I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I ordered this luggage. I was thinking that it would be good for day trips to hold things I didn't want to pack in the saddlebags on my V-Star 1300 Deluxe. I was more than pleasantly surprised.
The first thing you notice when you unpack this back is the weight. This is "REAL" leather... Cowhide... thick cowhide! I actually measured it and the bag is constructed of two layers. Smooth tanned outer layer is a full 1/8" thick that is backed with a smooth tanned leather that is a full 1/16". That's 3/16" construction that's rigid and will hold it's shape forever. Most visible edges are covered in stitched leather or nylon piping. I couldn't find any loose stitching threads on the entire bag. The Velcro used for fastening the bag to the sissy bar and to make the top "airtight" is heavy duty industrial grade hook and loop. The decorative buckles appear to be heavy chrome plate over stainless steel. The concealed fasteners to latch the top close are riveted to the straps not sewn. Additionally there are "hasps" that you could use to padlock the top shut, but with the included shoulder strap (that's not mentioned in the website product details) I'm just going to take it with me.
The size is what really surprised me. As you can see in the pictures I have an oversized backrest pad on my sissy bar that matches the custom seats. Using the provided strap extension I had no problem securing the bag to the bike and having it rest on the luggage rack. This bag is a full 2" less in width than my normal luggage but holds enough clothes and toiletries for a 3-5 day trip. I was able to test fit 5 pairs of socks, 5 changes of underwear, 4 t-shirts, and shampoo/soap/dental stuff. I don't normally pack but 1 extra pair of jeans for a 7-10 day ride as I usually stop at a laundromat mid trip. So if I really wanted to stretch it I could probably do a longer trip with just this bag and my saddlebags.
On a more mundane note the bag has more than enough space for a pair of gym shoes, shorts, and t-shirt for trips to the gym (where the included shoulder strap comes in handy once more), or to pack lunch for two including drinks for picnics in the mountains for my wife and I. There's even a rain cover included for those riding days that may include a passing shower or two. It's just a nice all around addition to your motorcycle luggage options.
I rated this bag five stars on construction, appearance, function, and finish. It will definitely get use for when I need something I can take off the bike and take with me. For the price you'd be hard pressed to find a better made, more useful, and attractive piece of luggage.