Motorcycle Luggage Capacity – ReiseMoto

Motorcycle Luggage Capacity

Motorcycle Luggage Capacity

Find out how much luggage is ideal to carry on a bike for long tours, and the best possible options online to buy from.

 

Whether you're commuting to work, going on a weekend road trip, or heading out for an extended motorcycle adventure on a long tour, having the right luggage is essential. As every rider knows that the space is limited, and selecting the right luggage system can make or break your trip. Understanding how much gear you can carry on your bike is a key part of planning, and it depends on several factors, such as the type of luggage, the bike’s weight limits, and the type of journey you’re taking.

 

In this blog, we’ll explore various motorcycle luggage options, how much gear you can carry, and tips on how to maximize your luggage capacity without sacrificing safety. Choose the right riding luggage on www.reisemoto.com, which offers a large range of brands like Carbonado, Tucano Urbano,  Acerbis, Grand Pitstop and others. Find a wide set of categories like tank bags, saddle bags, backpacks, trail packs and more. You can also visit the Reise Moto store in Andheri, Mumbai, to experience the products personally. 

 

Understanding Luggage Options for Motorcycles

The first step in figuring out how much riding gear you can carry is understanding the types of motorcycle luggage available. Each luggage system offers different levels of storage and versatility, depending on your needs. Here's a breakdown of the most common luggage options:


  1. Saddlebags

Saddlebags are mounted on the sides of your motorcycle, providing ample storage without affecting the balance of the bike. They come in two primary types: hard and soft saddlebags.

  • Hard Saddlebags: These are typically made of durable materials like plastic or metal and offer protection for your belongings from both weather and impact. Hard saddlebags tend to have more storage capacity than soft bags and are often lockable for added security.
  • Soft Saddlebags: Made from textiles like nylon, soft saddlebags are lightweight and flexible, making them easier to store when not in use. They may not have the same rigid structure as hard bags but still provide plenty of storage for shorter trips.

Average Capacity: Saddlebags typically offer between 15 to 30 litres of storage on each side, giving you a total of up to 60 litres of luggage space, depending on the size of your bike and the bag. If you plan well, this is good enough for a long ride.

  1. Tail Bags

Tail bags sit on the rear seat or rack of your bike, offering additional storage for lighter items or overflow from your saddlebags. Tail bags are great for storing things like extra gear, rain jackets, or smaller items you need quick access to.

  • Expandable Tail Bags: Many tail bags are expandable, allowing you to adjust the size based on how much gear you need to carry.

Average Capacity: Tail bags usually range between 10 to 40 litres of space, providing a flexible option for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.

  1. Top Cases

Top cases are mounted to the rear of the motorcycle on a luggage rack, offering a secure and often lockable storage option. They’re ideal for carrying bulky items or anything that requires extra security, such as a helmet, tools, or electronics. These are typically used for things that you will not need access to very often on a trip.

  • Hard Top Cases: These are popular among touring riders, providing weatherproof and lockable storage that can hold a significant amount of gear. Some models even come with backrests for a passenger, adding to comfort.

Average Capacity: Top cases can offer anywhere from 20 to 55 litres of storage, with larger models able to store helmets or heavier gear.

  1. Tank Bags

Tank bags are mounted on the fuel tank of your bike and are perfect for carrying smaller items that you may need during the ride, such as your phone, wallet, maps, or snacks. Many tank bags are magnetic or strap-mounted for easy installation and removal.

  • Removable and Expandable: Tank bags often have removable compartments and may also be expandable to provide additional space when needed.

Average Capacity: Tank bags are smaller, typically offering between 5 to 20 litres of storage. They’re best for lightweight items and things you want to access easily.

  1. Dry Bags and Duffel Bags

Dry bags and duffel bags are popular among adventure and off-road riders. These bags are usually waterproof and can be strapped onto the back of your bike using bungee cords or tie-down straps. They’re versatile and can carry a large amount of gear while protecting it from the elements. Remember that there should be nothing on the shoulder for a rider, except for an impact protecting jacket. That is why Duffel Bags are ideal for clothes.

Average Capacity: Dry bags and duffel bags can offer anywhere from 20 to 70 litres of capacity, depending on the size and type you choose.

Factors That Affect How Much Gear You Can Carry

Now that you know your luggage options, it’s important to understand the factors that influence how much gear you can safely carry on your motorcycle. Naturally, it is not recommended to carry all luggage at once. You will have to check on the total number of days that you are travelling or touring, the weight that your motorcycle is suited for and your essentials required.  

 

  1. Weight Limits

Every motorcycle has a weight limit known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which includes the combined weight of the bike, rider, passenger, and any additional luggage. Overloading your motorcycle can affect its handling, braking, and overall safety. Always consult your bike’s manual to know the weight limits and ensure you don't exceed them.

  1. Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is critical when packing your motorcycle. You want to avoid putting too much weight on one side or at the back, as this can throw off the balance of the bike. Always distribute the load evenly between saddlebags, and keep heavier items lower and closer to the center of the bike.

  1. Type of Trip

The type of trip you’re planning will also determine how much gear you need to carry. For a daily commute, you might only need a small tail bag or tank bag for essentials. However, for a multi-day tour, you’ll need larger luggage like saddlebags, a top case, and possibly a dry bag for extra clothing, camping gear, and tools.

  1. Gear Volume vs. Weight

It’s important to remember that the volume of your luggage (how much space it takes up) isn't always directly related to its weight. For example, clothing and sleeping bags take up a lot of space but are relatively lightweight, whereas tools and electronics are small but heavy. Make sure you prioritize based on both space and weight when packing.

Maximizing Luggage Capacity

Here are some tips to help you maximize your motorcycle’s luggage capacity without overloading:

  1. Use Compression Bags:

Compression bags are a great way to minimize the space taken up by clothing and other soft items. These bags remove excess air, allowing you to pack more efficiently.

  1. Pack Multi-Use Items:

When packing for a trip, try to bring items that serve multiple purposes. For example, a lightweight jacket that is both windproof and waterproof can save space over bringing multiple layers for different weather conditions.

  1. Keep Essentials Accessible:

Store frequently needed items like maps, phones, or snacks in a tank bag or small tail bag for easy access. This avoids having to rummage through larger bags during the ride.

  1. Use Bungee Cords and Tie-Down Straps:

If you need to carry extra gear, dry bags or duffels can be strapped to the back of the bike using bungee cords or tie-down straps. Just make sure everything is secure and won't move around during the ride.

Choosing the right luggage for your motorcycle depends on your riding style, the duration of your trip, and how much gear you need to carry. Whether you opt for hard saddlebags for added security or a versatile dry bag for an adventure ride, always consider your bike's weight limits and pack wisely to maintain balance and safety. By understanding your motorcycle luggage options and maximizing their capacity, you can enjoy a more comfortable, organized, and safe ride, no matter where your journey takes you.

- Team Reise Moto

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