Leather Saddlebag Install Question

Thanev · Mar 11, 2026 at 11:47 PM

Having just purchased a used set of almost new Sportster saddle bags,2 questions come to mind:
1) is there enough space to mount the bags under the actual seat,as the bags are joined by a couple of 5" leather straps laced together,and I need to set the seat over the strap and still be able to fasten the seat properly on my 2004 Bonnie.
I already have the side mount standouts to ensure the bags don't contact the tire on either side.
2)Any suggestions on "killing" the "new" finish on the bags ...giving them an aged look.

Thanks for any feedback
Thane

joe mc donald · Mar 12, 2026 at 7:03 AM

Thanev said: ↑

Having just purchased a used set of almost new Sportster saddle bags,2 questions come to mind:
1) is there enough space to mount the bags under the actual seat,as the bags are joined by a couple of 5" leather straps laced together,and I need to set the seat over the strap and still be able to fasten the seat properly on my 2004 Bonnie.
I already have the side mount standouts to ensure the bags don't contact the tire on either side.
2)Any suggestions on "killing" the "new" finish on the bags ...giving them an aged look.

Thanks for any feedback
Thane
Click to expand...

They should fit. They will probably age quick enough anyway.

Thanev · Mar 12, 2026 at 1:26 PM

joe mc donald said: ↑

They should fit. They will probably age quick enough anyway.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the fittings issue.
As for aging,I ride for comfort due to my age and physical abilities.The bike spends a lot of time indoors,so the look of aged leather appeals to me,and aging naturally will probably take longer than I will be riding...