Yoshimura Explorer Buddy Bag

Yoshimura Explorer Buddy Bag

EVALUATION

Right after, "How do I pay for it?,” comes another important question that virtually all motorcyclists face. How do I carry something on it? That has led to saddlebags, tank bags, back packs, fairings, racks and jackets that can be stuffed so full a rider looks like Santa Claus.

Now there’s another device available for motorcycle baggage. And don’t snicker at the name. It’s the Buddy Bag, sold by Yoshimura in this country, and it’s wonderfully convenient.

The Buddy Bag is a squarish Cordura nylon pack designed to strap on the back of a motorcycle seat.

It comes with its own bungee cords, cleverly packed in little zippered pockets on the side of the bag.

When the pockets are opened, they fold down to protect the sides of the motorcycle where the bungee hooks connect to a fender, seat base, whathave-you. It takes about» half a minute to strap the bag on a bike. So far we haven’t found a bike it won’t fit.

Quality is first rate. All the stitching is doubled up and there are pieces of lining inside the stitches. There’s a carry handle on top of the bag, plus a long strap that can be quickly removed, or extended, or shortened. There’s a main compartment, about 11.5 by 8.5 by 10 in. and a front pocket that measures about 9.0 by 7.5 by 2.5 in.

The calculator says this works out to 1146 cu. in. of capacity. In real terms, it’s just big enough for a full face helmet, large size, or two sixpacks of normal fluids, or overnight gear and a change of clothes if you don’t mind wrinkles.

A plastic cover is included to make the bag fully waterproof, though the bag is reasonably water resistant without the cover. For an extended downpour, it’s needed.

Yoshimura is importing these bags from the Japanese apparel and leather company, Kushitani. Price is $65.95 in silver, red, blue or black. It’s

available from Yoshimura dealers, or directly through Yoshimura, 4555 Carter Ct., Chino, Calif. 91710. [o]