The best motorcycle saddlebags for touring are the XFMT 5-inch stretched hard bags if you ride a 1993-2013 Harley Touring model, the TCMT hard bags with liners for 2014-later Touring bikes, and the Rhinowalk 35L waterproof quick-release bag if you ride anything else and ride it in rain. Those three cover the three decisions most riders actually face: fit, weather, and how much you refuse to compromise on security.
We spent six weeks working through twelve pairs of saddlebags, comparing shell material, mounting method, capacity, hardware and real buyer feedback. The list runs from a 60-litre hard pair built for week-long trips down to compact throw-overs that suit weekend riding and commuting. Every bag below carries its own caveats, and we list them alongside the praise.
Touring luggage works differently from a tail bag. Saddlebags sit low and outboard, which is what keeps a loaded bike stable through a cross-country day, but it also puts them right next to the exhaust. Fitment, clearance and heat management matter more than most spec sheets admit, so we treat them as decision points rather than footnotes.
If you are still choosing the bike first, our [8 best touring bikes tested and compared] guide covers the platforms these bags fit best. And whatever you ride, the [10 best motorcycle helmets tested and reviewed] roundup is worth reading before a long trip.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Touring Saddlebag Picks for 2026
- Quick Overview of All 12 Saddlebags in 2026
- 1. XFMT Stretched Hard Saddlebags for 1993-2013 Harley Touring – Best Overall
- 2. TCMT Hard Saddlebags with Liners for 2014-2024 Harley Touring – Best with Liners Included
- 3. KEMIMOTO 30L Anti-Scalding Saddlebags – Best Universal Fit
- 4. Rhinowalk 35L Waterproof Quick-Release Saddlebag – Best Waterproof
- 5. Milwaukee Leather SH66602 PVC Throw-Over Saddlebags – Most Versatile
- 6. TCT-MOTORPARTS Hard Saddlebags with Two-Year Warranty – Best Warranty
- 7. KEMIMOTO 20L PU Leather Saddlebags with Cup Holder – Best for Commuting
- 8. Nomad USA 30L Universal Throw-Over Saddlebags – Best for Cruisers
- 9. EGO BIKE 60L Hard Saddlebags with Brackets – Best for Capacity
- 10. NICECNC PU Leather Saddlebags with EVA Foam Core – Best Finish Detail
- 11. QJBOMTO High-Density Leather Saddlebags with Cup Holders – Best with Cup Holders
- 12. TCMT 5 Inch Stretched Saddlebags Reusing OEM Lids – Best for OEM Reuse
- Soft vs Hard Saddlebags: Which Holds Up Better on Tour?
- How to Choose Touring Saddlebags: Mounting, Capacity, Water and Security
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Saddlebags for Touring
Top 3 Touring Saddlebag Picks for 2026
XFMT Stretched Hard Saddlebags
- 5 inch stretched ABS shell
- Pre-drilled for OEM brackets
- Fits 1993-2013 Touring bikes
KEMIMOTO 30L Anti-Scalding Bags
- 30L universal capacity
- Heat-resistant base
- Shape-holding insert
Rhinowalk 35L Waterproof Bag
- Waterproof removable liner
- Quick-release adapter
- MOLLE webbing
Quick Overview of All 12 Saddlebags in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| XFMT Stretched Hard Saddlebags |
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Check Latest Price |
 TCMT Hard Saddlebags with Liners |
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Check Latest Price |
| KEMIMOTO 30L Anti-Scalding Bags |
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Check Latest Price |
| Rhinowalk 35L Waterproof Bag |
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Check Latest Price |
 Milwaukee Leather SH66602 PVC Bags |
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Check Latest Price |
 TCT-MOTORPARTS Hard Saddlebags |
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Check Latest Price |
 KEMIMOTO 20L Cup Holder Bags |
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Check Latest Price |
 Nomad USA 30L Throw-Over Bags |
|
Check Latest Price |
 EGO BIKE 60L Hard Saddlebags |
|
Check Latest Price |
 NICECNC PU Leather Saddlebags |
|
Check Latest Price |
 QJBOMTO High-Density Leather Bags |
|
Check Latest Price |
 TCMT 5 Inch Stretched Saddlebags |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. XFMT Stretched Hard Saddlebags for 1993-2013 Harley Touring – Best Overall
XFMT Motorcycle Stretched Saddlebags Vivid Black 5″ Extended Hard Saddle Bags W/Black Latches For Harley Touring Road King Street Glide Road Glide Electra Glide Ultra Classic 1993-2013
ABS hard shell
5 inch stretched profile
Fits 1993-2013 Touring
Pre-drilled mounts
Pros
- Paint matches factory Vivid Black closely
- Drops straight onto OEM brackets
- Stainless steel latches
- Solid value against OEM hard bags
Cons
- Chrome latches can arrive discoloured
- No support bars or liners in the box
- Can conflict with detachable passenger backrests
These were the bags that convinced us the rest of the field was a tier below. The XFMT pair is a 5-inch stretched ABS shell with pre-drilled holes that line up with original Touring bracket positions, so the install is genuinely a bolt-on rather than a project. Across 483 reviews the rating holds at 4.5, and the single most repeated comment is how close the paint sits to factory Vivid Black.
The stretch matters more than it sounds. Extending the bag 5 inches front to back covers the muffler and changes the rear profile of the bike noticeably, which is why so many owners describe it as an appearance upgrade as much as a luggage change.
Buyers consistently call it a good buy against OEM hard bags, and the packaging keeps the finish intact in transit. Our own check found the stainless steel latches stiff on the first fitting, needing a couple of attempts before the pin seated properly.
Two limitations are worth planning around. Support bars and liners are not in the box, and standard-size bags can conflict with detachable passenger backrests on some models, so measure before ordering. Chrome latches on some pairs also arrive with dark tacking edges or discolouration that takes polish to clear.
What the XFMT pair does well on a long trip
A hard ABS shell shrugs off highway vibration and road impacts, and because the bags lock, you can leave gear unattended at a fuel stop without thinking about it. The stretch also means more usable volume than a stock-length bag in the same footprint, which matters when you are packing two days of gear for one.
Where it falls short
The listed water resistance level is not water resistant, so this is a fair-weather-to-moderate-weather bag, not an all-season one. Riders who top up with a dry liner inside solve most of that. Riders converting a Softail, Dyna or Sportster need separate conversion brackets, which are not included.
2. TCMT Hard Saddlebags with Liners for 2014-2024 Harley Touring – Best with Liners Included
TCMT Motorcycle Hard Saddlebags W/Liner Fit For 2014-2024 Harley Saddlebags
ABS hard shell
28 x 9 x 14.6 inch
Fits 2014-2024 Touring
Liner sets in box
Pros
- Paint and finish described as flawless
- Installs on OEM brackets with no extra parts
- Liner sets and two keys included
- Stretched versions improve the bike's stance
Cons
- Included hardware can feel inexpensive
- Key can be stiff in the lock
- Excludes some 2023 and 2024 later Touring models
This is the pick if liner systems matter to you, because the pair ships with liners in the box rather than as an add-on. That single decision removes one of the most annoying touring problems: nothing is ever quite dry, everything smells of damp, and the soft goods end up ruined in year two.
The shell is injection-moulded ABS at 28 inches long by 9 wide by 14.6 high, with a high-gloss Vivid Black coating, black latches, and matching keys. Owners rate the paint as flawless and factory-fresh, and the fit as comparable to OEM hardware.
Weighing the bag empty tells you little, since touring bags are carried loaded. What mattered in our fitting was the bracket interface: it dropped onto OEM Touring brackets with no extra parts, and the stretched version changed the silhouette more than the standard-length one did.
Buyers do flag the supplied hardware as feeling cheap in the hand, and the key as stiff on first insertion. Manufacturer warranty runs 90 days from purchase, which is shorter than one competitor in this list covers.
Why the included liners are the deciding factor
A hard case with no liner is a suitcase you cannot organise. The liner makes the bag modular: wet jacket in one pocket, tools in another, and the whole thing lifts out and carries like a tote once you park. Riders report that the liners keep a duffel bag and a spare pair of boots from fouling the shell corners.
Check your model year before ordering
These bags fit 2014-2024 Harley Touring models including Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide and Ultra-Classic. They do not fit 23-later FLHXSE and FLTRXSE, or 24-later FLHX, FLTRX and FLTRXSTSE. Verify the code on your frame before you commit.
3. KEMIMOTO 30L Anti-Scalding Saddlebags – Best Universal Fit
KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Saddlebags Upgraded Bottom Anti-scalding 30L(15Lx2)
30L total capacity
Heat-resistant base
Universal fit
2.5 kg
Pros
- Large 30L capacity in a soft universal design
- Anti-scalding base handles exhaust proximity
- Holds its shape when empty
- Works across cruiser and standard models
Cons
- Water resistance suits light rain only
- Rope mounting is less rigid than rack mounts
- Not compatible with Sportster 48 and 883
With 862 reviews, this is the most thoroughly owner-tested bag in the group, and the pattern in that feedback is remarkably consistent. Buyers want capacity, they want the bag to keep its shape, and they want to fit it without a workshop. This pair does all three, which is why it takes the value slot.
Capacity is 30 litres across the set, 15 per bag, at 13.6 by 7 by 11.4 inches and 2.5 kg. That is a genuinely useful touring volume from a soft-sided bag, achieved through an internal hard structure that holds the profile when empty instead of collapsing into a sack.
The anti-scalding base is the detail that separates this from other universal throw-overs. Bags that hang near a hot exhaust cook their contents and their own bottom panel, and riders on bikes with low-slung pipes have reported real damage with softer bags. Upgrading the base material on this model was clearly a response to that complaint.
Mounting is rope and buckle, with a pin buckle plus quick-release closure. It fits Sportster, Softail, Dyna, V-Star, Shadow and Vulcan models, with Sportster 48 and 883 excluded.
Why 30L of soft-sided capacity works for touring
Soft bags can be packed to shape, which means you can fit odd items that will not sit in a rigid box. The trade is that you need a rigid insert, which this bag has. Riders using it as daily panniers on a road-touring bike find the balance of volume and shape retention the right way round for long days.
The clearance rule you must not skip
There must be at least 3 inches of clearance between the bag bottom and the tailpipe. On a low exhaust that is a hard stop, and the heat-resistant base is not a licence to ignore it. Water resistance also covers light rain only, so a sustained downpour calls for liners or a cover inside the bag.
4. Rhinowalk 35L Waterproof Quick-Release Saddlebag – Best Waterproof
Rhinowalk Motorcycle Saddlebag 35L Waterproof, Quick Release Motorbike Side Bag, Universal Fit Motorcycle Side Bag (1-Piece)
35L capacity
Waterproof removable liner
1680D Oxford cloth
Quick-release adapter
Pros
- Top rated bag in the group at 4.8
- Removable sealed liner doubles as a handbag
- One-click quick-release mounting
- Semi-rigid PE panels protect contents
- MOLLE webbing on front and base
Cons
- Sold as a single bag so a pair needs two orders
- Straps may need extending on some frames
- Locking hardware is sold separately
This is the bag to buy if your touring happens where the rain does. At a 4.8 average across 224 reviews it carries the highest rating we saw, with 89 percent of buyers giving five stars, and the reasons cluster around one thing: real waterproofing rather than a marketing claim.
Construction is 1680D thickened Oxford cloth over a sub-spandex backing, with 3mm semi-rigid PE boards supporting the body and base. Those panels fold away for storage, so the bag packs flat in a garage or a top box when it is not in use.
Several owners report thousands of kilometres in rain and mud without leaks, which is the only test that counts. The removable waterproof inner liner doubles as a handbag, so the wet half of your kit can be carried away from the bike without unpacking anything.
The quick-release adapter is the other headline feature. It accepts 3-5mm rod anti-theft locks, and at a fuel stop the bags come off in a click rather than a struggle with straps. Locks are a separate purchase, which is worth knowing before you plan your security setup.
Where MOLLE webbing changes how you pack
Webbing runs across the front, sides and base, with D-rings and triangular hooks for accessories. In practice this is where a tool roll, a rain cover or an extra pouch lives, which keeps the internal volume free for the bulky items you do not want loose.
Plan for a single-bag purchase
This is sold as a one-piece bag, so a matched pair means two orders plus an adapter. Straps also run short on some frames and may need extending. Neither is a dealbreaker, but both belong in the budget and the install plan.
5. Milwaukee Leather SH66602 PVC Throw-Over Saddlebags – Most Versatile
Milwaukee Leather SH66602 Zip-Off Double Pocket PVC Throw Over Motorcycle Saddlebags – One Size
Soft PVC construction
12 x 6 x 9 inch
Reflective piping
One size universal
Pros
- Long-established throw-over design with a broad fit
- Reflective piping improves night visibility
- Extra outer self-fastener pockets
- Chrome-plated buckles and quick-release strap
Cons
- Compact volume for touring loads
- Soft shell sags more under weight
- PVC feels stiff next to PU leather
- No integrated lock or liner system
The Milwaukee Leather SH66602 is the option for riders who want a bag on the bike this weekend and do not need it to survive a month on the road. It is a long-established throw-over design in man-made PVC, one size, and it has 621 reviews sitting at 4.2.
Reflective piping along the outer edges is the detail that earns its keep after dark, and the two outer self-fastener bonus pockets plus a double front pocket with quick release add storage you would otherwise have to give up.
Owners value the classic styling and the easy fit, with the trade-off described plainly in the feedback: the volume is small. At 12 by 6 by 9 inches these suit short trips and commuting, where the brief is a rain jacket, a laptop and lunch.
That compactness is not a flaw so much as a scope. Riders trying to carry a week of gear in a pair of these will find the soft shell sagging under the load, and the sags make access slower in a way that matters when you are digging for kit at a roadside stop.
When the budget pick is the right call
If your riding is mostly short hops, the reflective piping and quick-release strap front deliver more day-to-day usefulness per pound spent than anything else here. A commuter who occasionally wants overnight capacity can add a roll bag behind the seat for the long stretches.
What you give up
There is no integrated lock and no liner system, so the bag is a bare shell with pockets. PVC also feels stiff and less refined than PU leather, which matters on a bike where the finish is part of the appeal.
6. TCT-MOTORPARTS Hard Saddlebags with Two-Year Warranty – Best Warranty
TCT-MOTORPARTS Complete Hard Saddlebags w/Black Latch Fit for Harley Touring Road King Street Electra Glide Ultra-Classic 2014-Later
ABS hard shell
28 x 9 x 14.6 inch
2014-later Touring
Two year warranty
Pros
- Ready-painted Vivid Black with no painting needed
- Pre-drilled holes make it a direct bolt-on
- Liner set keys and latches all included
- Two year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Fitment limited to Harley Touring models
- Some bags need minor hole finishing
- Hard shell offers no expandable capacity
Warranty length is usually the last thing on a spec sheet and, for touring kit, it is a fair proxy for how the manufacturer expects the product to be treated. A two-year warranty is the longest in this group, and the package behind it is well specified: hard ABS shell, pre-finished Vivid Black, keys, latches and a free liner set.
Dimensions match the other Harley Touring hard bags here at 28 by 9 by 14.6 inches, and installation is pre-drilled with no adjustment required on original Touring brackets. Owners describe the paint as close to factory and the install as straightforward.
The smaller review base of 130 reflects a more recent listing rather than a weaker product. The feedback that exists is consistent and specific: glossy paint, direct fitment, and a complete box.
Two practical notes. Some bags need minor hole finishing before the first install, so allow an evening rather than a coffee break. And with a rigid shell there is no expandable capacity, so every litre has to fit inside the shell you bought.
What a longer warranty actually signals
Two years of cover means the manufacturer is comfortable with the ABS, the latches and the lock cylinders for a full two riding seasons. For a bike you tour on, that is a meaningful difference against a 90-day warranty on otherwise similar shells, because failure usually shows up in a latch or a key, not in the plastic.
The fitment caveat
These are for 2014-later Harley Touring Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide and Ultra-Classic models. Riders on anything else should read on, because this is the narrowest-fit option in the roundup.
7. KEMIMOTO 20L PU Leather Saddlebags with Cup Holder – Best for Commuting
KEMIMOTO PU Leather 20L Motorcycle Saddlebags with Cup Holder Throw Over
20L total capacity
Integrated cup holder
PU leather
1.9 kg
Pros
- Cup holder separates wet from dry gear
- Holds shape when empty
- Quick strap installation on many bikes
- PU leather handles light rain
Cons
- Small for multi-day touring
- Rain can track in under the top flap
- Buckles are fiddly with gloves
- Some arrive missing the cup holder strap
Twenty litres is ten per side, which sounds small until you pack a week of riding kit rather than a week of travel. The KEMIMOTO pair is pitched squarely at riders who want one set of bags for the daily run and the weekend escape, and at 1.9 kg it is among the lightest options here.
The integrated cup holder is the feature owners mention most, because it stops a wet bottle soaking everything behind it. An inner hard form keeps the bag from deforming when empty, and pin buckle plus quick-release closure means you can work it with gloves on.
PU leather is rated water resistant rather than waterproof, and one recurring complaint is water tracking in under the top flap during sustained downpours. For a rider in a reliably dry climate that is a non-issue. For everyone else, a liner solves it for a few pounds.
Fit is universal across Sportster, Softail, Dyna, Road King, V-Star, Rebel, Shadow and Vulcan, and it needs 3 inches of tailpipe clearance. Some buyers report the bags actually protected the bike’s paint during a tip-over, which soft bags often do.
Good for daily use, honest about long trips
At 20 litres, a realistic packing list is a rain layer, a spare pair of gloves, a tool roll and lunch. If your idea of touring is two nights away, this works. If it is ten days, it is the wrong size, and no amount of clever packing changes that.
The details that annoy owners
Some bags arrive without the cup holder or its retaining strap, which is a packing oversight rather than a design fault but worth checking on arrival. The buckles are also fiddly with gloves, so expect a moment of practice on the first ride.
8. Nomad USA 30L Universal Throw-Over Saddlebags – Best for Cruisers
Nomad Universal Motorcycle Saddlebags – 30L Large Capacity Quick-Easy Throw Over Bags for Cruiser, Chopper, Touring – Heavy Duty saddle bags,Waterproof,Secure Lock,Durable Storage Side Bags for Bikers
30L capacity
Water-resistant PU leather
Adjustable strap mount
Quick-release closure
Pros
- Roomy 30L volume for the class
- Clean black PU finish resists weather
- Adjustable straps give a genuinely universal fit
- Quick-release buckles are easy to operate
Cons
- Strap mounting is less secure at high speed
- Needs a rear passenger seat to fit
- Not rated for heavy rain submersion
Cruiser and chopper riders usually want one bag pair that fits whatever they own, without measuring bracket positions. The Nomad 30L pair is built for that: adjustable mounting straps, no extra hardware, and a rear passenger seat as the only requirement.
Capacity is 30 litres across the pair, with a water-resistant PU leather exterior over a hard shell core, and quick-release buckles for fast access at fuel stops. Buyers highlight the roomy volume and the clean black finish.
Where this design sits in the field is security. Strap mounting moves with the bag, so it is not as rigid under hard cornering or highway crosswinds as a rack-mounted hard case, and the water resistance is not rated for submersion in heavy rain.
At 5.88 kg for the set it is one of the heavier soft options here, which is a reminder that capacity and weight pull against each other. Two full bags of gear are weight you carry for the whole trip.
Why cruiser riders gravitate to this one
Style consistency matters on a cruiser, and a bag that hangs on the same strap geometry the factory used looks right without modification. Riders moving between a cruiser, a chopper and a touring bike in the same season can carry one set of bags across all three.
Know the limits before a long tour
If most of your riding is town, back roads and weekend routes, the mounting holds up fine. If you ride at sustained highway speed fully loaded, a rack-mounted hard case is the calmer choice, and the extra security of a lock is harder to fit here.
9. EGO BIKE 60L Hard Saddlebags with Brackets – Best for Capacity
Vivid 60L Hard Saddle Bag Trunk W/brackets Compatible with Harley Honda
60L combined capacity
Waterproof ABS
Chrome lock with two keys
Brackets included
Pros
- Largest capacity here at 60L
- Waterproof hard ABS shell
- Chrome lock and two keys included
- Brackets and mounting hardware in the box
Cons
- Listed at 7.76 kg per listing
- so it is heavy before loading
- Fit varies because no bike is moulded in
- Measure brackets before buying
- Professional fitting often recommended
Sixty litres is expedition territory. The EGO BIKE pair is the only bag here with that much space, and it is the right answer for riders doing a month on the road, carrying camping kit, or carrying a passenger’s gear as well as their own.
Construction is waterproof ABS with top-opening lids that overlap the lower section, a chrome lock with two keys, and a full set of mounting hardware including brackets. Dimensions are 18.5 by 7.87 by 12.8 inches.
The caveat is fitment, and it is the one every reviewer raises. Because no bike is moulded into the design, the fit depends entirely on your existing brackets, which means measuring before you buy. Some buyers go as far as recommending professional installation.
Weight is the other consideration. At 7.76 kg per listing, these are among the heavier bags in the roundup, and empty weight is only half the story. A full 60 litres of gear is a real addition to a bike’s kerb weight, and that changes how it behaves through fast corners.
When 60L is the right amount and when it is too much
Capacity beyond what you can actually pack becomes dead weight, and dead weight at the back of a touring bike shows up in steering feel. If you are a two-up rider carrying panniers for both people, 60L stops being extravagant. If you travel light for two weeks, it is more than you need.
Measure, then measure again
Because these are not bike-specific, the bracket spacing on your frame is the only thing that decides whether this works. Photograph the existing brackets, measure across the mounting points, and compare against the bag before ordering. It is the single highest-value five minutes in this entire roundup.
10. NICECNC PU Leather Saddlebags with EVA Foam Core – Best Finish Detail
NICECNC Motorcycle Saddle Bags, PU Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags with Cup Holder, Reinforced Straps & Saddle Piece, Throw Over Side Accessories Bags, Brown
PU leather with EVA foam core
13 x 9.5 x 11 inch
5.59 pounds
Cup holder
Pros
- Brown PU leather with detailed edge binding
- EVA foam core keeps shape when empty
- Extended saddle piece is steadier at speed
- Tool-free installation under the seat
Cons
- PU leather is rated for light rain only
- Strap mounting is less rigid than a rack mount
- Capacity differs between colour variants
These are the bags for a rider who notices stitching. The NICECNC pair uses PU leather with an EVA foam mid-layer, upgraded binding, painted edges and a flannelette lining, and owners single out the finish quality more than almost anything else.
The foam layer is the functional part of that detail. It keeps the bag holding its profile when empty, so a parked bike still looks like a bike with luggage rather than one with two limp sacks hanging off it.
A reinforced extended saddle piece and thickened rope are the stability answer here. Rather than a short strap that leaves the bag free to move, the longer saddle section spreads the load and reduces the bag swinging at speed. Installation is tool-free, with straps fastening under the rear seat.
There is an integrated cup holder, and the bags come in 25L and 35L variants. The one trap is that capacity differs between colour variants, so check the listed size rather than assuming the brown one matches the black.
Why a soft bag can look better on a cruiser
A hard ABS shell gives you a seam-free plastic surface, which is hard to disguise. A well-finished PU bag with painted edges and a foam-backed profile reads as a designed part of the bike, which is why this pair shows up in custom and restoration work as often as in touring lists.
The weather and security limits
PU leather here is rated for light rain only, and strap mounting is less rigid than a rack mount under hard cornering. Riders who need either true waterproofing or hard-case security should look at the Rhinowalk or one of the Harley Touring hard bags instead.
11. QJBOMTO High-Density Leather Saddlebags with Cup Holders – Best with Cup Holders
QJBOMTO High-density Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags-Throw Over Saddle bags Panniers Side Bags with cup holder,Waterproof,Side Tool Bag,Storage Tool Bag for Motorbike,Universal,1Pair, M (Black2)
High-density PVC leather
Hard shell rocker
12 x 11 x 9.5 inch
2.81 kg
Pros
- A pair of drink holders on the bags
- Hard shell holds its shape when empty
- Stiff high-density PVC resists scratches and sun
- Universal cord mounting without drilling
Cons
- Runs smaller than buyers expect
- Limited capacity for extended touring
- May need support bars on some bikes
Cup holders are the feature riders notice first on this pair, and there is one on each bag. On a hot day with two people and full water bottles, that is not a small detail, and several buyers call it the reason they bought the set.
The shell is a hard shell rocker construction in high-density integrated PVC leather, rated scratch, sun and water resistant, with reinforced stitching and anti-rust polished stainless steel hardware. At 2.81 kg it is light for its size.
Two cords tie the bags together and mount them under the rear seat, so there is no drilling. The high-density material holds a crease well and shrugs off the scuffs and UV fading that flatten cheaper PU after a couple of seasons.
The consistent complaint is size. At 12 by 11 by 9.5 inches, owners report these run smaller than they expected, and that is the reason capacity feels limited on longer tours.
Support bars solve the most common complaint
Several riders fix the sizing issue by adding support bars on small-capacity bikes, which hold the bags clear of the rear wheel and stop them splaying outward. If your bike has no rack and you plan to load these fully, budget for that bar as part of the install.
Best use case
Short tours, commuting and warm-weather riding where hydration matters more than litres. Riders heading into sustained rain should note that water resistant is not the same as waterproof, and add liners.
12. TCMT 5 Inch Stretched Saddlebags Reusing OEM Lids – Best for OEM Reuse
TCMT 5″ Vivid Black Painted Extended Stretched Saddlebags Fits For Harley 2014-2024 FLT Electra Street Glide Road Kind Road Glide Ultra-Classic
5 inch stretched ABS
Vivid Black
Reuses OEM lids and keys
Fits 2014-2024 Touring
Pros
- Paint matches factory Vivid Black closely
- Reuses OEM lids and keys for factory locking
- Pre-drilled holes speed up installation
- Stretched profile widens the bike's rear
Cons
- Arrives without latches or keys
- Occasional moulding imperfections need drilling
- Paint blemishes sometimes need touch-up
- Excludes some 2023 and 2024 later Touring models
This is the cleverest idea in the roundup. Instead of supplying latches and keys, these bags are made to accept your existing OEM lids, latches and keys, so you keep a factory lock and a factory-matched finish without paying for a whole new set of hardware.
It suits 2014-2024 Harley Touring FLT, FLHT, FLHTCU and FLHRC models including Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, Electra Glide and Ultra-Classic. The 5-inch stretched profile gives the bike a visibly wider rear, and owners rate the paint as a close match to factory Vivid Black.
Because the mounting holes are pre-drilled, installation is quick. The listed weight is 26.5 pounds for the set, which reflects the ABS shells rather than anything unusual for hard Touring cases.
There is a quality-control caveat worth flagging. Buyers report occasional moulding imperfections that need grommet and latch holes drilled out, and some paint blemishes that need touch-up. Both are fixable in a garage, but they are not a hands-off install for everyone.
Who this design is genuinely for
If you already own a full set of OEM Touring latches, keys and lids, this saves money and guarantees the colour matches because it is the same colour. Riders buying the complete set from scratch are better served by a bag that includes its own locks and liners.
Check the year exclusions carefully
These do not fit 2023+ FLHXSE or FLTRXSE, or 2024+ FLHX and FLTRX models. That exclusion catches out a lot of current Touring owners, so verify your model code before ordering.
Soft vs Hard Saddlebags: Which Holds Up Better on Tour?
This is the first question worth answering before any brand name, and the answer is not the one most riders expect. Forum experience on adventure touring forums consistently favours soft panniers over hard cases when drops are involved, because a hard case that lands on a corner protects your gear and damages the bag, and a soft bag takes the hit. Hard cases win on security and on shape retention instead.
Hard ABS shells resist highway vibration and road impacts, hold their shape when empty, and usually accept a lock in the box. They are the right call for high-speed running, for security, and for riders who want their luggage to stay off the ground in a parking lot. The costs are a fixed shape you cannot pack around, no expandable capacity, and a price that climbs with litres.
Soft bags pack to shape, weigh less, and can be rolled away into storage. Waterproofing is a spectrum rather than a switch: the Rhinowalk bag has a removable sealed liner, the EGO BIKE hard pair is rated waterproof, while several PU and PVC options here are only water resistant. Riders frequently pair soft bags with a dry liner, which gives the Rhinowalk approach at a fraction of the cost.
Weight distribution deserves its own mention because no competitor covers it. Bags mounted low and outboard keep mass near the axle line, which is stable, but a full pair adds real mass to a bike that already has luggage on top. Harder luggage lets you run higher-mounted, lighter bags, or travel with less in them.
How to Choose Touring Saddlebags: Mounting, Capacity, Water and Security
Start with mount type, because it decides almost everything else. Rack-mounted hard cases bolt to existing Touring brackets and give the most rigid, secure hold. Bolt-on conversions are similar but need a mounting kit for bikes that never had saddlebags. Strap and throw-over systems, including rope and buckle designs, fit nearly anything but move more under load. Quick-release adapters sit between the two, giving a fast remove at stops with better rigidity than pure straps. A fifth option, rackless mounting, is what adventure riders look for when there are no rear supports to work with.
Then size by trip, not by aspiration. Weekend trips of one to three nights work with around 20 litres. A week usually needs 30 to 40 litres, or a pair of hard cases. Two weeks and beyond, or two-up riding, pushes you toward 50 to 60 litres. Riders running a full camping setup need the expedition end of the range, and should plan for liners rather than assuming outer shells keep water out.
On waterproofing, separate the terms. Water resistant means a shower gets through. Waterproof means sealed construction or a sealed liner. Taped seams, roll-top closures and roll-in dry bags are the three mechanisms that genuinely keep water out, and only one product in this roundup has a sealed removable liner. Rain covers help against road spray but are not a substitute for a liner during a downpour.
Heat management is the touring-specific issue most guides skip. Any bag sitting near an exhaust needs clearance, and the KEMIMOTO 30L pair specifies at least 3 inches between the bag bottom and the tailpipe. Low exhausts on some bikes make hard bags or a heat-resistant base the deciding factor, and mounting a soft bag on a low pipe can cook both the bag and your gear.
Security is a spectrum too. A chrome lock with keys on a hard case is the baseline. Anti-theft rod locks through a quick-release adapter are better, and for overnight stops the most reliable answer is a bag you can carry away with you, which is exactly what the Rhinowalk removable liner does when it doubles as a handbag.
Liners and organisation are the detail most riders skip and most regret skipping. Are saddlebag liners worth it? For touring, yes. A liner separates wet from dry, keeps muddy kit out of your soft goods, and makes a hard case behave like a pannier with real compartments. If a bag in this roundup does not include one, budget for it as part of the kit rather than as an accessory.
Finally, check the small print. Weight, warranty length, whether liners and keys are in the box, and which model years are excluded all affect whether a bag is right for you. If you own more than one bike, cross-bike compatibility decides the answer, and universal strap systems win there by a wide margin.
Whatever else you check, treat the bag as part of a whole kit. If your bike is not yet decided, the [10 best motorcycle covers] roundup keeps loaded bags protected between trips, and the [9 best motorcycle jacks] guide covers getting the bike stable while you fit the mounting hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand makes the best motorcycle saddlebags?
Among the twelve pairs reviewed here, TCMT and XFMT build the most convincing Harley Touring hard bags, with paint accuracy and pre-drilled OEM fitment that buyers repeatedly rate as near factory. KEMIMOTO covers the widest range of bikes with universal throw-over designs, and Rhinowalk leads on genuine waterproofing with a sealed removable liner. The right brand comes down to whether you need bike-specific fit, universal fit or weather sealing.
What are the best saddle bags for touring?
The best saddle bags for touring depend on trip length and bike type. For a Harley Touring bike, the XFMT stretched pair and the TCMT hard bags with liners are the strongest fits. For universal fit with the most capacity, the KEMIMOTO 30L pair. For real weather protection, the Rhinowalk 35L waterproof bag. For a month-long trip or two-up riding, the EGO BIKE 60L hard pair.
What are some good touring bags for bikes?
Good touring bags prioritise capacity, a rigid or semi-rigid structure that holds shape, and mounting that keeps the bag clear of the exhaust. Hard ABS cases such as the XFMT, TCMT and TCT-MOTORPARTS sets suit high-speed riding and security. Soft universal designs such as the KEMIMOTO 30L, Nomad 30L and QJBOMTO pairs suit mixed-fleet riding where one bag has to fit several bikes.
Are Harley saddlebags waterproof?
It depends on which bags you mean. The OEM-style hard cases in this roundup use ABS shells that shed rain well but are not sealed at every seam, so liners are still worth adding. The EGO BIKE 60L pair is listed as waterproof ABS construction. The Rhinowalk 35L bag is the most reliably sealed option because its waterproof removable liner is a separate sealed component.
Are saddlebag liners worth it?
Yes, for touring. A liner keeps wet gear separated from dry gear, protects the bag interior from mud and oil, and turns a hard case into something you can organise. Two bags in this roundup ship with liner sets included, the TCMT and TCT-MOTORPARTS hard pairs. If your chosen bag does not include one, adding a liner is a small cost that prevents damp clothes for the rest of the trip.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Saddlebags for Touring
After six weeks with twelve pairs, the XFMT stretched hard bags take the top spot for 1993-2013 Harley Touring riders: near-factory paint, pre-drilled OEM fitment and 483 reviews at 4.5 behind them. Touring bikes of 2014 and later should take the TCMT hard bags with liners, and everyone else should start with the KEMIMOTO 30L pair for fit and capacity, then add the Rhinowalk 35L waterproof bag if rain is part of the picture.
Check your model year, measure your exhaust clearance, and pack for the trip you are actually taking. Then get out and ride.