Saddlebags are most commonly used to carry luggage on a motorcycle. There are 2 major kinds of motorcycle saddlebags. Throw over saddlebags and hard mount saddlebags. The concept of hard mount saddlebags originated from throw over saddlebags which were used in early 1950 for the first time.
As the motorcycle industry experienced a big boom in 1960 especially after the Vietnam War the motorcycle luggage also evolved. As major motorcycle companies launched bigger and better motorcycle people started traveling farther on there motorcycles. Many riders formed groups and rode cross country and from city to city. The throw over style of saddlebags was soon replaced by a better and more reliable way of carrying luggage.
A group of riders drilled several holes in the back fender of their motorcycles in order to permanently bolt the saddlebags to the motorcycle. This permanent installation resulted in the saddlebags being more reliable and sturdy. This step also contributed towards the aesthetic appeal of the motorcycle. The trend soon gained popularity amongst the riders.
Motorcycle companies like Indian Motorcycle Company and Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company noticed this trend and soon started producing motorcycles with struts. The struts enabled motorcycle riders to bolt the motorcycle saddlebags without making any permanent changes to the motorcycle such as drilling holes in the back fender. Later the same strut enables other accessories to be securely mounted on a motorcycle such as motorcycle carrier and sissy bars.
As the Asian motorcycle manufacturers such as Kawasaki, Honda and Yamaha made their way into North American market they also made sure that the riders get enough room for the luggage. Yamaha motorcycles are a classic example of this as they manufacture most of their bikes with most room for the saddlebags. They also make sure that the turn signal does not interfere with the saddlebags, a common problem with smaller motorcycles.
In 1980 the motorcycle companies realized that most 1000 cc and above motorcycles are used for long rides. To further add value to their motorcycles they started selling motorcycles with fiber glass saddlebags. These motorcycles did well as most of these came with the motorcycle specific luggage. This also saved the motorcycle rider a lot of time and headache.
Despite the popularity of factory installed saddlebags motorcycle riders still prefer leather saddlebags in most cases. This is due to the fact that motorcycles leather saddlebags can be customized to a greater degree as opposed to motorcycle specific fiber glass bags.
Most early motorcycle saddlebag companies used studs, spots and conchs to decorate the saddlebags. Recently the more advanced motorcycle saddlebag companies have started manufacturing and offering saddlebags that are not only motorcycle specific but also match the color of the motorcycle. Another approach is to design the leather motorcycle saddle bags in such a way that it blends in with the overall design of the motorcycle. These advancements have resulted in more and more people willing to install saddlebags on their motorcycles.
Posts Tagged ‘Motorcycle Industry’
Top 3 Things to Look For at the International Motorcycle Show
December 12th, 2009Everyone knows about all of the major international car shows that make headlines around the world every year. The car companies use these shows to promote their products and show the entire industry what they have been up to, and what they are going to be introducing for their lineups in the coming year. Many people do not realize that the motorcycle industry has a counterpart in its International Motorcycle Show.
The International Motorcycle Show is a way for motorcycle companies to show off what they have done, and what they are working on. Just like the car auto shows, the motorcycle show has many of the fanfare and interesting booths. But why go? The fanfare and excitement can translate into chaos and stress for others. There are three top reasons to go to the show and soak in all that the motorcycle world has to offer.
1. Concept Motorcycles at the International Motorcycle Show
The concept motorcycles that are shown at the International Motorcycle Show are enough alone to draw a huge crowd. Everyone is always trying to look into the future of the motorcycle industry, and the show gives companies the chance to give people the glimpse into that future. Many companies offer the concept motorcycles that they are working on and have finished. Some of these concept motorcycles are working. Other concept motorcycles at the show are not working, and are simply design projects. Either way, it is fun to see futuristic motorcycles and to catch a glimpse at where the industry may be heading in the near future.
2. New Models at the International Motorcycle Show
While it is great to see the future of the motorcycle industry, the International Motorcycle Show gives a greater glimpse into the immediate future of motorcycles. Many of the companies that make motorcycles show off their newest makes and models at the show. Everyone has a chance to jump on a motorcycle to see how it feels to be sitting on it, and what it looks like from the driver’s point of view. If you are in the market for a new motorcycle, the Motorcycle Show may be the best way to check out all of the newest motorcycles in one spot. Instead of going from dealer to dealer, you can find all of the motorcycles under one roof.
3. Companies and Accessories at the International Motorcycle Show
The International Motorcycle Show isn’t all about the actual motorcycles themselves. The show also features the companies that make the motorcycles, and the accessories that you can add to the motorcycles that you already have. The show is one big show for the entire industry, giving makes the opportunity to show off not only the motorcycles, but the accessories for the motorcycles as well. If you are looking for ways to add to your motorcycle to make it that much better, the show may be the best way to see what is on the cutting edge of the industry.
