Hard Luggage: Saddle or top ?

I'm realizing now that I have protective gear and riding 2up now and then that I could really use some storage when taking trips to a sight-seeing destination. I figure having something to hold my pants, jacket, gloves, helmets (possibly), etc. would be good.

I really like the Givi hard luggage -- the matching candy red hard saddlebags & top cases.

My question is --> what do you recommend I purchase FIRST .... the saddlebags or the top case? I'm going to order the largest capacity of either available.

Thanks for your suggestions.

[rshimmel]

Hey Brian- The bags would probably give you almost twice the storage room of the top case, and the ability to store two helmets when you're off the bike. I don't know about the Givi bags, but the OEM bags will take a large helmet no prob, but not much else at the same time. Kind of depends on how much storage you need now. 8) ride safe - rick

[Tourmeister]

I have the Wingrack II on my 01 VFR800. I pretty much NEVER ride without the E50 topcase. It is just so dang convenient that I never take it off the bike. My passengers love using it as a backrest and they are more relaxed knowing there is something behind them to keep them from sliding off the back. I have the E360 side bags and they are HUGE. I believe they are the smallest bags that will still hold a full face helmet. I tend not to use them much anymore. I now use the toploading E21 sidecases. You can shove riding pants and even some jackets in them. I don't put the helmets in a case, I just cable lock them to the bike. The E50 will hold a LOT of stuff. Personally, I would start with the top case. I have not had any negative handling issues as a result of adding the GIVIs. Although, if really loaded down, they make wheelies easier ;D

[mdp]

35 L of space per sidebag.

45 L of space for the topcase.

Drag is a bit of an issue with the topcase (on windy days especially) while none of these effects are noted with just the sidebags mounted.

Basically, choose your own adventure.

[PLCBithead]

Hello mdp:

Are those GIVI or HondaLine bags/case?

Still looking for luggage for my 2000
Thanks

[Viffergirl]

I have the OEM top and saddle bags for my bike. I use the saddle bags all the time. Honda made it easy to just take the bags with you when you park (they easily lift off) or just use the liner (purchased separately) to take with you when you're parked for the evening. The saddle bags hold a helmet each - and I find that plenty of room to ride and tour with. The top bag does have a few disadvantages in my experience. One - it will only hold 11 pounds of stuff - and on a windy day - that top bag will act like a sail and/or slow you down. But - it's great for light things - eg. raingear, passport, TP.
Your ride - you choose.
My 2 Cents worth.