11 Best motorcycle bags (reviews) in 2020
To help you choose the model that best suits your needs, our team has compiled a list of test reports on motorcycle tank bags, with an accurate and detailed description of each of these options. We also took into account customer feedback and product specifications. Read our list to see what the characteristics of these constructions are.
This year’s buying guide
Sometimes reading the reviews on motorbike tank bags does not give you a clear picture of the product you want to buy. There are a number of factors that you will want to keep in mind before looking to the market for the design that meets your needs.
To help you, we’ve put together an easy-to-read but comprehensive shopping guide that covers some of the features you might find useful by analysing how they affect the performance of your bag.
If you are currently looking for a new model, you can also add a number of related products to your equipment, such as good engine battleshafts or perhaps reliable engine storage awnings.
Hard or soft pockets ?
In general, tank bags can be divided into two different types, depending on the materials they are made of and their construction. Each of them has its pros and cons, but also its own characteristics.
Choosing between these two types is the first way to narrow your search, making it faster and easier.
Rigid bags are usually made of PVC and fibreglass, but sometimes other materials are used as well. These types of bags are generally designed to be stored in place by attaching them to the bike or separating them with tools rather than simply attaching or securing them with magnets.
Sometimes they can even be locked to make them safer; individual compartments can also have their own locking system to make your products safer. The hardest bags are more resistant to bumps and weather than their softer counterparts, the hardest bags are usually weatherproof and the outer cover is not damaged by the sun.
Soft bags are lighter and easier to attach or remove, making them ideal for those who want to use something for everyday commuting or short trips. Some riders prefer it because they look good too.
However, safety can be a problem because most models are not equipped with locks; for cheaper models, water tightness is a problem, either because their thunderbolts let water through, or because the materials used are simply permeable. In this case you must use a rain cover (normally supplied).
Dimensions and shapes
The availability of the best motorcycle bag also depends on a careful evaluation of the desired size. If you estimate it correctly, it will be easier for you to find the product that meets your needs.
There are items for travellers, for long journeys or for those who don’t want to take much with them – and the advantage is that they can be fitted one by one to almost any tank.
There are very small bags of 2-3 litres that are only meant for the most important things like mobile phones, wallets or glasses. Classified because they don’t disturb the rider during administration, they are suitable for city walks when you go to a place to meet friends and you only have to bring the things you normally do when you walk.
For passengers travelling to and from work, it is recommended to pay attention to tank bags with a larger capacity. With a volume of 60 to 20 litres, you can usually take shoes, lunch and small electronics with you to work or home.
They are small enough not to look uncomfortable while driving and are also suitable for short trips to a nearby town or destination.
The types mentioned above are not very useful if you need more capacity; that’s where the large duffle bags come in. From 10 litres to 25 litres and more, most products are expandable and can be adapted to your needs.
Many items can be stored there, including extra clothing and large electronic devices.
As far as form is concerned, problems only arise if you aim for a large bag. Small and medium sized items can be mounted on almost anything, but for larger models you need to consider the shape of your tank.
Most manufacturers strive to make their designs as versatile as possible, but this is not possible when it comes to making a very large bag.
Because aesthetics are very important once you have decided on the shape and design of your new bag, you need to pay attention to your overall appearance. You could look at a nice motorcycle jacket, a pair of great motorcycle shirts, or maybe even Harley-Davidson sunglasses and glasses to complete your outfit.
Equipment
The choice of textiles or solid materials for the production of your luggage is important and affects its performance and weather resistance.
An inexpensive motorcycle tank bag can be made of permeable textile, which means you need a rain cover; other structures can be bulky and overweight because their sturdy construction is more resistant to scratches, impacts or the elements.
Most motorcycle fuel bags on the market today use a durable, waterproof outer shell nylon – the cheaper but still strong 1680D Nylon or 600D Nylon.
Other materials were also found, although to a lesser extent, Guzi 1200D nylon or 1000D thermoformed laminated polyester. They are all waterproof, but in some cases a rain cape is recommended because lightning can cause water infiltration and interfere with the operation of electronic devices or paper.
Washed canvas and eco-leather are another option used by some items. Rigid PVC or fibreglass bags are popular because of their durability.
In the interior, the floor is laid almost continuously. The aim is to provide extra protection against wind and cold and to keep your belongings safe in your bag.
Sometimes waterproof zippers are used for 100% waterproof products. In general, the side walls are sufficiently rigid – whether the bag is full or empty, it retains its shape.
Installation and other features
The installation and removal of the tank bag should be as simple as possible, especially if it is an item that can be changed into a backpack. There are several design options, and the most popular are options with belt buckles, a magnetic base or tank clamp rings, each with its own advantages or disadvantages.
Belt mounts, perhaps the most popular, are simple, suitable for any type of tank (including plastic or composite tanks), they are not very easy to steal, but they are also not very easy to transport from one motorcycle to another or even mount in the beginning.
This type of bag is securely fastened with straps and does not eliminate the risk of scratching, but significantly reduces it. LTV drivers are advised to consider this model.
Choosing the best magnetic tank bag for a motorcycle usually depends on the quality of the magnets and the ground. Sewn into a bag, they attach the stowage product to the fuel tank, while the rubber bottom protects the motorcycle from scratches and keeps the product firmly in place.
They are easy to install and remove (and also steal) and are ideal for those travelling – just take them with you and get them out of the car. If dirt gets between the tank and the cistern, scratches can occur – regular cleaning eliminates this risk.
Another way to secure the bag is the use of a tank ring. It is attached to the cylinder with bolts around the tank cap and then simply press the bag against it until it clicks into place.
While this method has the advantage of maintaining the appearance, securing the bag securely in place and making it easy to install and remove, the tank ring is specific to the motorcycle and not universal.
You need to buy the ring that goes with your bike – if you have different models, you need to buy a different ring for each of them.
A good motorcycle tank bag usually includes features other than the main storage compartment and the materials used to make it.
Rain hoods, transparent pockets for maps or GPS that allow you to take accurate measurements even while driving, shoulder straps and bladder pockets are other useful features.
The more inclusive the design, the more expensive it will be. So think about your real needs before you make a decision.
Other motorcycle luggage
There are many other ways to transport your personal belongings by motorcycle. There are many different types of luggage on motorcycles, each intended for a specific use. We are now going to investigate other bags and suitcases that can be used with the engine.
If you delve into this topic, you will also find other types of interesting products, such as good motorcycle helmet locks or reliable GPS systems for motorcycles to enhance your riding experience.
Saddlebags
A very popular type of luggage for motorcycles is the saddlebag, which can often be seen on many cruise ships and helicopters. Because they are attached to a belt between them to attach them to the bike, they look like a normal addition and do not disturb the balance and stability of the ride.
They are usually mounted above the exhaust pipe or around the rear wheel, taking care not to touch the wheel.
Saddlebags have a larger capacity and are used for long journeys. Rarely divided into compartments, the bags are rather the most important storage space, large and open at the top, allowing easy access to what is stored inside.
It is preferred by those who find it easier to put their belongings in this huge compartment.
Most products are non-removable and are designed to stay in place and can be removed, requiring tools or more time to lift their restrictions. A fastening system is required, which usually consists of a belt and some brackets that protect the wheel and prevent the bags from coming into contact with the wheel.
Mounts are usually not included and can be purchased separately by choosing one of the many models available on the market.
Rear seat pockets
This type of bicycle baggage is designed to be placed on the back seat of the car when there are no passengers on board.
Unlike other types of luggage, when properly secured, they can provide the driver with an excellent backrest, increase comfort and reduce fatigue on long journeys.
There is also a large space for storing road accessories, clothing or other items. The inner compartments are either equipped with an organizer or a simple one, so that you can also take large objects with you.
Bags usually contain one or more compartments, it is best to use them for long journeys and trips. It can be attached to the trunk, to the trunk or to the bike with straps.
Rigid backpacks are usually waterproof, while soft textile models are made from weather-resistant materials or have a replaceable rain cover to better protect your gear when riding in bad weather.
Sissy Bar Bags
This luggage, which is attached to the rear of the boot, generally does not obstruct the driver and does not restrict his freedom of movement. Perfect for a trip for two, because it doesn’t rest on the seat itself, but on the bar behind it. Different models may have a large storage capacity that provides sufficient space for the cyclists’ personal belongings.
Sometimes the bags can be used in the back seat without additional equipment – this is usually indicated in the user manual or by the manufacturer.
Together with the tank and panniers it is one of the most popular options for motorcyclists. They also come in two versions: hard or soft luggage, each with its advantages and disadvantages; note that soft bags sometimes do not have a rain cover, which may have to be purchased separately.
Luggage lock
Since most motorcycle luggage only has a zipper, it is easy for passers-by to steal pieces of luggage or even take the whole bag with them. That’s why most motorists today are more interested in buying lockable bags that can contain important items such as GPS tablets, mobile phones or cameras.
If you have a bag that can be changed into a backpack or hand luggage, you don’t have to lock it because you can take it anywhere.
Most items are easy to remove, but some have locks. With other products you can install the lock (usually not included, must be purchased separately).
There are also additional safety bags that are attached to the bike and can only be removed with a key.
The importance of excellent shielding
You invest in a motorbike bag because you want to take the necessary stuff with you that you don’t want to leave without, even if the trip is short. That’s why the size of the tank bag is an important aspect, because you may want to have a bag that is big enough to hold a helmet or other large items.
However, size is not everything, and you will benefit more from the excellent isolation. Ideal for buying a model with at least several compartments, so you can keep all your stuff in order. For example, you should be able to see in your zipped pocket where your keys, credit cards and other small items are stored.
Another interesting feature would be a transparent pocket in which to store your phone. It will be easily accessible and therefore an advantage for a rider who likes long rides. The outer and inner pockets are very handy, and some mesh pockets are also nice to have, although they are not necessary. It is used to fill bags so that your belongings are not damaged.
You will also find motorcycle tank bags with map pockets. They are easily accessible and you keep them on your cards or on your smartphone. If you make a long journey, it can take a long time to get there. This bag must be waterproof for obvious reasons.
Internal divorces are another thing that’s a perfect separation. You will need to divide the internal storage space into large compartments so that you can store the various items you need to take with you on your journey comfortably.
Some extra features you can easily find in yourtank bag
From time to time the capacity of the bag may be exceeded, so many people fear that the bag will lose its shape. To counter this risk, it is ideal to get a bag for a motor tank with amplifiers. They will help to maintain the shape of the bag-shaped tank and extend its life.
Useful extras can make your life easier. For example, a carrying handle is a good option if you need to carry your things, and a shoulder strap may not be enough for the weight you carry from your bike to another location.
Because long distance riders can encounter different weather conditions, it can’t hurt to have raincapes for the tank bag. It should be easy to attach rain protectors to your bike tank and you know that all your gear stays dry and safe.
A belt for grandma is another thing you might want to see in the model you want to buy. Even if you think that the bag is already firmly attached to the motor tank, you should not ignore the possibility of adding it. That’s exactly what Grandma’s belt does, and you can be sure that your bag stays on the tank without danger of falling.
Maybe you want a model with expandable storage capacity. Suppose you sometimes intend to use it to carry large objects, but don’t want to carry a heavy and unattractive bag that you don’t like. These models come with extra zippers that allow you to customize the storage space to your needs. If you don’t have to fill a bag with all your stuff, you can reduce the size so it feels like two bags instead of one.
The design of the safety buckles must be in accordance with your comfort and the general safety of your bag and its contents. This means you have to be able to wear them with gloves, but at the same time they have to be strong enough to withstand strong winds and general road conditions.
You’ll also find a handy bag if it comes with earphone jacks so you can listen to music from your smartphone on the go. Additional straps would be useful, such as a backpack belt. They let you carry the bag if you have to park your bike.
Weatherproof
Motorcycle tank bags have to be many things, and they have to prove their resistance to weather conditions, among other things. Especially if you skate a lot in the rain, you need a bag that can withstand the rain. The cloth in which the bag is made must be waterproof, and the zippers must have covers and other features that make them waterproof.
However, we must not forget that waterproofing is not the same as sealing. Waterproof bags can do little, except that it will rain heavily someday. However, there is a reason why manufacturers do not only offer leakproof bags. These materials are usually more expensive, so waterproofing and extra waterproofing are considered good compromises.
It’s also a good idea to get a UV-resistant motor tank bag. The material will not discolour, even when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time, and the objects you keep indoors will also be protected. The durable inner lining contributes to the overall strength of the bag and also makes it resistant to strong winds.
The flash must also prevent dust and dirt from entering. If they have long closed flaps, they guarantee that nothing can get into your bag or damage your belongings. Storm flaps are another option used by manufacturers to ensure that the bags they produce for motorcycles are as weather resistant as possible.
Remember that the style of your motorcycle is.
Below you will find more information on how to find the fuel range that best suits your needs. The way you design your motorcycle’s fuel tank can have a significant impact on the choice of bag you get. In other words, you need to find out if the bag you want to buy is compatible with the motorcycle’s fuel tank.
If you get a small bag that’s easy to tie, there’s no problem. These bags are perfect for all motorcycles, but if you prefer a larger model, mounting on a small tank can be a real problem.
The size of the tank is only part of the problem. Your style of armour can also play a role in choosing the type of bag you can get. For example, inclined tanks, typical for cruisers and adventurous motorcycles. If you try to put a large tank bag on such a model, you will notice that this process is not that simple.
However, if you have a flat tank, you will find that it works perfectly with most pocket sizes. Moreover, this design has a certain advantage. Because the surface of the tank is flat, you make good use of the large surface, which will help you to easily connect the bag.
It would be a good idea to check compatibility issues with manufacturers to avoid spending money on a tank bag that does not fit the style and size of the tank.
If you liked this article, you can read our article on how to find the best motorcycle backpack.
Bibliography :
1) What you need to know before you buy
2) Determine the correct size and shape of the bag for the tanks
3) Rules for charging engines
4) Compulsory Owner’s Manual for motorcycles
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