Motorcycle luggage is essential for riders who want to carry gear, tools, or personal items comfortably and securely. Whether you’re commuting, touring, or taking a weekend ride, having the right luggage can make a big difference in convenience and safety.
There are various types, including saddlebags, tank bags, tail bags, and backpacks designed specifically for motorcycles. Each type offers different benefits depending on what you need to carry and how you want to access it.
Some luggage prioritizes capacity while others focus on weather resistance, durability, or ease of attachment. Choosing the right motorcycle luggage depends on your bike type, riding style, and storage needs.
When picking motorcycle luggage, material quality and weatherproofing are key. You want something rugged enough to handle the elements but also easy to install and remove.
Size and mounting options matter too, so the luggage doesn’t interfere with riding or handling. We tested a range of popular motorcycle luggage options to find the ones that balance these factors best.
Best Motorcycle Luggage
We know finding the right motorcycle luggage can be tricky, so we’ve rounded up some of the best options for you. Whether you need something compact for daily rides or bigger bags for road trips, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into our top picks.
Rhinowalk Motorcycle Tail Bag
If you need a roomy, expandable tail bag that handles all weather well, this is a solid choice for everyday rides and longer trips.
Pros
- Expands easily from 40L to 60L for flexible storage
- Comes with a tough rain cover that really keeps water out
- Strong frame and anti-skid bottom give good stability on the bike
Cons
- We found the weight a bit noticeable when fully packed
- Straps take some time to get adjusted just right
- Not the sleekest look for sportier motorcycles
The first thing we liked was how much space this bag offers. Opening up the expansion zipper quickly adds a lot of room without making it bulky when closed.
We kept some gear in the double-sided pockets for fast access, which made those little stops easier. Rain started during one ride, and the built-in rain cover did its job without fuss.
It’s reassuring to know the contents stay dry even if the skies open up unexpectedly. The reflective logo helps too when riding at night—it’s a nice small safety bonus.
Installing the bag was straightforward, but getting the straps snug took a few tweaks. Once set, the reinforced frame and wear-resistant leather on the bottom made the bag feel steady and secure.
It fits well on different racks or sissy bars without slipping around.
Milwaukee Leather Sissy Bar Bag
If you want a durable, spacious bag that holds up well on longer rides, this Milwaukee Leather sissy bar bag is a solid choice.
Pros
- Tough, weather-resistant material keeps gear dry
- Holds a full-face helmet plus plenty of extras
- Detachable backpack straps for easy carrying off the bike
Cons
- Heavier than some other options
- Clips and stitching aren’t always the most reliable
- Size might be too big for short trips or lighter loads
We’ve put this bag through several weekend and longer trips and liked the rugged feel from the moment we grabbed it. The blend of leather and textile looks sharp on many bikes and holds up well against rain and rough roads.
It’s designed to keep its shape, so you won’t have a floppy mess when it’s empty. That top-loading compartment is super convenient; stuffing in a helmet without crushing anything else was easier than expected.
On the downside, we did notice some stitching started to pull after a couple of uses and one clip broke on the ride, which made us wish for better hardware quality. Plus, it’s a bit heavy, so packing light riders might find it cumbersome.
It’s a versatile bag, especially if you want that classic leather look mixed with modern materials. Just keep in mind the maintenance it might need over time.
KEMIMOTO Tail Bag
This bag combines good size and waterproofing, making it a solid pick for everyday riders who need versatility on the road.
Pros
- Spacious with easy access side pockets
- Solid waterproofing with rain cover included
- Reflective straps improve nighttime visibility
Cons
- Slightly bulky when fully packed
- Installation can be tricky without a tail rack
- Limited color options
The roomy main compartment was great for packing gear on longer rides, while the side pockets let us grab snacks or a water bottle without stopping. We appreciated the way the bag kept its shape thanks to the stiff bottom and removable partitions—no sloppy sagging.
Rain didn’t slow us down either. The Oxford fabric and rain cover did well keeping everything dry on sudden wet spells.
The reflective buckles gave an extra layer of safety at night, which is a nice touch. We found fitting it onto different bikes straightforward once you get the hang of the straps, but it’s definitely easier if your bike has a tail rack.
It felt like a practical addition rather than a hassle on the trails or city street.
MOSISO Sissy Bar Backrest Bag
This bag is a solid choice for those wanting flexible storage that adapts well to different motorcycles and ride styles.
Pros
- Expands from 30L up to 48L for extra storage
- Waterproof material with included rain cover
- Multiple carrying and mounting options
Cons
- Can feel a bit bulky when fully packed
- Straps might take some tweaking to fit perfectly
- Limited color options (only black)
We found the expanding capacity quite handy when packing for weekend trips, especially since the elastic cord on the front lets us stash a jacket or small gear without opening the main compartment. The waterproof polyester kept everything dry through light rain, and having the rain cover gave extra peace of mind on heavy showers.
Installation was straightforward using the sissy bar strap, but it required a bit of adjustment to make sure it held tight without shifting mid-ride. The shoulder strap helps when off the bike, making it easy to carry like a duffle.
It’s not the smallest or most minimal option, but it suits riders who value versatility without fuss.
KEMIMOTO Travel Luggage Bag
This bag fits perfectly for longer rides, offering solid storage without feeling bulky or awkward.
Pros
- Large and expandable storage for varied gear
- Durable 1680D Oxford cloth stands up to wear
- Quick-release buckles make mounting very simple
Cons
- Slightly heavy compared to other tail bags
- Shape can get bulky when fully packed
- Shoulder strap adjuster sometimes slips
We’ve taken this luggage on multi-day rides and appreciated how much it holds. The expandable height is a real bonus when you need to pack extra layers or a helmet.
Even when loaded, it stays stable thanks to the heavy-duty straps and welded D-rings. The material resists tears and spills well, which keeps gear safe and dry.
The detachable partitions helped us keep things organized, which is a must for easy access when on the road. Installation was quick — no fiddling with complicated mounts.
Carry options also work well; the padded shoulder strap is comfortable, though we had to tighten it occasionally to keep it from sliding.
Nelson Rigg Destination Bag
This bag is a solid choice for riders who want durable, roomy luggage that’s easy to attach and weatherproof.
Pros
- Tough UltraMax fabric stands up well to sun and rain
- Quick-release straps make mounting hassle-free
- Lockable compartments keep belongings organized and secure
Cons
- Rigid base can crack under heavy loads
- Might need strap adjustments for some bike models
- Expands, but not for super bulky gear
We found the Nelson Rigg bag to be great for both short rides and multi-day trips. The split compartments help keep things tidy, and the ability to unzip the top section into one large space is handy when packing bigger items.
Installation was straightforward since all straps come attached. It stayed put firmly on our luggage rack and sissy bar even on bumpy roads, which gave us peace of mind.
A minor downside: carrying very heavy stuff caused the bottom panel to crack in one test, so we recommend staying within moderate weight limits.
KEMIMOTO 60L Motorcycle Travel Bag
This bag is a solid pick if you need roomy, weatherproof luggage for road trips or daily rides.
Pros
- Large expandable capacity fits plenty of gear
- Waterproof with a rain cover for extra protection
- Straps and buckles make installation fairly simple and secure
Cons
- Might require extra bungee cords for very secure mounting
- Not a perfect fit on CanAm models without some modifications
- Heavier than smaller soft bags due to durable materials
We found the 60L capacity really handy for packing everything from clothes to camping gear. The expandable design lets us customize how much space we need without adding bulk when fully zipped.
Having small quick-access side pockets meant snacks and water were always within easy reach. The PVC mesh fabric held up well in wet weather, and the rain cover gave extra peace of mind on rough rides.
It kept our stuff dry without fuss, which made a big difference when the sky opened up unexpectedly. Installation was straightforward on most bikes we tested it with, and the reflective buckle design helped improve nighttime visibility.
If your bike doesn’t have a standard tail rack, you might want some additional straps or bungees for a snug fit.
Buying Guide
When choosing motorcycle luggage, we first think about how much space we need. Are we packing just a few essentials or gearing up for a long trip?
The size and capacity should match our riding style and trip length. Next, we look at the material.
Durable, water-resistant fabrics can protect our stuff from weather and wear. It’s important to pick something tough enough for our typical rides.
Mounting style matters a lot. We decide if we want saddlebags, tank bags, tail bags, or backpacks.
Each has its perks depending on how easy we want access to our gear and how stable the setup feels. We should also check security features.
Locks, zippers, and attachment systems keep our luggage safe while we stop or park. Another key point is weight and balance.
Heavy bags can affect handling, so lighter options or well-balanced setups help keep control.
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Matches our gear needs | Size, volume in liters |
| Material | Durability and weather protection | Waterproof, tear-resistant fabric |
| Mounting Style | Convenience and stability | Saddlebags, tank bags, etc. |
| Security | Keeps gear safe | Locks, reinforced zippers |
| Weight & Balance | Riding comfort and safety | Lightweight design, stable setup |
We should also consider how easy it is to install and remove the luggage. Quick-release systems save time and hassle when parking or swapping bags.
Comfort can matter too, especially with backpacks. Padding, ventilation, and strap design can make long rides more pleasant.
Frequently Asked Questions
We often wonder about the best gear for long rides, how to pick the right size bags, and which type suits our style. Security and installation are also top concerns when it comes to motorcycle luggage.
What’s the top luggage brand for long road trips on bikes?
Brands like Givi and Kriega are popular among long-distance riders. They offer durable and waterproof options that handle miles well.
How do I choose the right size saddlebags for my ride?
Consider your bike’s make and model first to avoid bulky bags. Think about how much gear you usually carry and balance capacity with weight.
Are hard cases or soft bags better for a bike tour?
Hard cases give better protection and lockability. Soft bags are lighter, more flexible, and easier to store when not in use.
What must-have features should I look for in motorcycle luggage?
Water resistance, secure closures, and easy mounting systems are key. Reflective elements and extra compartments also help.
How do I keep my gear secure on my bike during a ride?
Use locking systems when possible and strap bags down tightly. Regularly check fastenings during stops to prevent shifting.
Can I install luggage on my motorcycle myself or should I get a pro?
Many riders can install soft bags themselves with basic tools. For hard cases, professionals may be better to ensure correct mounting and safety.
