Gnat, I manage to roll up about 5,000 miles a year on my Harley and retention has never been an issue. Also, I NEVER ride without carrying, too many fuking Bandidos around here! As I'm sure you've already figured out, a well fitted holster is the key to not needing retention. I would not even consider carrying a gun in one of those cheap soft nylon holsters without some sort of retention strap, not that I would use one of those things to start with.