Motorcycle Tail Bags Review
Acting like a car boot, motorcycle tail bags are the ideal out of sight storage that won’t weigh you down or hinder your riding position. Sat still on the back of your motorcycle, they are the hold all pillion that doesn’t need rest breaks, capable of storing everything you’ll need for simple days out or longer rides away from home.
Available in a range of capacities, and an array of styles that each offer their own advantages, searching for the right luggage for you can become a little confusing. Remember; an importance on purpose is the priority.
Firstly, consider the amount of space you’ll require. If your stowing needs are for essentials only, lightweight, compact motorcycle tail bags are the answer. Bigger items call for more space, so if a motorcycle camping trip is on the cards, take a look at large capacity or expandable options that are roomier and more comprehensive.
Secondly, pay attention to the additional features that enhance protectiveness and versatility. We’re talking waterproofing properties, off the bike transportability, hard-wearing constructs, and organised interiors. The best motorcycle tail bags will not only shield your belongings, but will maximise the amount of personal items that you can bring, in a convenient and uncomplicated way.
To speed up your search, the best motorcycle tail bags available for sale in the UK have been selected and sorted into the following categories:
Best Motorcycle Tail Bags For Touring
Best Small Motorcycle Tail Bags (<30l)
Best Large Motorcycle Tail Bags (>30l)
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Tail Bags
Best Motorcycle Tail Bags By Brand
Best Motorcycle Tail Bags For Touring
Top Picks
Bagster X-Plore Tail Bag
There’s room aplenty in the Bagster X-plore, having dedicated helmet storage space and optional expansion from 20 – 25 litres. Load it up, and carry it around effortlessly using the removable shoulder strap.
• Tough 1200D ballistic polyester shell.
• Anti-slip base, plus an included rain cover.
• Reflective elements to aid low light visibility.
SW Motech Pro Rearbag Tail Bag
Especially versatile, this tail bag is suitable for short breaks or long tours due to its 22 – 34 litre expandable capacity. Its highly protective 1680D ballistic nylon construct is lined with a splash-proof lining, which can be totally waterproofed underneath the supplied rain bag.
• Enough space to stow a helmet.
• Securely mounts to most motorcycles with universal fastening straps.
• Strong carry handle for transporting off the bike.
Budget Buy
Givi ST607B Sport-T Line Tail Bag
Built like a tortoise shell, the thermoformed exterior of this Givi tail bag is made of high tenacity 1200D/PVC polyester. It’s EVA coated with anti-scratch PU, which makes it damage resistant, UV resistant and water resistant.
• Expandable from 22 – 26 litres.
• Separate rain cover included for reliable weatherproofing.
• Easy to carry using the padded shoulder strap or ergonomic handle with rubber inserts.
Best Small Motorcycle Tail Bags (<30l)
Top Picks
Oxford Lifetime T30R Tailpack
Considering the range of colours it’s available in, its expandability and ability to convert into a backpack, the Lifetime T30R Tailpack offers its owner loads of flexibility. Also available in a larger version with up to 40 litres of storage space.
• External netting and glove section.
• Safe internal pockets designed to hold your devices.
• Unzips from base for quick release.
Bagster Spider Tail Bag
The sleekness and aerodynamics of this bag make it a lightweight and attractive option. As motorcycle tail bags go, it takes up minimal space, without sacrificing on storage quality.
• Expandable between 15 – 23 litres.
• Glove compartment and helmet storage.
• Travels easily as a nifty backpack.
Budget Buy
Held Iconic Evo Large Rear Bag
With such a wide range in volume, the Held Iconic Evo transforms as you need it to. The respectable 12 – 21 litre expansible capacity is protected from the elements by a water resistant nylon build.
• Further waterproofing provided by included rain cover.
• Suitable for helmet storage at its largest.
• Reflective detailing to enhance rider’s road presence.
Best Large Motorcycle Tail Bags (>30l)
Top Picks
Givi EA107B Easy T Roll Bag
Wearing a Ride Best Buy accolade like a badge of honour, this unique option is one of the best motorcycle tail bags available. Holding up to 35 litres internally, it also has external bungees to carry even more of your personal items.
• Very competitively priced considering its top-notch quality.
• Easily mounted to most motorcycles with universal fittings.
• Detachable shoulder strap for carrying like a duffle bag.
Held Livigno Expandable Tail Bag
Now we get to the big boys when it comes to motorcycle tail bags, reaching the 45 litre mark! They don’t come much larger than the Held Livigno, which can unbelievably stretch to a whopping 50 litres in size.
• Crafted using water resistant PVC coated polyester.
• Balances evenly across the rear of the bike.
• Comes with tension straps and lashing loops for secure fastening.
Budget Buy
QBag Waterproof Roll Bag 3
Simplicity suffices with this super cheap QBag Roll Bag. It’s huge, it’s waterproof and it’ll hardly cost you a thing.
• Best-seller as a complete bargain buy.
• Polyurethane coated, 100% nylon construct.
• Roll top zip closure fully waterproofs 60 litre capacity.
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Tails Bags
Top Picks
SW Motech Legend Gear LR2 Tail Bag
The synthetic leather and waxed canvas exterior of this tail bag are complimented by an included waterproof inner bag to prevent any water breaching. This keeps all 48 litres of the internal space totally protected from the rain.
• Universal fitting system, compatible with most motorcycles.
• Anti-slip base, which holds the bag in place even on wet surfaces.
• Robust carry handles located on both sides.
Shad SW45 Rucksack
Okay okay, so this is technically a rucksack, also chosen as one of the best motorcycle backpacks. The reason it appears here too, is down to the fact that it doubles up as a tail bag!
• Effectively waterproofed by a three layer PVC Tarpaulin Mesh construct.
• IPX5 100% waterproof 40 litre main compartment.
• Glove friendly, water resistant zips.
Budget Buy
Oxford Aqua T70 Roll Bag
The Oxford Aqua comes in a range of sizes and colours, with options to suit every rider’s requirements. No wonder it’s a Ride Best Buy, and best-seller that gets rave reviews.
• Watertight roll top closure.
• Waterproof construct that can be wiped clean.
• Reflective detailing to aid low light visibility.
Best Motorcycle Tail Bags By Brand
Givi XL07 Expandable Saddle Bag
Given that Givi specialise in motorcycle luggage, this tail bag’s build is inspired by well-researched, refined methods. Just looking at it you can sense the high-quality, and care that went into its design.
• 600D and 1680D polyester shell.
• IPX5 waterproof inner bag included.
• Non-restrictive 9 – 12 litre expandable space.
Kriega Drypack Tail Bag – US-30
This is what premium motorcycle tail bags look like. Constructed with 420 Cordura, this hard wearing Kriega is fully waterproof, with no need for a rain cover.
• Removable lining adds to weatherproofing.
• Roomy 30 litres of storage space.
• Universal attachments suitable for a wide range of motorcycles.
Oxford Atlas T-30 Advanced Tourpack
Oxford are so confident in the quality of this product that it comes with a lifetime materials guarantee. Built with 420D PU polyester ripstop, it’s probably the most durable bag they manufacture.
• Removable 100% waterproof main compartment.
• Detachable shoulder strap, both comfortable and handy.
• Under seat security strap to prevent movement on bike.
SW Motech Drybag 700 Tail Bag
The Drybag 700’s space maximising shape is cleverly curved to straddle the rear of your motorcycle and distribute weight evenly. The heavy duty 500D polyester construct forms a safe home for up to 70 litres of storage.
• D-ring connections for a strong hold.
• Night-time reflective elements.
• Shoulder strap and carry handle for off the bike transportation.
Motorcycle tail bags are the quick and easy solution to mid-level motorcycle storage. They fit to your motorcycle simply, house ample space for more than just your smartphone, and transition on and off the bike smoothly. They’re less intrusive than tank bags, and you don’t have to hold the weight like you would with a backpack. What’s not to like?
If you do prefer other options, check out these related reviews:
Best Motorcycle Tank Bags
Motorcycle Backpacks Review
If you require any further guidance or have questions you’d like answering, feel free to contact Rider UK, or read up on How To Choose Your Riding Gear.