I keep mine on for three reasons :1) I tend to carry emergency type stuff, small tools, bottle of water, jacket, etc. 2) never know when I may stop and buy something and need a place to carry it and 3) no place to put the bags if I take them off. If I leave them in the garage, just as sure as my name is w8d4it one of my kids or wife will kick them or drop something on them or something will happen to them.