Adding Saddle Bags to '85 GS550L

[GSJim69]

This might be a stupid question, but here goes.
I would like to add saddle bags or a sissy bar with shelf to my 1985 GS550L for storage. I have been using a backpack on my passenger seat to carry stuff. This leaves no seat for a passenger.
I was concerned about saddle bags because there is no shock on the sides to prevent the bags from swinging into the wheels. Does a brace have to be added to support the saddle bags?
If so, is there something available to purchase or will I have to fabricate something?
Another option would be to add a sissy bar with a shelf. Do sissy bars exist for this bike? I have not seen any.

[dana]

I added saddle bags to my 80gs550l I have a sissy bar on it as well it is a after market oone that came with the bike. I had to make some saddle bag supports fit I went to a bike shop and bought sme supports for a honda not sure what model I made a strap out of stainless steel and hung it off the sissy bar and moved the rear incicators ti the back at the plate put 2 steel spacers to shim the suppots out and bolted them where the indicators go. I will try to post some photos. Dana

[GSJim69]

Sounds good, but the '80 GS550L is from what I hear much different than an '85. I look forward to seeing how you did it though. It might give me some ideas.

[Black 550 L]

Dana I would be interested to see pictures as this is what I have also.

[dana]

Hear are some pictures of my saddle bags and how I mounted them.

http://pic40.picturetrail.com:80/VOL387/10617195/20776639/339138427.jpg

http://pic40.picturetrail.com:80/VOL.../339138448.jpg
http://pic40.picturetrail.com:80/VOL.../339138460.jpg
http://pic40.picturetrail.com:80/VOL.../339138467.jpg
Sorry I could not get the photos on the PAGE THIS IS THE BEST i CAN DO.

[GSJim69]

Good work! Looks good.
Unfortunately my bike is different.

[hillntx]

My friend has an 83 GS750E with the single rear shock. When he mounts his soft bags, he runs a bungie from the bag to the rear passenger peg to keep them off the wheel. You might give it a try and see if it works for you.