We could all benefit from extra storage on our rides, and a tank bag is an excellent option to consider. To determine the best tank bags, we've chosen a selection based on numerous customer reviews and real-world usage by our team of experts. We understand that finding the ideal tank bag can be challenging, so we've simplified the process for you.
If you search online for the best motorcycle tank bag, you'll encounter a wide variety of choices, making it even more difficult to make a decision that suits your specific needs.
That being said, selecting a particular tank bag isn't overly complicated since most of them function similarly. However, not all of them provide the level of convenience you desire. That's why it's crucial to opt for the best motorcycle tank bag available.
Every motorcyclist recognizes the value of a tank bag, whether it's for enduring rides through canyons or keeping your cherished belongings close at hand. While you're less likely to choose the wrong tank bag, you could potentially overlook excellent options better suited to your specific riding requirements. For this reason, we'll outline the key factors to consider and present the various tank bags you can choose from. Let's get started.
What to look for in a motorcycle tank bag
Not all tank bags are created equal, with the obvious differences in price, material and size. But as a rule of thumb, these are the most important things to consider when choosing your next tank bag.
Motorcycle tank bags provide the ultimate convenience for any avid rider on the go. Designed specifically for travel, these bags are a must-have accessory for bikers of all levels. Whether you're embarking on a long-distance journey or simply commuting to work, a tank bag offers unparalleled functionality and ease of use.
One of the key advantages of motorcycle tank bags is their spaciousness. Despite their compact size, these bags boast ample storage capacity, allowing you to pack essential items such as your wallet, phone, keys, and even a small toolkit. With strategically placed compartments and pockets, organizing your belongings becomes a breeze, ensuring quick access to whatever you need without having to dismount.
In addition to their practicality, tank bags are also designed to withstand the rigors of the road. Crafted from durable materials such as weather-resistant nylon or reinforced synthetic fabrics, they offer excellent protection against the elements. Rain or shine, you can ride with confidence knowing your belongings are shielded from moisture and dust.
Another noteworthy feature of motorcycle tank bags is their easy installation. Most models come with secure straps or magnets that allow for quick attachment to the tank of your bike. This ensures a snug fit, preventing the bag from shifting or becoming a distraction while you ride.
Furthermore, tank bags often feature clear compartments or touch-sensitive pockets, allowing you to use your smartphone for navigation or other essential functions without removing it from the bag. This hands-free approach enhances safety and convenience, allowing you to stay focused on the road ahead.
In conclusion, motorcycle tank bags are an indispensable companion for any biker who values practicality, organization, and convenience during their travels. With their ample storage, durability, and easy accessibility, these bags simplify the riding experience and make every journey an enjoyable one. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a passionate beginner, investing in a top-quality tank bag is a decision you won't regret. Gear up and hit the road with confidence, knowing that you have everything you need within arm's reach.
The mounting system
There are different ways which tank bags can attach to your motorcycle including using straps, magnets and tank rings. Each type of attachment system has its advantages and disadvantages as we will see in this article.
In most scenarios, strap mount systems are the most common type of attachment and will fit universally on most motorcycles. If you are using a tank bag on several different bikes, you may want to go for a strap mount tank bag. They are not only easy to use but also economical in the sense that they are cheap compared to other mounting systems. There are two types of straps; one that you attach to the motorcycle and snap the bag, or straps with a base that attaches to the motorcycle tank and the bag itself can be zipped on the base.
The second option is a magnetic bag, which essentially utilizes a magnet to attach to your metal tank.
The third option is bike-specific tank rings. Bike-specific tank rings are for the most part, the most convenient mounting system when it comes to mounting and removing the bag. They are easy to install and come with a quick-release feature for mounting and ejecting the bag. The ring fastens to the gas cap on the motorcycle tank and the tank bag snaps to the ring. This makes for a solid connection and prevents the bag from coming into contact with the tank. If you care much about your motorcycle’s paint job, you may want to go for a contactless mounting system like a tank ring. However, a bike-specific tank ring costs a few extra bucks as they are generally more secure and easy to mount on your bike. Since bike-rings are designed for a specific motorcycle, you may not transfer them to another bike so you’ll have to get a different mounting ring for another bike. Bike rings are sold separately and can be purchased for different motorcycles. Just make sure you get the right one for your bike.
Ease of refueling
If you are like me, refueling when using a tank bag gives me a bit of a headache. The need to remove the bag in order to refill the gas tank can consume valuable time and the extra hassle of putting it back in is certainly not something I relish. A good and convenient way to avoid these troubles is to have a quick-release tank bag mounted on the motorcycle tank. You could also opt for magnetic tank bags which are easy to pop on and off saving you the extra hassle. A quick-release mount system is my preferred mounting method and is not quite the same as a magnet. Works really quick when you need to refuel. If you are using strap-mounted tank bags, you may want to go for those with a quick-release strap with a base that stays on the bike. That way, you can unbuckle the bag and remove it when you need to refuel.
Look out for the paint job
The last thing you want is to ruin your bike’s paint job with your motorcycle tank bag. You want to pick up a bag that isn’t going to scratch the paint work and leave ugly marks on your bike. It is easy to find a bag with a soft anti-scratch material on the bottom, or that has some type of protective layer of protection at the base.
If your tank bag doesn’t have any of those, you can always pick up a protective vinyl film and get it applied to your tank surface. If you are the DIY creative type of person, you could do what some people are already doing; using the kitchen shelf rubber mesh and lining it between the tank and the tank bag. Just make sure the surfaces are thoroughly cleaned as any dirt would leave scratch marks.
It can even be worse when it comes to magnetic bags if the magnets have metal debris already attached to them. When placing a magnetic tank bag, make sure there are no metal debris or grit on the magnet surface as this would cause scratches. Strap bags should be securely fastened to the motorcycle. Any friction between the bag and the surface of the tank will erode your bike’s paint job. Choose the best magnetic tank bags with base layers that protect the paint of your gas tank.
Waterproofing
A waterproof motorcycle tank bag protects against wet conditions and prevents damage to your essentials. If your bag is not waterproof, you may want to have a rain cover to go along with it. Most non-waterproof bags include a rain cover to protect your stuff when riding out in the rain. If you plan on putting on some serious miles in wet weather, a waterproof tank bag is an essential accessory. Luckily, you can find some great waterproof bags that don’t need additional rain covers as they have inner bag that is waterproof.
Map and cellphone pocket
Many riders are opting for digital maps like Google maps while riding unlike the old days of paper maps. For some riders however, they would rather use paper maps than tinker with a touchscreen. If you are an adventure rider, a cellphone holder with a transparent viewable window comes in handy for many reasons. First, it allows you to digital map while riding from your cellphone and provides a protective alternative to cellphone holder on your handlebar. So if you are looking for a convenient and safe way to reach your destination without having to deal with a phone mount, then you might consider choosing a tank bag that offers a viewable window for your cellphone.
What are the best tank bags in 2021?
If you are looking for all-round options when it comes to tank bags, some great varieties include Daniel Smart tank bag , Journey XL tank bag and this Retro fuel tank bag . Our motorcycle tank bag reviews will show you the best option.
The Daniel Smart tank bag is my personal favorite. With its robust construction and high quality materials from which it is made, it is definitely built to last as you rack up the miles. Its main compartment is roomy enough offering a considerable amount of storage space for your gear and essentials.
This tank bag comes with an integrated GPS pocket which is touch screen friendly and fits right in with most GPS devices and other electronics. A protective base material prevents your tank from getting scratches while keeping the bag in place without slipping. A convenient carry handle is another feature I really like about this bag. When you are off the bike, it is easy to carry the bag around. If you are looking for a dual sport tank bag or a sportbike tank bag, then this is an option that should definitely be top of your list.
If you crave the classic simplicity of a tank bag, then the Retro fuel tank bag is a great option you must have. Besides its undisputed build quality, the retro fuel tank bag has an accessible hole for refueling your gas without having to remove the bag. In addition, it has a generous amount of space for your belongings, with an easy to access compartment. It fits perfectly on your Harley Sportster XL 883 model.
The Journey XL tank bag backpack is an all-round great magnetic tank bag with more than enough storage for keeping all your necessary items. This full-sized motorcycle gas tank bag is a universal tank bag that fits on larger-sized motorcycle gas tanks. The magnetic mounting system ensures it is safe and secure even on the rough roads, and will not slip away. Comes with a protective base material that prevents slipping and marks.
Conclusion
If you are a hardcore adventure rider, a tank bag is a must-have accessory. But simply going for any tank bag out there isn’t going to cut it. That’s why you need to understand what you are planning to use our tank bag for, and whether it is the best fit for your bike. An adventure tank bag will save the day and make the long trips easier and safer.
Remember, the tank bag that you choose should be specifically designed for your type of motorcycle. Once, you’ve figured out which bag you want, it’s time to narrow down the choices and select a bag that will protect your belongings from the elements, and still weather the tossing around as you ride your bike.
At the very least, make sure that the tank bag has enough storage room and a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements. There are tons of excellent options to choose from, and none of them may necessarily be a bad choice. But the tank bag should accommodate your needs and offer you convenience. We hope this guide will help you understand which bag is best suited to accommodate your needs, at the right price range. Shop cheap motorcycle tank bag here.
