Saddlebag installation

[Telesque]

So, I've decided to get a pair of 'throw-over' saddlebags, and I've gotten some advice a couple different ways on them..

I've got a couple posts mounted to each side on the inside of the rear fender, which I've been told are 'saddlebag mounts'. There's also a lock on one side with a small sliding bar- I've been using that as a helmet lock.

I've been told that mounting the bit that connects the saddlebags below the pillion will rub the paint off the fender- but if I just throw it over the pillion, it'd be too easy to steal. Not that missing paint is going to be much of an issue until I sell the bike (should that ever happen). The previous owner's bags rubbed on the frame, which I solved pretty easily with some black spraypaint.

Anyone familiar with these 'posts'? Are they a universal fit? Should bags be mounted below or above the seat?

[Gummiente]

If you're planning to leave them on, it's best to put them over the fender and under the seat. If you're worried about the paint, just put a chamois under the saddlebag yoke straps. Make sure you periodically remove it to wash and dry, as it will collect dirt and moisture. If you're handy with tools, you can cut a piece of plexiglass to use as an interior support for the bags. You might even be able to drill a hole through the plexi and saddlebag to bolt them onto the posts.

[Randy]

I bought some saddle bags without really thinking it through. The bags ended up fitting the bike very well (I measured), but they ended up covering my helmet lock (very stinky). I improvised and mounted a lock to the rear grab bar, kinda tacky but it gets the job done. I also didn't like the way that the bags fastened together under the seat, so I made my own holes in the leather and used some very heavy gauge wire to hold them exactly where I wanted. They work and look great.

[FACDaddy]

Just found this web site and had a similar question. I've read that some people install a bracket that separates the saddlebag from the exhaust pipes. My 2003 Shadow has Cobra pipes that sit lower than the OEM pipes, but it looks like the bags might still touch. Do I need a bracket to separate the two?

Also, what's the best method of moving the brake lights back on the bike to clear them from the saddlebags?

[mswarrior]

I have the throw over bags <----- . Over the fender and under the seat is best. I try to keep them as high up as possible so when more bags get put on the rear seat and fender it can all be strapped together nice and tight. Keeping them high also keeps them away from the exhaust and potential melting of the inner water proofing bag.

[Telesque]

Just found this web site and had a similar question. I've read that some people install a bracket that separates the saddlebag from the exhaust pipes. My 2003 Shadow has Cobra pipes that sit lower than the OEM pipes, but it looks like the bags might still touch. Do I need a bracket to separate the two?

Also, what's the best method of moving the brake lights back on the bike to clear them from the saddlebags?

Man, did the Honda guys just totally miss this one? I've heard of so many people (myself included) who need/want to move the turn signals back.

Basically, you can either

1) Buy a relocator kit (Just google 'VTX (or VLX, if you have one of those) Turn Signal Relocator'), or
2) Make your own, if you're handing with metal and wiring.

Option #2 isn't too hard, but it does require a little more work. I've seen a couple different designs for relocators, and even drew up my own. There's a website linked to VLXRiders.com, I believe, that will show you how to make your own.

Also might want to take a gander at http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/tech/VLXboltons/ to see what the typical aftermarket piece looks like.

[FACDaddy]

Apparently, they missed it big time. I had no idea this problem existed until the bags arrived. I'll try to make it work for now because the wife won't be too happy with me spending even more money. I just got this thing and I've already spent a couple hundred in parts!

What I really want is a replacement brake light that also houses the turn signals. This moves the lights back and just looks a little cleaner. I also saw a converter kit that makes the turn signals and brake act as running lights. When you brake, even the turn signals burn red for brakes, and then they burn yellow for turn signals. If I could find a kit that would move my signals back with my brake AND add running lights, I'd be ready to buy.