Do you want to carry your gear without a backpack that breaks your back, and without a top case that ruins the lines of your bike? motorcycle leather saddlebags are the biker-friendly answer. But you still need to choose the right family based on your style, your motorcycle, and your intended use. A rider-style for a 2-minute installation, a solo for an asymmetrical chopper look, a rigid for serious touring, a swingarm for discretion: this guide helps you decide. As a bonus, it includes the 30 Ledrie models distributed by Holdfast in France.
Why genuine leather rather than synthetic?
Leather motorcycle saddlebags last at least 20 years with basic maintenance. Leather develops a patina, absorbs shocks, doesn't crack in freezing temperatures like plastic, and adds a distinctive touch to a chopper, bobber, or café racer that's simply irreplaceable. Holdfast distributes the range Ledrie — a historic German brand that works with leather in the old-fashioned way, with punch cutting and traditional assembly.
For maintenance, consult our guide: Maintaining your motorcycle leathersA leather jacket can last through 2 or 3 motorcycles.
The 5 families of motorcycle leather saddlebags
There are five main families, each with its own advantages and typical uses:
1. Saddlebags (throw-over)
The saddlebag is thrown over the saddle: two pockets connected by a leather strap that goes over the saddle. Installation in 2 minutesNo special support required. Ideal for weekends, road trips, or for the biker who doesn't want to detract from the aesthetics of their motorcycle with visible rigid supports.
- Ledrie 13L saddlebags — the universal model, black leather, system thrown onto the saddle
2. Solo panniers
A bag on the left side (or right side depending on preference). A boldly asymmetrical lookThe quintessential chopper and bobber. Modest volume, but enough for a helmet, sweatshirt, camera, and socket wrench. Mounting options vary: solo seat, swingarm, sissy bar.
- Ledrie 30L solo pannier — large volume, universal
- 18L solo pannier — medium, balanced format
- Postman 30L solo pannier — inspired by the US postal service in the 50s
3. Rigid side panniers
Ledrie rigid panniers have a fiber reinforced structure Under the leather, which prevents them from deforming even when empty. Mounting with a support is more technical but more stable when traveling. Recommended for long distances and touring motorcycles.
- 17L Rigid — compact format
- 18L Rigid — average volume
- 22L Rigid — the standard
- 25L Rigid — larger
- 32L Rigid ou 32L v2 — for serious travel
- 33L Rigid — long-term format
4. Swingarm bags
Attached directly to the rear swingarm, these saddlebags are specific to the motorcycle model (Shape of the swingarm, rear wheel clearance). They conceal the bulk well, maintaining a clean line. Ledrie swingarms fit most Harley models:
- Swingarm 12L Sportster XL — for modern Sportsters
- Swingarm 6,5L Sportster XL — discreet format
- Swingarm 11L Softail 1984-2017 — for older Softail
- Swingarm 9L Softail black — uniform anodized black
- Swingarm 6,5L Softail 1984-2017 et Softail 2018+
- Swingarm 9L Softail 2018+ — recent
- Swingarm Straight 9L Softail 2018+ — straight cut
- Swingarm Straight 10L Softail 1984-2017
- Swingarm 5L V-Rod 2002-2017 — Specific V-Rod
For the Dyna you will need additional support : Left Dyna Support.
5. Luggage rack bags and sissy bar
Large capacity for long journeys or transporting equipment. Mounted on the rear rack or sissy bar backrest. Volumes up to 67L.
- 32L luggage rack ou 32L v2 — daily format
- 37L luggage rack - AVERAGE
- 67L luggage rack — the full weekend format
- Sissy bar bag — discreet volume on backsplash
Small leather accessories to know
To complement a leather luggage set, here are two useful references:
- 1,5L fork bag — mini bag on the front fork for a phone, a key, a bank card
- 1L Tool Kit ou Universal tool kit — rollable, handlebar or frame mount, for your emergency kit
Harley Model Guide
Sportster XL
Sportster = compact size. Bulky saddlebags ruin the lines. Opt for:
- Swingarm 12L ou Swingarm 6,5L
- Solo 30L for occasional travel
- 22L Rigid with suitable Sportster mount
Softail (1984-2017)
The classic Softail range has its dedicated Ledrie part numbers:
- Swingarm 11L Softail 1984-2017
- Swingarm Straight 10L Softail 1984-2017
- Swingarm 6,5L Softail 1984-2017
Softail (2018+)
New geometry, new references:
- Swingarm 9L Softail 2018+
- Swingarm Straight 9L Softail 2018+
- Swingarm 6,5L Softail 2018+
- Swingarm 9L Softail black
Dyna
The Dyna doesn't have a dedicated swingarm bag, but you can add a support and use universal models:
V-Rod
The special case: V-Rod 2002-2017 has a dedicated model Swingarm V-Rod 5L blackFor newer V-Rod models, universal mounts work better.
Assembly and maintenance
Installation For rigid and swingarm panniers, allow 1 hour for the workshop — attaching the support, mounting the pannier, and checking that it doesn't touch the rear wheel or exhaust. For rider and solo panniers, 2 minutes is sufficient. Maintenance : gentle monthly brushing, cleaning with soapy water 2x/year, conditioning with leather balm after each cleaning, waterproofing spray after heavy rain.
FAQ
Are Ledrie panniers waterproof?
Leather is naturally resistant to rain. For maximum protection, apply a waterproofing spray after 1 month of use and periodically thereafter.
How much weight can be put in a leather satchel?
The rigid 32L models can support up to 10 kg per side. Solo and saddle-style models remain around 5-7 kg.
Will the leather develop a visible patina?
Yes, in 12 to 18 months, the black Ledrie leather develops a unique patina that personalizes your bag.
Free delivery on orders over €150 In mainland France, shipping within 48 hours from Marseille.
View the entire Ledrie saddlebag collection ›