Welcome to Muddy River Riders

Meta Description:

If you are stuck between a hard and a soft motorcycle saddlebag, this article will help you choose the best one for your bike, based on better ROI and value.

best saddlebags for a Harley Softail

best leather Harley saddlebags

Table of Contents

1. Hard Vs Soft Motorcycle Saddlebags

2. Hard Vs Soft Motorcycle Saddlebags: Pros & Cons

2.1 Hard Saddlebags Pros

2.2 Hard Saddlebags Cons

2.3 Soft Saddlebags Pros

2.4 Soft Saddlebags Cons

3. Verdict

The choice of the motorcycle saddlebags to install on your bike is among the most crucial decisions a rider has to make. A rider may have to choose between style, functionality, and value. Above all, the cost of the motorcycle luggage bag is a crucial factor to consider. Everything boils down to two choices: Hard Vs Soft Motorcycle Saddlebags.

Most of the time, riders are aware of their choice. A hard saddlebag becomes a top choice if you crave premium aesthetics with superior fit and finish. On the contrary, a soft saddlebag or panniers suits sports models ideally, where the weight is a massive consideration.

But, when it comes to the value, or best return on investment (ROI), we need to establish which is the winner between the hard and soft saddlebag. Let’s find out.

1. Hard Vs Soft Motorcycle Saddlebags

• Hard Saddlebag: A hard saddlebag has a hard exterior shell. They are made of heavy-duty material, with solid built quality. These bags don’t deform even after long use. They are usually built from aluminum, reinforced fiberglass, or ABS material, and are also known as hard panniers.
• Soft Saddlebag: On the other hand, a soft saddlebag is one made from a softer material, usually nylon, fabric, or vinyl. They are lightweight and cost-effective, too, which is a huge plus for budget-minded riders. They are ideally built for ADV and dirt bikes.

2. Hard Vs Soft Motorcycle Saddlebags: Pros & Cons

Before we dig into the pros and cons of Hard and soft saddlebags, one should know that the ROI isn’t only about the price tag, it is about the longevity, durability, cost, and several other factors.

2.1 Hard Saddlebags Pros

• Top Security: Hard saddlebags offer more secure motorcycle storage space than soft ones. This is due to the key lockable feature they come with. Due to the rigid structure, they are hard to break. This makes them highly valuable for those riders who have to park their bikes in public places. If you want one, Viking Bags make the finest key-locable, hard saddlebags tailor-made for your particular make and model.
• Great Weatherproofing: Due to being built with a hard outer shell and a secure lid, the hard saddlebags are highly weatherproof. The top-grade rubber gaskets and secure lid closure make your highly valuable electronics and items safe from moisture and other external elements.
• Custom Paint Matching Option: Hard panniers have a smooth outer surface, allowing riders to provide them with a desired look. Riders can opt for custom paint jobs to match their saddle bags with the overall look of their bikes. This makes them aesthetically more pleasant and a better option in terms of style.
• Shape Retention: Hard saddle bags tend to retain their shape, no matter whether they are empty or filled. They keep the same look and lines to ensure a superior look at all times. They don’t sag or get loose.
• Ease of Cleaning: Another great advantage of hard saddle bags is that they can be made to look new and shiny in no time. They don’t require dismounting and a proper deep wash. All you need to do is take a clean microfiber cloth and a cleaner. Just wipe the whole surface, and you will get the shine back.
• Luggage Safety: Even if you carry valuable items like your laptop, camera, or other electronics, hard saddlebags can keep them safe from impacts. They not only protect your stuff from external elements but also keep your essentials safe even in the event of a fall or drop.

2.2 Hard Saddlebags Cons

• Greater First-Time Investment: In the case of hard saddlebags, you will have to spend more money the first time you buy them. It is because they are built using expensive materials. Nonetheless, the ROI is higher as they last much longer.
• Bulk and Heavy Weight: These bags are top-heavy and bulky. As a result, they can alter a few ride dynamics, such as handling and leaning. Riding through tight or narrow lanes can be hard due to the greater width of the bike. They can also alter the center of gravity. Above all, the fuel mileage can also be compromised.
• Prone to Crack or Break in Case of a Crash: Though they secure your luggage more, hard saddlebags are prone to cracking and breaking in case of a serious crash. The hard shell may not withstand the impact of a crash or a slide. In case of ADV or off-roading, they may not withstand the beating at all.
• Not Flexible: The storage space in a hard saddlebag is fixed, unlike soft panniers. This is because they aren’t flexible.
• Vibrations: If they are not properly installed or the luggage is not properly packed, the vibrations can rise. The stuff inside can start to clutter the walls of the saddlebag. Always make the right choice and go for the industry-leading, trustworthy option, such as those made by Viking Bags.

2.3 Soft Saddlebags Pros

• Impact Safety: Due to being made with a softer material, it is unlikely that they can break in case of a fall or crash. Soft saddlebags are good in terms of absorbing the impact. However, it is a different story that they may not be able to protect your valuable stuff stored in them.
• Great Weight Savings: Soft motorcycle panniers offer a great benefit in terms of low weight. They are much lighter than hard panniers. For this reason, they suit sports-style bikes.
• Flexible and Expandable Storage Space: The good thing about the soft motorcycle luggage is that these bags are flexible. This means that the storage space can be expanded to a certain level. However, it may ruin the bags' appearance.
• Universal Fitment: Soft saddle bags are mostly universal because they can be attached to any bike. This is because they either come with straps or throw-over mounting systems. They don’t require nuts and bolts. The ROI increases because riders can switch their bags to their next bikes as well.
• Low Cost: Though the look may not be as premium as hard saddle bags, the low cost of the soft panniers is a great benefit. This allows riders to spend on other motorbike upgrades, like a seat or a handlebar.
• Off-The-Bike Use: As the mounting and removal are easy compared to hard luggage bags, soft saddle bags can be carried, too. Most top-quality soft panniers can be used as a duffel bag or backpack once removed.

2.4 Soft Saddlebags Cons

• Limited Security: Soft saddle bags are less secure because they don’t offer a hard shell and key-lockable features. The safety can be compromised with any sharp object. So, if you travel with expensive goods, soft panniers aren’t the right choice for you.
• Lack of Weatherproofing: Unless you go for the top-tier Viking Bags Soft Saddle Bags, the soft panniers don’t offer good protection from rainwater and other elements. You may need to use a separate waterproof liner or a bag to keep your items safe.
• Shape Deformation: Soft motorcycle saddlebags, including the leather saddle bags as well, are prone to sagging. Their shape deforms after regular use. Once deformed, it is very tough to bring them back to their original shape.
• Cleaning Is Hard: Cleaning these bags is very tough. The soft material traps dirt, dust, and debris more. They usually require a wash after some days of use.
• Prone to Heat Damage: Due to being sensitive to heat, soft panniers are prone to heat damage if placed close to the exhaust pipes.
• Wear & Tear: Unlike hard saddlebags, wear and tear are much more common in soft saddlebags. The torn patches and UV fading are more visible on soft bags than hard panniers.

3. Verdict

There may be no exclusive winner between hard vs soft motorcycle saddlebags. However, given the ROI, hard luggage bags offer greater benefits, even though riders have to pay a higher initial cost. Soft saddle bags are good for budget-minded bikers or those who can’t afford to add weight to their bike. But those riders who love to cover long miles, hard saddlebags are a clear winner.

If you still have questions, just visit the Viking Bags online store and go through the different saddlebag options. This will help you get a better idea and check for yourself what suits you the best.