Motorcycle Backpacks Review
Motorcycle backpacks are the do-it-all solution for carrying your must have items when you’re riding your motorbike. Panniers and saddlebags are bulky and fiddly, backpacks are small and convenient. Tank bags are useful, but can get in the way. Pockets, well, you can’t fit a laptop in any of those. See what I’m saying?
When you just want your grab bag to sling over your shoulder, so you can get on your way without delay, specially designed motorcycle backpacks are a rider’s best friend. With waterproof pockets and padded slots for delicate tech, the right rucksack will keep all of your items protected and safe.
Whether it’s for mini-tours or taking to the office, there’s a motorcycle backpack for every occasion. Split into five categories, the best motorcycle backpacks have been selected below, with top picks and budget buys that are most suited to their purpose.
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Backpacks
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For A Helmet
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For A Laptop
Best Hard Shell Motorcycle Backpacks
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For Touring
No need for doing the heavy lifting, Rider UK has your back…pack!
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Backpacks
Top Picks
Enduristan Hurricane 25 Rucksack
This backpack takes top spot not only as the best waterproof option, but as the best all-rounder as well. It’s 100% waterproof, has a large 25 litre capacity, and dedicated pockets for items such as sunglasses and the Enduristan Tool Pack.
• Adjustable padded harness and hip belt, for a comfy customisable fit.
• Protective internal sleeve for storing valuables, big enough to hold a laptop.
• Reflective detailing to aid rider’s road presence.
Shad SW45 Rucksack
Waterproofed with a triple layer PVC Tarpaulin Mesh construct, this 40 litre hold-all backpack also doubles up as a nifty tail bag. The main compartment is IPX5 100% waterproof, which ensures your items stay dry and secure in any conditions.
• Water-resistant zips, easily gripped while wearing gloves.
• Aluminium ionized clips, designed for durability.
• Padded backpack supports, for better ergonomics.
Budget Buy
QBag Pack Foam Backpack
Defining grab-and-go when it comes to motorcycle backpacks, this top-seller comes at a bargain price. The water-resistant polyester construct isn’t quite the standard of the Enduristan or Shad backpacks, but it does come at a fraction of the cost.
• Respectable 24 litre capacity, with specific laptop slot.
• Aerodynamic form, intended to remain stable at high speeds.
• Adjustable shoulder straps, for increased comfort.
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For A Helmet
Top Picks
Alpinestars Tech Aero Backpack
Helmets take up a lot of space, and motorcycle backpacks don’t house them much better than the Tech Aero. With expandability from 16 – 26 litres, and a built-in helmet carrier, you’ll never struggle to store all your items, including your lid, with this backpack.
• PU coated, advanced poly-fabric construct, comprised of 600 and 1200 denier.
• Chest connection and waist belt, for even weight distribution.
• Air-mesh and back padding enhance ventilating effects.
Givi EA104B Easy-T Rucksack
Convenience is key with the Givi Easy-T. Don’t let its modest 22 litre size fool you, as it comes with an extractable helmet holder which connects via straps to the back of the rucksack.
• Intuitive internal storage pockets, efficiently maximise capacity.
• Separate rain cover included, can be removed if not needed.
• Key clip and tough zips, keep every item tucked away.
Budget Buy
Knox Ryder Rucksack/Tailpack
Multifunctional and thoughtfully crafted, this attractive rucksack has 3 large compartments, and a dedicated pocket on the bottom for its removable rain cover. Complete with an attachable helmet carrier, this cheap and cheerful option really is one of the best motorcycle backpacks for a helmet.
• Padded inserts to safeguard your fragile devices.
• Micro-lock base, built into the backpack for added protection.
• Can be converted into a tailpack using the clip on straps.
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For A Laptop
Top Picks
Kriega Max28 Expandable Backpack
The Kriega Max28 excels in waterproofing and shock absorption – two imperative properties for backpacks designed to hold laptops. Its unique roll top pocket prevents any water ingress, and envelopes your device within the heavy duty 420D Cordura Lite Plus and Hypalon shell.
• Up to 28 litres of expandable storage, home to multiple organiser pockets and a document sleeve.
• Weight balancing, Quadloc-Lite harness, includes reflective elements to aid low-light visibility.
• Compatible with the Kriega Hydrapak Reservoir – 3.75 litres.
Bagster Venom Backpack
An easy-grab carry handle and lightweight design make this the ideal backpack for daily work runs. Housing a 15” laptop compartment, it’s a reliably safe, hassle-free way to bring everything you need with efficiency.
• Mixed construct consists of jacquard weave polyamide and 420D PVC polyester.
• External zip pocket for quick and easy access to personal items.
• Includes a rain cover for encompassing waterproofing.
Budget Buy
Oxford Aqua B25 Back Pack
Definitely one of the better value motorcycle backpacks, considering its suitability for all-weather conditions, and ample 25 litre storage space. Welded seams and a wipe-clean construct ensure water cannot breach or damage any tech stored inside.
• Roll top closure for added waterproofing, plus water-resistant zips.
• External pockets and mesh pouches for quick access.
• Adjustable waist belt, and padded compression straps aid stability and boost comfort.
Best Hard Shell Motorcycle Backpacks
Top Picks
Dainese Ogio D-Mach Backpack
When it comes to hard shell motorcycle backpacks, the Dainese Ogio D-Mach is the best by a country mile. The attention to detail is unreal, for example on the removable hip belt which fastens off centre so it doesn’t scratch your petrol tank!
• Aerodynamic single shot moulded exterior, both waterproof and solid.
• Organiser panel, shoe storage area, helmet carry strap and rain cover all packed into its 22 litre capacity.
• Laptop sleeve, and fleece lined electronics pockets.
Icon Speedform Backpack
One of the smaller motorcycle backpacks on the list, but hard shells do tend to be. With 20 litres of space available, this is a compact package which does not restrict the rider’s movements, and is intended to hold the bare essentials.
• Robust 600D poly bonded moulded shell, hard an impenetrable.
• Internal laptop sleeve, can also be used to house Icon Viper D3O back protector.
• Streamlined shape, with reflective print details to boost night riding visibility.
Budget Buy
Givi ST606 Rucksack
Here’s a thermoformed, high tenacity hard shell from storage specialists Givi that’s less expensive than the market average. Providing a decent 22 litres of internal space, as well as two external pockets and a sunglasses holder, it offers all you need for a day out riding.
• Anti-scratch PU and EVA coated, for long-lasting quality.
• Quick release shoulder straps, and a breathable back panel.
• Integrated rain cover, helmet straps and even a whistle!
Givi ST606 Rucksack
Best Motorcycle Backpacks For Touring
Top Picks
Kriega R30 Back Pack
A whopping 30 litres capacity, and waterproof body make the R30 perfect for long weekends and short tours. By fastening across two sections of the torso, the Quadloc harness distributes the weight load evenly through the back and shoulders to prevent fatigue.
• 1000D Dupont Cordura reinforced harness straps, provide comforting stability.
• Lightweight Schoeller Dynatech fabric construct, strengthened by 420D nylon rip stop.
• Inner pocket for stowing the Kriega Hydrapak Reservoir – 3.75 litres.
Klim Nac Pak with Shape Shift 3L Hydrapak
You can tick tools, hydration pack and emergency whistle off the touring checklist with the well-rounded Nac Pak. Carrying all that cargo doesn’t have to hinder your adventure either, as race inspired shoulder straps integrate into the side supports, which balance mass and remain non-restrictive.
• Ergonomically moulded back panel, provides cooling aeration.
• Tough nylon construct, with glove-friendly zips.
• Reflective elements on exterior, aid low-light visibility.
Budget Buy
RST Race Department Carry On Bag
Travel far and wide with the RST Carry-On, and save on spending while you do, due to its reasonable price tag. Tied with the Kriega R30 as the biggest motorcycle backpacks, it boasts a mega 30 litres of storage space inside.
• Removable shoulder straps, and optional side carry handles.
• Front bungee and outer mesh pouches, for extra external storage (as if you’ll need it!).
• Reflective RST logo, and sleek appearance.
Storing your personal items while you ride your motorcycle needn’t be a problem, nor restricted, in any way. Arm yourself with one of the best motorcycle backpacks and you can bring all your things along with you, without any hassle or worries of their safety.
Looking for a different way to store your belongings whilst riding? Maybe these reviews hold the answer:
Best Motorcycle Tank Bags
Motorcycle Tail Bags Review
If you have any queries related to this review, please contact Rider UK, for more information or tips on How To Choose Your Riding Gear.