Looking for Recommendations on Hard Bags for Dyna Wide Glide

Modifications & Upgrades
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Seeking Feedback on Hard Bags for Dyna Wide Glide

Hey fellow riders! I’m currently on the lookout for hard saddlebags for my Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide, and I could really use your insights. I’ve been doing a bit of research online, and there are so many options out there, but I want to make sure I’m making the right choice.

What I’m Considering:

  • Durability: I ride quite a bit, so I need something that can withstand the elements and rough handling.
  • Aesthetics: I want the bags to complement the look of my Dyna. They should fit well and not look out of place.
  • Installation: I’m not the most mechanically inclined, so ease of installation is a big factor for me.
  • Capacity: I need enough space for my trips, but I don’t want them to be too bulky.

Questions for You:

  1. What brands do you recommend? Any specific models that you’ve had good experiences with?
  2. Installation tips: If you’ve installed hard bags yourself, do you have any advice or tricks that made the process easier?
  3. User Experiences: How have the bags held up during your rides? Any issues with wear and tear?
  4. Aesthetic Match: Do the hard bags fit well with the Dyna’s design, or do they drastically change the bike’s appearance?

I’ve seen some options online, but I’d love to hear from those who have first-hand experience. If you can share photos too, that would be awesome!

Thanks in advance for all your help! Looking forward to your recommendations and stories.

Ride safe!

8 Likes
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I’ve had great luck with ABS plastic hard bags on my Dyna Wide Glide. They’re lightweight, durable, and can withstand a bit of rain without leaking.

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That sounds promising! How do they hold up against UV rays? I’ve seen some fade pretty quick.

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I’ve had leather hard bags, and while they look fantastic, the weather really took a toll on them. I ended up treating them often to keep them in good shape.

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Interesting! Do you think they’re worth the maintenance effort, or should I stick with synthetic options?

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I switched to fiberglass bags recently. They’re tough and handle weather like a champ. Just make sure you secure everything properly as they can be tricky while riding.

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Glad to hear they held up well! Any issues with chips or cracks?

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I haven’t had any chips yet, but I do worry about dropping them. They’re a bit heavier than some alternatives but very robust.

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I’ve gone through all kinds of bags! You just have to find what fits your style—hard plastic is probably the most no-nonsense option.

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Right on! Do you think they last longer than leather?

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For sure! I had leather bags, and although they looked good, they didn’t last as long. Water stains are a pain too.

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If only I could combine style and durability! Anyone tried custom-made hard bags? I’m curious if they offer the best of both worlds.

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Custom hard bags can be fantastic! They’re durable and you can usually choose materials that suit your riding style. But they can be pricey!

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I’ve heard mixed things about custom options. Sometimes you pay a premium for just aesthetics, but they do look sharp!

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Weatherproofing is key! I’ve used bags that claimed to be weather-resistant, but they still let me down during a rainstorm.

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Exactly! That’s one of my biggest worries. Any recommendations for totally waterproof options?

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I think hard cases with proper seals do pretty well! Definitely worth checking reviews before buying.

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I’m also looking for hard bags for my Dyna Wide Glide. Has anyone had success with the Saddlemen bags? How’s the installation process?

1 Like
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I installed Saddlemen bags last year, and it was fairly straightforward. You’ll need some basic tools like a socket set, and about an hour of your time. No major modifications were needed for my 2015 model.

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What model do you have, rmarshall? I heard that fitment can vary quite a bit between different years.

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