Have you ever noticed that about 75% of all Sport bike (ie: crotch rocket) riders will always be wearing a backpack while riding? ... While, I have NEVER seen a Harley rider with a backpack. Yes, I know many Harleys do have bags, and you very very rarely see a crotch rocket with bags ... but many Harleys don't have bags, and the riders still never wear a backpack.

So, the question is .... Why do so many of the Sport bike riders you see always have the backpack on there back?

They kinda remind me of a bunch of schoolboys going down the road with there bookbags ... certainly they can't all be on there way to school?

to carry extra rice of coarse!

Dunno, but I noticed that too....

Kinda like the alternakits/goths/skater kids always walking around with backpacks. What the hell are in those things anyways?

Although, I have been guilty of wearing a backpack while riding my sporty because

a) too lazy to put the saddlebags on
b) I have stuff I'll need to carry around when I get where I'm going(i.e. college)
c) the bags are full of other crap and I didn't want to put the tour pack on.

I carry a backpack in my saddlebags everyday.

I can't stand riding with a backpack on.

I also don't know how someone rides anywhere without a bag. I ALWAYS have something with me.

take your pick -

extra pair of gloves
map
rain gear (if I'm not in stich')
glove warmers (when it's cold)
extra layer (when it's gonna be cold)
and a number of other things depending upon the situation (lunch, camera, water, beer etc etc etc)



K

I refuse to put bags on my bike :p They just don't fit it's style. I have a laptop that I'll be taking home every night, so I plan on using a back pack this summer quite a bit.

But you are right, I see a lot of sport bike riders with packs and rarely HD riders. My brother rides his Sporty in Phoenix with a back pack sometimes (laptop). So I guess it's not that there aren't any, just fewer.

Perhaps cause most Harley owners won't ride in the rain, and hence don't need a place to store rain gear or change of clothes. :rolleyes:

I like the looks of my bike without the rollbag and luggage rack. Guess where the laptop and rain gear goes when riding sans rack?

I can't stand riding with a backpack on.K


Just curious, does it create a drag on the rider? What's the reason, because I am plannign on needing to do it a lot this summer.

I recently got out of college and I think I can shed some light on this. Think about the age of the average sportbike owner (I'd guess 18-30). A lot of college-age guys buy them because they're cheap, fast, and fit their current lifestyle. Heck, my first bike was a 95 ninja. I'd say a lot of them are going to/from school or study sessions.
Just my observation from being in school.

Cheers,
Luke

Oh, the no saddle bag thing plays a big part too.

Just curious, does it create a drag on the rider? What's the reason, because I am plannign on needing to do it a lot this summer.


For ME, it's just the feeling of the weight on my back, and pulling on my shoulders.

It's either tight enough to pull on you and therefore a little uncomfortable/distracting (plus can be difficult to get on and off over a jacket with shoulder pads and elbow armor).

OR

IT's not tight enough, and then the load can shift when you lean etc.

I much prefer to have my stuff anchored to the bike in some fashion.

Kev

Shu,

Drag is not the issue. Its bad if you have anything heavy in the pack. The reason is you have your shoulders forward to reach the bars and then have straps pulling back on your shoulders- causes fatigue quickly. Its also kind of uncofortable to have that weight shifting around on you going through turns and have to re-adjust on the fly.

Cheers,
Luke

Ha, Kev, JINX!

Same thought, same time:)

Yea I'm guilty of using a back pack too. I don't drag my pony down with saddle bags. I ride about 70 miles round trip to work and always have lots of things to bring. Just can't do without it (unless i find a great deal on some bags to slow my pony down). Usually it's no problem but I do feel wind gusts more and the old truck wall of air when I pass them on my way.

Ha, Kev, JINX!

Same thought, same time:)


Guess I owe you a BEER!

:cheers :drinkbeer :chtwo

Backpacks are uncool to wear, but very practical. Thats why the sport bike riders will have them and we will not. Same reason they have an uncool sounding 600cc 90+ horsepower engine stock and we have a cool looking and sounding 1200cc 50+ horsepower engine stock.

I wore a backpack for the first month that I owned my bike. I would use it on the occasional commute to work... although it was bloody cold in the November mornings, out here.

Now I have a full sissy bar setup and big pillion bag, which works fairly well for my laptop. If I feel like going to the gym, I can stuff those clothes in there as well.

I am thinking about wearing a CamelBack, though. The hose would be great for drinking some water, while out on the road. ;)

I wear a back pack a lot. Like others here, I won't put saddlebags on my bike as they don't fit it's style. I wear a pack for a number of reasons - carry books and computer to school, clothes to work, I'll take food and stuff with me on longer trips, space for my jacket if it's hot, etc etc.

I agree though, I feel better when it's not on. I'm thinking about getting a tail bag for mine, but the way my seat is angles it may not look quite right.

I have NEVER seen a Harley rider with a backpack.

Why do so many of the Sport bike riders you see always have the backpack on there back?

Can't answer for other riders, only myself. I ride with a backpack. My Sportster is my daily hack and I bring my lunch everyday to work. A backpack fits the need perfectly for me. Even when it's 100°+, and my back is soaked, I still wear my backpack. No baggage on this ride Mr.

I wear a backpack all the time when riding. Like others have said I don't like the looks/cost of adding bags to my bike and I only usually need to carry stuff like work shoes and a coat in my bag. I have never had an issue with it weighing too much or being a strain. I have never come had issues with drag either as I have a bag that has a chest strap that holds the bag nice and tight to the body. In fact when wearing only a lightweight windbreaker i find the backpack very convenient for holding the coat on me instead of letting it billow out around me.

I wear a back pack when I ride to work because I go to the gym during my lunch break and carry my shoes and cloths in it. I must admit that I feel like a dork on a Harley wearing a back-pack though. I was very reluctant to do it the first time but didnt really have any options at the time. However, I really dont think saddle bags look right on a Sportster so I may end up getting some sort of 'touring bag' for the back...which will necessitate a different seat and sissy bars and...

Anyway, a backpack will have to be worn for now when I commute :-(

I wear a back pack most of the time. That may change when my bags get here. I carry stuff for work or the gym with me. I also use it when I am going to pick up small things like milk or something. I amuse to carring one though even when I don't have the sporty. The bags I ordered are detachable that meet the uniform requirement for the airforce. Plain black, no ornamentation, etc.

Looks like the answer is MOSTLY about luggage.

Those who have it, don't wear backpacks much.

Those who don't (but still find they need to bring stuff) often do.

And since most sport bike DON'T have luggage, that would make sense.

Kev

I ride with a backpack everytime I ride to work. I own saddlebags, but I took them off, they just didn't look right. I keep my work stuff and luch in it. It is much more convenient than saddlebags. Just get off the bike and walk, none of this fumbling in the saddlebags to get the stuff out. :smoke

I must admit that I feel like a dork on a Harley wearing a back-pack though.

Man, you don't have to apologize for wearing a backpack. Ride your own ride, and be your own rider.

I ride with a backpack everytime I ride to work. I own saddlebags, but I took them off, they just didn't look right. I keep my work stuff and luch in it. It is much more convenient than saddlebags. Just get off the bike and walk, none of this fumbling in the saddlebags to get the stuff out. :smoke

Hey I realize we don't see eye-to-eye on this preference.

But FUMBLING?

I got 2 latches I flip up and the lip pops open, grab my pack, flip up the lid and go.

AND I can fit over a case of beer in EACH BAG! (WITH ICE!) :p

I am guilty of wearing a backpack while riding my bike simple because I do go to college and I do need those books. Since I do not what to relocate my turn signales saddle bags are out of the questions so the only option is a back pack. It does fatigue me quite a bit when I wear it but the ride is only 15 miles. I have not seen any other harley riders wearing back packs in my area.

Since I do not what to relocate my turn signales saddle bags are out of the questions so the only option is a back pack.

Actually not true.

Lots of slant saddlebags will fit in front of the turn signals.

My SILs 04 883 has a set with the HD bag supports, no problems.

Kev

I got 2 latches I flip up and the lip pops open, grab my pack, flip up the lid and go.


I don't think we disagree, the step(s) you just described is fumbling, in my book. Nothing better than getting off and walking away. Anyways sporty's look better to me without any bags. Again just my humble opinion, I do what suits me best. :smoke

I don't think we disagree, the step(s) you just described is fumbling, in my book. Nothing better than getting off and walking away. Anyways sporty's look better to me without any bags. Again just my humble opinion, I do what suits me best. :smoke


LOL, yup, we pretty much disagree on everything from the definition of fumbling, to what looks best.

But, I guess we agree on doing whatever suits us best.

:cucumber

Backpacks are uncool to wear


I'm ok with that....riding isn't a style statement for me :smoke I have worn shorts, sleeveless T-shirts and flipflop when going to the gas station to buy smokes, so a little back pack isn't going to cramp my style in the least :smoke

Actually not true.

Lots of slant saddlebags will fit in front of the turn signals.

My SILs 04 883 has a set with the HD bag supports, no problems.

Kev

I agree. My Willie and Max Slants fit fine (without relocating turn signals) and there is still enough room for the old lady too.

I recently got out of college and I think I can shed some light on this. Think about the age of the average sportbike owner (I'd guess 18-30). A lot of college-age guys buy them because they're cheap, fast, and fit their current lifestyle. Heck, my first bike was a 95 ninja. I'd say a lot of them are going to/from school or study sessions.
Just my observation from being in school.

Cheers,
Luke

Oh, the no saddle bag thing plays a big part too.Yeah, I think you're right on the money. When I was in school I wore a backpack a lot. It's tough to carry the saddle bags from class to class :laugh . If you live in a college town (which I do) you see lots of backpacks regardless of the brand of bike. There just happen to be lots more crotch rockets than HD's around campus. It's just a demographics thing.

i wear a back pack every day to work on the bike.
i have one that straps across the chest and waist.
that evens the load and is quite comfortable
i think it actually feels more stable than when i put saddle bags on

cheers
crackers

I'm a big boy... lets leave it at that. I tried the backpack on my Ninja and just couldn't deal with the feeling it gave me while reaching forward. They have some nice biker specific packs nowadays, but I've never tried them. I used to have a tail bag that served my purposes well, and i always carried a tank bag.

When I got my 1200R i thought about putting a tank bag, but my buddy and wife shot it down, saying it just didn't fit the bike. They were right. I don't like the look of saddlebags on the 1200R. The 1200C seems to fit the saddlebag look a little better, but this is just my opinion.

I'll ultimately get a sissy bar w/luggage rack and get a T-Bag roll on it. a compromise i would say.

Wear my backpack everyday I ride. Have to carry my laptop to work. Just never cared for the look of saddle bags personally. Backpacks might look out of place but it serves my purpose and is very economical.

Saddle bags don't fit into my biking style, one day if it's a new street glide with hard bags only. I use a back pack for short and long trips and i just throw the back pack over my bars just cause it's easier to carry things that way for me. Once i get to my destination the backpack stays behind and i ride free without one.:tour

BTW-If it don't fit in your pockets do you really need it anyway :roflblack

I have some small saddlebags and a 't-bag' setup for trips, but for commuting the 25 miles to work, if I need to carry stuff, I'll either use the cargo net on the seat, or take a messenger bag-which has been more comfortable for me than a backpack.

Kim

Most of the time I put all my stuff in my little bag on the bars. But if I have a back pack when I need to carry more stuff. I have no problem with weight or pulling on my shoulds.

I used to ride with a backpack all the time. Before I owned any form of luggage it was all I had, made the trips between Milwaukee and Chicago with a backpack many times over the summer.

I have a nice backpack I get from school that has chest and a lower torso strap... it doesn't exactly suck to ride with a pack, but the difference between it and just a jacket is night and day. I love my T-Bag!

i've seen plenty of harley riders with backpacks

I use a backpack every day when i go to or from school, I'm currently in high school and do not have saddlebags yet, so this is my only option.

I ride every day. Before I had my hard bags and a SAC bag for the sissy bar, I would carry a back pack. My bike is 27 months old and I just had the 25K service completed. So it is used. I don't think I have used the back pack again but would if needed. I also wear First Gear riding overpants when needed. I am not a fashion statement, just practical.

I've ridden with a backpack, but it's not my first choice for reasons others have stated. I'm currentlyadding detachable sissy bar/rack & saddlebags. In all fairness, several of the sportbike riders I've seen with "backpacks" during the summer are actually wearing hydration packs.

Depends on where I'm riding to. If it's to work, then I usually have a backpack on. If it's for fun, then no backpack. Long ride, might have a backpack on. Short ride, nope. Lately, it's been 23 degrees in the morning and upper 50's to low 60's in the late afternoon. Gotta put the cold clothes somewhere.

I ride every day. Before I had my hard bags and a SAC bag for the sissy bar, I would carry a back pack. My bike is 27 months old and I just had the 25K service completed. So it is used. I don't think I have used the back pack again but would if needed. I also wear First Gear riding overpants when needed. I am not a fashion statement, just practical.

Me too, I didn't have saddle bags for about 8 months and used a backpack everyday! Sounds like alot of people did. Then after I got the saddle bags, I sometimes still have to take the back pack in a saddle bag to fill up when I go shopping... A girl can't have too many bags :)

BTW-If it don't fit in your pockets do you really need it anyway :roflblack

I really don't think my lunch would fit in my pockets too well (not unless I'm eating MREs for lunch).

and my gym bag would be an even worse fit. :laugh

I carry a backpack on the bikes that don't have storage - this includes my XB9S and my XL1200R. I can't bear to put a tank bag, saddle bags, or sissy bar on the XL1200R - I think it would ruin the look of the bike.

So, the bike looks great and I look like a dork. :D

I really don't think my lunch would fit in my pockets too well (not unless I'm eating MREs for lunch).

and my gym bag would be an even worse fit. :laugh

Could you imagine the look on everyones face when you sat down at lunch time.:roflblack

I'll get saddlebags when I find some that are throw overs. No mounting hardware and can be attatched under a solo seat somehow.
Until then, backpack.

I used a backpack too. Then I finally got the locking hardbags on so now I carry the backpack (purse is just too small for me) in the bags along with lots & lots of other stuff... even got a small magnetic tank bag so I can follow a map without fidgeting around and can put it in the bags when I am parked where I can't watch the bike. And, I have a small cooler to strap on the rack to keep the camera bag in so it doesn't cook in the Arizona heat!
I guess I should call her my little packhorse!

I wear a back pack pretty much all the time now. I don't have the option to use saddle bags since I have a side mount license plate bracket. It would look retarded to just have one bag on there. Anyhow, i don't see why people think it stupid looking or what not. Who cares? It's all about fuction, not cool points. :laugh

I wear a back pack a lot. I carry everything from my helmet and gloves to fireworks to booze to groceries the Home Depot stuff. Don't got no bags, so you gotta do what you gotta do.

I wear a back pack a lot. I carry everything from my helmet and gloves to fireworks to booze to groceries the Home Depot stuff. Don't got no bags, so you gotta do what you gotta do.


Fireworks and booze got my attention there.

I guess the chances of an off igniting the fireworks are pretty darn slim.

But can you imagine the damage broken glass might do in an off!

yikes.

Kev

I wear a backpack when I commute to work. Laptop and Gym clothes are a necessity for me.

I ride with a backpack when it suits. I don't like the look of a sissy bar or saddlebags.

I do have a removable sissy bar and luggage rack which I use for longer rides or when 2 up, but when riding alone on shorter trips I use a backpack.

Cheers,

Brett

I wear a backpack in the mornings during this winter, because it's been so mild, the overclothing I need in the morning is too warm for the ride after work, so I need a place to put the clothes. I dont care what I look like with a back pack, but I do prefer to go without, it's a matter of practicality, and for now it works.

I got one of those free Buell backpacks they were giving away. All I had to do was ride a new XB12S Buell, and they gave me a free backpack. What a great deal!

Anyway I use it all the time when I need to take something small along. It is a nice way of carrying things.

I refuse to put bags on my bike :p They just don't fit it's style. I have a laptop that I'll be taking home every night, so I plan on using a back pack this summer quite a bit.
same story here! I actually really like the flexibility that a backpack offers and I don't think they are uncomfortable when riding...my sister-in-law rides a sportster as well and she uses an old army surplus gas mask bag slung across her chest...at least that's what it looks...it works pretty well for her and she can carry a few things with her

I keep a backpack strapped to the sissy bar alot. I donot really care for the look, but It is just to damn handy.

Like most of everybody else, I ride with a backpack only when necessary, and almost always only for work. My work commute is 50 miles roundtrip, and I may cross several long bridges depending on the route I choose. One downside to the backpack that I face is that there is often a strong crosswind at these bridges - and the backpack definately increases the buffeting I get from the wind.

Hey Y,all:

I wear a backpack when I ride to work on my baby. I carry my eats, my books, my cell phone and whatever. I also have saddlebags on my girl, but the backpack is easy to carry in and out of work. It ceases to amaze me of the number of adult people who care what other people think. I am my own man and other people don't like it, tough shit.

Ride to Live and Live to Ride

Reb

I ride with a backpack to and from work, but rarely use it on "joy" rides... I mostly put water, lunch, and tools in there, doesn't bother me at all during my ride... i actually see a lot of "cruiser" riders with backpacks on more often than crotch-rocket riders... (with or w/o saddlebags)

I'll get saddlebags when I find some that are throw overs. No mounting hardware and can be attatched under a solo seat somehow.
Until then, backpack.
Here are some that I have on my bike

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Saddle_Bags_009.JPG
http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Saddle_Bags_007.JPG

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?t=19511&highlight=saddle+bags

i wear a back pack every day to work on the bike.

crackers
Geez Crackers.....a couple questions
1. Why do you have to wear a back pack when you work on your bike?;)
2. Why do you have to work on your bike everyday?!?!?!:roflblack :D :D

I don't wear a backpack.....but I often strap on a Harley Duffle to the seat for my rain gear, gloves, lunch, etc. I've got a small detachable rack that I've had on the bike ONE time! Of course it's a Harley rack so since it and the hardware were only about $150.......who cares if I don't use it?!?!?:doh

I used to have a backpack strapped to the sissy bar for unexpected cargo. I never wore it to haul stuff.

yea....a backpack strapped down with bungee.......but even then a 3 foot bong attracts some attention......

Can't use saddlebags on my bike cuz of V&H SS2R exhaust. I've got a HD detachable solo rack and fitted bag (expandable, carries a six-pack + incidentals). Also have a armoured riding jacket that has a zip-on backpack for cruisin (no sliding around). :tour

Some of the local HD riders I know give me a hard time cuz they think backpacks are dorky. They only ride on weekends and sunny daze! They only need Credit Cards and cellphone (damn rubs).:dunno

I wear a backpack.....actually...backpacks can be a sporty look....and I think crotchrocket riders....see it as function and form at the same time...because the sporty look kinda goes with the bike.

I do wear a backpack when I make beer runs....how else am I gonna carry a six pack. My bike can NOT have saddlebags....dont like the look.

I wear a backpack when I ride to work. Lunch and warm clothes. I wear a freebie buell pack when it is warm out, and when it gets colder and I need more clothes, I wear a military pack. It is great, the straps are easy to cinch up and loosen quickly, making it easy to get on and off. I think, no I know that I look cool :smoke

I wear a backpack on my Harley quite often. When I ride to work, I need a pair of shoes to wear in the office, a rain suit just in case, cell phone, etc. I don't have saddle bags (except a throwover set for touring only), and I only use my q/r rack and sissy bar when taking a passenger. It's the easiest way to carry stuff.
And yes, I've heard comments that it looks stupid but I don't care.

I use a back pack when I go to campus because I have to carry my computer but then I am a student and by definition a nerd.

Only one other person mentioned a messenger bag. I use one to carry my martial arts uniform when I ride to the dojo. I feel less dorky and it is totally practical.

i've worn a backpack, but don't really care for it. i use ghost brackets so i can remove my saddlebags when i don't have anything that i need to carry. so the bike can still look great and i can look cool (yeah, right). but when going on long trips where you have to have extra stuff, change of clothes, etc.... then the saddlebags beat a backpack hands down. then after you get where your going, the ghost brackets allow me to remove them and leave them at the campsite, hotel room, etc. and cruise without. best of both worlds.

Well I actually use a small backpack all the time. I use it to carry my laptop to and from work when I ride and use sometimes to pick something up from the store. I try not to where it when just joy riding though

LV

True story... Last October my bro was riding to work, but didn't have his saddlebags. So instead of wearing a backpack, he decided to bungee it to his seat. While on his way to work, one of the bungees came undone, and his backpack came loose and got sucked between the rear fender and tire, causing his rear wheel to lock up and made him skid sideways in the fast lane on the highway for 50-100 feet (his estimation)

Somehow he never went down and regained control. His pack had a tupperware container with his lunch, a deck of cards and his work pager. The friction melted the tupperware and his pager, and the cards flew all over the highway. One card was lying right by his feet face up, and it was the ace of spades.... (Oooohhhhh, scary.) He saved the shredded backpack and the ace, and hung them on the wall.

that's not a back PACK those rocketeers are wearin'... it's a back PAD for when they 12 their bikes and they slide off the back.

I use a backpack for the laptop. Maybe I'm paranoid, but I think I absorb shock better than bungeeing it to the seat.

I have worn a backpack...simply because i usually carry extra clotes (jacket and such) or because i'm going somewhere to buy something and i DONT want bags on my bike...i PERSONNALY dont like them on a sporty

backpack every day, its got my lunch, rain paints, and in the winter mornings i wear thermals and put them in the back pack on the ride home. (yes it gets cold down here, it got 28 last week, for one day.) no real discomfort, only an 8 mile ride one way. i also loosen the straps and let the bag rest on the seat.
i have saddle bags, but ,imho, dont think my bike looks quit rite with them on for every day riding. long trips they will go on.

I basically ride with a packpack every day now. I used to use a bag on the sissy bar but since I now swap bikes on a daily basis it's easier to keep my wet weather gear and other stuff in a packpack and take that regardless of which bike I'm riding.

I also take a computer with me to work each day and agree that I probably absorb the shocks better than strapping it to the bike. I had a hard drive fail after putting it in the sissy bar bag for a couple of months - maybe that wasn't the cause but I'm not taking any chances.

Cheers,

Brett

I wear one just about every day of the week.

In fact, after a year of looking for a good hard-side backpack at a decent price, I finally bought one on Ebay. Should be here in a week.

I love my Camelback Trans Alp. It sure is nice to have a shot of water or whatever ready to gulp down. In this part of the country water is life. Also need no CCW with a Camelback, plus plenty of room for some heavy artillery. With all the straps the weight is not an issue for me. I got used to one mountain biking. If it fits well you forget it's even there. Saddlebags on a sporty, not for me.

I play trumpet and I bought a special trumpet case that can be worn as a back pack and when I go to rehersals or gigs in decent weather I take the bike unless it is a gig where I have to wear a tux. Can you imagine the looks of a guy wearing a tux riding a sporty with loud pipes. Dave

It might not look right on a Harley, but I wear a backpack when I need to carry stuff. I have a hydration pak in the summer (it gets hot)

I used to wear a backpack, 'til I got my solo seat rack, now every thing gets bungied on :tour I usually have small roll packs on it (with rain gear / spare jacket liner / Cruz Tools / flat tire kit and 2 bungie nets). If I need to carry anything.... (from a stuffed backpack or a 12 -pack of cans or a take-out order), it gets bungied on top of the roll packs and I am good to go :sporty: If I don't need to have someone else with me, I can ride and not cage it ! :chop

I wear one when I'm heading to the college,any other time I have no backpack or any bags on the bike,don't like the look of them on my ride.

Speaking as one with a Sporty AND a crotch rocket (suzuki katana 600), I'd have to say, I DO wear a backback on my crotch rocket, and rarely on the Harley. Although I do not know why. It just looks better on the crotch rocket, plus on that one, you're so bent over, the backpack covers up my tattoo. Which isn't a problem on the Harley where I sit straight up and my shirt covers everything. Plus its easier to put a little luggage rack or bags or something on the Harley.

Got a decent looking Sissy bar bag that i use sometimes. It's big enough for my laptop. I would not be comfortable with a backpack at all, I don't even like them when not riding.

But Riding with a backpack would have to be a PITA!!!

Or rather the back !!

I've got saddlebags on my girl, and a luggage rack and backrest, but when I ride her to work, I always wear my backpack.

Reb

I will wear a back pack if I make a run to the store or something...I usualy wear fatigues with lots of pockets when I ride so I can stuff them full of crap.
I had to cut the extra strap off of my back pack because the first time I got on the interstate it slapped my right nipple til I could get off at the next exit.
Ouch!

The "back pack" is actually a carry bag for a pocket bike for use when the crotch rocket breaks.... :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack

Heck, I'm 51. I wear a backpack all the time on the Sporty when I need to carry something and don't want to ride my other bike. In fact, I just picked up a real nice Buell single strap bag (kind of like a bicycle messenger bag) at my local HD dealer for $15. It was the best deal in the whole store.

I don't have hundreds of $ to waste one bags so a backpack works great for me. Besides it's a Sportster not a bagger. If I was going long distance then I would reconsider of course, because you need to be prepared.

I like the look of my sporty with just a stage I on it (slash cut pipes).
Library books, lunch, clothes, and whatever go in my backpack. Could not care less if it looks cool or not. Not a big deal IMO as far as wind drag or comfort.

BACK PACK: If you fold a bodybag just right.......Well some of the sport bike riders maybe know where their riding talents might take them. They want to be prepared.

...parachutes!!!:p

necessary evil for me.

can't afford a sissybar & bag yet,

so i need a backpack to carry clothes, lunch & gear to work.

if i'm not working, i don't wear it...i don't enjoy the way it feels.

One more backpacker here.

I don't have bags or a sissy bar. It wouldn't look right on my bike.
I mainly ride around town, not much touring. Everything I need for work or school fits, and the price is right.

I ride a sports bike as well as Harleys and have worn back packs on both without any real issues.

The way I see it is that if I cant carry it on my back then I'll take the car to get it, but that means I cant ride the bike, and thats what its all about ..... getting out there and riding.

I used to simply stuff bits and pieces into my jacket, but too much of that over a long period of time just wrecks jackets and back packs are cheaper.

As far as pulling or slipping when on is concerned, I have a Knox back pack that is designed for biking and sits just fine when strapped up correctly.

If its all aboutlooking cool, then leave the bike at home if you need to carry something ........ for me its cool to be on the bike ...... nuff said.

:tour

I use a backpack when I'm commuting...
maybe a lot of H-D riders don't commute on their bikes ;).

I wear a back pack most of the time. My $3.00 one from Big Lots worked till I found one at Wally World that is black, orange and gray. Matches my silver bike and is Harley colors. Has a collapsible handle and wheels. I splurged and spent the $24.95 for it. Actually rests on the pillion pad so there is no weight on my shoulders. Works to put my gear in when I go into a store or where ever so nothing gets left on the bike. When I took my trip this past summer it held everything. Stays dry in the rain and I can carry clothes to suit the weather as when I leave for work it can be in the 20's but coming home it can be 60. I dress to be comfortable not to make a statement. I did walk into a Wally World once and they told me I'd have to check my pack. I simply told them I don't think so and kept walking.

I got a great back pack a few years back, made by Dainese specifically for use on bikes, it sits high on your back and has a full race style spine protector built in (like in their 1 pc race suits), best thing ever.

See, I read a story about a bloke who went down to the shops to get a 6 pack of beer, put it in his floppy back back, crashed his bike, landed on his back..

Figure what was stronger, 6 pack of beer or his spine...

Gave me the creeps..

This is the one I am getting... should be here tomorrow.

http://www.boblbee.com/jsp/public/productus/p_hard_ml_exec.jsp

http://www.boblbee.com/jsp/public/productus/product_info_full_size.jsp?articleNumber=303046

I will either wear a backpack or strap it to a luggage rack sometimes if I have so much stuff that it doesn't all fit in my saddlebags. If I don't have my saddlebags on and only have alittle bit to carry I'll wear my Mountainsmith Day Lumbar bag (some will say it's a glorified fanny pack, but to me it's a backpack with removable shoulder straps).
http://www.mountainsmith.com/store/shop_image/product/bbe9644eae5da5d5c6d89a3b33687645.jpg

I refuse to mutilate the spirit of my 1200s by putting bags on it. However, i often have need to carry some item, bread, milk,beer,camera equip, binoculars etc. etc. I have found a Sling bag to be a perfect solution. I am not even aware of it being on me when I ride-- as opposed to a regular backpack- which is an annoying Monkey. The Sling I use, I got at Wal-Mart for $20. You can spend a little bit more and get some larger fancier ones-- but this one suits my purposes. Again, I am totally unaware of it, when I am riding -- thats the beauty of it, for me. I guess I look somewhat dorky going down the road with it-- but I got over all that image crap a long time ago.

I got a great back pack a few years back, made by Dainese specifically for use on bikes, it sits high on your back and has a full race style spine protector built in (like in their 1 pc race suits), best thing ever.

See, I read a story about a bloke who went down to the shops to get a 6 pack of beer, put it in his floppy back back, crashed his bike, landed on his back..

Figure what was stronger, 6 pack of beer or his spine...

Gave me the creeps..

yeah, i always wondered about those 'hard' backpacks that are supposed to protect your laptop, etc..

i can't imagine what it would feel like to be slammed onto a road with a very hard lump pushing right on your spinal cord...can't imagine it would HELP you...

I have a messenger bag from either Beans or Landsend (I forget which). It stays on just fine bu is less restrictive than a backpack. Carry the usual lunch and papers stuff.

Black north face backpack for me. I am not ready to commit to saddlebags just yet.......

I usually wear a backpack for the convenience of bringing everything I put in it with me when I'm off the bike or if I stop to pick-up something on the way home I can just walk in the house with it on then empty it out.

Here's my hillbilly tour(back)pack I used for a 3 day trip to Bristol TN. I all sits on a rack that fits into the backrest post hole on the seats. Homemade, cost:$0. "Came in just over budget."http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m54/cwissler/tourpackback3.jpghttp://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m54/cwissler/tourpackback2.jpgThere even room for my banjo![IMG]http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m54/cwissler/tourpackback.jpg

I also prefer the no bag look, so I have the backpack thing going on, to carry my thermos of coffee,and lunch, to work.

Tom

I bought a HD back pack when I bought my Sporty 2 1/2 yrs ago, and use it almost every day. I'd rather have decent saddlebags, but can't bring myself to part with the small fortune thay want for good bags. Riding with the back pack is doable, and you get used to stuffing it and wearing it, but it's more of an enjoyable commute without it. (30 miles a day). No doubt one day soon I will get saddlebags as I'm no spring chicken, and some days if it's loaded heavy, it's bothersome. Just my $.02 .

I just got my Sporty this summer, and finished grad school this fall, so a backpack was a regular necessity. Also, I tend to cart books back and forth from my library job, so it helps there, too. However, I opt for a messenger bag with a cross-strap to prevent load shifting. With an adjustable shoulder strap, it can actually be adjusted to rest on the passenger seat (while still being secured to my body) to prevent pulling my shoulders/torso back from my handlebars.

Looks like the answer is MOSTLY about luggage.

Those who have it, don't wear backpacks much.

Those who don't (but still find they need to bring stuff) often do.

And since most sport bike DON'T have luggage, that would make sense.

Kev

Now there's the best reasoning I have seen yet.

I have the Sporty and a sport bike too. I don't generally use a backpack on either but I do have one for each bike and they work very well for roughly 20 pounds or less. Neither of them creates a problem if they are packed right and adjusted properly on my back which is high, not low. I don't find them uncomfortable at all and I have used them for longer rides too. If I am going out and need to carry something back that won't fit under my ride jacket then I will take an empty back pack to bring the articles home. They may look funny but they dang sure get the job done.....

I've got two side saddle bags and two bikersfriend bags (one on pillion, one on luggage rack). I should have taken a backpack on my trip to FL so I could have taken my laptop.

to carry extra rice of coarse!

:lolsign
:lolsign
:lolsign

i agree with some others on here, saddle bags on my sportster just isn't my style. i wear a back pack when i need my laptop at work or when i'm riding to the beach to carry a towl and whatnot, other than that its no bag at all. as far as the age thing goes and riding a sport bike, i'm happy to say that i fall in that age group but proudly own a harley. i don't know many other 24 year olds that would make my same choice. i guess maybe i am fortunate enough to have landed a good job out of college to afford my toy.

Wow, how did I miss this thread?

I wear a backpack to work everyday on my Sporty.

I must have missed this thread too.

I've ridden a couple longer trips on a sport bike so I'm used to having a backpack. Now that I'm a little older, I'm wanting to take more along all the time (such as a tool kit... although over 9 years I never once needed to use it on the 20 year old sport bike).

After forgetting a tomato from the grocery store in my old backpack (I washed it and scrubbed it but there's still residue I can't get off), I figured I'd get a bigger pack for longer trips, etc. I ended up with the backpack in my sig (review link). The nice thing about it, besides the comfort and sercureness of the adjustable strap system, is that the weight of anything substantial sits on my back seat. So far, I haven't noticed much weight at all while riding.

I also ride with a back pack as I don't like the look of bags on a sporty. It works well but I'm sure 20lbs. is about the limit for comfort on a long haul.

I don't like any bags on my bike either. I ride with a back pack, where else you gonna carry your beer and parts from the shop?

I ride with a back pack, laptop etc, never had a problem and don't worry about what I look like.....BUT bags on the bike do not look good to me.

Bottom line is do what is good for you and :censor what others think.

i ride with a backpack but then again im riding a cafe'd sporty so its kinda like a crotchrocket so not sure if it counts...lol

I find that with my parachute a back pack is just too much.

I just picked up the Icon Urban Tank bag.
You can wear it as a backpack or a tank bag.
It holds any laptop, plus lunch some clothes or boots, or dress shoes.
Its a perfect sized day bag, that also holds your full face helmet when your away from the bike.
Just about the best bag I could find, and I have a few.

i ride with a backpack if i have to take something somewhere. In Milwaukee, you can get pretty much anywhere you need to go in 15-20 mins or less. atleast in my case. so shoulder fatigue etc doesnt really become an issue for me.

i personally dont think my bike would look good with luggage on it, i am probably going to work on a decent looking sissy bar to mount my backpack to when i need to go on longer trips. not to mention, i cant afford to put any luggage on my bike.. buying the bike broke me! :clap

I just picked up the Icon Urban Tank bag.
You can wear it as a backpack or a tank bag.
It holds any laptop, plus lunch some clothes or boots, or dress shoes.
Its a perfect sized day bag, that also holds your full face helmet when your away from the bike.
Just about the best bag I could find, and I have a few.

is there a "spot" for the laptop or does it just go in with everything else? i'm just weary about putting the laptop by the magnets.

also.. what are the approximate inside dimensions? i couldnt find them on the sites i found it for sale on.

I just picked up the Icon Urban Tank bag.
You can wear it as a backpack or a tank bag.
It holds any laptop, plus lunch some clothes or boots, or dress shoes.
Its a perfect sized day bag, that also holds your full face helmet when your away from the bike.
Just about the best bag I could find, and I have a few.

No problems with the tank bags magnets and your laptop? I'd be a little nervous, but then again I'm not really even sure it's a problem.

is there a "spot" for the laptop or does it just go in with everything else? i'm just weary about putting the laptop by the magnets.

also.. what are the approximate inside dimensions? i couldnt find them on the sites i found it for sale on.
I have an old EMS bag that had a padded laptop sleeve so I just use that.
But you can find the padded laptop sleeves pretty easy now a days.

No problems with the tank bags magnets and your laptop? I'd be a little nervous, but then again I'm not really even sure it's a problem.
I'm a desktop tech so I'll fix it myself if I have any issues.
Really though, I worry more about putting my laptop next to a working speaker than in the tank bag.

i run with a backpack on when i take the sporty to work or the store or something.. basically when i need to carry stuff that doesn't fit in my pockets.. it's useful and i think the bagger look is kinda ugly for a sportster.

Really though, I worry more about putting my laptop next to a working speaker than in the tank bag.

I think that the issues with speakers/magnets is more the moving through the MF/EMF, such as if you move the laptop (or magnetic recordable media) around the magnet or vice versa. You do this every time you place it in or take it out of your bag. There might be a little danger with bumps in the road too.

A working speaker is constantly introducing and eliminating EMF's at high intensities in addition to the magnets constant magnetic field. Which is why, I think, keeping it next to a working speaker is worse.

Who cares. Opinions are like a##holes

Who cares. Opinions are like a##holes

So very profound. :rolleyes:

I think that the issues with speakers/magnets is more the moving through the MF/EMF, such as if you move the laptop (or magnetic recordable media) around the magnet or vice versa. You do this every time you place it in or take it out of your bag. There might be a little danger with bumps in the road too.

A working speaker is constantly introducing and eliminating EMF's at high intensities in addition to the magnets constant magnetic field. Which is why, I think, keeping it next to a working speaker is worse.
Exactly, nice to see someone knows how speakers work.
Laptops aren't the fragile things that most people think they are anymore.
Yes most are made of plastic so then bend way too easy, and the mommy boards don't like to bend. But common sense people, use some.
The biggest issue with carrying a laptop with you every day is the temp changes. Well that and the occasional run in with the brown water.:laugh

Probably because they are broke students and cannot afford a Harley.

I take a backpack nearly everywhere I go, even when I'm in the car.
It started in college when I rode a 10 speed bicycle to school every day and that's how I realized how practical they are. When I got my first motorcycle it seemed natural to continue wearing the back pack. Most often, the things I bring are for use where I'm going so the backpack provides a way to carry your stuff around once you get to your destination. If you carry something heavy (case of beer) and your bike has an upright riding position, just loosen the straps until the weight rests on the back seat. The only downside I've found is when you want to ride two-up and still bring stuff. That's when I'd like to have saddle bags to put my backpack in.
I had one Honda GL-500 touring bike with hard bags and the left bag was exclusively for the back pack.

It just doesn't fit the "Look" that some people want.
Know what I mean?
I use one myself all the time too.
Which is why I have way to many bags.
One for each type of situation.
My 2 favs right now are the Camelbak trailblazer and the new Icon tank bag.

I carry a backpack to work, because I put my food and other necessary $hit in there. Who cares what other people are doing- why is everyone so freakin' obsessed with what others do?

I have a backpack that I bungee down on the luggage rack quite often. I hate saddlebags, think they're fugly.

Kinda like the alternakits/goths/skater kids always walking around with backpacks. What the hell are in those things anyways?

what if your a skater kid and your ride a harley?

i ride with a backpack because i dont want bags on my bike. sometimes ill strap the bag to the sissy bar, but rarely.

as to whats in their bags?
skateboard, sweatshirt, beer, camera, food, gym clothes, peraphanalia.

i carry my backpack everywhere. hiking, skiing, why should riding be different? no drag. dont even notice its there. now if i was on a sportbike with my profile being different, i imagine it would create a bit of drag.

Gee, I ride with leather back pack all the time. I hate strapping my lunch on the handlebars. I see lots of H-D even BT riders with them. What's the big deal?

Gee, I ride with leather back pack all the time. I hate strapping my lunch on the handlebars.
I tie my jean jacket to the handle bars... :smoke
Thats for the trip home after the sun goes down.

Why would anyone strap a load to their body when you have a 500+lb machine to carry it for you?

Backpacks can shift, and all the load is on you. In a slide, the load on your body becomes a hazard. In a turn, it keeps the center of gravity high, instead of low - where it should be.

A small bag on the rear will do it. You don't need a "bagger" to carry your beer. I carry a bungie cargo net in my tool bag, and keep a detachable tail rack in the shed for grocery runs.

For day to day - a small tailbag on my fender for my laptop. It doesn't change the look of the bike at all.

Put the load where it belongs - on the bike.

Just my .02 of course...

I use one on my rocket from time to time and it is just so I can carry stuff with me. I don't always have it but if I am going to the store to pick something up I take it along.

I use a backpack because I don't want to put the hardware on my bike for quick detachable bags.....


...now, maybe if they had quick detachable hardware....maybe then I'd consider it...:wonderlan

I've made grocery runs and ridden home with 30 or 40 pounds of stuff in a larger backpack. As long as it's strapped on snug, it's not a problem. I have to keep it snug so it doesn't hit my rear fender...:p

I have ridden alot with a bag, and it is pretty comfortable. Now I go to College, and I can see why alot of crotch rocket guys have bags. they either work, or they go to college and work. I happen to own a sporty, but I fit that category anyways. that, and Sport bikes dont have saddle bags really ,and I dislike saddle bags on my bike.

just bought a new backpack/laptop carrier for this year. water proof (we'll see bout that!) and is wired up so you can put an mp3 player in it, and connect a set headphones to a jack in the shoulder strap. pretty slick. Things made by Swiss Army was like $50 or so. i am however still going to look into a sissy bar and bag as well. if i can get/make one that looks right.

I have ridden alot with a bag, and it is pretty comfortable. Now I go to College, and I can see why alot of crotch rocket guys have bags. they either work, or they go to college and work. I happen to own a sporty, but I fit that category anyways. that, and Sport bikes dont have saddle bags really ,and I dislike saddle bags on my bike.


the majority of saddle bags for sportbikes that i've looked at, unless you get a larger tank mounted one, all seem to be just big enough for a bag lunch and thats about it.

I use a backpack when riding back and forth to work. It's handy, holds my paperwork and lunch and I don't have to keep those ugly saddle bags on my bike when I don't really need them

Obviously there should have been a poll on this thread. Looks like 50% or more wear a backpack at least some of the time. I carry one just about everywhere I go.

Obviously there should have been a poll on this thread. Looks like 50% or more wear a backpack at least some of the time. I carry one just about everywhere I go.

and by the looks of your bike... i can see why!

your bike looks hot man! :smoke

and by the looks of your bike... i can see why!

your bike looks hot man! :smoke

Thank you XLbeerd!

I end up wearing a backpack a lot because my sportbike has no storage whatsoever, and because I use it to commute. I have to carry my purse, maybe some water, clothes if I am going to stay somewhere, computer for work...etc.

I have seen one guy that rides to college where I go, and he has a magenetic tank top bag. Most of the cruiser guys have saddle bags. everyone else that doesnt have saddle bags uses backpacks and laptop bags strapped to the sissy bar. If I ride on the weekend, I dont take a bag at all. everything I need fits in my multiple pockets. I

I have seen one guy that rides to college where I go, and he has a magenetic tank top bag. Most of the cruiser guys have saddle bags. everyone else that doesnt have saddle bags uses backpacks and laptop bags strapped to the sissy bar. If I ride on the weekend, I dont take a bag at all. everything I need fits in my multiple pockets. I

I have a magnetic tank bag as well but it is cumbersome to carry around if you have to take it off and walk around with it. they dont have a shoulder strap or anything like a normal bag does.

One posibility could be that most Sport Bike riders are daily riders, on their way to work, ect. Morst guys that ride Harlyes are joy riding... I ride my bike as often as possible.. almost every day, to go work and back, and any where else I can... and yes I have a back pack..it is my gym bag. I had saddle bags on the 883, but have not put them on my current bike, and they really wouldnt work out as a Gym bag anyway.. too much trouble taking them on and off, and I wouldn't want to dig all my workout gear out of them everytime I went to the gym... I also Ride to he store, or run errands.. where do you put that gallon of milk? bungy it to your handle bars? Tie it to your seat?...( granted when I do the major shopping run I have to take the truck...) i dont take a back pack with me all the time, but they do have their uses.

That is a good point, I know that I used to ride a sport bike and would carry a backpack, but that was only when I would ride it to school...maybe it has to do with the younger age group that rides them.

Other things that might play into the popularity of backpacks with the younger crowd:

1. It's a no brainer when you take everything with you into whatever building, i.e. office or classroom.

2. For many students that have or used to bicycle around campus, its a natural progression. Mounted bags on bicycles are often poo-pooed.

3. And of course, sportbikes are often limited on luggage options.

I have to say that although I often use a backpack, as I've gotten older, I've added some toolbags for emergency kits and tools that I didn't carry when I was younger.

Have you ever noticed that about 75% of all Sport bike (ie: crotch rocket) riders will always be wearing a backpack while riding? ... While, I have NEVER seen a Harley rider with a backpack. Yes, I know many Harleys do have bags, and you very very rarely see a crotch rocket with bags ... but many Harleys don't have bags, and the riders still never wear a backpack.

So, the question is .... Why do so many of the Sport bike riders you see always have the backpack on there back?

They kinda remind me of a bunch of schoolboys going down the road with there bookbags ... certainly they can't all be on there way to school?

i wear my tank bag as a backpack cause it doesnt stay on the tank very well at higher speeds or if its loaded up.

A solution :
http://www.bagster.com/en/showroom.php?id=7&id_marque=25&id_cylin=46&id_modele=SPORTSTER&id_annee=2004-2007

i also ride both a sportbike and a sportster. since my sportsters tore down at the moment i ride my honda cbr 1000 to work everyday and i always wear a back pack. mostly because of the lack of storage space, but also its just more comfortable. i think because of your riding postion. i am much more relaxed on my harley, and a backpack just may harsh my mellow

pure and simple vanity. people who buy a rice burner are concerned about one thing, going somewere fast. people who ride HD are also concerned about primarily one thing, looking cool. back packs are as you hinted, not cool

For my daily rides, because I hate riding with a back bag, I have this :
http://www.giviusa.com/caschi_borse_bauli_accessori.asp?CO_ID=16445

http://i40.servimg.com/u/f40/11/00/68/87/givi10.jpg

I carry my laptop in a backpack every day I ride the Sporty to work. The pack is long enough to rest on the passenger seat, so it takes most of the weight off my shoulders.

Why do so many of the Sport bike riders you see always have the backpack on there back?


Because sport bike riders like to ride to the store too, and they don't have any other place to put stuff. Can you imagine what a pair of throwover saddlebags would look like on a sport bike? Hmmm... market for quick-detach bags?
I can't stand wearing a backpack when I ride. I have cheap nylon (waterproof) bags that unzip from their mounting. That works fine, but they're wearing out after only a year.

AHAHAHHAHAHAHA....

Why do I wear a backpack most everywhere I go on my sporty?

Becasue these sportster bikes have zero storage! Not even a spot for a wrench!

FYI: dont carry an alternator from a salvage yard in your backpack.... It slams into your back when you go over bumps... hahahahahah