All-In-One Bags
Own a cruiser? Want to turn it into a touring bike? Then you probably already know about one type of all-in-one luggage known as back-rest bags.
These are rectangular bags that ride vertically on the rear of the bike, providing storage space either in place of, or behind, the passenger. Since the bags are shaped like small suitcases, they’re easy to pack, and some come with backpack straps or even wheels for transporting them off the bike.
To use this kind of luggage on your cruiser, you’ll need a securely mounted back rest and a luggage rack. Typically, these bags come with a wide strap that slides over the back rest, and a pair of nylon-webbing straps that secure them to the rack.
Attachment is easy, and there’s plenty of space available, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that you can carry anything on a back rest. The mounting position—far up and to the rear of the bike—is exactly where any added weight will have the greatest impact on the handling of your motorcycle. Check the load limits on the bags and your luggage rack before packing, and think light.
Other considerations are pretty standard. Make sure your bags come with waterproof covers, and if you’re concerned about security when you leave the bike, at least buy a zipper lock and a cable lock to keep someone from opening the bag or walking off with it.
Recently, some companies have started bringing the rear-mounted bag concept to the rest of the motorcycling world with designs that let you install a supporting rack and bag on your sportbike or standard. These can be a great solution for bikes that don’t lend themselves to soft saddlebags, although they typically leave some brackets behind even when you’re not using the bag.
Other companies offer a different take on the all-in-one bag design, with strap-on luggage that combines a rear-seat bag with a couple of mini saddlebags. There’s a lot of storage available if these fit your bike.