Motorcycle Explorer November 2016 Issue 14 | Page 25

LUGGAGE
My main concern with the Scrambler was its ability to carry a sufficient
load - especially without a rear rack fitted. I wanted a minimum of 70
litres, which meant a tail pack was not a option. It had to be panniers and
a duffle.
Panniers - Kriega Duo Saddlebags 36 .
Options for small panniers and frames for the
Scrambler are limited. Fortunately, Kriega’s new
Saddlebags, with the Saddlebag Platform, had just
been released before the trip. They provided an
excellent solution. With a capacity of 18 litres
apiece, they are big enough to hold a realistic
amount of gear, small enough to fit the diminutive
frame and stay clear of the exhaust, and when fully
packed were light enough to remain securely
attached to the Platforms. Kriega have a rightly-
deserved reputation for design and quality and this
continues with the Saddlebags. Once again they
utilise the familiar removable white waterproof
liners and roll-top closure. Scotland gave them a
thorough rain test and they proved to be 100%
waterproof.
the strap which both closes the top-flap and attaches
the bag to the platform; with fully-packed
saddlebags I found them just a couple of inches too
short.
Using the standard ‘throw over’ design, and with a
simple attachment system securing them to the
Platforms, the Saddlebags were easy and quick to
mount and remove. My only compliant I had was
with
The saddlebags have been primarily designed for the
current crop of retro bikes such as the Scrambler,
Triumph Bonnies and the R nineT, and there is a whiff
of fashion about the design to compliment these
bikes. Nevertheless, they perform like a genuine
overland pannier. If I were to use them on a ‘big trip’
with rougher riding ahead, I’d look for a more secure
way of attaching them to a pannier frame, but
otherwise I’d be confident in them to do the job and
last the course.
They are available in 14 litres or 18 litres and can be
purchased as a single bag or a pair.