Saddlebags that work with a passenger and require no rack on V7II

[yourfavorite]

I'm looking for some saddlebags that can work with a passenger but require no pannier racks or anything to be mounted on the bike. I looked into the CBow system but unfortunately it doesn't work with my rack. I currently have some Kriega bags and would be down for their Overlander 30: http://www.kriega.us/overlander-30-motorcycle-pannier-system/ but based on the video it looks like there's a buckle that sits on the seat and wouldn't be comfortable for a passenger to sit on. I'm also not sure it would work well mounted on the V7 since it doesn't have the plastic body to rest on like in their fitting video.

[rodekyll]

Have you ever REALLY travelled with bags?  I tried using soft bags some years ago so I wouldn't have to use racks and it was a disaster.  The bags were unmanageable -- no way to secure them and keep them off the spokes and exhaust.  Add a passenger to that equation and you've got chaos.

$0.02

[rocker59]

What rack do you have?

On my 2010 V7, all the Guzzi luggage rack needed was a couple holes drilled at the rear mounting point to move the rack up a bit, then the Hepco + Becker racks mounted right up.

I've travelled with soft luggage and with hard luggage.

I'll take the hard luggage every time.

[yourfavorite]

This is the rack I have is the new large OEM one that Guzzi offers as part of the MG Garage collection: http://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=75526

I asked AF1 if it was compatible with the C-Bow and they said doesn't look like it but they haven't tried. It looks like the two potential issues would be both trying to mount at the point under the rear end of the seat and the rack might stick out too far and interfere with the c-bow itself or the bag mounting onto it.

Also, is it possible to buy an adapter plate or something that will allow me to turn a non-HB saddlebag into something compatible with the c-bow?

[rocker59]

A pic, just so you know it can be done.  You just have to drill a couple of holes at the rear mounting point so that the rack is lifted a bit.

[bad Chad]

I used soft bags for years, and was quite pleased with the set I used.   I bought a set from, http://www.revpack.com/saddle-bags/   I found them to be excellent quality, and very adjustable.  I used them on my 1100 Bassa and later the 1100 Breva.  They are pretty stiff, and have snap straps for keeping them from moving around.  I have the foam sided deluxe, which I would recommend based on your requirements.   I would still be using them if I hadn't scored a killer deal on matching hard bags!

The deluxe bags have the added advantage of being insulated, thus making them excellent coolers!   I'm pretty confident you could use them with ease on a v7.  Soft bags have their limitations, but they do have one very big advantage, they come completely off in seconds, with no after taste!

[rss29]

I used the OEM leather bags. They're semi-rigid but don't require any permanent mounting points or a rack. They are more stable if you use the included rear grab bar, but I didn't like the look of it so always left it off. They're expensive (about a grand), are pretty small, don't lock, and can't be taken on and off quickly. That said, they're the best-looking option, IMO. A passenger should fit just fine wth them mounted.

[Cam3512]

I have a Stucchi rack (similar), with the C-Bow system on my V7 Special.  The rear mounting point (fender) for both the rack and C-Bows is doubled up.  No problem.

[Arizona Wayne]

I used soft bags for years, and was quite pleased with the set I used.   I bought a set from, http://www.revpack.com/saddle-bags/   I found them to be excellent quality, and very adjustable.  I used them on my 1100 Bassa and later the 1100 Breva.  They are pretty stiff, and have snap straps for keeping them from moving around.  I have the foam sided deluxe, which I would recommend based on your requirements.   I would still be using them if I hadn't scored a killer deal on matching hard bags!

The deluxe bags have the added advantage of being insulated, thus making them excellent coolers!   I'm pretty confident you could use them with ease on a v7.  Soft bags have their limitations, but they do have one very big advantage, they come completely off in seconds, with no after taste!

I too have used Revpack deluxe saddlepacks for decades and they have a lifetime warranty.  Even when their foam pads get bad they're replaced under warranty.    As long as you have rear shocks these bags will not get in your rear tire and the straps to mount them with your passenger won't even feel.  Since I bought this item 1st I've bought other items from Revack over the years.  Never disappointed. 

[yourfavorite]

I have a Stucchi rack (similar), with the C-Bow system on my V7 Special.  The rear mounting point (fender) for both the rack and C-Bows is doubled up.  No problem.

Good to know. I'm going to look for a local place or a place that has a return policy and give it a go.