The Best Canvas & Soft Saddlebags For 2024
We’d Know: We’ve Hands-On Tested 2500+ Pieces Of Riding Gear Since 2000
Our picks are based on both single and double side saddlebags with the best storage, function/features, and price.
Last updated November 2023 by Marco Tam.
About Our Saddlebag Recommendations
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves and the accessories they use with their motorcycles.
Of note, there are few purely canvas saddlebags out there in the marketplace anymore. To make this list, we took the loosest definition of canvas, that being of a durable fiber, synthetic or natural, woven tightly and treated to be waterproof or water resistant, as long as it was soft-sided and woven fabric. This includes materials such as cotton, hemp, nylon, and polyester, in any combination, to make the bags.
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Best Entry Level Saddlebags
Priced under $200.
La Rosa Left Side Solo For Triumph Bobber 2017-2023
Price: $149.99
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Triumph Bonneville Bobber is one of those motorcycles that just looks right. Far be it, then, for a saddlebag to suddenly mess up the long, straight lines that define the bike from the engine on back. That is why the La Rosa Solo canvas bag for the Bobber is a left side only bag, and mounts on the triangular swingarm and not over the rear fender.
Made of 24 oz military grade waterproof canvas, it is easily large enough for a toolkit or a few supplies for a day trip on on the highway, and enhances the classic look of the Triumph Bobber with its stylish leather straps and backing and multiple color options to match your bike.
Key Specs
• High quality, thick canvas
• Attaches to the left side
Nelson Rigg Hurricane Dual Sport Saddlebags
Price: $179.95
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Nelson Rigg Hurricane Dual Sport Saddlebags are a set of universally mounting bags that are meant to tackle any and all elements. They are made of PVC tarpaulin material, which has had all of its seams heat-welded to provide strong, waterproof storage. Each side can carry approximately 14 liters worth of storage, and have stiffeners to hold the shape of the bag even when empty.
They also do not need a rack to mount to, as they are designed to simply be thrown over the back of a bike and stay on using hook and loop straps and tension buckles. The saddlebags are designed ostensibly for dual-sport and ADV bikes, but work with sport tourers, sport cruisers, and the like due to their attachment style.
Key Specs
• All seams are electronically heat welded
• Removable stiffener allows bag to hold its shape when empty
• Waterproof roll closure with quick release buckles
• Quick release buckles on top and bottom to secure additional gear
• Made from heavy duty UV-treated PVC Tarpaulin material
• Secure mounting using hook & loop straps and tension buckles
• Replaceable back pad protects bags from contact with fender
• Firm internal back panels help support bag
• Throw-over style fits most off-road motorcycles, rack not needed
• Air Purge valve makes compression easy
• Holds approximately 14 Liters per side
Oxford Heritage Saddlebags
Price: $182.00
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Looking at home across the back of a classic Harley Sportster or a neo-retro bike like the Triumph Bonneville, the Oxford Heritage saddlebags are refined and classy to the nines. Made of waxed cotton canvas, they feature "old school" buckle-and-eyelet closures straps, over roll top flaps with taped-seam waterproof liners. They also feature external and internal storage pockets for small items, as each bag can be carried as a tote with the included top handle and attachable carry strap.
Each bag can hold up to 20 liters of storage, and attach across the back of the bike with three strong straps that do not need a rack to mount to.
Key Specs
• Capacity: 40 liters (20 liters per bag)
• Waterproofing: roll top closures w/ taped-seam waterproof liners
• Waxed cotton construction
• Water resistant roll top closure
• External and internal pockets for small items
• Sold as a pair
• Dimensions: 12.6" H x 13.8" L x 6.7" W
Best Mid-Range Saddlebags
Priced $200 - $400.
Burly Brand Voyager Saddlebag
Price: $229.95
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon
Why?
Burly Brand are well known for their bags, and the Voyager is no different. The construction of the bag is color dependent, as the black color bag is made of heavy duty Cordura fiber, and the dark oak color is wet-waxed cotton canvas. Both are highly water resistant, and feature a polyurethane and metal internal frame to keep the bag's shape even when empty.
The bag features a roll-top design to give you flexibility with larger cargo that might stick up a little, as well as the weather cover being fastened down with metal snaps around the edges and speed buckles under velcro straps for the main closure. The cover includes an outer pocket with a leather zipper pull that can be snapped to the cover to prevent it flapping about. When you arrive at your destination, the metal side tabs can be used with the included strap to make it a hip satchel, or you can carry it by the top handle as a tote.
The bag does require the Burly Saddlebag Bracket for mounting.
Key Specs
• Dark Oak is a durable wet-waxed cotton canvas construction
• Black is a heavy duty Cordura construction
• Bag works on either side of bike
• Secure fasteners
• Sold each
• Approx exterior dimensions: 11 1/2" wide x 12 1/2" tall x 5" deep
Thrashin Supply Co Essential Saddlebags V3 For Harleys
Price: $249.99
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
It's easy to tell that Thrashin Supply Company knows their target audience when the storage capacity measurement they use is "a six-pack of your favorite beverage." Designed as a throw-over set of saddlebags with an included set of mounting brackets, the Essential V3's are made of 1680D ballistic nylon weave which is naturally water resistant. Access is via a flap-covered, top perimeter YKK zipper, with an extra zippered storage pocket on the outside.
The included brackets will fit most Harley-Davidson models, including the Dyna, Sportster, FXR, Softail, and Custom, with or without a sissy bar. Thrashin do note that the brackets will not fit a 2018 to 2022 Fat Bob, but they cheekily suggest that you can easily build your own or find a universal mount that accepts MOLLE anchoring points. The only requirement is 11 inches between the shocks and rear blinkers, and it will almost certainly fit.
Key Specs
• Easy on, Easy off installation
• Free throw over brackets included
• 1680D Denier Ballistic Nylon
• Lightly Structured to hold shape
• MOLLE Attachments for Universal anchoring points to secure the bag down as well as use for additional attachments.
• Fits on Dyna, Sportster, FXR, Softail, and Custom bike models.
• Works with Sissy Bar, fixed or detachable.
• YKK Zippers
• Hi-Viz Interior to improve interior visibility
• Works with MOST stock tail light and blinker assembly ( Verify that you have a minimum of 11" between your shocks and blinkers.)
• Bag Dimensions: 11"L x 8"T x 5"W
Oxford P60R Saddlebags
Price: $286.00
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon
Why?
Designed for those going on longer trips, the Oxford P60R Saddlebags are, in a word, impressive. Made of heavy duty ripstop nylon weave backed with a removable waterproof liner, these bags have 23 liters of storage per side (46L combined), with a zippered gusset to expand that to 30 liters per side (60L combined). If that wasn't enough storage, they also feature elasticated web nets on the top for even more carrying capacity.
The primary access to the interior is via a large, zippered top flap opening. As longer distance journeys usually include extra cargo mounted laterally across the tail of your bike, the impressive feature of these bags is that they also have a side perimeter zip opening, so you don't need to unload that extra mounted cargo. As well, since these bags may be attached to an ADV or dual-sport, the 7point securing system of the bags are very strong, and do not need a rack or bracket to mount on. In case they come in contact with the paint of your bike, they are backed with rubberized and padded material to prevent any scratches.
Key Specs
• 46L total capacity (60L total expanded), 23-30L per bag
• Electrical pass thru port with internal pocket to carry a device
• Elasticated net for extra storage on top of the bags
• Large top opening and 360 degree opening zips for easy access to contents
• Internal net pocket
• Shoulder strap
• Heat resistant base (protects the bags in case of momentary contact with the exhaust)
• Rubberized under panel allows bag to grip bodywork without scratching
• 7 point secure fitting system (under-seat safety strap, over-seat straps and 4 webbing straps)
• Removable waterproof liners
• 19.7" L x 11.8" W (15.3" W expanded) x 12.6" H
Best High-End Saddlebags
Priced over $400.
Enduristan Monsoon Evo Saddlebag
Price: $429.99 (24L) or $459.99 (34L)
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Enduristan Monsoon Evo bag points to its best feature in its name, in that it is designed to withstand absolutely every element. It is waterproof, dustproof, mudproof, and even snow proof. The Evo part of the name is also a feature, as it is a bag that will attach to almost any rack system, as long as has 18mm tubes. No additional mountain plates are required, as the bag features a composite-reinforced backing plate to which the hard mount clasps are attached. Adjustable loops on the upper edges give additional stability once mounted.
Made of extremely durable synthetic fibers with a waterproof inner liner, the bags come in two sizes, with storage for either 24 liters worth of cargo, or 34 liters if needed. Additional weatherproofing is via the roll-down top, which is then secured with no less than four speed buckles. The bag features an ergonomic carry handle for when you arrive at your destination, and even features a locking point that a padlock can be attached to for security.
Key Specs
• 24L or 34L
• Rugged, abrasion resistant saddlebag
• Fully water, dust, mud and snow proof
• Edge protection
• Mounts to almost all 18mm pannier rack tubes
• No additional mounting plate required
• Extremely strong mounting brackets with safety pins
• Easy fastening and quick removal
• Ergonomic soft-grip handles
• Can be used on right or left side
• Lockable to frame with a padlock or security strap (sold separately)
• Sold each
Bitwell Exfil-36 Saddlebags
Price: $499.95
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Bitwell Exfil-36 saddlebags are designed to be the first and last word in soft-sided cargo carrying. As per their own description, hard-case saddlebags may look out of place on some bikes, are expensive, and less than ideal if your cargo is of an odd shape. Made of a variety of ballistic-grade materials including polyester ripstop and heat-resistant canvas, PVC-treated synthetic fibers, and nylon MOLLLE mount straps, the Exfil-36 is designed to be as durable as a hard case, with the functionality of a soft-sided saddlebag.
For weatheproofing, the bags feature a double closure system, with a flap-over top that secures with speed buckles, and a zip closure flap underneath. The interior features multiple elasticated, zip closure nets for organization, while the exterior features multiple tie down points and external, zip-closure pockets. The whole system can be mounted as a throw-over with strong straps, or be mounted to most universal racks. While naturally water resistant because of the materials used in construction, for full waterproofing, an elastic closure set of rain covers, one per side, is included.
Key Specs
• UV-treated 1680-denier ballistic nylon exterior resists moisture and fading
• Strong, flexible EVA foam panels inside main compartment add structure and durability
• PVC-treated waterproof security flap over main compartment closes with 1.5-inch wide reflective polyester straps and Duraflex quick-release buckles
• Extra-large 15” long x 7” wide PVC-treated main compartment door features double zippers with single paracord pull for speedy operation
• MOLLE system on exterior provides options for attaching accessories and extra gear
• Two-piece mounting yoke with adjustable Velcro panel fastens to both bags with heavy-duty nylon zippers
• Bag bottoms reinforced with heat-resistant, heavyweight canvas panels
• Main compartment features three elastic mesh pockets and one vertical pocket with Velcro closure
• Adjustable Velcro straps inside main compartment to secure rolled clothing, fuel bottle, or other gear
• Universal fit—works great with a wide variety of aftermarket saddlebag supports
• Mesh document pocket with two zippers inside waterproof security flap
• High-vis orange interior lining makes spotting contents easier
• 15.25” wide x 7.25” deep exterior pocket beneath security flap for documents and small essentials
• 9” wide x 4.5” tall clamshell pocket with double zipper pulls beneath security flap is accessible without opening the main compartment
• Double-sided Velcro straps included for securing bag to appropriate mounting points on motorcycle
• Multiple D-rings, MOLLE points, and high-strength nylon loops on exterior provide options for carabiners, bungee cords, etc.
• Waterproof nylon rain covers with elastic gathers and drawstring closure provide extra protection in extreme conditions
• Hand-sewn seams with high-strength polyester thread throughout
Other Best Gear Lists
See all our recommended riding gear.
What To Look For In Adventure / Touring Gloves
Adventure and touring gloves are the multitools of the ADV world, made to suit a wide variety of conditions. Some conditions demand amazing impact protection while others need to provide a strong grip even for hot, sweaty and dusty hands. The secret to a great selection for Adventure/Touring gloves is that they meet all of your needs under various conditions while still providing the comfort you need on a long trek.
There are two main variations in the adventure/touring category. The first is the longer cuff that extends the protection to the wrist and lower arm, while the second offers a short cuff that focuses on protecting the hand. As with any piece of gear, each glove length has its benefits and drawbacks, making personal comfort and preference the deciding factor for many riders.
Regardless of the length that you select, getting the correct size is critical to the functionality and safety of the gloves. Be sure to check out our glove sizing guide to be sure that you are going to get a good fit out of any type of glove that you are purchasing to ensure long-term satisfaction and functionality.
There is no guarantee that gloves will provide complete protection to your hands, but it is certain that your hands will fare far better in the event of an accident if you are wearing a quality pair of purpose-built motorcycle gloves.
Be sure to check back regularly with us here at wBW to read about our latest hands-on reviews of Adventure/Touring gloves and other great products for riders.
At WBW, “Best” Actually Means Something
Remember when you could open up a review of something, and when the publication—magazine, car show, whatever—said “best” they stood behind it? Yea, we remember, and we’re bringing it back.
Here’s how we do things:
We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?
We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.
We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.
We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.
