Traveling with luggage on your motorcycle can be burdensome when you don’t have sufficient storage for it. With the best motorcycle top case on the market, you can enjoy your rides with accessories stored in the top case. Or, you can enjoy your walks with your full-face helmet stored and locked in a secure top case.
In either case, finding the best top case for your motorbike is not as easy as picking up a loaf of bread in a supermarket. You have to take into account a host of features before picking it up.
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5 Top-rated motorcycle top cases
To make the purchase process easier for you, I have picked up the top 7 motorcycle top cases and compiled a comprehensive review of them. You can bet on my picks because I have been in the industry for many years.
I wrapped up the article with a thought-provoking buyer’s guide in which I highlight the important features you need to consider before buying. These include, among others, capacity, safety, design materials, and weather resistance.
1. Emgo 72-32440 – Best Motorcycle Top Case
Looking for a hard top case for your bike, you might just love having the Emgo Travel Trunk. Adorned in black color with a seemingly unbreakable cover, this case is impressive from all corners.
Design
The case has been designed with heavy-duty engineering materials that will last you for many years provided you use them gently. With a hardcover, it is not recommended to frequent rocky roads because the frequency of it bumping on the rack reduces its durability. You can also relate to that.
The hard outer shell, however, is an impressive security feature that will put thieves away unless given ample time to break-in. Also, this design adds to the aesthetics of your bike with its curvy corners. It will not obstruct your view on the high way when you want to swap the lanes.
Capacity
Although I have gotten its exact capacity in a liter, it is remarkably large with overall dimensions of 16.5” x 12” x 11”. A full helmet should fit in this case. Even your accessories or food as you prepare for an outing should perfectly fit in this bag and last you the whole week presumably.
Installation
The installation part is where many people freak out. Some may even call their neighbors. Relax with this case because it is much easier to install. Usually, you need an existing rack on your bike to install these aftermarket cases. Provided you have one, the bag comes with the mounting hardware, a lock, and two keys. It shouldn’t take you the whole day to mount it and get going.
Security
While the bag may not fully protect your valuables if left unattended for a long time, it gives a great deal of security in a short period of time. It is a hard case and comes with 2 keys. You can imagine how tough it will be for one to actually sneak into your possessions.
Weather resistance
A hard case is surely waterproof. But, not all because it depends on how it closes. If it rains, you don’t have to stress about rain seeping through into your valuables.
- Hard case made with heavy-duty materials
- Waterproof
- Affordable bag
- Large capacity
- No soft-rest for your passenger
- You have to drill to install it
Verdict
I am personally a fan of hard cases. Well, they have their downsides but are generally great. This bag is tough waterproof and durable. I wouldn’t mind recommending it for your travel endeavors. It is large so it will hold your helmet or accessories with ease.
2. AUTOINBOX – Universal Motorcycle Rear Top Box
At 47 liters imagine how many accessories you can store in this luggage bag before you hit the road. AUTOINBOX Rear Top Box for motorcycles is one of the best products I came across in my search. Its downsides are only a few.
Design
Yet another hard box for luggage on your bike, its reflective light-bulb-like material can be deceiving. You would think it has LED lights but to find out it’s only for reflections in low-light conditions. Nonetheless, it has an impressive hard case design, which may last you years to come.
Its design is not unaesthetic at all. I know that many motorcyclists are often reluctant to adding luggage boxes for aesthetic reasons. With this black and red design, you should be able to match your bike.
Capacity
With a capacity of 47 liters, this is one of the largest top cases you can find on the market. If you are an avid traveler like myself, you would appreciate such a large capacity knowing very well that you can fit lots of stuff in it.
Installation
Talking about the installation part, have you installed a top case before? Even if you haven’t, it should be relatively easier to deal with this one. It comes with a universal mounting plate. However, you must have an existing rack to mount the plate onto it.
Security
I would be disappointed to spend over $100 on a product that gives less security. This hard case gives superior security should you leave it unattended outside. But, you shouldn’t leave for a very long time. Coming with a lock and 2 keys, it is impressive with its security measures.
Weather resistance
Made of wear-resistant, waterproof, and durable Grade PP materials, there is no amount of rainfall that can soak your accessories while stored in this case. It is firmly waterproof with no likelihood of water seeping through no matter how long you drench in the rain.
- Large capacity of 47 liters
- Waterproof and rust-resistant case
- Reflective material for your safety at night
- Comes with a universal mounting hardware
- The installation instruction and safety keys provided
- Quite costly
- No LED lights
Verdict
With such a large capacity I can store plenty of things in this back. It can store two open face helmets or one full-face helmet. Isn’t this impressive already. However, you must cough out a lot of money to grab it. I recommend this case for serious investors in motorcycle adventures.
3. Comie – Small Motorcycle Top Case
If you thought the previous back is the largest of them all then Comie Tail Box proves you wrong. It comes with a 48-liter capacity, which is spacious enough to fit your helmet and other accessories yet you get the case at a cheaper price.
Design
This saddlebag is made of high-quality polypropylene material which is tough enough to last you years to come. It will not tear or wear easily even if exposed to harsh weather conditions on the road. As motorcyclists, we come across inclement conditions simply because we have no shelter over us. It helps to have tough materials.
Furthermore, the case comes with a soft backrest where you or your passenger can rest. Such the convenience of having a saddlebag. In case you want to remove and haul it, it comes with a handle for ease of handling.
Capacity
Measuring 22.3” x 17.3” x 12.6”, this is a spacious top case to even hold your helmets. Its capacity in liters amounts to 48 liters, which makes it one of the largest you can find at this affordable price. You can fit a full-face helmet or 2 open face helmets.
Also, you may carry food for your trip. The choice is yours that what to hold in this case. However, beware of overloading is that it can end up affecting your control and causing drag.
Installation
In case your bike does not have the mounting rack, this top case comes with it. In addition, it comes with the mounting hardware you will need. That’s “cost-saving” because you do not have to purchase anything separately.
Included is the installation instruction that is clear and legible enough. Once installed, handling the case becomes an absolute breeze. There are 2 keys provided to lock it. The handle also helps you hold the case with ease.
Security
Made of tough polypropylene, the bag is one of the toughest at this value. It resists an easy break-in of thieves. Any opportunist will need ample time to tamper with the bag. Besides, it comes with 2 keys to lock it. That also gives extra security.
Weather resistance
Hard cases are generally waterproof, and so it is with this bag. You need no extra rain cover. If you have water-sensitive valuables then they will be safe in the saddlebag.
- Large capacity of 48 liters
- Made of tough polypropylene material
- Available in varying colors
- Waterproof and wear-resistant
- Easy to install with mounting hardware provided
- Reflective materials unimpressive
Verdict
Although I wish this case were more reflective on the road, it isn’t a bad deal at all. It has a large capacity that every motorcyclist would love. I recommend the back if you are more into aesthetics and a large capacity. The price is also responsible.
4. MMG – Cheap Top Case For Motorcycle
Appearing in black and red, MMG Motorcycle Top Box is suitable for small to medium size motorcycles with any luggage rack. If you are not into big cases that affect your dynamics on the road, then this one could be ideal for you.
Design
What you notice at first glance is a roundish saddlebag with black and red colors. I must say it is attractive and aesthetic enough for those concerned with how their bikes look like.
The case has a quick-release button. It makes it easy to mount or remove it. Thanks to its reflective red material that helps enhance your safety at night. However, I wish it had LED lights too like other high-profile cases. But I understand that this is what you get for this value of money.
Capacity
Like I mentioned above, this saddlebag is suitable for small and medium-sized scooters. It’s not ideal if you want to travel for many days with it to store accessories or gear in it. Only one helmet can fit in it. Nonetheless, I am a fan of minimalist hiking and so this portable tail case could be the best option. It has a capacity of 32 liters.
Installation
Thanks to the quick-release system that makes this case a marvel to install. It comes with mounting hardware and so you don’t have to worry about getting extra hardware. Among others, you have washers, nuts, brackets, and screws that help ease the installation.
To make your installation simple, you must have the rack on which you will install the included base plate which provides stability to the bag. You may have to make a few drills for the base plate to settle tightly. Please be careful when drilling for your installation. The tip of the day is that make sure that the case does not block the gas cap after installation.
Security
Given 2 keys to lock, do we still have to fear security? I am convinced of the security of this case. I can store my valuables and lock them up while making a quick shopping. Instead of roaming around with the helmet, I can lock it up in the case.
Weather resistance
Given the fact that it is a tough case, I do not doubt it’s waterproof. However, not all tough cases are waterproof. Oftentimes it depends on how it closes. Some have buckles that are prone to water penetration. Anyway, that’s the story for another day. This case is good for your waterproof needs.
- Waterproof and rustproof tail case
- A portable case for quick trips
- Aesthetic with red and black colors
- Reflective materials
- Affordable tail case
- It does not have LED lights
- Too small for a multi-day outing
Verdict
If you are looking for a portable saddlebag to save money, this is the best option. From an aesthetic point of view, it is impressive. It will not make your scooter look ugly. Function wise, it is rugged with a hard case to protect against rainfalls. It installs easily and has a quick-release system. What else have I left? Nothing!
5. Yescom – 30L Motorcycle Tail Box
From the ratings I have seen of this tail box, I am convinced it is one of the best. I assessed the features too and realized one would be missing big time if he or she overlooks this product. However, just like the previous product, this is suited for small accessories at 30 liters of capacity.
Design
Yescom 30L Motorcycle Tour Tail Box commands one of the best designs on the market. It is also decorated with red and black colors to boost the aesthetics of your bike.
With curvy edges, it is easy to hold. Also, the case will last you long; thanks to the engineered ABS plastic which has proven to be more durable. While it may not be the strongest, it is nonetheless one of the toughest materials that resist rust and tear.
Also thankful for this product is a comfortable rest so that it does not get in the way of your comfort. It has reflectors too to alert oncoming traffic about your presence in low light conditions.
Capacity
With a capacity of 30 liters, this is one of the most compact bike cases you can find. Why would I have the largest capacity when I frequent a few miles every day? If you need to store more accessories then you can consider other cases.
This compact capacity can still store your helmet. Your food, clothes, and other valuables can find great storage in this 30-liter case. Its overall dimensions are 17-11/16” x 15-5/16” x 11”.
Installation
It has an easy to read installation manual which I found very impressive. Besides that, installing this case is easy. All you need is an existing rack upon which you can install the plate and then this case. If you noticed, most of these boxes install in the same way. That is you need a luggage rack and then a base plate. Well, unlike with others, you do not need to drill holes with this box.
Security
Talking about security, every tail box needs to provide us with the best security because most often we leave our bikes unattended at shopping centers. Having the best lock and key security system is a great assurance. This case is equipped with a lock and 2 keys to enhancing its security.
Its outer shell is also strong enough to resist any break-in unless the thief is given enough time.
Weather resistance
The case is water-resistant. Even if you are exposed to heavy downpours, they will not be a match for this tough case. That is the good part of considering tough boxes because you do not have to worry about rain covers every time it rains.
- Compact and portable
- Made of heavy-duty ABS materials
- Water-resistant, rustproof and wear-resistant
- Reflective materials
- Affordable price tag
- Too small for multi-day hikers
- no LED technology
Verdict
Not everyone is into large motorbike tail boxes, especially when what you do frequently is a ride to work. This compact 30L top case is ideal for minimalists. It has great features from water resistance to heavy-duty and durable ABS materials. On top of that, it is so affordable. I recommend this product without a doubt.
6. Chase Harper USA 4000 – Motorcycle Top Bag
While it may be the smallest tail trunk so far with 23 liters of storage, Chase Harper does not disappoint with its amazing features hence I picked it for you. It is also not as tough as other trunks I reviewed above but nonetheless a trunk of its own design.
Design
Made with industrial-grade ballistic nylon with an adjustable bungee mounting system, this is one the most unique tail boxes for motorbikes you can find. It is impressive at first sight with its rectangular shape. In fact, it resembles most backpacks with its features.
A product of the USA, the bag comes with a zipper compartment in which you can hide the bungee cord if not in use. At the bottom of the bag, there is a vinyl material that protects it against scratches.
In order to maintain its rigidity and give it an aerodynamic shape, the bag comes with a lightweight hand-molded thermoplastic insert.
I also like its reflective strips on the side which enhance your safety on the road. Also thanks to the adjustable tab lock with the bungee crisscross that enhances the functionality and aesthetic appearance of the case.
Capacity
Just at 23 liters, this is one of the impressive and portable motorcycle bags you can find on the market. In fact, its portability is tempting to turn it into an everyday backpack.
Although it has a small capacity, you can still relatively store numerous small accessories in it. Do not expect to store big stuff in it like your full-face helmet. Its capacity is supplemented with mesh pockets in which you can store additional possessions.
Installation
Among others, you will receive the installation manual with this top case. It makes it relatively easy to get it done. As long as you have a luggage rack then everything should be well set. To mount this case, unlike the previous products I have reviewed above, you have to maneuver the bungee and adjust it. You do not need the plate underneath. Instead, the vinyl material protects abrasion at the bottom of the bag.
Security
This bag is fairly secure. It allows you to lock your valuables. However, do not expect the same security you find in hard case top cases. It will not be easy to tamper with this industrial grade ballistic urethane-coated nylon.
Weather resistance
Because this is a soft case, the waterproof feature is proven by assessing its material closely. For instance, it is made with industrial-grade ballistic urethane-coated nylon. With coating gives the back significant water resistance and improves its quality. That said, you have a great deal of weather resistance. However, I recommend getting the rain cover if you foresee riding in heavy downpours.
- the soft case which is flexible
- easy to mount with the adjustable bungee cords
- made of tough industrial-grade ballistic urethane-coated nylon
- has compartments such as mesh pockets to separate your valuables
- has reflective materials
- small capacity
- not as tough or secure as tough cases
Verdict
For a change, I brought this soft case for motorcycles. It is still typically strong to withstand inclement weather conditions. Installing it is a cinch. It protects your valuables against rainfalls but I suggest you get a rain cover for heavy rains. Overall, this case is impressive apart from its small capacity.
7. EGO BIKE – Adventure Motorcycle Case
I have been looking for a luggage case with taillight and here is one. Such an impressive and large top case you can find on the market.
Design
EGO BIKE Motorcycle Trunk presents a unique design with a unique shape. It comes with a rack and backrest plus the taillight to illuminate your way at night. It becomes so elegantly beautiful at night. I bet you may want to experience such beauty shown by this taillight.
The case is made of heavy-duty ABS material, which will improve its durability.
Capacity
Inner dimensions are 21″L x 14.5″W x 10″H whereas outer dimensions are 22″L x 15.5″W x 11 H. From these dimensions, you can decipher how large the case is. It can ideally fit two helmets. Given such capacity, you may feel free to load foodstuff and other akin accessories you need for your road.
Installation
All you need is a luggage rack upon which you can install this case. Drilling is required to assemble the case. Do not worry if you have never installed any of the cases before. The installation manual with its explicit instructions makes the process simpler for you. To fit it, you need the 8” x 8” mounting rack. You should also ensure that you have the correct fit of brackets. I must say I expected the product to come with brackets like some that I have reviewed above.
Security
Because it is a hard shell with a lock and 2 keys, I find this case very secure to store your valuables. No opportunist can tamper with your possessions while you are running a few errands in the stores.
Weather resistance
ABS material is good in weather resistance. You don’t have to worry about moisture ruining your water-sensitive valuables while stored in this saddlebag. It is waterproof and wear-resistant. That said exposing it to outside elements will not have dire effects on what you’ve stored inside.
- large capacity
- taillight to illuminate the way and for your safety
- unique design with backrest and a rack
- waterproof and wear-resistant
- has reflective materials
- costly
- lots of drilling to assemble
Verdict
For a change, this comes with the taillight. If you to improve your safety and illuminate the road this is for you. Although a bit burdensome to install, the end result brings you an aesthetically attractive top case for motorcycles. It has a large capacity so who wouldn’t adore such a spacious cabin for the road. I certainly recommend this product if you are looking for a high-profile case with a taillight.
What to look for when buying motorcycle top cases?
To help you make the right choice, I wrap up the article with the best buyer’s guide that highlights the important features to consider. These top cases are many and the choice of one could be dramatically burdensome for an inexperienced motorcyclist. Among others, when buying these cases, take into account the design, ease of installation, extra features capacity and weather resistance.
Design of saddlebags
Note that we commonly have hard and soft cases. The designs of hard cases seem to share many things in common whereas the soft cases widely vary. In my list, I have included most of the hard cases with only one product as a soft case.
I have realized that hard cases bear more benefits than soft cases. Soft cases are still significantly important, especially for sporty motorcycles.
Hard cases are tough and will last you for a long time. They can withstand the abuse although tend to do well if you frequently ride on pavements and tar roads. Soft cases could be great for off-road situations.
Still on the design, also check if the product comes with reflective materials for your safety on the road. Check how easy it is to handle it.
The design itself should be aesthetically pleasing so it does not make your bike look too ugly. Fortunately, all my products are great in aesthetics.
Capacity
The capacity of the top cases is perhaps the single most feature you should always prioritize. It shows you the amount of load you can carry. You can have 20 liters to carry just a single helmet or 42 liters to carry helmets and other accessories.
There is actually no bad choice of capacity. It depends on personal preferences. If you are into multi-day hiking, I would certainly recommend large capacities. For shorter trips, I recommend small capacity cases.
In addition to the capacity, check the compartments and other pockets. Soft cases often come with external or internal mesh pockets to separate your valuables.
Ease of installation
You do not need to spend the day trying to figure out how to install a top case. I would discourage you from that. All my reviewed products are easy to install.
When installing hard cases, for instance, you need to have an existing luggage rack. If not you can have that from aftermarket stores.
Most of these products come with a base plate to mount onto the rack. You can either drill or no need from drilling with alternative attachment points. Ascertain if the base plate dimensions correspond with those ones of your luggage rack.
The next step is to consider the mounting hardware. Look for cases that already include this hardware: washers, nuts, brackets, screws, and many more. It makes the installation much easier.
Soft cases, on the other hand, may come with adjustable bungee cords or other alternative attachments such as belts. The install is different from the hard cases in most cases.
Weather resistance
You also have to take into account the water-resistance features of your top case. Hard cases are usually waterproof because no fabric with small openings to let water penetrate. But, it is not always the case. You just have to verify the specific material used. Polypropylene and ABS materials seem to be common as design materials. They are renowned for their quality waterproof features.
If you buy a soft case, ensure that it is coated with a durable water-resistant material such as urethane. However, that coating is not necessarily waterproof and it will fade with time. Eventually, you may have to recoat the case to improve its water resistance.
Final Thoughts
I have to end the best motorcycle top case on the market. Although the journey of reading this post was long, it was worth it. Every motorcycle can relate to the importance of having these top cases. They make your journey enjoyable knowing that you have accessories secured in the trunk instead of hanging around.
Take note of the features I have highlighted to ensure that you are buying only quality. Many of you tend to opt for prices instead of quality. Prices can be deceiving. Prioritize the features and consider the price thereafter. But, on the contrary, there are top brands that are synonymous with great quality.
