Buying a motorcycle is often just the first step because you will have to buy other accessories so that your bike can be more efficient and convenient for all your daily needs. When it comes to accessorizing your motorcycle, one of the things that should top the list is a tail bag.
In as much as they may seem simple, tail bags can help you in situations where you have extra luggage to carry. Moreover, they can serve as a good alternative to backpacks. This way, you will have more freedom when riding since there will be no load on your back.
Additionally, these bags are designed in such a way that they don’t get in your way when you are on the motorcycle. As the name suggests, the bags are meant to be attached to the tail of the motorcycle. This brings about an equal distribution of weight, so the motorcycle will be stable throughout the journey.
Furthermore, some of the bags have appealing features that will allow you to have a stress-free experience even when carrying heavy luggage. However, there are several things that you must consider before purchasing a motorcycle tail bag.
And the first one is the mounting technique used to attach the tail bag to your motorcycle. A good number of motorcycle tail bags have either temporary or permanent mounting systems. Both are effective but may be somewhat different when it comes to security.
Temporary mounting systems allow you to attach and take off the tail bag whenever you want. Permanent mounting systems, on the other hand, attach the tail bag to the motorcycle once and for all, but it can be taken off when necessary. This is beneficial, but at the same time, very risky since the bag can easily be stolen if the motorcycle is parked in a bad location.
The next factor that is worth considering is size. These bags come in different sizes, so you can go for the small size tail bags or the large type. There are also medium size options, so you can take your pick depending on what you intend to carry.
If you are looking to buy a tail bag, the list below will narrow down your search. It contains some of the best motorcycle tail bags that you can consider adding to your bike.
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11 Motorcycle Tail Bag Reviews
#1 Nelson Rigg CL-1060-ST2 Motorcycle Tail/Seat Bag

This is one of the highly raved tail bags, and it is for a good reason. It has amazing features that will help you when commuting with your motorcycle. The UltraMax® fabric used in designing this bag is durable and is also UV-resistant. Additionally, the zippers are equipped with high-density rubber pullers, which will allow you to close or open the bag with ease. This tail bag has four quick-release straps that you can use when mounting it to the motorcycle.
Moreover, it is compatible with most motorcycles and can easily attach to the rear seat or tail section. More to this, the main compartment features self-fastening straps that will lock your luggage in place. This will prevent the items inside the bag from moving around as a result of the vibrations. The interior has a high-quality lining, which gives the bag an aesthetic appearance. Also, the mounting system is conveniently placed on both sides to ensure that the bag is firmly secured.
In its normal size, the bag can hold 24.78 L but can be expanded to hold a maximum of 33.04L. You can use this feature by unzipping the expansion unit. This way, you will be able to carry more items and still have some room left. Nonetheless, you should not overload the bag as this may prevent the zips from closing.
#2 Givi EA115BK Waterproof Duffle/Seat Bag

Measuring 21.6″L by 12.6″W by 13.4″H, the Givi EA115BK is one of the motorcycle tail bags that you can consider using when going on a very long trip. It has a large volume and can hold up to 40L. The bag comes with two elastic straps, which you can adjust to get a tight installation. Thanks to the premium quality PVC Tarpaulin material, this bag can withstand harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat and rain.
Besides, the seams have a stitch-less design, which prevents water from seeping into the bag when riding in the rain. There is a shoulder strap that you can use when you are not on the motorcycle. As a result, your bag will always be safe since you won’t have to leave it on your bike. More to this, the bag also has a carry handle, so you can use the option that you are most comfortable with.
This tail bag delivers a universal fit to a wide range of motorcycle models, including low rider motorbikes. In addition, the bag comes in different colors, allowing you to pick the shade that blends well with your motorcycle. As such, you will find bags with solid colors such as green and back, or ones that consist of a mixture of colors like black/red and black/yellow.
#3 OGIO 110091.36 Stealth Black Duffle Tail Bag

The medium-sized tail bag from Ogio has a versatile design and can attach to almost all motorcycle tail seats. It has three compartments, and the main one can hold up to 21L. However, you can expand it to 30L by using the available zippers to adjust the built-in gusset. The bag also has side pockets, which can assist you in carrying water bottles and an extra set of items.
This bag has a streamlined design, which allows you to move freely without worrying about the wind effect. Moreover, this feature plays an important role in ensuring the bag stays on the motorcycle when you are on the move. Additionally, the bag has a non-slip pad, which prevents the bag from sliding off. Also, it prevents the bag and the seat from being in direct contact. This limits wear and tear and also protects the paint finishing on the motorcycle seat.
The bag is constructed with 600D polyester, which is strong and durable and can take on aggressive environmental elements. With the rain cover, you will be able to ride in different conditions even when there is a heavy downpour. The inner foam padding in the wall lining will cushion the items inside the bag, thus preventing accidental damage, especially when carrying delicate equipment.
#4 Chase Harper 450 USA Tail Bag

If you own a sportbike, this is one of the tail bags that will look nice on your motorcycle. It has a compact design, making it an ideal bag for everyday use. The exterior is built from industrial-grade ballistic nylon, which can hold items without ripping apart. There is a rubber-like material at the bottom that maximizes grip, thereby keeping the bag in place even when there is a lot of vibration.
The mounting system consists of four durable bungee cords with hook-like attachment ends. Furthermore, the cords are adjustable, allowing you to tie the bag according to the size of the motorcycle seat. The tips of the attachments have protective caps, which prevent the hooks from piercing your fingers during installation. You can tuck the bungee cords in the hideaway compartment when they are not in use.
This tail bag has a detachable map pouch, which has a touch-sensitive feature, making it the perfect location for cell phones. The bag measures 12-inches in length, 9-inches wide, and 4-inches high. It has a total capacity of 7L and allows you to load several items. The bag is fitted with full-length pockets, which are easy to work with.
#5 Dowco Iron Rider 04979 Reflective Frenzy Motorcycle Tail Bag

The Iron Rider 04979 is an ultra-tough tail bag that is easy to install. Removing it is also very easy since it uses quick-release buckles that detach in seconds. The water-resistant zippers will ensure that your items don’t get wet when you are caught in the rain. Besides, the bag comes with a rain cover, which delivers even more protection in case there is a heavy downpour. The sturdy handle allows you to lift the bag from the motorcycle with ease and can also come in handy during transportation.
This bag is designed with authentic materials that will give a worry-free user experience on all your riding sessions. Its tactical design can complement the look of any motorcycle regardless of the model. The lower section of the bag is rubberized to ensure the bag does not slip from the rear seat even when the motorcycle is moving at a high speed. To add to this, the bag has large side pockets that can accommodate a variety of items.
The bag can hold items worth 16L due to the reliable 1680D polyester construction. As such, you can use the bag when taking both short and long trips. The high-quality zippers will remain shut throughout your journey, so you won’t lose any of your stuff.
#6 Vuz Moto Dry Duffle Motorcycle Tail Bag

The duffle tail bag from Vuz has a heavy-duty design, which allows it to tolerate the pressures of daily use. Moreover, the 500D PVC tarpaulin used in designing the outer layer is known for its waterproof features. As such, the bag can withstand rainy conditions and other types of environmental abuse. If you are a regular commuter, you can consider attaching this tail bag to your motorcycle to have an easy time with your luggage.
Plus, the mounting system on this bag is compatible with both old and new motorcycle models. The removable shoulder strap transforms the tail bag into a shoulder bag, allowing you to carry it wherever you go. When the bag is strapped on the motorcycle, you can make adjustments to the mounting mechanism to match the size of the saddle that you are dealing with. The bag is 22-inches long x 11-inches wide x 14-inches high and weighs 2.1lbs.
The bag has a large capacity and can hold up to 45L.This provides you with enough room to hold your entire luggage. Additionally, the seams are uniquely sealed using an advanced technique, which keeps the main compartment water-free.
#7 AmazonBasics Motorcycle Tail Bag

This tail bag is also one of the great options that you can add to your list. It provides you with a convenient storage space that will allow you to carry all the necessary items that you may need as you embark on your journey. It has a sleek design and looks presentable on all motorcycles. The bag has a well-designed mounting system, which provides you with a firm fix, thus limiting the chances of the bag falling off during transit.
The bag features a large cargo compartment, a side pocket, and an easy-view pocket. All these compartments are useful and you can use them in different situations depending on how much luggage you plan on carrying. Like most bags, this unit uses a zipper design, which secures all the components in place, thereby preventing the loss of items amid the journey.
As a whole, the bag measures 12.5-inches by 9.5-inches by 7-inches and can easily attach to most motorcycle seats. It is equipped with four adjustable straps that you can tune by loosening or tightening the buckles.
#8 JFG RACING Motorcycle Seat Bag Tail Bag

This tail bag is conveniently designed with PU leather, which is lightweight but is hard enough to offer protection to your items. The bag has a versatile design, so you can use it as a tail bag and a handbag. Also, the shape of the bag blends well with the seats on sportbikes and other motorcycle models. The main compartment can be expanded and can even accommodate a large full-face helmet.
The tail bag is equipped with two mounting straps, which are conveniently placed on both ends to give you a firm and steady mounting. In most cases, the straps are attached below the seat cushion to get a good anchorage. Nonetheless, this may change depending on the model motorcycle or the design of the seat.
This tail bag is water-resistant, and can effectively keep your items dry when there are light showers. The manufacturers have combined versatility and practicality to give you a premium quality tail bag that will assist you in all your travels.
#9 Sutekus Motorcycle Tail Bag

The low profile tail bag from Sutekus is somewhat different compared to other bags. It has one large compartment with a unique front opening that is large enough to accommodate different items. The bag has high abrasion resistance, making this one of the durable tail bags that you can consider mounting on your motorcycle. More to this, the material used is lightweight but is also very strong.
Furthermore, the opening has two straps, which control how far the lid opens. The bag has a strong handle, which allows you to use it as a handle bag. More to this, there is an extra strap that you can attach, thus enabling you to use this unit as a shoulder bag. The bag features a double zipper system, which operates from opposites sides.
This way, you will be able to open or close the bag from either side. The strap-on design ensures that the bag is securely fixed on the motorcycle seat. This will not only prevent the bag from flying off but will also give you worry-free experience when using the bag.
#10 Saddlemen TS3200DE Tactical Deluxe Cruiser Tail Bag

The first thing that you are likely to notice when you look at the Saddlemen TS3200DE is the unique gap, which readily fits on the motorcycle seat. This bag has multiple external pockets that will help you store a wide variety of items such as cameras, smartphones, and any other item that you may need in the course of your trip. It comes with a unique rain cover that is reflective, thereby making it easy to spot even when it’s dark.
In addition, the zippers are made from high-quality nylon meshing. The zipper sliders are attached to large pullers, which have a rugged design to prevent your fingers from slipping when operating the zips. Unlike most tail bags that lose their shape when strapped down, this bag has a sturdy frame, which allows it to maintain its shape all through.
The main cargo compartment has extra buckles, which will assist you in locking the opening for maximum security. There are large side pockets that can accommodate large water bottles and other accessories.
#11 WOSAWE Motorcycle Tail Bag

The Wosawe motorcycle tail bag is designed with premium quality PU leather, combined with fibertech accents for enhanced durability. These materials can resist wear and tear, so the bag will last for a very long time. The rubber coating on the handle will provide you with the right grip during manual lifts, while the metal zippers allow you to close or unzip the bag in an instant.
This bag is equipped with strong straps, which are integrated with high-quality buckles, hence giving you a mounting system that you can fully depend on. The high-density polyester offers protection against water and other destructive agents that may damage the items inside your bag. Apart from the mounting straps, the bag comes with an ergonomically designed shoulder strap that you can use whenever the bag is not tied to the motorcycle.
The flap has an extra compartment that can assist you in storing small components that you are likely to access from time to time. Besides, the mounting system only has two straps, so you won’t have a hard time installing the bag to your motorcycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I install a frame or rack before mounting a motorcycle tail bag?
Not really. Some tail bags can be installed in the absence of a frame or rack.
How can I attach a tail bag to my motorcycle?
There are different ways in which you can achieve an installation. Tail bags have different mounting systems, so you can use the mounting straps, bungee cords, or any other mounting mechanism that the model offers.
Can a tail bag fly off when the motorcycle is moving?
Yes. If the unit is not properly fastened, it may come off when the motorcycle reaches high speed.
Why are tail bags padded?
Some tail bags have foam paddings, which provide your items with extra protection from the vibrations that are generated when the motorcycle is in motion.
Final Verdict
The tail bags listed above will allow you to have the best time with your motorcycle. These bags are easy to install, and a good number are waterproof, so your items won’t get wet even if you ride in the rain.
Additionally, some of the bags come with shoulder straps, which will allow you to carry your items wherever you go, thus limiting theft.
Last update on 2023-05-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API