As Hobbit says, and since there are two long straps, I use them both interleaved, so I did not have to cut them, and mated them "Siamesed". There was plenty of left over and the buckles are on the inside to make it a little more secure. I then interleaved my cable lock to wrap neatly around the bag so it is securely locked closed as well. Later I got the windsheild, so I moved it to the rear sissy bar and got a purchased Heritage bag that clips right into the windshield stay with a bolt to secure it. Good luck with your fitment and customizing...half the joy is figuring it out...it's all good.