If your bike has an engine, you need luggage that straps securely to the seat or rack. For a different angle, see our picks for the best bike bag and bag combos.
These motorcycle tail bags are our favorites.
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Quick Picks
- Best expandable: KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Tail Bag (22 to 34L)
- Best waterproof: Rhinowalk Motorcycle Tail Bag (10/20/30L)
- Best compact: MOSISO Motorcycle Tail Bag
- Best dry bag: Earth Pak Roll-Top Dry Bag
- Best liner: Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Key spec | Standout feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Tail Bag (22 to 34L) | Best expandable | 22 to 34L | Expandable | View |
| Rhinowalk Motorcycle Tail Bag (10/20/30L) | Best waterproof | 10L to 30L | Modular design | View |
| MOSISO Motorcycle Tail Bag | Best compact | About 12.6 x 10.2 x 7.1 in | Tail, shoulder or handbag | View |
| Earth Pak Roll-Top Dry Bag | Best dry bag | Roll top | Keeps gear dry on water | View |
| Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack | Best liner | IPX5 | Rectangular shape | View |
Detailed Reviews
1KEMIMOTO’s motorcycle tail bag expands from about 22 to 34 liters and doubles as a backpack.
It holds clothes, shoes and a helmet for motorcycle trips.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Expandable
- Dual use
- Waterproof cover
Watch out for
- Motorcycle only
- Bulky
Key Specs
- Capacity: about 22 to 34L
- Size: about 14.6 x 12.2 x 7.9 in
- Use: motorcycle
2Rhinowalk’s waterproof motorcycle tail bags come in 10, 20 and 30L sizes with buckles and shoulder straps.
They are modular dry-bag style luggage for motorcycle touring.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Waterproof
- Modular sizes
- Shoulder straps
Watch out for
- Motorcycle only
- Straps take time
Key Specs
- Sizes: 10L, 20L, 30L
- Material: waterproof
- Use: motorcycle touring
3MOSISO’s tail bag works as a motorcycle seat bag, shoulder bag or handbag.
It is a compact, affordable bag for day rides.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Versatile
- Compact
- Affordable
Watch out for
- Smaller
- Motorcycle only
Key Specs
- Size: about 12.6 x 10.24 x 7.09 in
- Carry: tail, shoulder, hand
- Use: motorcycle
4Earth Pak’s roll-top dry bag keeps gear dry for kayaking, paddleboarding and wet bike rides.
It can ride in a basket, on a rack or as a pannier liner.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Very popular
- Truly waterproof
- Shoulder strap
Watch out for
- No mounting system
- Roll top slower
Key Specs
- Closure: roll top
- Use: kayak, boating, cycling
- Carry: shoulder strap
5Osprey’s ultralight dry sack has a roll-top closure and waterproof-coated fabric and seams, rated IPX5.
Its rectangular shape packs neatly inside panniers and frame bags as a liner.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Light
- Packs efficiently
- Trusted brand
Watch out for
- Not for submersion
- Thin fabric
Key Specs
- Rating: IPX5
- Closure: roll top
- Shape: rectangular
How We Chose
We compared capacity, mounting, waterproofing, durability and ease of access across dozens of bike bags and carriers, then read verified owner feedback to find fit and wear problems that spec sheets miss. We did not receive free products, and we do not claim hands-on testing. TOR Scores combine published specs, verified owner feedback and overall value.
Motorcycle Luggage Basics
Motorcycle tail bags strap to the passenger seat or rack and should be secured with all straps and kept clear of the exhaust. Waterproof roll-top bags are best for touring. Check that luggage does not block lights or your license plate, and follow NHTSA motorcycle safety guidance.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Bike Bags
Truly waterproof bags use roll-top closures, welded seams and coated fabrics such as PVC or TPU. Water-resistant bags use coated fabric and zippers that shed light rain but can leak in downpours. Rain covers help, and a dry sack liner inside any bag is a cheap way to protect electronics. For daily commuting in wet climates, choose roll-top panniers or add liners. We cover this in more depth in our roundup of the best bike bag 2026 reviews.
How to Care for Bike Bags
Shake out grit after rides, wipe bags with mild soap and water, and let them dry fully before storing. Clean zippers with a soft brush and use zipper lubricant if they stick. Check straps, hooks and buckles for wear at the start of each season, and store bags out of strong sun to protect coatings.
How to Choose a Bike Bag
Start with what you carry and how you ride, then check these points.
- Capacity: 1 to 3L for essentials, 6 to 15L for day trips, 20L+ panniers for commuting and touring.
- Mounting: make sure the bag fits your handlebar, frame, seatpost or rack without hitting cables, knees or heels.
- Weather protection: roll-top and welded seams are waterproof; zippers and coated fabric are water resistant.
- Access: top openings and side zips are easier on the move.
- Weight and stability: keep heavy items low and centered so the bike handles well.
- Visibility: reflective trim and light loops help in traffic.
Bike Bag Types Explained
- Handlebar bags keep snacks, a phone and a camera within reach; rolls carry bulky soft gear.
- Top tube bags sit behind the stem for phones, gels and keys.
- Frame bags fill the main triangle and keep weight low and centered.
- Saddle bags range from tiny repair pouches to large bikepacking seat packs.
- Panniers clip to a rear rack and carry the most, ideal for commuting and touring.
- Rack trunk bags sit on top of a rack for medium loads.
- Baskets are the easiest for groceries and casual riding.
- Travel bags and cases protect the whole bike for flights and road trips.
Most riders end up with two or three types: a small saddle bag for repairs, a phone-friendly top tube or handlebar bag, and panniers or a basket for bigger loads. You may also find our guide to the best bike bag mountain bike helpful.
Mounting, Fit and Avoiding Rattles
A good fit keeps a bag quiet and stable. Tighten straps evenly, add frame protection tape where straps rub, and keep handlebar bags clear of brake and shift cables. Panniers need heel clearance, so mount them far enough back. Quick-release systems make it easy to take bags into shops and offices. If a bag rattles, check loose buckles, hard items inside and empty space that lets contents shift.
Bike Bag Sizes and Dimensions
Bag capacity is usually listed in liters. As a rough guide, 1 to 2L holds essentials, 3 to 6L holds a jacket and snacks, 10 to 15L suits overnight bikepacking seat packs, and 20 to 30L panniers hold work clothes or groceries. Before buying a frame bag, measure the inside of your frame triangle. For saddle bags, check clearance between the saddle rails and rear tire, especially on small frames and full-suspension bikes. Related: our shortlist of the best bike bag for E bike.
Riding Safely With a Loaded Bike
Loaded bikes handle differently. Keep weight low and balanced, check that bags cannot touch the wheel or spokes, and make sure lights and reflectors stay visible. Practice braking with a full load before a long ride, and follow NHTSA bicycle safety guidance.
What You Get at Different Price Levels
Budget bike bags use simpler fabrics and zippers and are best for light, occasional use. Mid-range bags add better waterproofing, sturdier mounts and reflective details. Premium bags use welded seams, durable fabrics and quick-release systems built for daily commuting and touring. We do not list prices because they change often; use the buttons to check current prices.
Related guides: best bike bag vehicle, best bike bag kayak, best bike bag luggage. See every pick in our Bike Bags category.
Sources and further reading: NHTSA: bicycle safety and CPSC: Micromobility Information Center (e-bike and battery safety). Product specs come from brand listings on Amazon; always follow the maker’s fit and load limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do motorcycle tail bags fit any bike?
Most strap on universally; check strap points and passenger seat size.
Are bike bags waterproof?
Roll-top bags with welded seams are waterproof; most zippered bags are water resistant. Add a dry bag liner for electronics.
How do I clean a bike bag?
Brush off dirt, wipe with mild soap and water, and dry fully before storing.
How much capacity do I need in a bike bag?
Essentials need 1 to 3L, day rides 6 to 15L, and commuting or touring 20L or more per pannier.
How do I stop bike bags being stolen?
Use quick-release bags you can take with you, and lock your bike in busy, well-lit places.
Final Verdict
The KEMIMOTO tail bag and Rhinowalk waterproof tail bag are the best motorcycle bags.
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