April 29 - “From your friendly Safety Officer, RAZ” - Early miles hit different-cold air, crazy parents dropping off kids, all those four wheeled cars late for work, maintain your sharp focus, gear up right, stay warm and ride smart. The best rides start prepared.
May 6 - This week’s safety chat.
From your friendly Safety Officer “RAZ”
Before riding, do a quick check using T-CLOCS:
* Tires & wheels: Check pressure and look for cracks or nails
* Controls: Make sure throttle, clutch, and brakes feel smooth
* Lights: Test headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
* Oil & fluids: Look for leaks and proper levels
* Chassis: Scan for loose bolts or damage
* Stands: Ensure kickstand retracts properly
This takes 2–3 minutes and prevents most common issues.
May 12 - From our friends at Viking Bags! https://www.vikingbags.com/collections/motorcycle-sissy-bar-bags
The Best Large Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag for Harley Baggers
Table of Contents
1. Why an XL Sissy Bar Bag Works So Well for Harley Baggers
2. Top XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bags from Viking Bags
2.1 Viking Voyage Premium XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (57L)
2.2 Viking Tactical XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Backpack (45L)
2.3 Viking Voyage Elite XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (42L)
2.4 Viking Renegade XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
2.5 Viking Trident Large Motorcycle Sissy Bar Backpack (32L)
2.6 Viking Renegade Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
2.7 Viking Dagr XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
3. What to Look for Before Buying an XL High-Capacity Sissy Bar Bag
4. Final Thoughts
Every Harley Bagger rider knows the feeling. Miles of open road ahead, the engine humming, and then it hits: the stock bags are already full, and the trip has barely started. Whether it's a weekend run to the mountains or a coast-to-coast tour, Harley Baggers demand serious storage to match their serious style. That's where XL motorcycle sissy bar bags step in and earn their place.
Viking Bags, one of the best motorcycle sissy bar bag makers in the business, has put together a lineup of extra-large sissy bar bags built for riders who refuse to compromise on space or quality. The brand has been around since 2007 and has built a strong track record for durable, well-designed luggage that fits Harley Sportster, Softail, Dyna, Street, and Touring models. Picking the right bag can feel like a task, but the right choice makes every ride easier and more enjoyable. Continue reading for a full breakdown of the top XL sissy bar bags from Viking's lineup and which one fits a Harley Bagger best.
1. Why an XL Sissy Bar Bag Works So Well for Harley Baggers
Harley touring models are wide, long, and built for comfort on the road. The sissy bar at the rear of the seat is solid and tall, a perfect anchor for a rear bag. An XL sissy bar bag adds real cargo room without messing with the bike's low, clean look.
Here's why Harley Bagger riders keep coming back to this type of storage: Rear-mounted design keeps the sides of the bike clean, stacking vertically without adding bulk. Simple strap systems make setup quick, useful for riders who mix daily commutes with weekend trips. No strain on the rider's back, a sissy bar bag takes all that weight off the rider and puts it on the bike where it belongs. And it pairs well with existing saddlebags, turning a well-equipped bike into a full touring machine.
2. Top XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bags from Viking Bags
Here is a close look at the seven best XL sissy bar bags in the Viking lineup.
2.1 Viking Voyage Premium XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (57L)
This is the biggest bag in the Viking sissy bar bag range, and it earns that title. At 57 liters and 3,500 cubic inches of storage, the Viking Voyage Premium sissy bar bag is the go-to choice for riders who need to pack for long trips without leaving anything behind. It's built from laminated Cordura to hold its shape even when fully loaded, and it stands up to road wear.
The dimensions are 20.5 inches high, 19.25 inches long, and 12.5 inches wide. A rain cover and shoulder strap come right out of the box, and there's a 14-by-10.5-inch laptop sleeve for riders who travel with tech gear. The bag is weather-resistant, designed to fit Harley Sportster, Softail, Dyna, Street, and Touring bikes.
2.2 Viking Tactical XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Backpack (45L)
The Viking Tactical XL is built for riders who want a bag that works both on and off the bike. At 45 liters and 2,746 cubic inches, it offers strong capacity while being designed to convert from a sissy bar bag to a full backpack.
Padded shoulder straps fold away neatly when mounted on the sissy bar, and an adjustable sternum clip plus waist straps provide carrying comfort off the bike. Inside, there's a laptop sleeve and two mesh pockets for easy reach. A sunglasses pouch and a wet pouch attach to the front webbing for quick-access storage, and the bag fits two 25-ounce water bottles. For riders who walk around cities or camp at the end of a long day, the Tactical XL's dual-use design makes it one of the most flexible picks in the Viking range.
2.3 Viking Voyage Elite XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (42L)
The Voyage Elite XL is built wide and flat, a smart choice for Harley Touring models with broad top racks. It fits perfectly on a Tour-Pak and most wide rack setups, making it a natural match for Road King and Road Glide riders.
Constructed from laminated ballistic Cordura with a Hi-Viz interior for easy visibility inside the bag, it measures 24 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 10.5 inches high.
A rain cover and shoulder strap are included, and the bag attaches to the rack in minutes with no complex hardware needed. The wide, flat build and high-viz lining make packing and finding gear much easier on longer trips.
2.4 Viking Renegade XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
The Viking Renegade XL is a tall, slim bag that presses neatly against the sissy bar. One of its standout features is that it can fit a full-face helmet inside the main compartment, a practical detail that most bags skip.
The weather-resistant build handles mixed conditions, and two detachable tool pouches are included for carrying tools, keys, or small essentials. Viking recommends a minimum sissy bar height of 24 inches for secure mounting. For riders who value a clean profile and want to carry a helmet safely at the back, the Renegade XL checks the right boxes.
2.5 Viking Trident Large Motorcycle Sissy Bar Backpack (32L)
The Viking Trident is a smart, organized backpack-style bag that mounts on the sissy bar but also wears comfortably off the bike. It's a clean, slimmer design built for riders who travel lighter but want everything in its place.
Three front pockets provide quick access for items like snacks, gloves, or a phone. Inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve and a top fleece-lined pocket to protect sunglasses or small devices. Separate compartments improve packing logic, and an adjustable sternum clip plus waist straps help when carrying off the bike. The Trident suits riders who take short to mid-range trips and want a bag that doubles as a daily carry pack with no fuss.
2.6 Viking Renegade Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
This Renegade takes a different approach with a roll-top design. It's one of the most rugged-looking bags in the Viking lineup and comes with a MOLLE webbing system, a feature borrowed from outdoor and tactical gear that lets riders attach extra pouches on the outside.
The roll-top closure creates a weather-tight seal against rain and road dust. Two water-resistant zipper pockets on the exterior hold grab-and-go items, and the MOLLE webbing allows attachment of extra pouches, tools, or hydration gear. A shoulder strap is included for off-bike use. The MOLLE system is the real selling point here; riders who carry multi-tools, first aid kits, or hydration packs will find that the Renegade gives them room to expand without buying a bigger bag.
2.7 Viking Dagr XL Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag (32L)
The Viking Dagr XL features a semi-rigid frame that keeps the bag in shape even when it's not fully packed. It also comes with a detachable expansion bag, a feature that makes it one of the most adaptable options in the Viking sissy bar bag range.
The semi-rigid frame prevents sagging and retains a clean shape on the bike. The detachable expansion bag adds 19.5 by 9 by 9.5 inches of extra room when needed. A rain cover and shoulder strap are included, along with an internal mesh pocket for packing organization. The bag is padlock-ready for added security when parked.
The Dagr XL is the best pick for riders who want a bag that looks neat at all times and can scale up for longer trips without needing a second bag.
3. What to Look for Before Buying an XL High-Capacity Sissy Bar Bag
Not every bag suits every rider. Considering capacity versus trip length, the 57L Voyage Premium is a top pick for long tours, while a 32L bag often carries everything needed for shorter rides. Check mounting compatibility: all Viking bags are designed for sissy bars with a minimum height of 24 inches. Material and weather resistance matter; laminated Cordura holds its shape better, while standard Cordura remains strong and weather-resistant, especially with the included rain cover. And extras like laptop sleeves, reflective panels, tool pouches, and MOLLE webbing add real day-to-day value on the road.
4. Final Thoughts
For Harley Bagger riders who take touring seriously, an XL sissy bar bag is one of the smartest additions to any bike. Viking Bags, among the best motorcycle luggage bag brands available today, offers a well-thought-out range of XL options to suit every type of rider and every kind of trip, from fast weekend getaways to full cross-country tours.
Every bag in the Viking lineup comes backed by a one-year warranty, ships within 48 hours, and includes all required mounting hardware. Returns are accepted within 45 days of purchase. From the massive 57L Voyage Premium for riders who pack everything to the versatile Dagr XL with its built-in expansion bag, there's a Viking sissy bar bag built for the next ride.
May 14 - Safety Topic from your friendly Safety Officer RAZ.
Motorcycle safety isn’t about riding slow — it’s about riding smart.
Don’t stare at the curve — look through it.Your bike tends to go where your eyes are focused. Stay relaxed, look ahead to where you want to go, and let the bike flow through the turn smoothly. Confidence comes from vision, not speed.Stay visible, leave space, and always assume drivers don’t see you. Wear your gear, stay focused, and ride within your limits. The goal is simple: enjoy the ride and make it home safely every time.Ride smooth. Ride alert. Ride safe.
June 3 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer RAZ.
Summer is here, the roads are getting busier, and school is out. That means more drivers, more distractions, more young drivers on the road, and more people focused on their vacations than the traffic around them.
The safest riders aren’t the ones with the fastest bikes—they’re the ones constantly scanning ahead.
Keep your eyes moving. Check mirrors often. Watch for turning vehicles, changing road conditions, wildlife, and distracted drivers. The sooner you spot a hazard, the more time you have to react.
Remember: Ride like you’re invisible and always leave yourself an escape route.
A few extra seconds of awareness can prevent a lifetime of regret.
Ride prepared. Ride focused. Ride home safe.
June 10 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer RAZ.
Riding in Wind & Rain
Summer riding season is in full swing, but Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. Wind and rain can turn an enjoyable ride into a challenging one if you’re not prepared.
Before you ride, check the forecast and plan accordingly. Pack rain gear, make sure your tires are in good condition, and know your route. Being prepared before you leave the driveway can make all the difference.
🌧️ In rainy conditions:
* Slow down and increase your following distance.
* Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, and sharp turns.
* Watch for painted lines, metal surfaces, and standing water.
💨 In windy conditions:
* Expect strong gusts near open fields, bridges, and when passing large trucks.
* Keep a firm but relaxed grip on the handlebars.
* Give yourself extra space and be prepared to adjust your lane position.
Remember, there is no shame in delaying a ride if conditions become unsafe. The road will still be there tomorrow.
Prepare ahead of time. Ride within your limits. Make smart decisions and get home safely.
*Ride prepared. Ride focused. Ride home safe.
June 17 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer Raz.
Group Riding vs. Solo Riding
Riding with a group can be one of the best parts of motorcycling, but it comes with responsibilities that don’t exist when riding alone.
When riding solo, you set your own pace, choose your own line through corners, and make decisions based solely on your comfort level and skill. When riding in a group, the focus shifts to riding as a team while still maintaining your own safety.
A few reminders for group rides:
* Ride to the skill level of the group, not the fastest rider.
* Ride your own ride. Never push beyond your comfort zone to keep up.
* Don’t pressure or push a fellow rider to ride faster, corner harder, or take risks they aren’t comfortable with.
* Maintain a safe following distance.
* Use a staggered formation when appropriate and single file in curves, construction zones, or poor road conditions.
* Communicate hazards to riders behind you.
* Know the route and planned stops before leaving.
* Keep your attention on the road, not the rider in front of you.
One of the most important safety conversations happens before the kickstands go up. If you’re new to group riding, prefer a slower pace, aren’t comfortable in tight formations, or have concerns about the route, speak up before the ride begins. There is no shame in letting the group know your comfort level.
It’s far better for fellow riders to know your experience level beforehand than to find out after someone has been pushed beyond their limits. Good groups look out for each other, communicate openly, and make sure everyone gets home safely.
The goal isn’t to stay glued to the rider ahead—it’s to arrive safely with the group at the destination. Ride your ride. Respect each rider’s limits. Watch out for each other. Get home safe.
June 24 -Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”Weekly Motorcycle Safety
Escape Routes Save Lives
One of the most important habits a rider can develop is always having an escape route.
Traffic is unpredictable. Drivers get distracted, animals appear without warning, and road conditions can change in an instant. The riders who handle these situations best are the ones who have already identified a way out before the problem develops.
As you ride, constantly ask yourself:
* “Where will I go if that vehicle pulls out?”
* “What if the car ahead slams on the brakes?”
* “Is there room beside me if traffic suddenly stops?”
* “What’s my plan if I encounter gravel, debris, or wildlife?”
Don’t get trapped in blind spots or boxed in by surrounding vehicles. Leave yourself space. Maintain a cushion around your motorcycle whenever possible.
The best riders aren’t always reacting to hazards—they’re anticipating them.
Remember: You don’t rise to the occasion in an emergency; you fall back on your training and habits.
Keep your head on a swivel, leave yourself options, and always have an escape route.
Ride Smart - Ride Strong - Get Home Safe
July 6 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
Rally Riding
Motorcycle rallies are about great rides, old friends, new memories, and enjoying the motorcycle community. But they also bring some unique safety challenges.
Thousands of motorcycles, heavy traffic, unfamiliar roads, pedestrians, distracted drivers, and long days in the saddle can quickly increase your risk.
Before you head out:
* Give your bike a quick pre-ride inspection.
* Stay hydrated and take breaks throughout the day.
* Ride at a pace you’re comfortable with—not the pace of the crowd.
* Keep plenty of space between you and the motorcycle ahead.
* Expect sudden stops, U-turns, and people walking between motorcycles.
* Be patient in traffic and don’t let frustration make your decisions.
* If you choose to enjoy adult beverages, make sure your riding is done for the day.
Remember, rallies aren’t races. There’s no prize for arriving first or showing off. The best story you’ll have is making it home safely with memories to share.
Enjoy the event, respect your fellow riders, and look out for one another.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe
July 9 - Thoughts from the President - Leethal
The Relay for Life Bike Show was a WET MESS! But, we had some great, faithful people show up and participate. We gave away a brand new Blackstone Grill donated by Walmart, awarded trophies in 6 categories sponsored by: Loyal Sparrow Tattoo, Cloud Nine Cycles, Speak Easy Cycles, Belgrade Liquor, Basecamp Gallatin, Yellowstone Harley Davidson, and NAPA of Belgrade. We gave away 4 saddlebag tool kits, and a VERY nice Sissybar bag from Viking Bags https://www.vikingbags.com/collections/motorcycle-sissy-bar-bags
That being said, I really do NOT want to get soaked again next year! So, I am in the process of securing an indoor venue for the bike show and Cancer survivors/supporters. This is not cheap. I am currently seeking corporate sponsors to help with the cost. The goal is to raise money for cancer research, so spending all our money on a venue isn't what I want to do. Can you help? Can you support us? Can you be a sponsor?
Please reach out if you can help ironcompassrc@gmail.com Everyone is affected by cancer, maybe you're a survivor, maybe your loved one or friend has cancer, maybe they lost that battle. Think of this, what if that dollar you donated was the last dollar needed to find the cure...
July 14 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
Rally Season
Before you head out to your next motorcycle rally, take a few minutes to perform a quick safety check. Those few minutes can save hours on the side of the road—or prevent a crash.
✅ Check your tires and tire pressure.
✅ Test your lights and turn signals.
✅ Check your oil and other fluid levels.
✅ Inspect your brakes and controls.
✅ Make sure your luggage is secure.
✅ Pack rain gear, water, and any emergency essentials.
A safe rally starts before the engine ever fires up.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe
July 22 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
Mountain Riding
Mountain roads are some of the best rides you’ll ever experience—but they demand your full attention.
Ride within your limits, look through the curves, watch for gravel and wildlife, and expect changing weather around every bend. The view is worth enjoying, but save the sightseeing for the pullouts.
Ride the road you’re on. Enjoy the scenery when you stop.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
August 1 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
Mountain rides can be deceiving.
Even when the air feels cool, the sun, elevation, and hours in the saddle can lead to dehydration and fatigue.
Drink water before you’re thirsty, take breaks, and know when it’s time to cool down. A clear mind is just as important as a full tank. Stay hydrated. Stay alert.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
Sept. 3 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer "Raz"
Don’t outride your ability.
Know your limits.
Ride at a pace you can control, and never let another rider, the group, or your ego push you beyond your skill level.
There’s nothing to prove. Ride your ride.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
Sept. 10 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer "Raz"
Chilly mornings. Hot afternoons. And a little less daylight.
Morning pavement is getting colder, which means less tire grip. Watch for damp or frosty spots, especially in shaded areas, and be smooth with your throttle, braking, and cornering until your tires warm up.
It’s also staying darker later in the morning. Make sure your lights are working, stay visible, and keep an extra eye out for wildlife.
By afternoon, temperatures can be much warmer. Dress in layers and stay hydrated.
The season is changing—adjust your ride with it.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
Sept. 15 -Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
Situational Awareness
Be aware of everything around you—not just what’s in front of you.
Keep your eyes moving. Check your mirrors. Watch intersections, driveways, blind spots, road conditions, wildlife, and the vehicles around you.
Always ask yourself: What could happen next, and where’s my escape route?
The earlier you see a potential problem, the more time you have to react.
Don’t wait for trouble to find you. Scan ahead, know what’s beside you, check what’s behind you, and always leave yourself a way out.
Stay ahead of the danger—don’t just react to it.
What habits do you use to stay aware and safe while riding? Share them below—you might give another rider something they can use on their next ride.
**See it coming – Be ready – **Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
Sept. 21 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer “Raz”
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Dress for the slide.”
I look at it a little differently.
Ride not to slide.
I’m not here to tell you what safety gear to wear. That’s your decision.
What I want to talk about is how we ride.
Do we ride defensively? Do we ride offensively?
I say ride proactively.
Keep your head up and scan the area around you. Don’t just look at the vehicle directly in front of you.
Watch for wildlife along the road. See that crossroad or driveway coming up. Look ahead for the next curve. Read the traffic around you and think about what could happen before you get there.
What do I see? What could happen? And where am I going if it does?
Give yourself space. Have an escape route. Don’t wait until something happens to start reacting.
The more you practice this, the more natural it becomes. Pretty soon, you’re not thinking about scanning for hazards—you’re just doing it.
Make it a habit every time you ride. See it coming. Be ready. Ride not to slide.
**See it coming – Be ready – **Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
October 6 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer "RAZ"
Tar Snakes — See Them Early. Stay Smooth.
If you ride, you’ve probably crossed over tar snakes hundreds of times. They’re used to seal cracks in the pavement, but on a motorcycle, they can feel different from the road around them—especially when hot or wet.
Don’t fixate on them or try to dodge every one. See them early, look where you want to go, and keep your braking, acceleration, and steering smooth.
Pay extra attention when they run through a curve.
See them early. Stay smooth. Ride your ride.
RIDE NOT TO SLIDE — RAZ
**See it coming – Be ready – **Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
October 13 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer "RAZ"
Every ride is different, and the road can change in a heartbeat.
Keep your eyes moving, watch for wildlife, intersections, gravel, and changing road conditions. Stay aware of what's happening around you, and always ride within your abilities.
The more you practice being aware, the more natural it becomes.
Enjoy the ride, make some memories, and get home safe.
RIDE NOT TO SLIDE — RAZ
**See it coming – Be ready – **Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe.
October 20 - Motorcycle Safety Reminder from your friendly Safety Officer "RAZ"
What’s Hiding Ahead?
Ever wonder what’s lurking underneath that car in front of you?
Roadkill, rocks, tire debris, trash—you never know what might suddenly appear from underneath the vehicle ahead.
Don’t just watch the car in front of you. Look beyond it!
Keep your eyes moving, maintain a safe following distance, and give yourself time and space to react.
**Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. Speaking from experience. **
See It Coming – Be Ready.
Ride Smart – Ride Strong – Get Home Safe - Ride Not To Slide
