Bubble bag history

[sknappy]

When did they quite using bubble bags on the FLH? I know you can get repo todays that you can fit on the Heritage. All I have ever had on my 62 is the bubble bag. Just wondering if that is right or need to go to the rectangle bags.

[Rubone]

The first of the so called "Bubble bags were introduced in '52 for the new K Model and had two horizontal SS trim pieces. In '54 they became available for Big Twins and had two speedball type emblems (like the leather bags) on each bag and a row of studs. In '58 they changed again to the new star or comet emblem. In '59 white was introduced for the first time and also had the star emblem. They continued as the standard bag through '62. The new rectangular bags were first introduced in '63 but the older bags were available all the way to '68 in white with a rocket emblem as an accessory. The bubble bags were also fitted to many police units and were also available until '68 most of which had no trim. Occasionally a '63 and newer bike shows up with original equipment bubble bags. No '62 or earlier ever came with rectangular bags. There are other minor variations but this should answer your question.
Robbie

[Chris Haynes]

My 1965 XLCH has Royalite bags with a 1965 date stamp on them.

[Rubone]

Chris,
I have had several sets of bags with '65-'67 date stamps. Those bags would have been original equipment as the rectangular "Compact" bags for Sportsters did not come out until '66.
Robbie

[sknappy]

thank you appreciate the info