[1JohnnyO]

This bike style is new to me, so I'll ask the 'experts' for guidance. I just picked up a really nice 2003 Volusia. It has a windshield already, but no bags, other than a handlebar bag. I've never tried the throw over type of saddlebags, vs the hard kind of bags. Any recommendations?? I have a couple sets of the throw overs in my cart at one supplier, along with a support bracket. Thanks

 

[Whiskey]

I tried throw over bags and they sucked. They sagged eventually and the right one started melting to the exhaust. If you can find some, nothing beats the OEM bags. For hard bags, Tsukayu makes a good option.

 

[Rob 61]

I 2nd Tsukayu. Check out my sig picture

 

[FireManC50]

This bike style is new to me, so I'll ask the 'experts' for guidance. I just picked up a really nice 2003 Volusia. It has a windshield already, but no bags, other than a handlebar bag. I've never tried the throw over type of saddlebags, vs the hard kind of bags. Any recommendations?? I have a couple sets of the throw overs in my cart at one supplier, along with a support bracket. Thanks

I've used cheap and mid-range priced soft bags: unless the bags are really small, they'll eventually sag enough to burn on the exhaust. Most soft bags deform with any weight in them and rub into the finish, also most don't lock. Majority of bags are not water resistant, and trust me, and it is a major PIN to deal with a soggy mess even after a light rain. OEM hard bags don't have locks, but look decent (subjective). I've used Leatherlyke sadlebags, and these were exceptionally tough and easy to use, however these are no longer made and it is almost impossible to find used - I tried.

DIY route usually involves ammo containers, spray paint and some drilling. If you can get something specifically designed for C50 (see suggestions above), it won't be inexpensive.

 

[Psyc0]

Tsukayu Strongbags without question.
They are well sealed from heavy rains, and have solid hardware & locks.

 

[FireManC50]

Tsukayu Strongbags without question.
They are well sealed from heavy rains, and have solid hardware & locks.

View attachment 149790 View attachment 149791 View attachment 149792

Do you have a heat-shield on the bottom of the right bag? I installed one myself on the bottom of the LeatherLyke, and it came preinstalled on my Givi V37 (not for Suzuki C50).

 

[Psyc0]

Really doesn't get that hot between the upper muffler and right sided bag.
Also, the farthest that I ride anymore is maybe 25 miles out, 25 return.

 

[Whiskey]

The heat is only an issue if the bag touches the pipe. My throw overs did and it melted the bottom. Never had a problem with the OEM bags, even though they were close.

 

[bluebeast1562]

As you can see from my profile pic, I have the OEM soft bags that came with the bike, never had issues with the OEM exhaust nor with the V&H pipes. Granted they do not lock and not waterproof but still like the look. They are mounted to the rear fender and have the frame that allow them to hold their shape. All in all, very happy with them.

 

[Whiskey]

not waterproof

Interesting. I rode through a lot of rain storms with mine and never had a leak. 🤔

 

[Menhir]

Saddlebags are sometimes a hit and miss proposition...

My old Shadow had Willie & Max throwover bags that literally outlasted the bike. (They were still good enough that I was actually able sell them off.)
As I began making longer trips I found I needed more carrying capacity, which is the only reason I replaced them...With a new pair of larger Willie & Max bags. The new ones went through many miles of hard use until the top of the throwover portion started to tear. Neither pair ever leaked.

At that point, I had purchased my C50 which already had much more expensive Saddlemen bags on it.
Nice bags, but I've still had to resew part of one of them and do some other repairs...and water was able to leak in regularly.

So price had little to do with longevity or robustness in my experience. I also can't say my easily removable Saddlemen bags are enough of a big convenience over my throwover bags to justify the price.

PS: Willie & Max made their saddlebags of Naugahyde with is like leather without the maintenance. It seems they now are using leather, so their website claims. All bets are off regarding my previous experience.
I'd still trust them.

PPS: My opinion only, but if my bike ends up on it's side, I'd rather have soft bags that won't crack or break.

 

[bluebeast1562]

Interesting. I rode through a lot of rain storms with mine and never had a leak. 🤔

I may have misspoke, When I wash the bike/bags, I find water in the left side, not a big deal. I have seldom ridden in the rain and really not checked as to the waterproofing that could be available.

 

[FireManC50]

One small (or very large, depends) benefit of good quality hard saddlebags is that they can provide a measure of protection during a drop. I'm pretty sure the Leatherlike saddlebag either saved or softened the blow considerably when my foot got stuck under the bike, more her: Tonight was my turn... | Suzuki Volusia Forum (volusiariders.com)

 

[Whiskey]

I may have misspoke, When I wash the bike/bags, I find water in the left side, not a big deal. I have seldom ridden in the rain and really not checked as to the waterproofing that could be available.

That would be expected. Washing the bike sprays water in completely different ways than rain. They aren't completely sealed, but they are pretty well rain proof.

 

[Geo Mc]

I put Mustang Saddle bags, trunk and seat on my 2003. I think the bags are still available. I might be willing to sell them. I have a trike now and don’t get on the Suzie much any more.

 

[Geo Mc]

There’s more pictures in the Bikes for sale section. I posted that a couple years ago.

 

[DCinCT]

saw those bags...nice bags in great condition.

 

[bluebeast1562]

I put Mustang Saddle bags, trunk and seat on my 2003. I think the bags are still available. I might be willing to sell them. I have a trike now and don’t get on the Suzie much any more. View attachment 149827

Now that is a nice set up.