Hey everyone.  I recently got a job and can now actually ride my GS without worrying so much about fuel. It seems like I am desparately in need of something to carry all my junk in. I have a tank bag, but it isn't really cutting it...

If I have a very small budget, around $100-$150, what would be the best way to increase my carrying capacity? I don't really care too much about high-quality, but it would be nice if whatever I got lasted more than an hour. 

I carry a lot of stuff with my backpack as well.  A little top heavy, but i'm used to it as I ride a road cycle with it also.  Check something like htis out

http://www.jansport.com/js_product_detail.php?cid=30&pid=TEK2

You could get some saddlebags too to add a little bit.

like these:  http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/3/13/124/5269/ITEM/Tour-Master-Nylon-Saddlebag.aspx

I like something lightweight and easy to remove.

Thanks for the advice.  I can't handle a backpack too good because I have scoliosis, but I have used one for short trips. I have to say that I'd hate riding a road bike with one!

I was considering a trunk, sorta like this: http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/ProductBrowse?storeId=10101&Pr=p_Product.CATENTRY_ID%3A2010969&productId=2010969&catalogId=10111&N=111%2B10211%2B600014525&rlid=home_best

I'm not sure what mounting it would entail, but I think it'd be just perfect for what I need and my budget. I think I'd probably have to buy some sort of rack too, though...

If you have some fabrication skills, a recent thread featured a custom luggage rack holding up what I think is that very tail bag (or one very similar).  My Givi is mounted on a Suzuki OEM rack, but those are kind of hard to find and a little pricey (I got a combo deal with the Givi used).

Tail bags aren't exactly sporty but they are VERY handy.  I keep my helmet/gloves in there, and you can carry lots of stuff in it when you're wearing the helmet/gloves.

Hi ralph13,
That was me, trumpetguy is refering to.
I bought the plain black one that JCW sells. It has better reviews than the ones you are showing.
So far I'm very happy with it. It will hold a full face helmet, Or my lunchbox and raingear.
I've not had it leak in the rain yet.

I built my own rack because the ones that are available for these bikes, are a bit weak and tend to
break.

Here's a link to the original post.  http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=37964.0

If you have any questions, I'll do my best to help.

BeSafe.
PJ

i use these:
http://www.newenoughhp.com/luggage/saddlebags/nelson_rigg/cl1000_standard_motorcycle_saddlebags.html

http://www.newenoughhp.com/luggage/tail_bags/cortech_by_tour_master/sport_motorcycle_tail_bag.html

to make this

http://www.newenoughhp.com/browse/view_product_images/154#

oops, scroll down to the last image on that last link.  it shows what it looks like all clipped together.

they hold a lot and actually look pretty good on the bike.

bungee cords/ bungee net, the backpack to the passenger seat?

Ok slight thread jack.  with the saddle bags on, is it possible to carry a passenger comfortably?