Last Updated on February 10, 2024
Whether you plan to head out on an overnight trip or a day tour, the best motorcycle tail bag is the ultimate safe storage option to carry extra luggage on your adventure bike. Not only do you get ample storage, but also a comfortable ride without fatigue.
So ditch your ugly backpack and put all your essentials in a universal motorcycle tail bag that can fit in a wide variety of bikes.
Best Motorcycle Tail Bags to Make Your Ride Easier
Choosing the best adventure motorcycle tail bag for yourself means doing some research and analyzing product features. We have reviewed some of the best motorcycle tail bags to make your job easier.
1. Ogio Black Duffle Tail Bag: Best for Easy Installation
This motorcycle tail bag by Ogio is a medium-sized storage solution for your motorcycle. It is big enough to carry your motorcycle accessories and other essentials while commuting on short or long day trips. It includes three storage compartments with a total storage capacity of 20.9 liters, one being expandable up to 3.9 liters of volume.
This sleekly designed tail bag comes with adjustable straps that make it easy to install. The best part is that this universal motorcycle tail bag can fit a wide range of passenger seat sizes.
You’ll find an internal organizer pocket and double side pockets for quick access to small-sized items such as wallets, power banks, and others. Furthermore, the Ogio Motorcycle Tail Bag integrates a reinforced, textured, neoprene, non-slip pad for protection against color fading.
Things We Like:
- Protective base material
- Adjustable quick-release straps
- Simple mounting system
- Compatible with most brands
Things We Don't Like:
- Craftsmanship needs a little improvement
2. Kemimoto Motorcycle Tail Bag: Best for High Durability
The Kemimoto Tail Bag works with most motorcycle models, including a CB 600 RR, Iron 883, MT 10, FZ07 or 09, and R 1200 GS, among others. This leather motorcycle tail bag has a larger storage capacity than most other tail bags of 30 liters.
It has enough room to store a helmet, clothes, shoes, and other belongings. The robust design maintains its shape even when it has nothing inside.
This tail bag is made from exclusive 1680D leather fiber and includes a waterproof cover. The bag is pretty easy to install, especially if you have a rack/frame. Also, it stays in place at high speeds and can be attached using industrial-grade nylon straps.
This versatile motorcycle tail bag is nothing short when it comes to options. There are plenty of storage compartments, including one large compartment, one external pocket, and one mesh pocket for accessories.
It is extremely functional for daily use, and you can also use it as a handbag and backpack. However, this motorcycle tail bag has almost no security features, so it can be easily stolen if left unlocked on your bike.
Things We Like:
- Many extra luggage storage compartments
- Industrial-grade nylon straps
- Robust and durable bag
- Includes a waterproof rain blanket
Things We Don't Like:
- No security features to prevent robbery
3. Ysmoto Motorcycle Tail Seat Bag: Best for Multifunctionality
Ysmoto’s exclusive motorcycle tail bag is compatible with most motorcycle brands and models, including dual-sport, dirt bikes, and enduros. It can also work as a handbag for ease of portability. You’ll get one rear seat bag, one waterproof rain blanket, and two buckle straps.
This dual-use motorcycle tail bag/backpack features a safe and secure mounting system. You can attach it to your bike's passenger seat using two adjustment straps and fasten it with four quick-release buckles. Thanks to the top-notch PU leather construction, you can use this water-resistant bag in light rain to prevent moisture from getting in the bag and damaging your contents.
The Ysmoto Motorcycle Tail Bag offers you extra storage space when you need it. There are multiple storage compartments to hold your smartphone, camera, beverages, wallet, and other valuables. On top of that, there is an expandable bottom area to increase the storage capacity from 11.5 to 15 liters of volume.
Things We Like:
- Top-quality PU leather
- Multifunction design
- Extra storage capacity
- Water-resistant construction
Things We Don't Like:
- Not the most durable option
4. Niche Motorcycle Tail Bag: Best for High Storage Capacity
Niche’s universal motorcycle tail bag is compatible with a motorcycle, scooter, sports bike, and street bike. It is crafted using a durable 600D ripstop with carbon fiber accents and PVC backing. It integrates reflective linings at the front and sides of the bag for visibility during the night to avoid accidents.
Also, no matter how severe the weather gets while you ride, its water-resistant and waterproof construction won't let any water seep in.
This tail bag has an exceptional storage capacity of 60 liters and an expandable compartment located at the bottom of the bag to further increase the storage capacity. The main compartment is designed to hold all your essentials with lockable zippers and dual side pockets to provide quick access to your belongings.
Moreover, this tail bag comes with dual rubber handles for comfortable driving and two D rings to attach the shoulder straps for use as a duffle bag.
This all-in-one package offered by Niche includes two self-fastening straps, two quick-release buckles, one adjustable shoulder strap, four adjustment straps, and one waterproof cover.
Things We Like:
- Well-constructed and durable design
- Reflective lining for visibility at night
- Large storage capacity of 60 liters
- Expandable bottom compartment
Things We Don't Like:
- None that we could find
5. Nelson Rigg CL-1060-ST2 Motorcycle Tail Bag: Best for Versatility
This light tail bag is designed from premium-quality UltraMax material to protect against UV lighting. It has four quick-release buckles for easy accessibility of contents, self-fastening straps for the security of your belongings, lockable coil zippers, and high-density rubber zipper pullers for extra protection.
Nelson Rigg’s Motorcycle Tail Bag can be easily attached to most zippers on the pillion seat. It is specifically made for smaller sports bikes to carry everything you need and even more in the expansion mode.
This tail bag integrates molded EVA carbon panels to maintain the shape and quality of the bag. It has other advanced features, including reflective piping for visibility, a reflective handle for ease of carrying, an exterior mesh pocket for extra storage space, a slip-free base for stability, and a 100% waterproof rain blanket to save you in inclement weather.
Moreover, you are backed by a lifetime guarantee, providing you with an extra sense of security.
Things We Like:
- Maximum UV protection
- Easy to install and remove
- Reflective piping for visibility
- Comes with a lifetime guarantee
Things We Don't Like:
- Tail bag size may be smaller than advertised
Things to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle Tail Bag
Size
The most crucial factor when buying a motorcycle tail bag is its storage capacity. If you are a frequent long-distance rider, you need a tail bag with a larger storage capacity than needed for short trips. However, if your motorcycle is equipped with multiple storage options like motorcycle tank bags or saddlebags, you’ll require a medium-sized tail bag to serve the purpose.
Mounting System
Another thing that matters is the ease of setup and secure installation of the tail bag on your portable bike. Some motorcycle tail bags are designed with a permanent installation system where you clip the tail bag on and off. However, they are made for specific makes and models and are easier to steal.
The other type of tail bag incorporates permanently attached straps connected to the bag. Such bags are not very convenient, but they prevent theft.
Lastly, the third type of tail bag has temporarily attached bungee cords that make them easy to mount and remove.
Waterproof Construction
One way to have peace of mind while riding your portable bike is to purchase a tail bag with a 100% waterproof design. This way, you won’t have to worry about your valuables if you are stuck somewhere in heavy rain.
Many motorcycle tail bags are water-resistant but not waterproof, meaning they can protect your belongings in light rain but not in inclement weather conditions.
Some tail bag manufacturers offer a waterproof rain cover to prevent moisture. However, you’ll have to get off your bike and put it on when needed.
Stability
Stability is an important tail bag feature, as you wouldn’t want your bag shaking while driving. It can be harmful to you and others, resulting in road accidents. This is mostly related to the strapping and installation system of the bag. You need to make sure that you pick a tail bag that stays stable on the pillion seat at high speeds.
Other Features
Heavy-duty tail bags have more advanced features than their inexpensive substitutes. Many have quick-release straps that allow you to access your stuff easily.
Reflective piping on external pockets for clarity is a plus. Map pouches are also a convenient storage option for carrying water bottles and other beverages.
FAQs
Are All Tail Bags a Universal Fit?
The majority of motorcycle tail bag brands are compatible with most bikes. They utilize a strap system to connect them to the pillion seat, which is a cushion/seat located behind the biker’s saddle.
Universal fits allow you to attach the straps to your motorcycle’s subframe and fix your tail bag onto them. While some follow the same technique to attach the tail bag to the bike’s subframe, they come without quick-release buckles, giving you a tough time when it comes to removing the tail bag.
Do Motorcycle Tail Bags Require a Rack/Frame for Installation?
In most cases, the answer is no. Some soft luggage manufacturers design rack systems compatible with various motorcycle brands and models. The rack system works so that you bolt it onto your motorcycle’s subframe and then connect it to your luggage. But typically, you don’t need it for mounting a motorcycle tail bag.
How Are Tail Bags Better Than Other Bags?
Motorcycle tail bags come with easy installation and removable features. They store your luggage effortlessly due to their softshell construction and flexible material. Moreover, they offer easy and quick accessibility to your belongings without requiring you to bend down, as in the case of saddlebags.
Top Motorcycle Tail Bag Brands
Nelson Rigg
Nelson Rigg USA, Inc. was founded in 1972 and has been crafting motorcycle apparel, soft luggage, and covers since then. The brand is headquartered in Santa Ana, California. One of its best-selling products is the Nelson Rigg Black Commuter Motorcycle Tail Bag, mentioned in our reviews above.
Niche
Niche manufactures premium-quality motorcycle tail and tank bags, soft luggage, travel gear, outdoor bags, saddlebags, rear bags, backpacks, scooter bags, and so on. It originated in 1998 and has been one of the top performers in the motorcycle luggage market with over 20 years of experience.
Ogio
Ogio is a well-known manufacturer of motorcycle luggage in the market today. Motorcyclists increasingly prefer their motorcycle tail bags and tank bags due to their durable construction, intuitive design, and innovative features. Since they are highly demanded, they are sold out quickly, so you might have a hard time finding them.
Conclusion
The best motorcycle tail bag for you is the one that is compatible with a wide range of bikes, easy to mount and remove, does not get in your way while driving, and comes with waterproof construction and lighting protection for durability.
Our number one choice is the Nelson Rigg Black Commuter Tour Motorcycle Tail/Seat Bag since it has all the basic and extra features, including UV protection, plenty of storage, a built-in rain cover, and quick-release buckles. You can also consider Kemimoto’s Motorcycle Tail Bag if you are looking for a more affordable option.
