
Riding a motorcycle can be demanding with additional accessories to purchase. For instance, there is no adequate storage on motorbikes where you can store your gear whether a simple pack of electronics or multi-day hiking gear. That’s where the best motorcycle backpacks come into place. Note that not any rucksack can be suitable as a motorcycle backpack because there are certain features to factor in for one to qualify.
Best Motorcycle Backpacks in December, 2019
The market is full of the different models the choice of which can be daunting to anyone not well-rounded with important features to pick. I am going to save you the hassle and the money of perusing every corner looking for the best one. In my reviews, I have handpicked the best based on comfort, waterproof, capacity, size, and other indispensable features such as storage compartments.
To equip you with more information, I have wrapped the reviews with the buyer’s guide in addition to an elaboration of important features within the reviews. Let’s start by reviewing the important features in the table below to get a gist.
1. OGIO Mach 5 – Best Backpack for Motorcycle Riders
Starting off my list is the OGIO Mach 5 with carbon fiber shell to sort out water resistance challenges. This design is aesthetically appealing and will match with most of the motorbikes. Nonetheless, it isn’t about the elegant appearance only but the performance of the item when riding for long or short distances.
Main advantages
This model is renowned for its No Drag technology to enhance your riding experience. It’s an improvement from the popular Mach 3 with extra features added on. You will be able to store your valuables in the main compartment with its adjustable partitions, and also add electronics in the detachable fleece-lined hip pouch. There is also the deluxe organizer panel with mesh dividers for more storage. The reason I have chosen this to be my top pick is because of these impressive features to give you more storage in a waterproof shell.
Storage compartments
Included is the padded helmet visor sleeve in the main compartment to carry your helmet. What I like is that you can categorize your gear in each compartment. For example, there is a dedicated laptop sleeve to avoid scratches on your expensive laptop. Other gear like hiking boots or other tools can also be stored in their respective compartments.
Additional features
It has a volume capacity of 1475 cu. in. / 24.17L which is enough to store your laptops and other accessories for the trip. For a multiday trip, you might need a large volume than this one.
- Reflective logo and safety piping
- Durable and water-resistant carbon fiber shell
- Multiple storage compartments
- Small for a multiday adventurous trip
- Relatively expensive
Verdict
This item for motorcyclists is undoubtedly one of the best accessories every motorbike owner should own. It comes with multiple storage pockets and adjustable compartments, the features I find rare in other models. For this reason, I would recommend the backpack for any avid motorcyclists wanting to store additional gear. However, the 24.17 liters of volume is not really the most impressive.
2. SHOEI 2.0 – Motorcycle Backpack with Helmet Holder
Shoei is a reputable brand and needs no introduction. It’s quality backpacks are noticeable with a legit and visible logo at the back. The SHOEI 2.0 is the best value for money for anyone thinking of stuffing gear and hit the road with the motorcycle. From the design and performance, this model is worth the value of money.
Design and capacity
It comes with an aerodynamic design and appearance at least to catch the attention of your onlookers while making sure it accommodates your laptop up to 17 inches. That’s actually spacious enough considering that many seldom accommodate more than 15” of laptops. Added to the features is the helmet holder in case you walk while carrying the rucksack on your back.
Straps
For a firm snug fit, it comes with the hip belt and the chest straps which are adjustable to fit a variety of body sizes. The padded shoulder straps are also adjustable to enhance your comfort while wearing them. The shoulder straps and back piping are all reflective to improve your safety when riding at night for others to notice your presence.
Storage compartments
The item comes with the main compartments to store large items such as hats or any gear. I find this model pretty cool especially with additional storage of side pockets with mesh to store additional items such as bottles. There are internal pockets as well to categorize your belongings especially the small electronics. The helmet is also easy to hold with the three-point buckle and flap system.
- Reflective piping and shoulder straps
- Multiple storage pockets and main storage compartment
- Adjustable hip belt, chest strap, and shoulder straps
- Not fully waterproof so beware when riding in heavy rains
Verdict
Given a plethora of features this backpack has, I rate it as the best value for money. It has a great design with adjustable straps to fit various sizes. Moreover, it has multiple storage pockets the feature us motorcyclists want to categorize our valuables.
3. Velomacchi Waterproof Hybrid Duffle Bag – Motorcycle Travel Backpack
The Velomacchi Speedway Hybrid Duffle has a capacity of 50 liters, which are distributed to a 42-liter main compartment and eight liters to two side compartments. Velomacchi gear is specialized for being on the back of a rider. With that in mind, everything is optimized for the motorbike.
Main features
The harness system is designed to give the rider as much moveability as possible, but because this is called Hybrid Duffel, you can transform it from a backpack to a regular duffle bag. Therefore you won’t find this awesome buckle mechanism that you can find on the 28-liter Speedway.
Nevertheless, the harness has a rotating hinge, which actually improves the moveability of your arms, especially with all the armor in your riding jacket. Even when fully loaded, the bag does not get in your way when you need to shoulder checks, for instance.
Capacity
The bag is very big on your back, but with 50 liters, you can obviously fit a lot of stuff into it.
All strap ends are neatly tucked away so nothing flutters in the wind or more importantly gets stuck somewhere whilst riding. Speaking for tucking away, you can tuck away the top handle when in backpack mode or tuck away the harness system when you want to use this as a duffle. In duffle mode, you can strap the whole bag to your bike.
Materials
This 1000D competition fabric is rather stiff by design to keep the bag stable at high speeds. Furthermore, it is abrasion resistant and waterproof. The YKK zipper with big and practical zipper pull is waterproof as well. Everything inside the minimalistic but very big main compartment can be cinched tight with two compression straps.
- Waterproof main compartment
- Can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack
- Can be strapped down to a motorcycle
- Bulky, not for everyday use
Verdict
Velomacchi really knows how to make a great harness system. Of course, the bag is pretty big and if you want to take it on a road trip at highway speeds, you need to be careful with side winds, but I can say that at city speeds you wouldn’t have any problems. So if you’re looking for a great duffle bag that you can use on a motorcycle, then I can highly recommend the Velomacchi Hybrid Duffle.
4. Viking Moto – Best Backpack for Your Money
Viking Moto is also a well-known brand producing high-quality products for motorcyclists. With Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack you can fit laptops up to 15 inches, which is a bit little compared to the aforementioned Shoei brand. Nonetheless, it is still a brand of its own with unique features. It comes with a detailed organizer for small belongings such as watches, wallets and car keys.
Straps
The width and the height of the sternum strap are adjustable so there is no worry about buying a perfect size since it’s challenging to purchase online. It’s padded should strap are also adjustable to provide a snug fit so the item does not wiggle when riding at higher speeds. It actually provides safety to you in case anyone hits you from the back.
Interior storage
The main compartment of this product is partitioned into several compartments for ease of categorizing your valuables so they do not scratch each other unless of course, you decide to put keys in there by mistake.
Materials
- Fits laptops up to 15 inches
- Adjustable height and width of sternum straps
- Multiple padded storage compartments
- Not 100% waterproof unless you get the rain cover
Verdict
This is yet another product that I would recommend for avid motorcyclists looking for a comfortable back with multiple storage compartments. It is good for a moderate rainfall so you might need a rain cover if riding in heavy rain. The backpack’s design is impressive, and it is made of top-notch quality materials.
5. Givi EA104B – Expandable Motorcycle Bag
Givi EA104B is a versatile rucksack that can be expanded from 17 liters to 24 liters and then store more items for your road. If you want relief from the heaviness of your helmet then you can save it in the helmet holder of this product. It’s more of a helper than a mere backpack.
Design
Design-wise the product is impressive. Its rain cover shields your expensive belongings against the inevitable rainfall. If not needed, the rain cover can be removed. You can also remove the helmet holder just to trim the total weight if not needed. The outer shell of this model is made durable by the 600D polyurethane polyester which exceeds international standards.
Usability
With this backpack, you won’t have to deal with looseness because it has waist and chest straps to fasten it or adjust accordingly. But a woman with huge breasts may find it challenging to fasten the chest strap. There are inner pockets to store your valuables and separate them from items in the main compartment.
- Removable helmet holder and rain cover
- Waist, shoulder and chest straps for a snug fit
- Made of durable polyester 600D PU
- No waterproof of its own apart from the rain cover which may add more weight
Verdict
Very few models come with the rain cover and helmet holder. For this reason, I salute this product for these features because it helps you protect your gear from the rain while at the same time eases the helmet weight with the helmet holder. Anyone looking for a versatile item I would like to recommend this one.
6. Seibertron – Waterproof Motorcycle Backpack
Seibertron is indeed a versatile motorcycle rucksack that can be used by hikers, motorcyclists, basketball players, footballers, and many more. The product is characterized by a large capacity, large enough to hold items for multiday camping with your motorbike. That is advantageous to negate the need for the inconvenient tank bags attached to your bike.
Materials
Its outer shell is made with a durable 900D waterproof fabric. Riding in the rain while the backpack is uncovered will not get your valuables soaked in rain, but only moderate rain. The downside is with the zippers, they are not adequately treated to repel water in heavy rains. A modest rain is not a threat. I would recommend a separate rain cover if you plan to ride amid heavy downpours.
Interior storage
Attacking the product is a cinch with its adjustable 45-inch waist belt and 60-inch chest belt. Additional gear can be stored using the side and top security straps in case the interior is filled to capacity. Despite the zippers not being waterproof, they are strong enough, made of heavy-duty thick alloy.
- 900D waterproof fabric
- Numerous storage compartments including interior small pockets with mesh enclosures
- The main compartment is expandable
- Zippers are not waterproof
Verdict
This is a versatile item worth having if you want to use it beyond motorcycles. It can carry large items such as helmets, water bottles, soccer balls, and many more. What is impressive with it is an expandable main compartment combined with small storage pockets. They help you classify your items. I wish the zippers were fully waterproof so I can ride without worrying about rain soaking my items.
7. Alpinestars 3517-0403 City Hunter – Colorful Backpack
Adorned with red/white/black color, this is one of the aesthetically appealing motorcycle backpacks. Alpinestars 3517-0403 City Hunter will not only hold your items but also make your bike decorative. The outer shell is made of the lightweight 420D nylon and the other with the 420D ripstop nylon at the bottom. These materials are water repellent but not waterproof, so riding in heavy rain is a bad idea lest you soak your items in it.
Capacity
To store your electronics you have 2 external waterproof pockets on the front. They also make it simple to access your valuable electronic gadgets without having to open the main compartment. Meanwhile, in the main compartment, you can store a laptop up to 15 inches and then zip it to protect from the elements. The overall capacity is 25 liters, which I find impressive for everyday use. But for multiday camping adventures, this capacity could be insufficient. There are still storage pouches in the main compartment.
Usability
- Multi-material outer shell made of 420D lightweight nylon and 420D ripstop nylon
- 2 external waterproof pockets
- Multiple storage compartments
- Not 100% waterproof so beware when riding in heavy rains
Verdict
If you’re into colorful models, this could be your best choice. It combines black, red and white to make it aesthetically pleasing. It still performs well to hold your items in its 25-liter capacity. The compartments make it easy to classify the valuables. I just wish it were 100% waterproof.
8. Porsche Motorsport Collection – Large Backpack for Motorcycles
The quality of this product might resonate with the famous vehicle brand “Porsche”. Of course, the rucksack is from the luggage collection of Porsche motorsport. There is no doubt is one of the top-notch quality models on the market with a large capacity of 35 liters. How many items do you plan to take for your ride? If you have lots of items then consider this one.
Safety features
The Porsche brand name is clearly printed in red color at the back just above the “X” reflective design in red color. This reflective X-design helps improve your visibility at night when cars flashlights to you. Many motorcyclists get into accidents because of the lack of reflective material. It is for your safety. The item in itself is also an added safety in case you get hit.
Design and capacity
There are two additional pockets at the bottom on each side for the storage of your electronics for ease of reach when you need them. These pockets are zippered to protect against outdoor elements or loss.
It is attractive from a distance with its black and red color mix. It also has sharp corners. Meanwhile putting it on your back with its padded shoulder straps and waist straps has never been this easy. But I have to warn you though that the rucksack is relatively bulky. That’s understandable considering the 35 liters of volume. Most models do not even go to that value.
- 35 L of volume
- Aesthetically pleasing red and black color to aid in nighttime visibility
- Spacious main compartments with external pockets for an additional storage
- It is relatively overweight at 9 pounds compared to other products on my list
Verdict
If you plan to have many items then here’s the solution for you. The design will catch your eyes, and the 35 liters of volume will convince you that the backpack is suitable for multiday camping excursions. It’s a great product worth recommending.
9. Nelson-Rigg CB-PK30 Black Compact – Budget-friendly Backpack
Nelson-Rigg CB-PK30 is more of a convertible day-to-day item usable for a wide variety of applications. Giving you a volume capacity of 30 liters, this is a backpack worth having if you have more items to stuff in. Although it has a relatively larger capacity, I still regard it as lightweight. You can lift it up with your one hand when filled to capacity.
Capacity
And traveling with this rucksack is not cumbersome. It is large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet, many clothes or other packable large items. A sports fanatic can also find this product usable in his travel needs, for instance, to pack a basket or soccer ball.
Materials
The outer shell is made with the durable Tri-Max nylon and reinforced with embroidery style stitches to improve the strength. What I found missing is the reflective materials so you might need to invest in one. The overall design has no flaws to me apart that lack of reflective material. As long you care for the backpack per instructions, you will enjoy a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer.
- 30 liters of capacity
- Made of durable construction of Tri-Max nylon
- Versatile bag
- Lack of reflective materials
- Not adequately waterproof
Verdict
If you still want to use this model even after getting off your bike, this is the best choice. It can be used by sports players or bicycle owners. To top it off, it comes with the 30 liters of capacity. But, if you ride mostly at night, I reckon to get the reflective accessory.
10. Badass Motogear – Motorcycle Touring Backpack
If you’ve been looking for a heavy-duty motorcycle rucksack for your adventures, I suggest you look into the features of this Badass Motogear Backpack. Weighing just 1.25 pounds, it’s a burden worth having for longer distances without causing much of the fatigue on your back. Whether you are an avid motorcycle rider, hiker or camper, this could be your best option if you need an ultra-light item.
Stay safe with its reflective piping strip at the back to alert others of your presence. Then enjoy the comfort of adjustable straps at the shoulder and waist. This, in fact, fits almost everyone thus eliminating the sweats of online shopping with uncertain sizes.
Internal storage
There is a padded laptop sleeve for your expensive laptop, and it is combined with a vented compartment for other gear such as clothes. In addition to these compartments, you will find mesh and zipper pouches for your electronics and other small accessories such as sunglasses, goggles, and gloves. Thanks to the water-resistance of this model because you can now enjoy riding in moderate rainfalls without soaking your clothes in rain.
Additional features
Other features include the helmet holder which can also hold soccer balls or any other large items in this secure webbed holder. From the design, quality to the performance, this product redefines the comfort of motorcycle backpacks.
- Heavy-duty build materials
- Additional storage compartments with webbed helmet holder
- Lightweight
- Lack of reflective materials
- Water-resistance not waterproof, meaning you have to beware of the amount of rainfall you expose the backpack too.
Verdict
Like other quality models in my list, this one is a must-have. It has sufficient storage capacity and it is made of durable build materials. Its expandable mesh pockets make it easy to store valuables of different sizes. Further, the rucksack is lightweight so it shouldn’t be a problem at all riding with it for hundreds of miles.
11. Advocator – Light-weight Backpack
Advocator Waterproof backpack has a padded hard shell which I found to be durable. It also eliminates sweat problems. The bag’s design is weather resistant while the rain cover ensures that no downpour tampers with your belongings. This rain cover can be removed if no longer needed.
Capacity
With the capacity of 20 liters, this is a portable and compact item to hold minimal items while riding the motorbike. It also weighs less than 2 pounds, a weight best-suited for ultra-light avid excursionists. Well, if you have a large laptop bad luck because the bag fits only up to 14 inches in its large main compartment. Add to these multiple storage compartments both inside and outside of the back. It’s an added bonus to hold as many accessories as possible.
Main features
To last you long, the outer shell is made of superior quality polyester which is good in repelling water. The rain cover is an added bonus to give a completely waterproof. This shell will not shrink or stretch that easily, that’s why many companies prefer polyester for its resilience, durability and heat resistance. It performs well in outdoor settings. With the padded shoulder straps, you will be able to adjust to your size the backpack so it does not wiggle too much while riding.
- Made of durable polyester
- Rain cover included
- Multiple storage compartments
- Not waterproof on its own
- 20 liters is a small volume capacity
Verdict
If you want a compact and lightweight item yet still offering great features, this is the best choice. Like other models, it comes with adjustable shoulders straps for your comfort. The rain cover is provided to improve waterproofness. The overall design is impressive so I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
Best Motorcycle Backpacks – Buyer’s Guide
As per the promise, let’s go through a comprehensive guide regarding the purchase of motorcycle backpacks. Like any other motorcycle accessory, you have to be vigilant when purchasing these products. They come in a plethora of features that could be overwhelming. Let’s highlight some important features of hereunder.
Contents:
What are important features to look for?
Among others, you have to look at the weight, capacity, build materials, carrying straps, and waterproof.
Carrying Straps
Because you have to carry the rucksack with straps for your short and long rides, it is important to examine the nature of straps before making a purchase. Because purchasing online is challenging, you have to check the description carefully or even ask for advice from previous customers.
Usually, there are chest, shoulder and waist straps. These straps play an important role in distributing weight throughout your body particularly to the hips. Thus, you need to ensure that they fit tightly around those areas. To achieve this, you need padded adjustable straps. They will fit a variety of body sizes.
Build Materials
Backpack for motorcycles usually experiences abuse when riding in different terrains. You come across harsh weather conditions. It is only superior fabric material that can withstand that. Always assess the quality of the fabric. Generally, the item comes with either nylon or polyester as durable and lightweight materials. The quality of the fabric goes hand in hand with the thickness of the material. Thick fabric will surely last long, but if you are into lightweight stuff then go for thinner materials.
Capacity
The capacity is of paramount importance too. For every product in my review, I have researched the capacity in volumes to help you make the right decision. The choice of capacity is inspired by personal preference. For instance, if you are planning a multiday riding or camping, you might opt for large capacities perhaps over 35 liters and if you are only short trips then a small capacity should suffice.
Some capacities are portioned into several compartments to categorize your gear. There are small pockets both inside and outside to aid you in picking the rucksacks. All these must be factored in when choosing the capacity.
Waterproof/water resistance
Motorcyclists are often exposed to treacherous weather conditions with heavy or moderate rainfalls. If you’re not well-prepared then the rain may soak your valuables which could cost you a lot of money. The solution to this is to consider waterproof or water resistance when choosing these products.
Waterproof shells are superior over water resistance coatings which can wear out over time. The main purpose of the water-resistant backpack is that it repels water. A waterproof bag, on the other hand, lasts for a very long time while effectively block any kind of penetration.
Weight
The overall weight of your rucksack is important too. If you hold an empty bag and realize it feels so bulky, then you might get into trouble if it gets filled to capacity. Always look for light bags.
What should you carry in a motorcycle backpack?
You can carry anything valuable for your trip. Be it a laptop, clothes, boots, or any other gear, it can fit well in the backpack depending on the capacity. These models come in numerous compartments to be able to separate your gear. Beware of stuffing abrasive utensils with your laptops or other electronics with no scratch resistance. There is a reason there are interior and exterior compartments so you can prevent these scratches.
Wrap up!
We’ve seen how to choose the best motorcycle backpack based on valuable features. Always keep that in mind. I can assure you that the products I have handpicked are the most trending on the market with their broad range of features. It comes in different features to make life easy for motorcyclists.
Many, especially beginners, are deceived by prices when making purchases. Beware of that, and instead consider the important features instead of how much it costs. And again, it is not always the case that cheap ones are the most inferior. It depends on the brand.
Hi,
I’m looking for the perfect bag and am currently completely lost: I had my eye on the Osprey Meridian, but the wheels seem to add so much weight, and even then I don’t know what size to get.
And would the fact that I live in an area with winter snow make a difference in terms of moisture on the the car’s floor carpeting?
Nothing covers me as a motorcyclist as the Ohio Mach 5. Thanks for this article it has been helpful.