Saddle Bag Durability

[Lifter]

Hi Gang,

I have general question regarding my saddle bags.

I bought this bike with the bags already mounted. They look like you average generic entry-level type bags.

I plan to use this bike as a daily commuter and will need to ride in all sorts of different weather.

I have a couple of concerns regarding these bags and water.

1. I'm sure they aren't water-proof and that anything that goes in should be water safe.

2. I'm concerned that as they get wet over and over that they will start to degrade and will be useless.

Can anyone offer me some advise on this?

The bags already have no lock, so im getting limited use out of them and if they are going to get ruined the first season then maybe im better off selling them and getting good sized backpack (i plan on running no sissy bar)

Thanks in advance!!!

[alantf]

Very much like I've got, and no problems in nine years - however - check that there's a piece of aluminium, or some such, pop rivetted or bolted under the bag, as it looks like it's touching the exhaust, and you need something to stop the heat damaging the bag.

[Water Warrior 2]

The bags may not be waterproof but don't toss them out because of that. If you have something in the bags that won't do well when wet just use a plastic bag to store the stuff in the bag. Large zip lock bags are handy dandy items to keep in the saddlebags.

[Vegas Street Rider]

I used SNO SEAL on my bags when I lived on the Washington coast. It keeps the leather supple in all climates and does a pretty good job keeping the water out.

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by Vegas Street Rider

I used SNO SEAL on my bags when I lived on the Washington coast. It keeps the leather supple in all climates and does a pretty good job keeping the water out.

So what exactly is Sno Seal, where would one find it and do you think it might make boots a bit more water resistant?

[alantf]

If it's waterproof boots you want, try to get a pair with the IMPRAPERM markings. I believe it's a German company (try googling impraperm) They really do work, and never let any water in.

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[Vegas Street Rider]

You can usually get SNO SEAL at shoe repair or boot shops. I used it on my Sorel pack boots as well.

[Fawlty]

In depth review of some waterproof boots here. They are supposed to be 'lower priced'but retail at $295!

http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcyc...-boots-review/

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by Fawlty

In depth review of some waterproof boots here. They are supposed to be 'lower priced'but retail at $295!

http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcyc...-boots-review/

Alas, new boots aren't in the budget just yet. As a side note. When I bought my Alpinestars in Tenn they were NOS and cost $99.50 with a couple bucks for tax. The same boot here in Canada was over $300. With a little waterproofing I hope to wear these boots forever.

[Lifter]

Thanks for the feedback on the bags.. And bonus boots talk lol.

Guess I'm getting boots now too!!!

Cheers!