Metal D-rings
Best Hard Shell Motorcycle Saddlebag: SUDOO Extended Hard Motorcycle Saddlebags
The SUDOO Extended Hard Motorcycle Saddlebags are designed specifically to fit a range of Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles, though they have also been made in such a way as to fit as many other motorcycles as possible as well. For the Harley-Davidson models, this hard shell saddlebag has been crafted to complement the motorcycle by replicating Harley-Davidson design cues. You’ll find that these saddlebags match Harley-Davidson OEM paint and that they have dual exhaust cutouts to match the brand’s hallowed aesthetics.
But they have not been pre-drilled so that the customer can adapt these hard shell saddlebags to their own mounting hardware and individual motorcycle. The bags are comprised of durable ABS plastic that is completely waterproof. There is ample storage space inside each bag, and they are fitted with chrome latches that can be locked. Keys have been provided. Each latch also features a red reflector plate for enhanced visibility on the road.
SUDOO Extended Hard Motorcycle Saddlebags Key Features:
- Designed to fit a range of Harley Davidson models, but can fit more
- Red reflector on each bag
- Locking lids with keys
- Dual exhaust compatible cutouts
Best Leather Motorcycle Saddlebag: Leather Native Classic Saddlebags
It doesn’t matter how well it is made, fake leather just can’t hold a candle to the real thing. That’s why the Leather Native Classic Saddlebags stand above all of the imposters out there as a supremely attractive, durable, and timeless set of saddlebags. The real goat leather has been treated with oils so that its shades of brown will deepen with age and the material will only become softer to the touch. This is the real deal.
And that leather has been treated right. The quality construction is highlighted in the double-stiched seams and metal rivets that hold it all together. Large metal buckles secure the top flaps down tight to protect the insides from water, dirt, and UV light. The 15″ by 15″ yoke has been attached to adjustable straps, making it so that this all-leather saddlebag can universally fit nearly any bike out there.
Each bag measures 15″ by 11″ by 5″ in size, making them a mid-sized set of saddlebags that is the right size for daily use. The sidewalls of each bag have triangular rings that can be used to further secure the bags to your bike, assist in latching town the top flaps, or they can be fitted with a shoulder carry strap and to transition the pair of saddlebags into a pair of handsome shoulder bags. Both bags can be disconnected from the yoke and carried with you when you have to leave your motorcycle behind.
Leather Native Classic Saddlebags Key Features:
- Made from real goat leather
- Adjustable 15″ leather yoke
- Triple latched bags
- Triangular anchor rings on sidewalls
Who Should Buy a Motorcycle Saddlebag
Anyone who rides a motorcycle should have a motorcycle saddlebag, the question is— how big of a bag do you need? Motorcycle saddlebags are necessary for carrying, at minimum, some safety gear and repair tools, and they’re also useful for hauling equipment to your workplace, from the market, or on extended road trips.
Saddlebags are an essential piece of equipment that every motorcycle should have. They’ll come in useful in more ways than you could ever anticipate.
We also recommend that you load up on essential safety gear before you take your next ride. Take a look at our lists of the best motorcycle gloves, helmets, and jackets to discover some high-quality merchandise that could save your skin.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a motorcycle saddlebag.
- Fit. Above all else, you must know whether the saddlebag will fit your motorcycle or not. Universally fitting saddlebags will likely fit your motorcycle unless your bike as an incredibly unique design. There are saddlebags designed to fit certain motorcycle makes and models, and there are others that have a limited range of motorcycles in which they can fit. Be sure to check the specifications of a saddlebag before you purchase and make sure that they will fit your bike.
- Size. How much storage room do you need, and will that size of a bag fit onto your motorcycle? Be sure to select an appropriately sized saddlebag that can hold all of the gear that you want to carry. This can vary wildly depending on whether you need enough storage for a daily commute, a recreational day trip, or a multi-night adventure. You also need to be aware, though, of your bike’s limitations. Will the bag come into contact with the exhaust pipe or the spinning tires? Better make sure, or find a workaround.
- Security. Some saddlebags feature locking compartments that are a must-have if you intend to park your bike in a populated area and leave your bags attached to your motorcycle. Hard shell saddlebags often feature an inbuilt lock with a key. Other bags may feature grommets in which a padlock can be used to keep the bag locked.
- Hard shell or soft. Hard shell saddlebags are permanently fixed to your motorcycle, whereas fabric and leather saddlebags can usually be easily removed and carried into a hotel room or elsewhere. Hard shells are also more secure, they’re more durable, and they blend better into the design of your motorcycle. Leather and fabric bags have pockets and buckles and straps which can be attractive and convenient or unnecessary and cumbersome depending upon your preferences.
- Waterproof vs. dry bag. Most saddlebags will claim to be waterproof or at least water-resistant, but only dry bags are truly waterproof. Leather saddlebags, for instance, may be waterproof in that the leather doesn’t leak, but if water were to be blown or splashed under a pocket flap the interior would likely get wet. Dry bags are completely sealed off from the outside world and will not leak in any way if properly maintained and fastened.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are motorcycle saddlebags?
Motorcycle saddlebags are storage bags that provide a safe and secure place to store your belongings while you ride the motorcycle. They can feature large storage compartments and small pockets that are fastened with buckles or zippers.
How do you attach motorcycle saddlebags?
Motorcycle saddlebags can be attached to a motorcycle by being placed over the motorcycle’s saddle with a yoke that connects the two saddlebags or each saddlebag can be hard-mounted to the bike’s frame. The yokes are often adjustable which allows the bags to be installed on a wide range of different motorcycles, often resulting in a universal fit. Hard-mounted saddlebags either use straps or metal mounting hardware to connect to the motorcycle’s frame.
What should I keep in my motorcycle saddlebags?
At the bare minimum, every person who rides a motorcycle should keep some tools on hand to complete repairs during a roadside emergency. These tools can include wrenches, a ratchet, a tire repair kit, zip ties, and more. Some people also prefer to keep personal effects like cellphones and wallets in their saddlebags due to their security.
Larger saddlebags can be used to keep gear for extended trips. You may want to keep extra clothing, a sleeping bag, food, or perhaps even a tent in your saddlebags for multi-night trips out on the open road.
Are motorcycle saddlebags universal?
Many are, but not all. It depends on whether the yokes are adjustable and if the hard-mount options have been designed for a universal fit. You’ll want to check the saddlebags’ product description to see if it advertises a universal fit or that it has adjustable yoke straps.
Some bags are designed for specific makes and models of motorcycles such as Hardley Davidson or Honda. Others, like real leather saddlebags, don’t often have much adjustability due to their material composition and can only fit a limited range of motorcycles.
Other Motorcycle Saddlebags We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other motorcycle saddlebags. Even though they didn’t make our five best motorcycle saddlebag list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for adding storage to your motorcycle. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Motorcycle Saddlebags
- Dry Motorcycle Saddlebags
- Hard Shell Motorcycle Saddlebags
- Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags
- Budget Motorcycle Saddlebags
Motorcycle Saddlebags
Chase Harper USA Phoenix Saddlebags
A utilitarian set of saddlebags that are durable, secure, and universally fit just about any motorcycle, the Chase Harper USA Phoenix Saddlebags are a great choice no matter your ride. They have full-length zippered pockets that are padded with 1/4″ foam, and their straps feature quick-release buckles.
Key Features:
- Universal fit
- Quick-release buckles
- Full length zippered and padded pockets
Cost: $85
Nelson-Rigg Dual Sport Saddlebag
The Nelson-Rigg Dual Sport Saddlebag is a sporty, water-resistant saddlebag with universally fitting straps that have quick-release buckles. Reverse coil zippers help to keep out dirt and dust, and they feature oversized zip pulls that can be easily operated while wearing gloves.
Key Features:
- UV and water-resistant nylon construction
- Reverse coil zippers
- Quick-release buckles
Cost: $110
Built tough to survive long rides, the Tourmaster Elite Saddlebag is comprised of ultra-durable 1680 and 840 denier polyester which has been bolstered with heat shielding on its underside to prevent pipe burn. The adjustable Velcrom mount ensures a universal fit.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty polyester construction
- Adjustable Velcro mounting yoke
- Protective heat shielding to prevent pipe burn
Dry Motorcycle Saddlebags
The Giant Loop Coyote Saddlebag is a massive watertight bag that can carry a lot of gear. Included with purchase are three Coyote Dry Pods which are smaller waterproof bags that can be stored within this saddlebag. It comes backed by a lifetime warranty.
Key Features:
- 39 liter capacity
- Three waterproof Coyote Dry Pods included
- Multiple mounting and compression straps
Cost: $375
Nelson-Rigg Sierra Dry Saddlebags
Featuring electronically heat-welded seams, there’s no way for water to make its way into the Nelson-Rigg Sierra Dry Saddlebags. These bags feature removable liners that allow you to easily load and unload gear from the bags, and they also have removable stiffeners that will keep the bag’s shape even when it is empty.
Key Features:
- Aluminum hardware
- Quick-release buckles
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $170
Wild Heart Waterproof Saddlebag
The Wild Heart Waterproof Saddlebag uses a rolltop design to secure your belongings and keep them dry. These bags are connected via adjustable Velcro straps with quick-release buckles to help you dial in the perfect fit for your bike and remove your gear fast when it’s time to unload.
Key Features:
- 50 liter capacity
- IPX6 waterproof rating
- Universal fit
Hard Shell Motorcycle Saddlebags
Keep your gear secure and safe in the lockable Kemomoto Hard Saddlebags. These hard ABS plastic saddlebags have been designed to fit most motorcycles with the provided mounting hardware. Each box measures 16.14″ L x 12.2″ H X 6.7″.
Key Features:
- ABS plastic construction
- Near-universal with mounting hardware included
- Lockable with provided keys
Cost: $110
Give your bike a touch of retro styling with the attractive Mutazu Hard Saddlebags. The red trail lamps can be configured to work as secondary running lights, turn signals, or brake lights. Mounting hardware is included that should be compatible with most bikes.
Key Features:
- Retro red tail lamps
- Chrome handle and accents
- Lockable with provided keys
Cost: $250
Now you can mount a pair of Harley-Davidson styled saddlebags onto any bike with the TCMT Hard Saddlebags. They’re pre-drilled for easy mounting and come with universal mounting hardware. The containers lock with keys and have removable interior liners.
Key Features:
- Pre-drilled for easy mounting
- Interior removable liners included
- Lockable with provided keys
Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags
BikerAccess Braided Saddlebags
The BikerAccess Braided Saddlebags have the look and feel of true leather and feature a number of stylistic touches that make them stand out. The chrome rivets, buckles, and eagle emblem add flair. An adjustable yoke makes it so that this pair of saddlebags can fit on just about any motorcycle.
Key Features:
- Universal fit
- Waterproof
- PU leather
Cost: $100
Bikers Place Distressed Saddlebag
Made from authentic leather, the Bikers Place Distressed Saddlebag has the durability, aesthetic, and natural weatherproofness that genuine leather provides. Because it is true leather, the center yoke is not highly adjustable and will only fit on bikes that match its dimensions.
Key Features:
- Real leather
- Heat resistant bottom
- Nylon and leather carry handles
Cost: $190
Dowco Willie and Max Braided Series
Just because the Dowco Willie and Max Braided Series saddlebags are not made of genuine leather does not mean they are low in quality. These synthetic leather bags are reinforced with plastic to provide excellent stability. They also come backed by a lifetime warranty.
Key Features:
- Zip off yokes and quick-release buckles
- Synthetic leather
- Plastic reinforcing
Cost: $135
Dowco Willie and Max Thunder Series
As with the last Dowco Willie and Max saddlebag, this Thunder Series edition also has a lifetime warranty that ensures its top-notch craftsmanship. This model features a slanted bag cover and a two-tone color scheme.
Key Features:
- Zip off yokes and quick-release buckles
- Synthetic leather
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $145
Excelsior PVC Leather Saddlebags
Utilitarian and practical, the Excelsior PVC Leather Saddlebags have a universal fit with adjustable straps and quick-release buckles. Its PVC leather is waterproof and UV resistant, and grommets have been fitted to the material in several key places that can be used to lock the bag’s main compartment with padlocks.
Key Features:
- Universal fit
- Lockable eye holes
- PVC leather
Cost: $100
Leather Native Side Pouch Saddlebags
The Leather Native Side Pouch Saddlebags are essentially smaller versions of our top overall leather pick. They’re made of high-quality goat leather and have been treated with oils that will cause the leather to darken and soften with age.
Key Features:
- Real goat leather
- Carry handle and shoulder straps
- Three buckled mounting straps per bag
Cost: $120
NO 32 Heavy Duty Waterproof Saddlebags
The NO 32 Heavy Duty Waterproof Saddlebags are close to what we would call a hard body saddlebag thanks to its interior reinforced metal frame, but the soft PU synthetic leather coating gives these bags the look and feel and true leather.
Key Features:
- PU synthetic leather
- Universal fit
- Reinforced metal frame
Cost: $90
Nomad USA Slanted Throw Over Saddlebags
Universally fitting and universally attractive, the Nomad USA Slanted Throw Over Saddlebags have a neutral look that will go well with any motorcycle design and color scheme. They have a metal-reinforced frame and can be installed as a throw over saddlebag or hard mounted to the motorcycle.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather
- Waterproof and UV resistant
- Throw over or hard mount
Budget Motorcycle Saddlebags
Keep your storage solution simple, practical, and affordable with the Kemimoto Saddlebags. These cloth saddlebags can be packed like a traditional duffel bag. An exterior cup holder pocket is provided to keep a bottle handy. Waterproof raincoats for the bags are provided as well.
Key Features:
- Water-resistant cloth construction
- Cup holder pocket
- Saddlebags raincoats included
Cost: $35
Amazingly, the LBH Goat Leather Saddlebags are real leather bags at a budget-friendly price. They feature three storage compartments and brass metal accessories. They are fairly small at 11″ by 9″ by 4″ dimensions, but they are extremely well made for the price.
Key Features:
- Handmade from real goat leather
- Brass accessories
- Contains three storage compartments per bag
Cost: $50
The Vechkom PU Leather Saddlebags universally fit any motorcycle and are a practical choice. They have a minimalist look that’ll match any motorcycle design and they feature deep 24cm storage pockets that are weather protected and easy to access via quick-release buckles.
Key Features:
- PU leather
- Universal fit
- Quick-release buckles
Cost: $55
