Ever feel like your motorcycle is missing something? Like there’s just not enough room for your essentials on those exciting rides? Many riders know that feeling! When you’re out on the open road, you want to bring your phone, wallet, maybe a snack, or even a small map. But where do you put it all without it bouncing around or being a bother?
Choosing the perfect motorcycle tank bag can be tricky. There are so many different sizes, styles, and ways to attach them. It can be confusing to figure out which one will work best for your bike and your needs. You don’t want a bag that’s too big and gets in your way, or too small and can’t hold what you need. That’s a real frustration for many riders trying to enjoy their trips.
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover how to pick a tank bag that fits your motorcycle like a glove and makes your rides so much easier. We’ll break down the key things to look for so you can stop stressing and start packing. Let’s dive in and find the best tank bag for your next adventure!
Our Top 5 Motorcycle Tank Bag Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Motorcycle Tank Bag Detailed Reviews
1. Dracarys Motorcycle Tank Bag – Oxford Saddle Black Motorbike Bag – Strong Magnetic Bag for Honda Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Harley
Rating: 9.2/10
The Dracarys Motorcycle Tank Bag in Oxford Saddle Black offers a practical storage solution for riders. This motorbike bag is designed to attach securely to your motorcycle’s fuel tank, giving you easy access to your essentials while you ride. It’s a great companion for rides on your Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, or Harley Davidson.
What We Like:
- It has strong magnets that hold the bag firmly in place.
- A fixing strap adds extra security, so the bag won’t move.
- There are three pockets to organize your gear: a main pocket for larger items, a small pocket for accessories like keys, and a clear pocket for your phone (though not for touch screen use).
- The bag is made from tough Oxford fabric, which is durable.
- A rainproof cover is included, keeping your belongings dry in wet weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bag may not fit all motorcycle tanks, especially those with unusual shapes, or tanks made of plastic or aluminum.
- When removing the bag, it’s important to detach the wings first and then slowly pull the bag away to prevent scratches on your tank’s surface.
This tank bag provides convenient storage for your riding needs. Just be mindful of its compatibility and proper removal technique.
2. TUSK Olympus Tank Bag Large – 8L Motorcycle Luggage
Rating: 8.5/10
The TUSK Olympus Tank Bag Large is a great way to carry your gear on your motorcycle. It’s black and grey and comes with waterproof zippers to keep your stuff dry. This bag is designed to fit many types of bikes, like adventure, dual sport, touring, and dirt bikes.
What We Like:
- This bag offers 8 liters of storage, which is enough space for your gloves, sunglasses, tools, and snacks. It’s perfect for short rides or longer trips.
- The clear top pocket lets you see your phone or map easily while you ride. It’s touch-friendly, so you can use your phone without taking it out. It fits most smartphones.
- You can charge your phone or GPS while you ride. The bag has a USB port on the outside and a place inside to run the cable to your phone.
- The inside is organized with mesh pockets, including one with a zipper. There are also elastic loops to keep small items like tools and pens from moving around.
- It comes with everything you need to attach it to your motorcycle. The straps are adjustable, and it’s easy to put on most bikes, including sport, cruiser, and touring models.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bag is water-resistant, the main compartment does not have a zipper that is also waterproof.
- The bag’s dimensions are 8″ W × 11″ L (top) × 12″ L (bottom) × 8″ H. Some riders might want a slightly larger capacity for longer trips.
Overall, the TUSK Olympus Tank Bag is a practical choice for riders who need accessible storage. It helps you stay organized and powered up on the road.
3. Motorcycle Tank Bag
Rating: 8.7/10
Need a handy bag for your motorcycle? This Motorcycle Tank Bag is a great choice! It’s water-resistant and black, fitting many popular bikes like Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Harley. It has a bigger window, so you can see your phone or GPS easily.
What We Like:
- Durable Construction: It’s made of tough polyester. This means it will last a long time and won’t wear out easily.
- Generous Capacity: The bag holds 4 liters. That’s enough space for your keys, wallet, phone, and other important stuff you need when riding.
- Secure Mounting: It has super strong magnets to keep it stuck to your gas tank. There’s also a strap that goes over the window for extra stability. Your stuff stays put!
- Easy Access: A simple buckle closure lets you open and close the bag quickly. You can grab what you need without a fuss.
- Sleek Design: The black color and solid pattern look cool on any motorcycle. It matches your bike’s style.
What Could Be Improved:
- The magnetic mounts are strong, but double-checking their grip before long rides is always a good idea.
- While it’s water-resistant, it might not be completely waterproof in very heavy rain for extended periods.
This tank bag offers a good balance of durability and convenience for motorcycle riders. It’s a practical addition for any trip.
4. Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Motorcycle Tank Bag
Rating: 9.4/10
The Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Motorcycle Tank Bag is a fantastic addition for any rider looking for convenient storage. It’s designed to fit perfectly on many different types of bikes, from smaller enduro models to larger adventure bikes. This bag keeps your essentials handy without getting in the way, even during tough rides.
What We Like:
- It has a clear map pocket that works with touch screens, so you can easily use your phone or GPS.
- Reflective piping makes you more visible to other drivers, especially at night.
- The bag keeps its shape even when it’s empty, so it always looks neat.
- It’s made from strong UltraMax fabric that resists fading and damage from the sun and weather.
- Nelson-Rigg offers a LIFETIME WARRANTY, showing they believe in their product’s quality.
- The size is just right for carrying necessary items without being too bulky.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the touch screen pocket is a great feature, sometimes the responsiveness can vary depending on the thickness of your device’s screen protector.
- The included installation instructions are basic; some users might prefer more detailed diagrams for complex mounting situations.
Overall, the Nelson-Rigg Trails End Lite Tank Bag is a well-made and practical choice for riders. Its durability and thoughtful design make it a reliable companion for your adventures.
5. Nelson Rigg Waterproof Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag
Rating: 8.9/10
The Nelson Rigg Waterproof Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag is a tough and reliable companion for any rider. Designed to fit a wide range of adventure bikes from Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki, this black tank bag promises to keep your gear safe and dry no matter the weather. Its durable construction means it’s ready for whatever the road throws at it.
What We Like:
- It has a LIFETIME WARRANTY, so you can trust its quality.
- Heavy duty TPU material with heat-welded seams keep everything DRY.
- An adjustable divider helps you organize your gear neatly inside.
- The map panel is touch screen friendly, letting you use your GPS or phone without taking it off.
- It’s built to last and withstand tough conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bag might be a bit bulky for smaller bikes.
- While touch screen friendly, the map panel could be a bit larger for some devices.
This tank bag offers excellent protection and organization for your adventure rides. It’s a solid investment for any rider seeking a dependable and waterproof storage solution.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Tank Bag: Your Ultimate Guide
A motorcycle tank bag is a fantastic way to carry your essentials on a ride. It sits on your fuel tank, giving you easy access to your phone, wallet, snacks, and more. This guide will help you find the perfect one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a tank bag, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: How much stuff do you need to carry? Tank bags come in different sizes. Small ones are good for just a phone and wallet. Larger ones can hold a water bottle, a light jacket, or even a small camera.
- Mounting System: This is how the bag attaches to your bike.
- Magnetic: These bags stick to metal tanks using strong magnets. They are easy to put on and take off. Make sure your tank is metal!
- Strap-on: These bags use straps that loop around your tank or under the seat. They work on any tank material, including plastic.
- Expandability: Some bags can expand to give you more space when you need it. This is super handy if you sometimes buy souvenirs or need to pack extra.
- Touchscreen Compatibility: Many tank bags have a clear pocket on top for your phone. This lets you use your phone’s touchscreen without taking it out.
- Waterproofing: If you ride in the rain, you’ll want a waterproof or water-resistant bag. Some come with rain covers for extra protection.
- Reflective Elements: These bright strips help other drivers see you better, especially at night or in bad weather.
- Internal Organization: Pockets and dividers inside the bag help keep your gear neat and easy to find.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a tank bag affect its durability and how well it protects your belongings.
- Denier (D): This number tells you how strong the fabric is. Higher denier numbers (like 600D or 1000D) mean tougher, more tear-resistant fabric.
- Nylon: This is a common and strong material for motorcycle gear. It’s lightweight and holds up well.
- Polyester: Another good choice, polyester is often used for its durability and resistance to fading.
- PVC/PU Coating: These are coatings added to fabric to make it waterproof or water-resistant.
- Heavy-Duty Zippers: Good zippers are crucial. Look for zippers that are smooth to operate and feel robust. YKK zippers are a well-known brand for quality.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a tank bag great or not so great.
- Good Quality:
- Strong stitching: Look for neat, tight seams.
- Reinforced stress points: Areas that get pulled a lot, like strap attachments, should be extra strong.
- Water-resistant zippers or flaps over zippers: This keeps water out.
- A stable base: The bag shouldn’t wobble or shift while you’re riding.
- Easy-to-use clasps and buckles: They should be simple to operate, even with gloves on.
- Poor Quality:
- Flimsy fabric that tears easily.
- Weak stitching that starts to unravel.
- Zippers that get stuck or break.
- A base that slides around on the tank.
- Magnets that aren’t strong enough to hold the bag securely.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A good tank bag makes your rides much more enjoyable.
- Convenience: You can quickly grab your phone for directions or your wallet to pay for gas without stopping.
- Safety: Keeping important items like your phone and keys secure and within reach reduces the risk of losing them.
- Versatility:
- Day Trips: Perfect for carrying water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and your phone.
- Commuting: Keep your work essentials, lunch, or a change of clothes handy.
- Touring: While you’ll need larger luggage for long tours, a tank bag is great for things you need access to quickly.
- Bike Compatibility: Make sure the bag fits your motorcycle’s tank shape and size. Some bags are designed for specific bike types.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main purpose of a motorcycle tank bag?
A: A motorcycle tank bag is designed to provide convenient storage for your everyday essentials while you ride.
Q: How do magnetic tank bags attach to a motorcycle?
A: Magnetic tank bags use strong magnets to stick directly to a metal motorcycle fuel tank.
Q: Are tank bags waterproof?
A: Some tank bags are fully waterproof, while others are water-resistant. Many come with separate rain covers for added protection.
Q: Can I use a tank bag on a plastic motorcycle tank?
A: No, magnetic tank bags will not work on plastic tanks. You will need a strap-on tank bag for those.
Q: How much stuff can a tank bag hold?
A: Tank bag capacity varies. Smaller bags might hold just a phone and wallet, while larger ones can carry more items like a water bottle or a light jacket.
Q: What does “denier” mean when talking about tank bag material?
A: Denier (D) is a measurement of fabric thickness and strength. A higher denier number means a stronger, more durable fabric.
Q: Why is touchscreen compatibility important in a tank bag?
A: Touchscreen compatibility allows you to use your smartphone for navigation or other apps without having to remove it from the bag.
Q: What are reflective elements on a tank bag for?
A: Reflective elements help make you more visible to other vehicles, especially in low light conditions or at night, improving safety.
Q: How do I know if a tank bag will fit my motorcycle?
A: Check the bag’s dimensions and mounting system. Some bags are universal, while others are designed for specific motorcycle models.
Q: Are there any downsides to using a tank bag?
A: Tank bags can sometimes interfere with handlebar movement on certain bikes, or they might obscure the fuel cap, making refueling a bit more effort.
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.
Hi, I’m Luigi Smith, the voice behind carrepairmag.com. As a passionate car enthusiast with years of hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining vehicles, I created this platform to share my knowledge and expertise. My goal is to empower car owners with practical advice, tips, and step-by-step guides to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a beginner looking to learn, carrepairmag.com is your go-to source for all things car repair!