I wanted to write up another project I just finished as well, my $22 saddlebags. I've been wanting a little extra storage space for grabbing a couple things at the store. I wasn't happy with cargo nets and duffel bags, and I'm not one for backpacks. So I went off in search of a tailbag or a set of saddlebags. I briefly considered putting a rack on the bike with a Givi type trunk, but at around $200, I'm not anxious to jump on that. Plus, I'm not crazy about the way it looks on the bike.
Anyway, I searched the local shops with no luck finding any luggage not intended for a Harley or clone. But a little patience and I scored a matching set of "map" bags at the local Army/Navy for the princely sum of $10 each.
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e145/dhwood40/bags2.jpg)
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e145/dhwood40/bags.jpg)
The bags are a medium weight canvas with snap closures. Not water proof, but I don't intend to do much rain riding. And they're removable. So, to attach the bags, I took the straps that came with them and adjusted them to their shortest length.
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e145/dhwood40/bags3.jpg)
Then I took and routed the straps over the seat, down inside the bodywork and around the frame, and then clipped underneath. The straps were fed through the bags D-rings that were originally used to attach the straps to. Once the straps were adjusted, I moved the bags up to the right level and took some safety wire, poked it through the webbed strap, and tied it off to the D-ring. The wire is black so you can't really see it. I'm still thinking this part over and have a few ideas on how to redo it, but it will work for now.
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e145/dhwood40/bags5.jpg)
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e145/dhwood40/bags4.jpg)
They actually look more impressive in person. The pictures make them look smaller than they are. I'll try to get better pictures tomorrow with the updates below.
Since these pictures, I went in and added a stiff piece of wire (coat hanger section) around the top rim of the bags to give them shape, and I need to move the snaps up about an inch, just as soon as I can find a set of snap pliers. It'll be an ongoing project. I'm just too cheap to buy a real set. These worked well tonite. I carried a six pack of Coke home with no problems. Didn't even get warm over the pipe!!
Great Job those look good! :thumb:
That's cool!
I was looking at an 8 gal Action Packer at Wal-mart last night.
It would be cheap and useful but not very good looking.
Might do it anyway.
I'm definitely visiting the Surplus store when I get a chance.