Types of Motorcycle Bags and How to Mount Them

You want to carry luggage on your motorcycle or bring back souvenirs from your touring destination, but you don't know how to load a bag! How do people actually secure luggage on their motorcycles? This article will answer those questions.

Types of Bags

There are various types of bags that can be loaded onto a motorcycle.
- Seat bags
- Top boxes
- Side bags
- Tank bags
- Backpacks
- Hip bags
Let's take a look at the features of each one by one.

Seat Bags

TANAX Camping Seat Bag 2 Black

https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-mfk-102

This type of bag is placed on the rear of the seat, mainly on the pillion seat. It is the most commonly used by riders when loading luggage onto a motorcycle.
It's a convenient bag that can be used for day trips, long tours, and even camping tours. Having one seat bag will free you from the worry of "how to carry my luggage?".

To secure it, you typically thread the included straps through luggage hooks or under the seat. There are also methods that use cords or nets for securing. A point to note is that for sport bikes, the seat width is often insufficient for the bag, making it unstable. It may be necessary to improvise, such as placing a board between the seat and the bag.

Also, many seat bags specifically designed for sport bikes are available. The downside is that they often have small capacities and cannot hold a lot of luggage. However, many have compact and sleek designs, making them highly compatible with sport bikes.

TANAX Seat Cowl Bag Synthetic Leather Black

https://bikeman.jp/

Top Boxes

GIVI V46N Top Case

https://bikeman.jp/products/d-90147

Top boxes are commonly installed on commuter scooters and adventure-style motorcycles. Many are large enough to fit a full-face helmet, and some are even large enough to hold two helmets.

They are relatively sturdy and will not get wet inside even in the rain. Most top cases also come with a dedicated lock for security.
The downsides are that they are a bit expensive, and often require a base to be installed on the motorcycle, which can incur labor costs if done at a motorcycle shop, or take time if done yourself.

Side Bags

Henlybegins Side Bag

https://bikeman.jp/

These bags are designed to be distributed on both sides behind the seat. They are recommended when a seat bag alone isn't enough capacity. Many are shaped to avoid interfering with the muffler, making them attachable to sport bikes as well. They come in a wide range of sizes, from small to large.
They are typically secured by threading straps under the seat and fastening them with buckles. Additionally, installing side bag supports can increase the stability of the bags and prevent scratches from rubbing against the vehicle.
American-style motorcycle owners tend to choose leather products. It's best to decide on the material based on its compatibility with your motorcycle.

Tank Bags

RS TAICHI Tank Bag L 12L Black

https://bikeman.jp/

Many tank bags are secured to the tank with magnets. Some products also have a double anti-drop measure with straps that go under the handlebars or top bridge. Since magnets do not stick to aluminum or resin tanks, other methods like straps must be used for primary securing. Because they are placed on the tank, they must not interfere with steering, so their capacity is generally small.

They are recommended for items you want to access quickly, such as rain gear. Many models have a clear case on top, which is very convenient for holding smartphones, paper maps, or toll road tickets.

Backpacks

Alpinestars Time Zone Backpack 20L

https://bikeman.jp/

For those who don't want to compromise the look of their bike by attaching a bag, or those concerned about theft, a backpack is an excellent choice. However, carrying it directly on your back will put a strain on your body, making it unsuitable for long tours. It is recommended for day trips over short distances, or for commuting/school on a motorcycle.

Motorcycle backpacks are designed to stay firmly on your body and not slip off your shoulders, minimizing impact on your riding. Also, many are waterproof, so while fashion brand backpacks are good, we recommend choosing a motorcycle-specific backpack.

Hip Bags / Waist Pouches

https://bikeman.jp/

Although they have a small capacity, they are worn around the waist, making it easy to access their contents. They are convenient for storing toll road tickets, smartphones, and wallets. They are ideal for touring when you have minimal luggage. Recently, more stylish designs have emerged, leading to an increase in riders actively wearing hip bags.

Recommended Carrying Cords and Touring Nets

While many bags come with securing straps or buckles, combining them with cords or touring nets can further stabilize your luggage. Furthermore, if fraying or damage to straps is found, or if buckles break, securing the bag becomes difficult. If you ride without noticing damage or breakage, your luggage could fall off, potentially causing a major nuisance to following vehicles.

Therefore, it is always recommended to use cords or touring nets as a backup. You can also directly secure luggage between the net and the bag, which allows you to increase your carrying capacity.

Touring Nets

ROUGH & ROAD Rough Touring Net M Size 30x30cm Silver

https://bikeman.jp/

This is a highly popular touring net with excellent elasticity and durability, making it very easy to use. It comes with 6 hooks, and if you lose any, you can purchase replacement hooks separately. Sizes range from M to XL, with each size increase adding 10cm to both length and width. It's available in black, silver, and blue.

Carrying Cords

TANAX Carrying Cord 4 Red 3m

https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-mf-4650

This highly elastic cord can firmly secure your luggage. The included hooks have a very slim design, making it easy to hook them into narrow gaps where regular-sized hooks would be difficult to fit. Furthermore, they are made of resin + metal, ensuring excellent strength, so you can use them with confidence. They come in three lengths: 1m, 2m, and 3m. Colors available are black, blue, and red.

TANAX Carrying Cord 3 Black Variable Cord

https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-mf-4606

This also uses robust hooks made of resin + metal. You can easily and quickly secure luggage by placing it on top of a bag or in the center of your load and extending the cords in four directions. Available in three colors: black, blue, and red.

Belts and Straps

TANAX Power Tie Belt Moss Green

https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-mf-4726

After attaching it to your luggage, you can firmly secure the load by tightening the adjustment belt. While it may not offer the same flexibility or versatility as cords or nets, belts are much sturdier. They are ideal for securing large and heavy loads. Using them in conjunction with cords or nets will provide even greater peace of mind.

Recommended Parts to Improve Motorcycle Carrying Capacity

Cords and touring nets are useless if there's nowhere on your motorcycle to attach them. Sport bikes and customized bikes often don't prioritize carrying capacity, which can limit your options for securing luggage. In such cases, you should install aftermarket luggage hooks on your bike.

Touring Hooks

DAYTONA Touring Hook M8 Ash Amber

https://bikeman.jp/products/d-91969

By replacing the bolts on the pillion grips or frame at the side of the seat with this product, you can make them function as luggage hooks.

https://bikeman.jp/products/d-91969

Since it's a small part that doesn't affect the aesthetics, there's no need to worry about it spoiling the look of your vehicle. A wide variety of colors are available, so you can choose a color that matches your bike.

https://bikeman.jp/

License Plate Hook
TANAX Cargo Hook Black

https://bikeman.jp/

This hook can be installed using the screws that secure the license plate. The fender that holds the license plate is less sturdy than the frame, so it's important to avoid applying too much tension. It is recommended to use it only as an auxiliary measure.

Choose the Right Bag for Your Needs and Enjoy a Comfortable Motorcycle Life!

This time, we introduced bags that can be loaded onto motorcycles and wearable bags for motorcycle riders. With various capacities and designs available, try to find one that suits your style and your bike. When loading, always consider stability and implement multiple layers of anti-drop measures.