We’ve got a hot topic for you today! Have you ever dreamt of upgrading your older Harley with the latest and greatest saddlebags? Well, it turns out you’re not alone. Many riders are finding ways to add new style saddlebags on older Harley’s, giving their beloved rides a modern touch.
It’s like rediscovering our love for peanut butter and jelly – suddenly realizing that our classic Harleys can go hand in hand with these fabulous new saddlebags (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good PB&J?). So, buckle up (or in this case, latch-up your saddlebags) as we dive into this exciting world of mixing the old with the new.
Now, we know what you’re thinking: “But how on earth can I fit new style saddlebags on older Harley?” Fear not, our fellow riders! We’ve done some digging, and it turns out that Harleys from 2009-2013 can easily get a One Touch Saddlebag Upgrade Kit. And, for those with earlier models, there are still ways to make it work with a bit of creativity and elbow grease. PB&J, anyone?
Old Meets New: Fusion of Styles
Ever wondered what it would be like to lead your classic Harley into the future without sacrificing its old-school soul? Well, strap on your helmet, folks, because we’re about to merge the best of both worlds.
We stumbled upon some of the latest saddlebag designs for new Harleys and couldn’t resist the thought of fitting these bad boys onto our vintage rides. They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but clearly, they’ve never tried revamping a classic Harley!
These newfangled saddlebags are packed with modern features: sleek lines, easy one-touch access, and roomier compartments. Gone are the days when we struggled with unwieldy clasps, just to find we couldn’t fit all our gear in the bag. Ah, progress!
Now, we want to bring this convenient innovation to the golden age of Harley, but how do we do it? With a little elbow grease and an undying passion for motorcycles, that’s how! After some research and testing, we were delighted to find that the new one-touch saddlebags can indeed be installed on our older Harleys, giving them that extra spark of modern flair.
Admittedly, it may take a bit of tinkering and finesse to marry the old and the new – but hey, that’s what makes diving into the world of retrofits and upgrades so exciting! Here’s a quick rundown of some installation tips:
- Select the right saddlebag for your specific Harley model.
- Ensure the brackets and mounting hardware line up properly.
- Patience, grasshopper – take your time and enjoy the process!
So, there you have it. Our beloved classic Harleys, with a fresh, futuristic twist – proof that true beauty lies in the harmonious fusion of the old and the new.
Choosing the Perfect Saddlebags
So, you’ve got an older Harley and you’re eyeing those fancy new-style saddlebags, huh? We get it, nobody wants to be stuck in the past with outdated luggage options. But before you jump in with both feet, let’s talk about the key considerations when choosing the perfect saddlebags for your beloved ride.
Material Matters: Leather vs. Synthetic
The age-old debate of leather vs synthetic material saddlebags is – dare we say it – a bit like choosing between an old-school rock anthem and a modern electronic beats playlist. Sure, each has its merits, but there’s no denying that they cater to different tastes.
Leather saddlebags, much like those classic rock tunes, have a level of unadulterated authenticity that just can’t be replicated. They offer a touch of nostalgia, accompanying your older Harley like the perfect musical score. Classic leather bags, like our favorite tracks, will only get better with time (assuming you properly care for and maintain them).
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, provide a cost-effective and often more lightweight alternative. With bountiful color options and progressive designs, these bags embrace change and a future-forward mindset. While they may not provide the “vintage” vibe, they certainly offer performance and style that’s nothing to scoff at.
Sizing Guide: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
You know what they say: it’s not the size of the saddlebag, it’s how you use it. But let’s be honest, sometimes we need a little extra room for those spontaneous overnight trips. However, bigger isn’t always better, so it’s important to strike the right balance between storage capacity and practicality.
Consider the following when making your saddlebag size decision:
- Weight distribution: Avoid overloading one side of your bike, which could lead to handling issues.
- Compatibility: Ensure there’s enough clearance with your bike’s exhaust and other components.
- Accessibility: It’s all fun and games until you’re elbow-deep in a saddlebag, searching for that one item you need. Don’t compromise on easy access for the sake of aesthetics.
We hope our tips here have given you some food for thought in your quest for the perfect new style saddlebags. So go on, give your old Harley a fresh look with the perfect saddlebags – and remember to take us for a spin once you’ve found the right ones!
Installation Shenanigans
Alright folks, buckle up and prepare for some installation shenanigans! We’re about to embark on a journey to give our older Harleys some spiffy new-style saddlebags.
Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need
First things first, gather up some essential tools for our saddlebag installation party:
- Good ol’ fashioned ratchet and sockets
- A trusty wrench set
- Our favorite thing ever: a set of trusty Allen wrenches
- And a pinch of patience (we all know how these things can go)
Step-by-Step Guide: The Right Way
Now that we’ve armed ourselves with the necessary tools, let’s dive right into the step-by-step guide for installing new style saddlebags on our older Harleys the right way!
Step 1: Remove those old saddlebags. Bidding them farewell might be tough, but trust us, it’s for the best.
Step 2: Align the mounting holes of your new saddlebags with the factory fender holes or the included mounting bracket. But remember, “measure twice, drill once,” or in this case, “position twice, bolt once.”
Step 3: Secure those shiny saddlebags with the provided hardware. We want them snug, but not overly tight. Let’s avoid turning this into a wrestling match with our motorcycles.
Step 4: With the saddlebags now securely attached, it’s time to give them a wiggle. Yes, you read that right! Testing their sturdiness now will save us from headaches on the road later.
Step 5: Repeat the process for the other side. Practice makes perfect, right?
And there you have it. We’ve successfully completed the installation of new style saddlebags on our older Harleys, all while having a good chuckle along the way.
Customizing Your Saddlebags
We know that upgrading your Harley’s saddlebags is a thrilling adventure for any rider. But why stop at simply upgrading? Inject some personality into your ride by customizing your saddlebags with unique paint jobs, DIY patches, stickers, and more.
Paint Jobs: For that Unique Flair
Feeling like your bike needs a little more flair? A custom paint job is the perfect solution! Whether it’s a classic black-and-white checker pattern or a far-out cosmic design, our artistic skills are limitless. The key is to find a professional painter who specializes in motorcycle paint jobs – they’ll know how to turn your wildest visions into rolling art.
Remember, unique paint jobs not only make your bike stand out but they also offer a layer of protection. It’s a win-win!
DIY: Patches, Stickers, and More
If a full-on paint job seems like too much commitment, we have plenty of DIY options for customizing your saddlebags. Patches, stickers, and even hand-painted details can add a personal touch without breaking the bank.
- Patches: From classic Harley-Davidson logos to quirky patches that showcase your personality, there’s a patch out there for everyone. Sew, glue, or even staple these onto your saddlebags for an eye-catching look.
- Stickers: There’s no limit to the creativity you can display with stickers. Slap on some decals to promote your favorite bands, brands, or causes, and watch as your saddlebags become conversation starters.
- Hand-Painted Details: If you’re feeling particularly artistic, why not try adding some hand-painted details to your bike? A few strokes of paint here and there can add depth and character to your ride. We recommend using oil-based paint pens or model paint for the best results.
So go ahead, let your inner artist run wild – just don’t forget to step back occasionally and admire the masterpiece taking shape on your Harley.
Maintaining Your Style Investment
Upgrading your older Harley with new-style saddlebags is an exciting and rewarding project. But don’t let your investment go to waste. Let’s discuss how we can maintain those bags and keep them looking sleek and stylish!
Cleaning Tips: Keep it Spiffy
Just like any part of your beloved Harley, the new saddlebags require meticulous care to keep them in top shape. We understand that we, Harley owners, are quite particular about cleanliness. Here are a few simple tips to keep those saddlebags spiffy:
- Dust them down regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dirt buildup.
- For a deeper clean, use a damp cloth with mild saddle soap to wipe off any grime. Remember, a little goes a long way!
- If your saddlebags have stubborn stains or scratches, apply leather conditioner in a circular motion to nourish and heal the leather. It’s like giving your bags a mini-spa day!
- After cleaning or riding under wet conditions, leave your bags open to air dry. Allowing the leather to breathe helps prevent mold and mildew, and it keeps any funky odors at bay.
Longevity: Making Your Saddlebags Last
Our new-style saddlebags are like extensions of us, so we must keep them looking and functioning at their best. Here are a few precautions to ensure the longevity of your saddlebags:
- Inspect your bags regularly for loose mounting hardware, tighten or replace them as necessary. You wouldn’t want to impersonate Cinderella and lose one on the road!
- Don’t overload your bags with unnecessary clutter. Excess weight can strain the mounting hardware and damage the shape of the bags. If you must carry heavy loads, consider bolting on some reinforcements!
- Apply a high-quality weather-resistant treatment to protect your leather bags against the sun, rain, and other elements. The ultimate shield to preserve your bags’ good looks for the long haul.
- For long-term storage, consider using saddlebag inserts or covers to maintain shape and prevent dust buildup. Pristine bags make for a smooth ride every time.
Remember, taking proper care of our new-style saddlebags will keep them looking fresh and performing well for years to come. And who knows, you might even start a trend with other owners of older Harleys. Happy riding, and enjoy your stylish upgrade!
Admiring Envious Glances
As we all know, nothing beats the feeling of cruising down the road on our trusted Harley, attracting envious glances from onlookers as we roll by with your new style saddlebags on older Harley. And what better way to amplify that admiration than by sprucing up our older Harley with the new style saddlebags?
We used to think our older Harleys looked great, but once we installed those sleek and stylish new saddlebags, we realized there’s always room for improvement. Plus, the added storage capacity means we can finally bring along that stuffed teddy bear mascot we’ve always wanted to take for a ride.
- Out with the old, in with the new: Replacing the old bags with the updated design gives our bike an instant facelift. Say goodbye to the outdated, bulky look, and embrace the modern, streamlined appearance.
- Functionality and style go hand in hand: Not only do the new saddlebags look fantastic, but they’re also extremely practical. With the One Touch system, accessing our gear has never been easier.
- Revamped seats: To complete the package, why not upgrade the seat to match the new saddlebags? We can enjoy the whole ensemble and watch as we become the envy of every biker we pass.
Of course, we always had our fair share of admirers whenever we rode our Harley. But with the new style saddlebags and seat, we’re attracting even more envy, and we can’t help but feel a little smug. It’s like strapping a jetpack to a cheetah – ridiculously awesome and breathtakingly cool.
The Wrap Up On New Style Saddlebags On Older Harley
So, for those of us looking to turn heads and catch the eye of every fellow biker on the road, investing in these new style saddlebags and seat is definitely worth it. The only downside? We might be stopped more often for photo opportunities – but hey, that’s a price we’re willing to pay for being the coolest riders around.