A big problem I have with touring accessories is that they are usually permanently attached or very close to it. Definitely not the kind of thing that you'll want to try and install or remove in the dark - or cold. I like the look of touring accessories on my bike if that's what I'm going to do but lately its more commuting days rather than sport touring.
The ideal situation is to have my Hayabusa look like the world's fastest production motorcycle when I need it but also quickly and conveniently transform into a sport touring dream for those rides where you concentrate on riding, not surviving a text messaging crush of gridlock. A back pack? That gets old really fast. Isn't the point riding not carrying stuff? Having accessories that let you concentrate on the road and appreciate the scenery will make any ride more enjoyable, especially as the miles tick away.
Enter the Fieldsheer Access magnetic tank bag. It was selling everywhere for about $55 at the lowest but somehow I found it on a closeout special at the ridiculously low price of $27.99 through Mission Motorsports (OUT OF STOCK). I opted to skip the $11 shipping and just ride down to Irvine and check out their showroom. What? A showroom? Since it wasn't some kid running a web store out of his mom's garage I decided to check out... THE SHOWROOM!! Who knows what other closeout accessories I may find? Beside, I just love traffic but I love it even more with a sweet tank bag on my bike. One that can carry my stuff, detach instantly, and leave behind a lean and mean sport bike. It has a clear top for a map, side pockets, and a handle so you can carry it when not mounted.
Do yourself a favor and stop lugging a backpack around. Get a tank bag!
So, what happens when a tank bag is not enough? How do you keep your bike lean and mean yet able to haul enough stuff for camping, a weekend for 2, or buying a whole lot of groceries? Removable saddlebags, that's how. I had seen pricey ones for sale, some really beautiful saddlebags but I didn't have the funds since I had just contributed a great deal to the CHP;) Looking on ebay and the usual google shopping had good results. I found a nice set for about $50 but they were basic, small, and plain. Instead I looked on craigslist and found a set of sport bags for $40! They have side pockets and are expandable - a quick zip and they get wider! I totally dig the look of the busa with the bags mounted! I almost didn't get them because they have a blue strip and my bike is black, but that didn't stop me. Once I put them on I was happy I had searched craigslist - $40! A little sharpie action and I had myself a bargain set of bags that looked great and are easily removable!
My sport touring busa is coming together thanks to the tank bag and saddlebags! Stay posted to see just how much stuff fits in those bags.
Initially there was some confusion with my order but Mission Motorsports was able to make good on the sale. Thank you for that Andrew from Mission Motorsports. I am digging the tank bag!
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