Alternatives to saddle bags?

I had textile bags but never installed them. Turned 60 last year and figured I wouldn't be going on any super long rides in the future so I gave them away. Now on a whim I'm planning a trip from White Rock BC to Rimrock Arizona to see me brother. Planning on 3 or 4 days on the way down to see some sites. I have a medium size tank bag that fits a pair of street shoes and some clothes but would like the option to carry more- like rain gear and other stuff. Thinking of strapping a day pack to the grab bars but looking for options.

(I road with A.M. for a short leg of her epic trip across the US and Canada. I've never seen a bike loaded with so much stuff. Yeah, I don't need to go that crazy lol.)

 

A lot depends on what time of the year you are riding. On any longish trip, I always pack rain gear. But depending on when you go there, and where you cross the Cascades, you may wish to bring some warmer clothing to take you over the Cascades. If you cross over to Arizona further south, then this is not an issue.

I have a 75L back pack I wore on a few trips. It looks very awkward to wear, but in fact, it it is fastened proper, the bag actually will rest on the rear seat of the 6th gen. If you want to borrow that back pack, you are welcome to it Rob. It comes as a two piece set. A smaller day pack zippers onto the larger one for a total of 75L. Or 85L, I don't remember.

Ride on out to take a look at it. Try it on. I am unable to drive or ride for a couple months or I would gladly bring them to you. You are welcome to it for the trip. It is a high quality mountaineer's back pack so everything inside stays very dry if you happen to ride through the rain. I also have a expandable tank bag. You are welcome to borrow that for this trip as well. I no longer have those soft side bags. I will try to locate them and see if the present owner will lend them out to you.

 

That's incredibly generous of you Randy and it doesn't surprise me.

Thanks for the advice and I'll be in touch.

 

Have you gone on your trip yet? Do you or did you work out your packing issue?

 

If I go it'll be in early September. I'm not going if I can't manage to get in shape by then.

 

Did you work out your luggage issue?

 

Yes