Saddle bags

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There are a number of different companies offering generic motorcycle saddlebags. Many of these will fit on the Ninja 250, and range in price from about $75 to about $500. Some are waterproof, some require additional covers to be waterproof.

Here are some pros and cons on the Chase Harper Stealth Bags.

Chase harper bags.jpg


Pros:

  • larger capacity than expected. You can easily carry a liter bottle and a bag of chips in each side. Or a six-pack, minus the cardboard holder (micro-brew for after the ride)
  • easy to open from back or front
  • made of stiff neoprene material that can hold up a parked bike when it is knocked over by a backing-up. No damage except a scuff on the handlebar ends and a dirt mark on the bag.
  • nice, sturdy clips and straps to hitch to the bike
  • sleek shape and zoom-y looking position on bike

Cons:

  • pricey - about $110 from the Aerostich RiderWearhouse.
  • if you are too exuberant with the zippers, all your stuff might fall out. The bags can open really wide (which is a pro, really).
  • you shouldn't carry really heavy stuff in them, according to the manual.
  • it is hard to figure out where to hook the straps. This could be a pro, since it gives you some different options depending on your bike set-up
  • if you don't hook them onto your bike evenly, they will look a little goofy and lop-sided
  • depending on how you hook them on, it can be a challenge to get them off quickly; it's easiest to just leave them on.