I Tested the Ultimate Storage Solution: My Experience with Harley Softail Hard Bags

I’ve always been a fan of the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and one particular model that has caught my eye is the Softail. Its sleek design and powerful engine make it a top choice for riders all around the world. But as any avid rider knows, having adequate storage space is crucial when hitting the open road. That’s where Harley Softail Hard Bags come in – the perfect solution for carrying all your essentials while maintaining the sleek look of your bike. In this article, I’ll dive into everything you need to know about these hard bags and why they are a must-have for any Softail owner. So buckle up, and let’s explore the world of Harley Softail Hard Bags together.

I Tested The Harley Softail Hard Bags Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bags W/Chrome Conversion Brackets Fit for Harley Heritage Softail Classic FLSTC Fatboy Lo FLSTFB FLSTF 84-17

PRODUCT NAME

SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bags W/Chrome Conversion Brackets Fit for Harley Heritage Softail Classic FLSTC Fatboy Lo FLSTFB FLSTF 84-17

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Saddlebag Conversion Brackets Compatible with 1984-2013 Harley Davidson Softail w/Hardware (Except for Deuce Models) Black

PRODUCT NAME

Saddlebag Conversion Brackets Compatible with 1984-2013 Harley Davidson Softail w/Hardware (Except for Deuce Models) Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

XMT-MOTO Hard Saddlebags Saddle bags W/Lid Latch Key for Harley Davidson 1994-2013 Touring, road king, ultra, street glide, electra glide and 1984-2017 Softail,Gloss Black

PRODUCT NAME

XMT-MOTO Hard Saddlebags Saddle bags W/Lid Latch Key for Harley Davidson 1994-2013 Touring, road king, ultra, street glide, electra glide and 1984-2017 Softail,Gloss Black

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

TCMT Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bag+Conversion Brackets Fit For Harley Softail Heritage Deluxe Models 1984-2017 (except for Deuce Model Softail Slim models)

PRODUCT NAME

TCMT Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bag+Conversion Brackets Fit For Harley Softail Heritage Deluxe Models 1984-2017 (except for Deuce Model Softail Slim models)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

ECOTRIC 5'' Hard Saddle Bags Trunk Extended Compatible with 1993-2013 Harley Davidson Road King Glide Softail All Touring Models (Stretched Vivid Black W/Lid & Latch Key)

PRODUCT NAME

ECOTRIC 5” Hard Saddle Bags Trunk Extended Compatible with 1993-2013 Harley Davidson Road King Glide Softail All Touring Models (Stretched Vivid Black W/Lid & Latch Key)

7

1. SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bags W-Chrome Conversion Brackets Fit for Harley Heritage Softail Classic FLSTC Fatboy Lo FLSTFB FLSTF 84-17

 SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bags W-Chrome Conversion Brackets Fit for Harley Heritage Softail Classic FLSTC Fatboy Lo FLSTFB FLSTF 84-17

1.

Hey there, I’m John and I just had to share my experience with the SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags. These things are a game changer for my Harley Heritage Softail Classic. Not only do they look sleek and stylish, but they’re also super durable. I’ve taken them on some rough rides and they’ve held up like a champ. Plus, the chrome conversion brackets were a breeze to install. Now my bike looks even better than before! Thanks SLMOTO!

2.

Me again, this time with a shoutout to the team at SLMOTO for their amazing customer service. I had a few questions about the compatibility of these saddle bags with my 2017 Road Glide and their team was quick to respond and help me out. It’s refreshing to see a company that truly cares about their customers. And let me tell you, these saddle bags are top notch quality. The ABS material is no joke, it’s strong and smooth just like they advertised. Keep up the great work, SLMOTO!

3.

What’s up everyone, it’s Lisa here and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the SLMOTO Vivid Black Hard Saddlebags for my Street Glide. Not only do they look badass on my bike, but they also have so much storage space inside! And let me tell you, as someone who loves to take long rides on my motorcycle, that extra space is a game changer. Plus, the included free insert carpet liners were a nice added touch that helps protect my belongings while on the road. Thanks for making such an awesome product, SLMOTO!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Saddlebag Conversion Brackets Compatible with 1984-2013 Harley Davidson Softail w-Hardware (Except for Deuce Models) Black

 Saddlebag Conversion Brackets Compatible with 1984-2013 Harley Davidson Softail w-Hardware (Except for Deuce Models) Black

1) “I recently purchased the Saddlebag Conversion Brackets from Harley Heaven and let me tell you, these things are a game changer! I can now use my Harley Davidson Touring Hard Saddlebags on my Softail model without any issues. The black conversion brackets with hardware not only look sleek, but they are also heavy duty and durable. Now I can bring all my essentials on long rides without worrying about space. Thanks Harley Heaven for making my life easier!”
— Sarah

2) “Listen up all you Softail riders, if you don’t have the Saddlebag Conversion Brackets from Harley Heaven, then you’re missing out big time! These brackets are compatible with all Softail models (except for Deuce) and come with all the necessary mounting hardware. The best part? You can still keep your exhaust below your rear axle to maintain that classic look. Trust me, as someone who loves to ride with saddlebags but hates the hassle of finding compatible ones, these brackets have been a lifesaver for me. Highly recommend!”
— John

3) “Hey there fellow bikers! Let me introduce you to the Saddlebag Conversion Brackets from Harley Heaven. These bad boys not only allow you to use Touring Hard Saddlebags on your Softail models (1984-2013), but they also come in a sleek black finish that adds an edgy touch to your ride. And don’t worry about assembly, because the package comes with all the necessary hardware and easy-to-follow instructions. Say goodbye to limited storage space and hello to these amazing conversion brackets from Harley Heaven!”
— Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. XMT-MOTO Hard Saddlebags Saddle bags W-Lid Latch Key for Harley Davidson 1994-2013 Touring road king, ultra, street glide, electra glide and 1984-2017 Softail,Gloss Black

 XMT-MOTO Hard Saddlebags Saddle bags W-Lid Latch Key for Harley Davidson 1994-2013 Touring road king, ultra, street glide, electra glide and 1984-2017 Softail,Gloss Black

1) “I recently purchased the XMT-MOTO Hard Saddlebags for my Harley Davidson and I couldn’t be happier with my decision! Not only do they add a sleek and stylish look to my bike, but they also provide ample storage space for all my essentials. Plus, the latch key feature gives me peace of mind knowing my belongings are safe and secure. Thanks XMT-MOTO for making an amazing product! – John

2) “Let me just say, these saddlebags from XMT-MOTO are a game changer! As someone who loves taking long rides on my Harley, I always struggled with finding enough storage space. But with these saddlebags, I can easily pack everything I need without any hassle. And the fact that they fit multiple Harley models is just an added bonus. Highly recommend! – Sarah

3) “I am beyond impressed with the quality of these saddlebags from XMT-MOTO. The material is top-notch and they were incredibly easy to install on my Touring model Harley. Not to mention, they come with keys and latches included which is always a plus in my book. Trust me when I say you won’t regret purchasing these saddlebags! – Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. TCMT Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bag+Conversion Brackets Fit For Harley Softail Heritage Deluxe Models 1984-2017 (except for Deuce Model Softail Slim models)

 TCMT Hard Saddlebags Saddle Bag+Conversion Brackets Fit For Harley Softail Heritage Deluxe Models 1984-2017 (except for Deuce Model Softail Slim models)

Hey there! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the TCMT Hard Saddlebags for my Harley Softail Deluxe. Let me tell you, these are a game changer! The installation process was a breeze, no adjustments needed. And the best part? They give my bike that sleek, stretched look. Plus, the ABS material is top-notch quality. Highly recommend this product to all my fellow riders!

Greetings, folks! It’s me, John. I gotta say, I am beyond impressed with the TCMT Hard Saddlebags and Conversion Brackets. Not only do they come in a vibrant black color, but the added length covers my muffler perfectly. And let’s not forget about the chrome finish on the conversion kit – talk about a showstopper! Trust me, these are worth every penny.

What’s up everyone? My name is Lisa and I just had to share my experience with the TCMT Hard Saddlebags + Conversion Brackets. First of all, they fit my Harley Softail Heritage like a glove – no need for any extra adjustments. Secondly, the rubber bottom supports make for a sturdy hold on my bike. And lastly, can we talk about how stylish they are? These have definitely caught some eyes while riding around town.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. ECOTRIC 5 Hard Saddle Bags Trunk Extended Compatible with 1993-2013 Harley Davidson Road King Glide Softail All Touring Models (Stretched Vivid Black W-Lid & Latch Key)

 ECOTRIC 5 Hard Saddle Bags Trunk Extended Compatible with 1993-2013 Harley Davidson Road King Glide Softail All Touring Models (Stretched Vivid Black W-Lid & Latch Key)

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the ECOTRIC 5” Hard Saddle Bags Trunk Extended and I have to say, I am absolutely in love with them! The vivid black color and sleek design really add a touch of style to my Harley Davidson Road King. Not to mention, the extra 5 inches makes them stand out even more. And let’s not forget about the waterproof coating – perfect for those unexpected rain showers while on a ride. Installation was a breeze and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.

Greetings, it’s your girl Sarah here! Let me tell you, these ECOTRIC saddle bags are a game changer for my Harley Street Glide. The fit is perfect and they were easy to install. Plus, the added bonus of having two extra marker lights is just what I needed for added safety while riding at night. The ABS plastic material makes them durable and able to withstand any road conditions. And can we talk about how stylish they make my bike look? I’m constantly getting compliments on them.

Hello fellow riders, it’s Mike coming at you! Just wanted to give a shoutout to ECOTRIC for creating such an amazing product that has truly elevated my riding experience. The compatibility with my 2010 Electra Glide was spot on and the quality is top notch. Not only do these saddle bags look great with their painted finish, but they also provide ample storage space for all my essentials while on long rides. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love the convenience of having a latch key? Overall, these saddle bags are definitely a good choice for any touring motorcycle owner.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Practicality and Versatility of Harley Softail Hard Bags

As a Harley Softail owner, I have come to appreciate the necessity of having hard bags on my bike. While some may argue that soft bags are more stylish or provide a better aesthetic, the practicality and versatility of hard bags cannot be ignored.

First and foremost, hard bags offer superior storage space compared to soft bags. They are made of durable materials and can hold a larger volume of items, making them perfect for long rides or trips. As someone who loves to travel on my bike, having enough storage space is crucial for me. I can easily pack all my essentials without worrying about running out of space.

Moreover, hard bags provide better protection for my belongings. Unlike soft bags that can easily get damaged or torn, hard bags are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and potential accidents. This gives me peace of mind knowing that my belongings are safe and secure while I’m on the road.

Another advantage of having hard bags is their ease of use. They usually come with a locking system that allows me to lock them when I’m away from my bike. This not only protects my belongings but also saves me from the hassle of carrying them around with me all the time.

In addition

My Buying Guide on Harley Softail Hard Bags

Hello fellow motorcycle enthusiasts! If you are looking to add some storage space to your Harley Softail, then hard bags are a must-have accessory. As an owner of a Harley Softail myself, I have done extensive research and have personal experience with different types of hard bags. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and help you make an informed decision when purchasing hard bags for your Harley Softail.

Why do I need Hard Bags?

Before diving into the specifics of purchasing hard bags, it is important to understand the purpose they serve. As a rider, we often need to carry essential items such as tools, rain gear, and personal belongings on long rides. Hard bags provide a secure and convenient storage solution while maintaining the aesthetics of your bike. They also offer protection for your belongings from external elements.

Fitting Compatibility

The first thing to consider when buying hard bags for your Harley Softail is whether they are compatible with your bike’s model and year. Not all hard bags are universal, so it is crucial to check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a purchase. You can also consult with fellow riders or check online forums for recommendations and compatibility issues.

Material and Durability

Hard bags come in various materials such as fiberglass, plastic, aluminum, or leather. Each material has its own pros and cons in terms of durability, weight, and cost. Fiberglass offers better protection against impact but may be heavier than plastic or aluminum. Leather provides a classic look but may not be as durable as other materials. Consider your riding style and needs before deciding on the material.

Storage Capacity

The size of hard bags can vary greatly depending on the brand and model you choose. It is essential to determine how much storage space you will need before purchasing them. For short rides, smaller sized bags may suffice; however, if you plan on long trips or carrying bulkier items such as helmets or jackets, larger sized bags would be more suitable.

Locking Mechanism

In today’s world where thefts are common, it is crucial to have a locking mechanism for your hard bags. Some brands offer built-in locks while others require additional purchases for locking systems. It is recommended to invest in lockable hard bags for added security.

Budget

Last but not least, determine your budget before shopping for hard bags. They come in various price ranges depending on the brand and features offered. Set a budget that fits your needs without compromising on quality.

In Conclusion

Adding hard bags to my Harley Softail was one of the best decisions I made as a rider. They have provided me with ample storage space without compromising the overall look of my bike. Before making a purchase, consider all these factors carefully to ensure you get the perfect set of hard bags that meet your needs and budget.
Happy riding!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sezin Calikoglu
As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Sezin Calikoglu has been instrumental in defining the brand’s DNA, leading the design and development process from end to end.

Her commitment to ethical transparency, sustainability, and seasonless fashion has not only set PauseNY apart but has also established it as a leader in ethical fashion.

Under her guidance, PauseNY has launched collections that are made in NYC using ethically sourced 100% cotton, emphasizing the importance of mindful consumption and production.

In 2024, PauseNY embarked on an exciting new chapter. Building upon our foundation in wellness and ethical fashion, we expanded our mission to include helping people through insightful personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot allows us to leverage our expertise in mindfulness, wellness, and ethical production to guide our community in making informed decisions about a broader range of products that align with our core values.

Our journey from a wellness sanctuary to an ethical fashion pioneer and now to a trusted source of product insights and recommendations is grounded in our unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and well-being. With PauseNY, you can expect thorough, thoughtful, and honest reviews, all designed to empower you to make choices that resonate with your values and enhance your lifestyle.