After searching for different saddlebag options, I decided to purchase these Mil-Spec SKB cases and install them on my 2014 Honda Valkyrie. Being a musician, I have used SKB and Pelican Brand cases for 30 years for transporting my delicate and expensive gear. They have never failed me which made me consider them as saddlebags.
Factory mounts are used with no other modifications to install. Didn't have to use anything extra. Only used the bolts, rubber washers, and nuts that came with the factory mounting brackets. However, like others have mentioned, there is about a half inch difference between the two sides in order to line up the cases evenly. Honda is notorious for left and right side hardware being off from each other.
Cases may not be the prettiest, but very functional and durable. Paid only $80 each on EBay. Cases are the largest of the SKB/Pelican style that will fit without relocating the turn signals and still allowing full use of the passenger floorboards. Also
decided not to re-angle them more in lines with the bike,
wanted to keep the mount stability. So they do angle out a bit but are very stable with no wobble what so ever! Big unexpected plus is that my woman can use the handles as grab rails instead of the factory ones. Cases have the TSA locks installed and I have purchased padlocks for extra security when away from the bike. Another cool feature is the automatic purge valve. As pressure builds internally from heat; pressure is released automatically. You can see the valves in the photos. They are round and located on top by the handles.
Going to use a tall tray type internal insert to hold items so that things don't fall out when opening the lid. Experimented with a cardboard box and it work really well, allowing it to function more like a traditional top loading saddlebag. In the 2nd to last photo you can see the foam lining which I will remove soon to create more internal room. The foam in the lid takes up over an inch of space alone! I will line the case with thinner workout mat material. With the foam lining, I was still able to fit a half helmet. I also was able to fit a size large thick leather jacket. So without the foam lining, the case will have a decent amount storage. Will update post later.
SKB case model 3i-18137Interior dimensions are 18" wide x 13" high x 7" deep, weight 7.5 pounds each .Could have went larger if I relocated the turn signals. Photos looks like case is touching exhaust but bottom of case sits approximately 1 1/2" above exhaust pipes (no worry mil-spec heat resistant) and top about the same below the factory grab rail.
All in all I am very happy with them. I was reluctant based on the look but I have since received many compliments on the cases. I went on a ride two up, did some mountain twistys, and freeway speeds with no issues. Hope this helps anyone looking for an alternative to the more expensive saddlebags out there.
Only used factory mounting bracket's nuts, washers, and bolts. Check out the TSA key locks, additional padlock holes, and center purge valves. You can see the 1/2" difference between the two cases at the mounting bolt nearest the rear seat. One is centered on lock, other alittle off. Its the factory stay that is off, not the cases (At least in my application).
Stock angle. Did not add spacers to straighten. More stable since the case rest against the rectangular stay.
Cases are not touching pipes. Angle of photo looks like it.
You can see that the cases do not inhibit the use of the passenger floorboards.
Sissybar backpack added for longer rides.
These cases can be bought without the foam lining. That is a better way because after removing the foam to gain more room, there is messy hard glue that is difficult to remove.
Metal Audi car emblem. Would not fit under the Valkyrie emblem due to side panel angle.
Other add-ons:Kuryakyn Ergo2 switchblade highway pegs
Factory saddlebag mounts and stays
Factory backrest
Factory passenger floorboards
Factory luggage rack
Belly pan
Cobra license plate frame
USB plug in at handlebar
Battery charger hookup
Black powder coated the factory grab rails
Magnetic phone/GPS mount at gas tank
1.8L car emblems mounted by side panel
Limited Edition emblems mounted at valve cover and rear fender
Punisher rebadging emblems
