Shoulder the burden: Best motorcycle rucksacks

From time to time, you will need to carry some stuff with you on your bike, and one of the most convenient ways to do that is in a motorcycle rucksack.

It’s easy to get on and off, you can tailor the fit to get it just right for you, and there is a huge range of motorcycle rucksacks, from cheap to expensive and everything in between.

The main types are soft or hardshell rucksacks, with features like waterproofing or an aero shape an extra consideration. We’ve included some more buying advice at the bottom of this article.

Here’s a selection of the some of the best motorcycle rucksacks.

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Other options to consider

Can I use a regular rucksack when riding a motorcycle?

There’s nothing stopping you from using a regular rucksack when riding a motorcycle, but it’s important to keep in mind they’re not designed for motorcycle use. Motorcycle backpacks often have rated impact absorption or abrasion resistance, waterproofing, mounting straps, or an aerodynamic shape, and having any of these features make them much more suitable for motorcycling.

What is a good size of rucksack for motorcycling?

Motorcycle rucksacks can range anywhere from 10 to 40+ litres in volume, and which size you go for really depends how much stuff you want to carry with you. 25 litres is a good average size, and can work well for day-to-day commuting, small trips to the shops, and short weekend trips away, but your mileage may vary.

If you’re unsure what size will suit you, it’s best to pop in to your local kit shop and try them on for size. If you need to carry more than just one backpack with you, it’s best to take a look at some panniers and top boxes to expand the storage on your bike.

Other things to consider when buying a motorcycle rucksack

Comfort

Consider the design of the section that sits against your back; some motorcycle rucksacks may have engineered sections here to help your back breathe when you’re wearing it. Similarly, look at the straps and consider how they will fit you and your jacket. Broad-chested riders may find shoulder straps splay, so at least a small strap linking them, or a different design, may be better suited.

Size

You may want a series of compartments in your motorcycle rucksack, for say, a laptop computer or other bits and pieces to keep them organised and if so, there are plenty of options for you. Similarly, consider the size – if you’re heading off for a weekend, you may want 25-litres or so for a night-away kit.

Construction

Consider weatherproofing; you probably want a waterproof bag, so think about the construction, the closure and any external zips. Consider whether you might want to mount the rucksack to the bike at some point (some have mounting straps available) and whether you might want to carry a helmet – some have expandable sections to allow this, though they can get a bit ungainly.

About the author: After qualifying as a mechanical engineer, Jim Blackstock began working on magazines in the early 1990s. He remains passionate about product testing to ensure readers know what products offer good value and why. He relishes torrential rain to see if riding kit keeps water out and an hour or two to tinker on a project bike in his workshop.

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