Touring on a motorcycle requires durable, versatile, and spacious luggage to carry essential gear while maintaining comfort and safety. With so many options on the market, selecting the right luggage for your touring needs is key. Here are the best motorcycle luggage options for touring riders, including pros, cons, and what to consider before making a purchase.
The Best Motorcycle Luggage Options for Touring Riders
Hard Saddlebags
Hard saddlebags are the go-to option for many touring riders due to their sturdy construction and secure storage. Made from materials like aluminum or hard plastic, these saddlebags offer durability and weather resistance, making them ideal for long trips.
- Pros:
- Highly durable and weatherproof.
- Can be securely locked to protect belongings.
- Maintain their shape regardless of contents.
- Available in various sizes to suit different touring needs.
- Cons:
- Heavier than soft luggage options.
- Can be expensive.
- May require additional hardware for installation.
- Best For: Riders looking for long-term, reliable luggage that can withstand all weather conditions.
Soft Saddlebags
Soft saddlebags are made from textiles like nylon or polyester, offering flexibility, lightweight construction, and affordability. These bags are easy to install and remove, making them a practical option for touring riders.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to install or remove.
- More affordable than hard saddlebags.
- Expandable capacity for carrying more items.
- Can be used on various bike types without extensive modifications.
- Cons:
- Less durable and weather-resistant than hard saddlebags.
- May require additional rain covers for waterproofing.
- Lack the security features of hard bags (e.g., no locks).
- Best For: Riders seeking flexible, lightweight storage for shorter trips or those on a budget.
Tank Bags
Tank bags are designed to sit on the fuel tank, providing easy access to essentials like maps, phones, or snacks. These bags often come with clear map holders and are secured with straps or magnets, making them a practical addition for touring.
- Pros:
- Easy to access while riding.
- Compact and convenient for storing essential items.
- Some models come with clear compartments for maps or devices.
- Available in both hard and soft versions.
- Cons:
- Limited storage capacity.
- Can obstruct view of the controls or gauges.
- Magnet-attached bags can scratch the tank’s surface.
- Best For: Riders looking for easy-to-reach storage for small items and frequently used gear.
Tail Bags
Tail bags are mounted on the rear seat or luggage rack of the motorcycle and provide versatile storage for touring. Available in various sizes, these bags are a great option for those who prefer not to use saddlebags or need additional storage.
- Pros:
- Easy to install and remove.
- Available in a range of sizes.
- Can be used in combination with saddlebags for extra storage.
- Some models come with straps for converting into backpacks.
- Cons:
- Less storage capacity than saddlebags.
- May shift during rides if not properly secured.
- Can interfere with passenger seating.
- Best For: Riders looking for additional storage without committing to bulky saddlebags.
Top Cases
Top cases are hard, lockable boxes mounted on the rear of the motorcycle, providing ample space for gear, helmets, or other essentials. They are popular for their durability and weather resistance, making them a great option for long-distance touring.
- Pros:
- Extremely secure with lockable features.
- Weatherproof and durable.
- Offers large storage capacity for helmets and gear.
- Can double as a passenger backrest in some models.
- Cons:
- Heavier than soft luggage.
- Can be bulky and affect the bike’s center of gravity.
- Requires specific mounting hardware.
- Best For: Riders seeking secure, high-capacity storage for extended trips and all-weather conditions.
Dry Bags
Dry bags are essential for touring riders who need waterproof storage. Made from waterproof materials like PVC, these bags can be strapped to the rear seat or luggage rack, offering flexible and weatherproof storage options.
- Pros:
- Completely waterproof.
- Available in various sizes and shapes.
- Lightweight and easy to pack.
- Can be used in combination with other luggage systems.
- Cons:
- Limited organizational compartments.
- Require straps for secure mounting.
- May not be as durable as hard cases over long-term use.
- Best For: Riders traveling through wet conditions or looking for lightweight, waterproof storage.
Luggage Racks
Though not a luggage item, luggage racks are an essential accessory for touring riders who need to carry additional gear. Racks provide a sturdy platform for securing tail bags, dry bags, or other luggage types.
- Pros:
- Increases storage capacity for bikes with limited space.
- Can be used with various luggage options (e.g., tail bags, dry bags).
- Easy to install and remove.
- Cons:
- Offers no protection from weather or theft.
- Requires proper mounting to avoid shifting during rides.
- Best For: Riders who need extra space or want to carry larger bags without attaching permanent fixtures to their bikes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right luggage for your motorcycle touring adventures depends on the duration of your trip, the weather conditions, and the amount of gear you need to carry. Hard saddlebags and top cases offer durability and security, while soft saddlebags and dry bags provide flexibility and affordability. Tail bags and tank bags are great for quick access to essentials, while luggage racks can extend your carrying capacity.
