Bags vs. Case System

[Hawkman]

First, I am sorry for killing this topic. I am sure that it has been covered ad nauseum on this forum but I have not been able to shift through it all to find my question.
I am looking to get some kind of luggage for my R. I am not looking to break the bank, but I am looking to get something that will last. I only what enough space for long weekends and short trips. I am not riding more than 300 miles (CT to PA or CT to VT) I am leaning towards getting soft saddlebags and maybe a tail bag. maybe something like this:
http://motorcycle-luggage.com/Merchant2 ... ct_Count=5.
My question is: What kind of experience have people had with soft saddlebags? Is the BMW hard case system, or something like it, worth the expense? I know that I already laid out for the BMW and I shouldn't cheap out on the bags, but it's hard for me to justify it to myself considering that I don't really like the way the cases look. Maybe they are worth it for the added protection they they offer and they are water proof.

I was just wondering what everyone's thoughts were about lugage

[Biff's R]

The system cases are hard to beat. Waterproof, hold a good bit of gear, secure, and look like they belong. You can find some deals on the used, and the bags for the GS model also fit the R.

[bransan]

I use soft luggage for short trips, but I use My un-igo for longer trips. Really long trips require the Uni-Go and the soft bags. I have manufactured some protectors for the soft bags, to keep them out of the wheel and off the exhaust. You can see part of them in this picture. The stainless rod that extends down, keeps the bags from falling against the wheel & exhaust.

[FloridaBeakster]

I really like the system cases. Secure weatherproof storage when you need it, fairly clean lines when you don't. Easy-on, easy-off, can be keyed to the ignition. The mounts for the GS will give you even cleaner lines, but may be close to the exhaust and you can't mount a rear rack with them.

[ruddy]

I have the GS mounts on my 'R, and they carry the bags just like the other ones do. The left bag clears the exhaust just fine. They do have a cleaner look if you're not planning to use a top mount case.

[MikeCam]

BMW system cases on the R come as close as can be to the best fit, finish, and performance of any secure hard case system. Used versions around $400-500 are plentiful.

Still, if you don't like the looks, the other advantages are not enough.

As far as soft bags go, the issue of speed is the only one I can imagine matters. What happens at interstate speeds to a fully loaded soft bag? Or to the bike's handling. I don't know.

[Airman]

Twisted Throttle has a lot of soft bags listed. http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productlist/181/
I think in your situation, if you don't want to spring for the system cases, I'd buy a 20 liter tank bag and one of those big tail bags. My best setup is the system cases and the tank bag.

[Buckster]

You can also check here http://www.motorhelmets.com/
They have a nice selection of luggage. Can't comment on soft luggage because I also have the system cases and love them.

[jas]

I had Chase Harper soft bags for a couple years and they did a great job for the cost ($15). At speed (75+) on the interstate they were a non issue. Cons: they didn’t have much space, water would find a way to penetrate the fabric, and I had to modify them to prevent rubbing on the side panels and seat. My other concern w/soft luggage dealt with securing the bags to bike. For me they only worked with the front straps attached to the frame, below pillion foot pegs, and the rear mounts attached to the turn signal stems. They would get in the way of my wifes feet and the signal stems are not that stout, so I needed to be careful and not wrench them down or overload the bags.

I just purchased system cases and GS mounts for $300 and love them. No leaks in the rain, they hold a ton, and with the bungee buddies I can secure a load on top of the cases and across the pax seat. The hard bags also secure your items when away from the bike.

[towerworker]

I have the BMW system cases on my 04. Had them on an 03 as well. I don't think you can beat them. To me they are the only system that looks right. Plus they are reasonably waterproof. I use mine all the time. I seldom if ever take them off as I love the ability to carry alot of stuff with me. Rain gear, extra helmet and just stuff.

I also have a Givi top box that is a favorite as well.

Plus you need the room on the backs of the cases to put the stickers of all the places you will visit!

Wayne

[bikermeow]

I had Chase Harper soft bags for a couple years and they did a great job for the cost ($15). At speed (75+) on the interstate they were a non issue. Cons: they didn’t have much space, water would find a way to penetrate the fabric, and I had to modify them to prevent rubbing on the side panels and seat.

I was to mount mine next week when I get my bike back. Any pics on how to do it? What modification is needed?

Cheers

Cat

[jeremell]

I have the Cortech (Tourmaster) Sport saddlebags and Sport tailbag. I've been touring, camping, and completed an ironbutt ride with the soft luggage. It works great, including through some heavy rain. Easy to put on and take off. Secure at extreme speeds in Wyoming and South Dakota.

[jas]

I had Chase Harper soft bags for a couple years and they did a great job for the cost ($15). At speed (75+) on the interstate they were a non issue. Cons: they didn’t have much space, water would find a way to penetrate the fabric, and I had to modify them to prevent rubbing on the side panels and seat.

send me your email and I'll get a picture of the bags on the bike to you.

jarrodaurelio at hotmail dot com

[ALFREDO]

... when you mention GS system cases, you mean R1200GS, not F650GS .. right?

[jas]

when you mention GS system cases, you mean R1200GS, not F650GS .. right?

What we refer to as "GS" rails or case mounts, are the OEM rails from the R1100R, R1100GS and R1150GS (the system cases for all the R1150 and R1100 R and GS bikes are the same). I don't think the 1200GS rails/mounts and bags will fit.

[qfman]

I had hard panniers on my R1150R for for over 5 years. They worked great but they restrict ability to lane-split and can touch down during hard cornering. Also, if an item is odd-shaped the bags don't "give" to accommodate the shape.

When I got my R12R I had a Ventura rack and bag fitted for about $450. If I'm leaving the bike on the street I use a bicycle cable lock to keep the bag attached. I have no way of protecting contents except by taking bag with me.

For my personal day to day usage, the Ventura rack is streets ahead of the hard bags. More detail can be found here:
http://www.ventura-bike.com/fitments.aspx?modelid=49

[Hawkman]

I decided to go with just a tailbag for now. http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/ ... l-Bag.aspx. I figure that I can upgrade to with the saddlebags or even the hard cases if I need them in the future for longer rides... and the way that I have been riding with the nice weather up here that might be soon!

Thanks for all the ideas and opinions ya'll.

Eric

PS: I am astounded how much I enjoy my bike (my first). Every time I get on it I feel like it is Christmas and my birthday and the last day of work before a vacation all rolled into one. The BEST 6K I ever spent. Totally pwned by riding... (Yep, I'm a nerd, but I'm OK with it)

[kantuckid]

I bought system cases on ebay-one at a time-for best deal and changed the locks to match my bike with kits from Chicago BMW. I use a Chinese top case on the back and for long trips , I like the Roadgear Euro Hauler, with tents, etc., piled on top of that stuff.My first Euro bag got stolen on last trip,so if you see a red/black one around Wharton,TX for sale , give me or PD there a pm.Luck would have it I just "won" another black one on ebay yesterday to replace-$30! With patience there are some deals out there. Advrider Flea Market is another great source, problem being that there is so much to see it is a pain to find it!