I keep it on almost all of the time all year round. I like the extra space but if you ride with it off then put it on the wife might think something else of where you are riding or she may think you aren't really meeting up with the boys for that bike weekend.
When I bought the bike, I always intended to get the quick release kit for the tour pack. But after having the extra room, I have left it as is and love having the extra room - and place to put my stuff when I stop. Ride about 80% of the time solo...and need ALL the storage room when wife rides with me...
I ride solo most of the time and like having the storage for extra gear, things you might purchase, etc.. An extra benefit is the improved visibility to cages with all the lights on the trunk.
I have 17,000 miles on my Ultra in a year and a half. Wife has never been on it. Not into biking.
I agree on all previous.
Like the ride, creature comforts, storage, etc.
Nothing takes the place of being on the road, Ultra style.
98% of the time solo.....only put pac on if Iam going for a few days,other then that I have just a backrest I'll throw on if going for a 2-up day ride...