I can't recommend any soft luggage, but with the ability to use the hard bags, why wouldn't you? They're about as durable as you can get, waterproof, and they couldn't be easier to mount and take off of the bike. If cost is an issue, watch the IBMWR Marketplace, the Buy/Sell section of this board and eBay. Chances are that you'll be able to find the bags and mounts in good condition for $400-$500 and you'll thank yourself for years to come realizing that it's money very well spent. Keep checking the classified sites every day because if you see 'em you've got to jump on 'em 'cause there are a lot of folks lookin' for a good deal on used bags. When I sold my 1150R, I sold the bags separately. I got no less than 10 responses in the first couple of hours and sold 'em for the asking price of $400 with the mounts included. I realized by the demand that I could've got more, but no biggie, someone got a good deal and is hopefully enjoying their bike that much more.
Actually, as I think of it, my friend uses Joe Rocket bags on his R1 and another friend used to use RKA bags on his Bandit. Both have had issues of stuff getting wet unless everything is sealed up tight in ziplock bags.
Ultimate recommendation, save up and get the hard bags. You can also buy 'em new at Chicago BMW with a 10% discount. Good luck, we're all counting on you!
Ads from IBMWR Marketplace:
System Cases- RT, GS, etc
Beautiful black system cases, fit all low mount exhaust bikes (1995-04 RT, RS, GS with low exhaust etc). Bags are great shape, come complete with badges & reflectors, sorry- no locks. You will be very happy with the condition, Price includes shipping to the continental USA Email or call me with questions, pictures available
Price: $425
Location: San Francisco
Contact Barry Druschel at <
[email protected]>
Telephone 415-573-4272
Posted Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 21:53:18 (EST)
GS Parts and Accessories FS
I have a garage full of GS and oilhead parts and accessories; take-offs, spares, stuff I bought that I don't like or use. Putting it all up for sale. Shipping at cost by USPS Priority Mail except those items that are too big to send USPS. Pictures upon request. PayPal or USPS MO only.
1) System cases. Full-size right and left for RT or GS with lower exhaust. No locks or mounts. Used with some minor scuffs/scratches. Fair to good cond. $300 2) GS Front lower fender. No Hardware. Some scuffs and scratches. $20 3) GS Stock exhaust can. Fair to good cond. $100 4) GS Stock cat converter. 30K. Fair to good cond. $200 5) Stock GS gas tank. Silver. No dents. Some scratches/scuffs. GS decals removed. Roundel intact. No sending unit, filler, etc... $350 6) Stock GS hand guards. Fair to good cond. Some scratches/scuffs. Clamps available for Ricky bars or stock bars. $25/pr 7) Stock GS handlebars (heated). Good Cond. $75

Stock GS rear lower fender. Fair cond. $30 9) Rear Diff 31/11. 30k Good to VG condition. Pivot brgs are good but it is a good idea to replace them. $350 10) Front Wheel. Miles unknown. Good to VG cond. One scratch from tire changer. Round and true with the usual BMW pinch at the weld. No rotor or ABS ring. $350 11) Stock GS front shock. 20K. $75 12) System Case lid. Rider's left. Standard size. Good to VG cond. $50
Price: Prices are firm....OK, I'll negotiate, but don't insult me.
Location: Los Angeles
See more at
http://billybee.smugmug.com/gallery/1149535
Contact Bill Bartlett at <
[email protected]>
Posted Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at 12:45:50 (EST)
BMW System Cases R1100/1150RT & R1100/1150R
Have a nice set of factory BMW saddle bags with system lids and locks. Excellent condition, will email detailed photos upon request. fits 1100/1150 R and RT models. Left side holds 25 litre and right side is 31 litre. Comes complete with bmw badges and refletors. Complete new set retails for $575.00+tax.
Price: 425.00
Location: San Diego
Contact Brian Smith at <
[email protected]>
Telephone 760 644-1322
Posted Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 18:14:23 (EST)
BMW System Cases - R850-1100-1150 GS/R
Set of BMW system cases (with mounting brackets for GS). Right case is brand new (never used) and the left case looks brand new. No lock set ($26 from dealer). BMW emblem on right case has stress crack, barely noticable ($6 from BMW dealer). Left bag will not fit bike with high exhaust (lowering kit available from BMW dealer).
Price: $485 or OBO Shipped in CONUS
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Contact B. Johnston at <
[email protected]>
Telephone 480-515-9488
Posted Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 13:12:13 (EST)