Saddlebags

In a simpler time

As long as there have been saddles, there have been saddlebags to carry the belongings of those traveling on horseback. Traditionally, saddlebags were made of leather; finer saddlebags had pictures of animals, birds, reptiles, and flowers carved or stamped into the leather. Today's nylon saddlebags attach to the saddle's girth and to the saddle itself by straps and ties. Pommel bags sit to the front of the saddle, pannier bags are fitted over a saddle, and regular saddlebags sit behind the saddle.

The Pony Express began delivering mail in 1860. Young, lightweight riders traveled at top speeds, for a minimum of 75 miles a day, with mail in specially designed saddlebags that fit over the saddle, held in place by the rider's weight, allowing for speedy changing of horses. Over 200 years ago, pioneer doctors covered a territory of up to 50 miles in diameter and 12 townships on horseback. A pair of box-like leather saddlebags connected by a wide belt of tooled leather was used to carry medical instruments and glass vials filled with medicines and powders to treat illnesses and wounds.

From horses to bikes

Saddlebags have endured through the centuries. Cyclists use saddlebags to carry bicycle repair equipment (inner tubes, patches, repair tools), as well as a first-aid kit. Medium and large styles attach to the back of the bike's saddle and are supported by a steel rod frame attached to the saddle rails. Seat bags were once only popular on touring and racing bikes, but they have gained popularity with mountain bike riders.

Motorcyclists can head out on the highway with rear-seat haulers for carrying their gear, or easily accessible tank-top bags that do not disturb the balance of the bike and double as a map holder and a backpack. Soft throw-over saddlebags are versatile and reminiscent of the Old West and Pony Express days. Motorcycle saddlebags can be permanently bolted to bike struts. Fiberglass and factory-installed saddlebags are popular on larger bikes over 1000 cc.