Ever found yourself wishing your motorcycle had just a little more space for your essentials? Maybe your jacket pockets are overflowing, or you’re heading out for a day trip and need a place for snacks, a water bottle, or even a change of clothes. Carrying everything you need can be a real challenge when you’re on two wheels.
Choosing the perfect motorcycle tail bag can feel overwhelming. There are so many shapes, sizes, and features to consider. You want something that looks good, stays put, and holds your gear securely without making your bike feel unbalanced. It’s easy to get lost in all the choices, and you don’t want to end up with a bag that doesn’t fit your needs.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great tail bag and guide you through the most important things to look for. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to consider to find a tail bag that makes your rides more convenient and enjoyable. Let’s dive in and find the perfect storage solution for your motorcycle!
Our Top 5 Motorcycle Tail Bag Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Motorcycle Tail Bag Detailed Reviews
1. KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Tail Bag
Rating: 9.2/10
Hit the road with confidence and all your gear secured with the KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Tail Bag. This versatile bag is designed to be your go-to storage solution, whether you’re commuting or planning a longer adventure.
What We Like:
- It expands from 22 liters to a roomy 34 liters, so you can pack more.
- It easily fits a full-face helmet, your jacket, or even your lunch and a tablet.
- You can use it as a tail bag on your motorcycle or as a comfortable backpack.
- The bag is made from tough leather fiber that resists water and tearing.
- A waterproof rain cover keeps your belongings totally dry.
- It has handy pockets for your wallet, keys, and other small items.
- Stylish reflective stripes help you be seen at night.
- It comes with six straps for easy and secure attachment to most motorcycle models.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is not suitable for dirt bikes or bicycles.
This KEMIMOTO tail bag offers excellent storage and flexibility for your motorcycle trips. It’s a practical and stylish addition to any rider’s setup.
2. MOSISO Motorcycle Tail Bag Multifunctional Waterproof Polyester Storage Saddle Bag
Rating: 9.3/10
The MOSISO Motorcycle Tail Bag is a versatile and practical accessory for any rider. This 10L bag is designed to carry your essentials on your motorcycle, but it can also be used as a shoulder bag or a handbag. It’s made from durable, waterproof material to keep your belongings safe and dry.
What We Like:
- Versatile Use: It works as a tail bag, shoulder bag, and handbag, giving you options for how you carry your gear.
- Ample Storage: The 10L main compartment easily holds your phone, wallet, tools, drinks, and other daily necessities.
- Waterproof Protection: Made from waterproof PU leather, it keeps rain, water, mud, and dust out.
- Secure Attachment: Four buckles and two backseat bag straps keep the bag firmly in place on your motorcycle, even on rough roads. The anti-slip bottom adds extra stability.
- Comfortable Carrying: The adjustable shoulder strap (28.35 to 50.39 inches) fits you perfectly. The top handle makes it easy to carry by hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity: While 10L is good for essentials, some riders might need more space for longer trips.
- Material Feel: The PU leather, while waterproof, might not feel as premium as genuine leather to some users.
This MOSISO tail bag is a solid choice for riders who need a reliable way to carry their gear. Its adaptability and protection make it a great addition to your motorcycle setup.
3. ViaTerra Viper Pro – Motorcycle Strap Tank Bag (12L Capacity)
Rating: 9.3/10
The ViaTerra Viper Pro is a 12-liter motorcycle tank bag designed for touring and adventure riders. It offers a smart way to carry your essentials while keeping them easily accessible. This bag fits most motorcycles and is built for convenience and security on the road.
What We Like:
- It attaches securely with a quick-release system. This means it stays put and is easy to take on and off.
- You can carry it easily off the bike. It has a padded handle or a detachable shoulder strap.
- It’s great for trips and weekend rides. It holds your wallet, keys, phone, and other small items.
- The bag’s shape is rider-friendly. Its sloped sides and narrow front let you move the handlebars freely.
- You can open and close it easily, even with gloves on. The zippers have special pullers for better grip.
- It comes with a bright rain cover. This cover has sealed seams to keep your gear dry in the rain.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 12L capacity is good for essentials, larger items might not fit.
- The universal fit is a great feature, but some very specific tank shapes might require minor adjustments.
Overall, the ViaTerra Viper Pro is a practical and well-designed tank bag for riders who want easy access to their gear. It provides good functionality for both short trips and longer adventures.
4. Nelson Rigg CL-1060-S2 Black Commuter Sport Motorcycle Tail Bag
Rating: 8.5/10
The Nelson Rigg CL-1060-S2 Black Commuter Sport Motorcycle Tail Bag is a fantastic option for any rider who needs extra storage. This bag is designed to be tough and practical, making your rides more convenient. It’s built to last and carry your essentials securely.
What We Like:
- It comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY, so you know Nelson-Rigg stands behind their quality.
- The bag is made from UltraMax fabric, which is super strong and protects against sun damage and weather.
- Installation is simple with four quick-release straps that attach securely to most motorcycle seats.
- The semi-rigid walls help the bag keep its shape, even when it’s not full.
- Key features include reflective piping and a flush mount handle for better visibility and easy carrying.
- The lined interior keeps your items protected.
- It’s the perfect size for a day trip, easily holding enough gear with straps inside to keep things from moving around.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bag is great for day trips, larger riders or those planning overnight adventures might need a bigger bag.
- The quick-release straps are simple, but some riders might prefer a more permanent mounting option for added security.
Overall, the Nelson Rigg CL-1060-S2 is a high-quality, durable tail bag that offers great value for its price and features. It’s an excellent choice for riders looking for reliable, everyday storage.
5. Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Motorcycle Tail Bag
Rating: 9.3/10
The Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Motorcycle Tail Bag is a fantastic choice for riders who need a reliable and spacious bag for their adventures. It’s built tough and designed to handle the demands of the road and off-road trails.
What We Like:
- This bag comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. That means Nelson-Rigg stands behind its quality, so you can buy with confidence.
- It’s made from SUPER FABRIC, called UltraMax. This material is super strong and protects your bag from the sun, so it won’t fade or break down from weather.
- The bag has KEY FEATURES like a rigid construction. This keeps its shape even when it’s empty, so it always looks good.
- It also has water-resistant and lockable zippers to keep dust and dirt out.
- The size is PERFECT for enduro and dual-sport bikes. It’s not too big or too small.
- Inside, there are self-fastening straps. These keep your stuff from moving around while you ride, which is super helpful.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the lockable zippers are great for security, they might be a little tricky for some people to use quickly.
- The bag is designed for specific bike types, so riders with other kinds of motorcycles might need to look for a different option.
Overall, the Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Motorcycle Tail Bag is a really good buy for its durability and smart features. It’s a bag that will last you a long time on all your journeys.
Your Essential Guide to Motorcycle Tail Bags
Tail bags are fantastic for motorcycle riders who need extra storage. They strap onto the back seat or luggage rack of your bike. This guide helps you pick the best tail bag for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a tail bag, keep these important features in mind.
Capacity and Size
- Think about what you’ll carry.
- Smaller bags are good for essentials like a water bottle or wallet.
- Larger bags can hold a helmet, jacket, or groceries.
- Most tail bags have a capacity measured in liters.
Mounting System
- How does the bag attach to your bike?
- Look for strong straps with quick-release buckles.
- Some bags use a universal mounting system that fits most bikes.
- Others might have specific mounts for certain motorcycle models.
Waterproofing
- Will your gear stay dry in the rain?
- Many tail bags are water-resistant, meaning they can handle light rain.
- Truly waterproof bags often have sealed seams and a roll-top closure.
- Some bags come with a separate rain cover for extra protection.
Expandability
- Do you need more space sometimes?
- Expandable tail bags can grow in size.
- This is great for trips where you might buy souvenirs.
Organization and Pockets
- Are there special places for your items?
- Internal and external pockets help you organize.
- Some bags have clear top pockets for maps or phones.
Reflectivity
- Will drivers see you at night?
- Reflective strips on the bag make you more visible.
- This is a crucial safety feature.
2. Important Materials
The material of your tail bag affects its durability and water resistance.
- Nylon is a common choice. It’s strong and lightweight.
- Polyester is also durable and often more affordable.
- PVC or coated fabrics offer excellent waterproofing.
- Look for bags with strong zippers and buckles.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain details make a big difference in how well a tail bag performs.
What Makes a Tail Bag Better?
- Sturdy Stitching: Well-sewn seams hold up better.
- Reinforced Straps: Strong, padded straps prevent slipping.
- Quality Zippers: Smooth-operating, water-resistant zippers are a must.
- Good Shape Retention: Bags that keep their shape look better and are easier to pack.
- Easy Access: Bags that are simple to open and close save you time.
What Can Make a Tail Bag Worse?
- Flimsy Material: Thin fabrics tear easily.
- Weak Straps: Straps that stretch or break are unsafe.
- Poor Zippers: Zippers that snag or break are frustrating.
- Lack of Structure: Bags that sag can be hard to manage.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your tail bag depends on your riding style.
Everyday Commuting
- A smaller tail bag is perfect for carrying lunch, a change of clothes, or your laptop.
- It keeps your hands free and your back comfortable.
Day Trips and Weekend Rides
- You can pack more for longer rides.
- Bring a rain jacket, snacks, a toolkit, and personal items.
- Expandable bags are great for these trips.
Motorcycle Touring
- For long-distance travel, tail bags can be part of a larger luggage system.
- They work well with saddlebags and tank bags.
- You can carry more clothing, camping gear, or even a small tent.
Safety First
- Always make sure your tail bag is securely fastened.
- A bag that shifts can affect your bike’s balance.
- Check your straps before every ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I choose the right size tail bag?
A: Think about what you need to carry. A small bag is good for daily items, while a larger one is better for longer trips or carrying more gear.
Q: Are tail bags waterproof?
A: Some are water-resistant, and some are truly waterproof. Check the product description. Many come with a rain cover for extra protection.
Q: Will a tail bag fit my motorcycle?
A: Most tail bags have universal mounting systems that fit many bikes. Some might need special adapters or mounts. Always check compatibility.
Q: How do I attach a tail bag?
A: Tail bags usually attach with straps that go around your seat or luggage rack. Make sure they are tightened securely.
Q: Can I carry a helmet in a tail bag?
A: Some larger tail bags are designed to hold a full-face helmet. Check the bag’s dimensions and capacity before buying if this is important to you.
Q: Are tail bags safe?
A: Yes, when properly secured. A securely fastened tail bag won’t affect your bike’s handling. Always double-check your straps.
Q: What is the best material for a tail bag?
A: Nylon and polyester are strong and common. For waterproofing, look for PVC or coated fabrics.
Q: How important are reflective elements?
A: Reflective strips are very important for safety. They help other drivers see you, especially at night.
Q: Can I expand my tail bag if I need more space?
A: Yes, many tail bags are expandable. They have zippers or flaps that allow you to increase their capacity.
Q: How do I clean my tail bag?
A: Most tail bags can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.