Saddlebags & Panniers
About Saddlebags & Panniers
Saddlebags and panniers hang on either side of the rear wheel and carry more than any other kind of motorcycle luggage. Riders shop here to add bags to a bare bike, to replace damaged ones, or to fix worn hardware such as latches, lids and supports.
Cruiser and touring saddlebags are usually rigid, with lids, latches and supports, and the listings include parts such as latch covers, lid covers and strike kits. Adventure and sport-touring setups use soft or hard panniers, sold as luggage systems that carry the make and model, as the SysBag and Adventure Luggage System listings do, and they depend on a carrier or mounting kit made for the bike. Capacity is given in liters, so compare it with what you want to carry. Check that the bag clears the exhaust, shocks and rear wheel with a full load, and that the bike's total load rating is not exceeded. Liners protect gear from rain and dirt inside the bag.
Brands listed here include MUSTANG, ATLANTIS, COBRA, COVINGTONS and Drag Specialties. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. To add more storage, see Top Boxes & Tail Bags, Luggage Racks, Tank Bags & Flanges and Other Luggage, Racks & Storage, all in Luggage, Racks & Storage.
FAQs on motorcycle saddlebags and panniers
What is the difference between saddlebags and panniers?
Both hang on either side of the rear wheel. Saddlebag is the common word for cruiser and touring bags, often with lids, while pannier is more common for adventure and sport-touring bags and cases. The names overlap, so rely on the listing.
Do I need a support or mounting kit for saddlebags?
Usually. Most bags and luggage systems attach through supports, brackets or carriers made for one model, and these are sometimes sold separately. Read what the listing includes and match the make, model and years.
How do I stop saddlebags from rubbing the bike?
Check the clearance to the exhaust, shocks and rear wheel with the bag loaded, and fit protective discs or pads where the bag touches paint. Keep gear that could melt, such as plastic, away from hot surfaces, and tighten supports as directed.
How much can I put in each saddlebag?
Follow the bag maker's limit per side and your bike's total load rating, whichever is lower. Keep both sides about equal in weight and put heavy items low. An uneven or overloaded pair can upset handling.
Can I replace just the latch or lid on my saddlebag?
Often you can. Latch inserts, latch covers, lid covers and strike kits are listed on their own for many saddlebag designs. Match the part to the bag's make, model and years instead of buying a whole new bag.
