Motorcycle luggage is crucial for every biker who wants to travel comfortably, keep their valuables dry and safe, and maintain quick access to all the essentials.
Motorcycle bags come in many shapes and sizes, and the choice of bag depends on the type of motorcycle, journey length, and riding habits. This guide will help you find the best luggage option for your needs, navigating you through different types of motorcycle bags, mounting systems, and their features.
We know firsthand that a convenient and durable motorcycle bag is more than just a bike accessory. It’s an essential part of the bike that can impact your motorcycle’s performance and safety.
Saddlebags & Panniers
Saddlebags and panniers are mounted on either side of a motorcycle’s rear wheel. The main difference between the two is their fabric and how they attach to the bike.
Saddlebags are usually soft, made from leather, textile, or vinyl. They often feature a ‘throw-over’ installation, which means they’re simply mounted by throwing a strap over the passenger’s seat. Saddlebags are lightweight and perfect for shorter trips on cruisers or vintage motorcycles, where they can also serve as a stylish accessory.
Panniers are made from hard, durable fabrics such as plastic or metal. Mounting hard luggage on a bike requires a metal rack, and these bags can be locked and removed as required. A side-mounted storage like this is preferred for long-distance riding or everyday commuting. So if you’re looking for soft motorcycle luggage, saddlebags should suit your needs. Meanwhile, hard panniers are a better choice for long-distance riders as they offer better weather resistance.
Tank Bags
Tank bags are a versatile storage option that allows quick access to essentials. You can put your phone, maps, documents, or any other small to medium-sized item in a tank bag and conveniently access it whenever needed. Some bags feature see-through map pockets or cable ports for phone charging.
Tank bags mount directly on the fuel tank in various ways — with magnets, straps, or special rings. They have a quick-release function for easy removal and can also be used as backpacks or carry bags when off the bike.
Tail Bags & Seat Bags
Tail bags and seat bags attach to the passenger seat or a rear rack, directly behind the driver, keeping the weight centered and creating a balanced weight distribution. This storage solution is easy to install as it often features straps, bungee cords, or quick-release mechanisms.
Roll bags or dry bags are a common type of tail bags and seat bags. The top of the roll bags folds several times to seal securely and ensure weather resistance. Dry bags are light and versatile, and come in various sizes.
Tail and seat bags offer flexible storage space from 10 to 60 liters, which means they can be used for everyday commuting as well as longer touring. Some of the models can transform into motorcycle backpacks or shoulder bags to be carried off the motorcycle.
Top Boxes & Trunks
Motorcycle top boxes are hard storage compartments that attach to the rack above a rear wheel. They’re lockable, fully waterproof, and secure. Their storage capacity varies from 20 to 60 liters, so you can safely put one or two helmets in the box.
Motorcycle top cases are centered at the rear of the bike, so even a wider box only minimally impacts the bike’s balance, compared to side bags. However, at high speeds, a heavy top box can affect bike handling.
Motorcycle Tool Pouches
Tool pouches are compact storage compartments designed specifically to hold essential tools for on-the-road repairs. They’re perfect for wrenches, tire repair kits, pliers, or emergency supplies such as electrical tape or zip ties.
Often waterproof, tool pouches can be mounted under the seat, on crash bars, motorcycle frames, or forks for quick access. If you plan on traveling to remote areas, having a tool pouch with essentials may come in handy.
Fork Bags & Frame Pouches
Fork bags and frame pouches are small motorcycle bags that mount directly onto the front fork, bars, or frame. They’re easy to attach using straps and can be mounted to any type of motorcycle.
One of the main fork bag features is that it places the weight lower and more centered than most other motorcycle luggage options. However, these bags often absorb intense vibration, making it essential to install them properly so they don’t slide down.
Handlebar & Windshield Bags
Handlebar and windshield bags are a great option for storing small items for easy access. Placed on a motorcycle’s handlebars or behind the windshield, bags can be used for storing sunglasses, tools, gloves, or documents.
Handlebar luggage is often made from leather or vinyl and can become a stylish addition to the bike.
Leg Bags & Wearable Pouches
Some of the essentials can be kept off the bike entirely. Leg bags or wearable pouches are compact storage solutions strapped to the biker’s body. Wearable pouches are often made from water and abrasion-resistant fabrics and can be strapped to the rider’s thighs or waist.
Rider-mounted storage is perfect for touring riders who want to keep their essentials close to themselves and accessible off the bike.
| Fabric | Mounting | Usage | Features | |
| Saddlebags | Soft (leather, textile, vinyl) | Side-mounted storage | Lightweight packing, cruising, vintage bikes | Simple ‘throw-over’ style |
| Panniers | Hard structure (plastic, metal) | Side-mounted storage | Commuting, touring | Removable, lockable |
| Tank bags | Durable, weather resistant | Attaches on the fuel tank | Can fit on any motorcycle | Provides quick access to essentials |
| Tail/seat bags | Durable, weather resistant | Rear seat or rack | Commuting, long distance rides | Aerodynamic designs |
| Top boxes/trunks | Hard structure | Rear rack | Commuting, touring | Secure, large storage |
| Tool pouches | Weather resistant | Under the seat, on bars, forks | Can fit on any motorcycle | Compact storage for essential tools |
| Fork bags | Often waterproof | Front forks, handlebars, or frame | Can fit on any motorcycle | On-the-go access to small items |
| Handlebar or windshield bags | Durable leather, vinyl, PVC | Handlebars, windshields | Can fit on any motorcycle | Easy access to small items |
| Wearable pouches | Abrasion-resistant materials | Rider’s body | Strapped to thigh or waist | Keeps items available off bike |
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Luggage
The best motorcycle luggage will depend on multiple factors, such as your riding style, bike compatibility, and how much storage space you need. We prepared a deep dive into each factor, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the right motorcycle bag for your needs.
Riding Style & Trip Length
Long-distance riders may consider motorcycle luggage with larger storage space. Hard-shell tail bags or hard panniers offer more storage space and better weight distribution, which may be helpful during long trips.
Long hauls may require multiple luggage units, so it’s important to plan them strategically. A tail bag and a tank bag that transforms into a backpack can be a good combination for a longer trip, while a wearable pouch provides additional storage for essentials that require quick, easy access.
Soft shell motorcycle luggage and backpacks are more popular among everyday commuters, who prefer flexibility. Waterproof materials are a top priority in order to keep documents and laptops safe.
Adventure riders prefer saddlebags and panniers as they offer a good balance between storage capacity, durability, and affordability. They’re also perfect for off-road terrain due to good weight distribution. Wearable pouches are also a great choice for ADV riders who want to avoid a full luggage setup. This way, riders can keep their valuables with them, easily accessible. Utility pouches are easy to attach to riding clothes or the body and offer enough space for essentials such as a phone, documents, or electronics.
Soft vs Hard Motorcycle Bags
Soft motorcycle bags, such as roll bags or saddlebags, are great for off-road riding. They’re lighter, more flexible, and safer during an accident. In case of a fall, they’re less likely to cause a leg injury, compared to a hard-shell bag.
Soft luggage is often made from waterproof fabrics, but it must be looked after to maintain its weatherproof features.
Hard motorcycle luggage, such as panniers or top boxes are best for everyday commuters and street touring. Hard-shell storage is lockable, weatherproof, and can protect delicate items.
Hard boxes weigh more, so they’re less popular among off-road and sports riders.
Mounting Systems & Compatibility
Depending on your bike type and riding habits, consider what mounting system is best for you — a universal or bike-specific.
Universal mounts are usually only used temporarily, so they’re preferred by sports or naked bike riders, or those who switch between bikes. They’re cheaper and easier to install or remove, but offer less stability and require regular readjustment.
Bike-specific mounting systems come with a permanent installation, so you only have to mount them once. This option is best for touring and daily commuting, as well as heavier luggage.
While bike-specific mounts are more expensive compared to universal systems, they offer higher security, a cleaner look, and better stability.
Capacity, Weight & Balance
Before buying motorcycle luggage, it’s important to consider how much storage space you’ll need. Overloading bags can make the bike unstable, interfere with handling, and damage motorcycle parts.
The luggage weight should be balanced, so it’s essential to keep the heaviest bags closer to the center of the bike and not overload the rear. Putting heavy luggage at the rear of the bike can alter its gravity center and make the bike unstable.
When it comes to motorcycle luggage, the best rule is to pack as lightly as possible, distribute the weight evenly, and keep essentials close to you.
Common Motorcycle Luggage Mistakes to Avoid
Motorcycle bags are a great help, but only if they’re used properly. Here are some common mistakes that riders should avoid:
- Choosing Size Over Practicality
Choosing increased storage over practicality can lead to reduced bike stability and handling, create physical limitations, and even damage the bike.
To avoid this mistake, match your luggage size to your trip type and try not to overload. Use expandable luggage whenever possible, so you can increase storage capacity if needed.
- Ignoring Mounting Security
Improperly secured luggage can cause severe damage to the rider and the motorcycle. The bags can shift, catch on moving bike parts, or detach completely. Motorcycle luggage is designed to sustain weather, vibration, and high speeds, but only when mounted properly.
- Overpacking Small Bags
Overpacking can cause instability or exceed component weight limits, thus damaging motorcycle parts. Putting too much weight on the rear of the bike can make it wobbly at high speeds, while overpacked soft luggage can touch the hot exhaust pipe and melt.
The best general packing strategy is to keep the heaviest items at the bottom of the luggage and as close to the bike center as possible. Check the weight limits on rear racks — they usually have strict weight ranges. Exceeding those can damage the frame and create a safety hazard.
- Mixing Incompatible Bag Types
Combining hard luggage with soft panniers can create unstable handling, as the weight may become unbalanced. To avoid this, stick to a matching set of panniers and a rack that suits those specific side bags.
Mixing incompatible luggage brands is also a common mistake. It can result in insecure attachment, as different brands may have different mounting systems, designed specifically for a certain brand of bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of motorcycle bags?
The main types of motorcycle bags are saddlebags, tank bags, and rear-mounted tail bags. They can be soft-shell or hard-shell, depending on their materials.
What are the bags on motorcycles called?
The most common motorcycle bags are called saddlebags and panniers. They mount on the bike's rear wheel and can come as a soft-shell or a hard-shell structure.
Are hard or soft motorcycle bags better?
Hard motorcycle bags are better for security, traveling in harsh weather, and touring riders. Soft-shell bags are lighter and safer during falls, as hard luggage can cause damage to the rider or the motorcycle in a crash.
Which motorcycle bags are best for long trips?
The best motorcycle luggage for long trips is hard-shell panniers, as they are durable and weatherproof. You can also combine multiple types of motorcycle luggage, as tail bags create additional storage space and tank bags provide quick access to essentials such as a phone or maps.
