OK seeing as you guys have been a mine of information so far, another (!) question: I like to go away for a day or 2 on the bike a 2002 900SS (in yellow) - so bags would be a good option. (Assuming I survive the current situation...but we're getting there!). Any suggestions as to options? I've seen the Givi soft bags - anybody got an opinion on 'em? Thanx S23
Not a fan of soft panniers, but used one of these. Massive volume and very secure on the back of an S1r https://www.motoblouz.com/vente-sac...G-ro1CbIbh5sAB_fpYMjCE2zaOQwB6MQaAg7BEALw_wcB
Have a look on the Lomo site. Really excellent VFM With throw overs you still need some form of racking ideally, or they fold under IMe.
I have both, metal for uk touring. Flexible bags that can be stowed or shrunk for EU. Side bags fit onto pannier rack & are sold by Touratech.
Thanks to all for your help. The Kriega stuff looks good. Anybody got one of these? https://www.fc-moto.de/epages/fcm.s...UtMQWNc-0bclB-EWSPUbEWSq8P1jpXcMaAn0_EALw_wcB It looks OK but, as ever, real-life experience is the best teacher!
I can't offer opinions on the other panniers but I can highly recommend the Enduristan Monsoon's - I have used them on my ST4S for years on many long trips. They are simple and totally waterproof, have a red interior to help see what's in them. The have Velcro straps across the seat, integrated Rok type straps that adjust to the rear foot peg hangers plus one at the rear under the tail piece. Spot on in my view.
I confess that I've never been away for more than a day on the 900SS so I am not sure of this, but I suspect that without a lot of care to protect the plastics below the seat, then some approaches might result in abrasion. For short trips of 2 or 3 days I always feel that a tank bag is a good choice for stuff you might need at any time like waterproofs and spare gloves. For overnight things like toothbrush and spare clothes, the simplest approach can be a good waterproof roll bag. I have a Held "carry bag" bought from a now defunct retailer. Totally waterproof. Available in yellow too, although whether it would match I don't know. Easily found on Web. Can be held to seat with elastic straps, and using nylon webbing threaded under seat it may be possible to avoid running them down over bodywork. I am not sure whether the Ssie seat is amenable to having loops attached underneath, but I have found this works on two other bikes. Good example here (non Ducati content!) : https://www.street-triple.co.uk/index.php/topic,6743.0.html
Yes good point about paint damage. I always put a layer of non-slip material over the seat, overhanging each side to protect the paintwork. I also use duct tape where necessary and this always comes off ok and I have no issues after many trips. I also use the non-slip material under my magnetic tank bag - on my previous Duke - as this protects the paint work better than just the underneath of the bag.
