Oxford M15R tank bag | Stylish and practical sports touring luggage

Oxford tank bags have almost iconic status in modern biking. They’re everywhere and rightly so. They’re robust, extremely useful, easy to throw on and come with a lifetime guarantee against faulty materials or manufacture. I’ve had many luggage options from them over the years and used them for thousands of road test and touring miles. They never wear out, but in the interest of seeing how Oxford’s tank bags have evolved, I put a new one to the test last year.

I needed a tank bag I could fit to the steel tank of my long-term Kawasaki H2 SX SE for a trip to southern Italy. I wanted something big enough to hold a decent stash, but also to lean up against. Tank bags are great for supporting you on sporty bikes to take the weight off wrists.

Find out why Assistant Editor, Ben Clarke can’t stop using the slightly larger Oxford M30R tank bag in this video

But I didn’t want something so tall it would bump into my helmet’s chin bar. This mid-size, expandable, M15R magnetic tank bag fitted the bill perfectly. Quick release and strap-on versions are also available from Oxford, as well as a plethora of sizes from one litre to 40.

Is the Oxford M15R tank bag easy to use?

It takes a second to fit. Just lay it over the tank and the magnetic flaps (that don’t scratch the paintwork) snap into place to hold it firm. Once on there’s never a feeling the tank bag will fly off, even at high speed and you’re effectively cuddling as you ride along, so it’s not going anywhere. Threading and fastening the security strap underneath the headstock takes a few extra seconds, but it’s never a drama. Using the bag itself is simple thanks to its strong, easy to use zips and 15-litre capacity is more than enough storage for what I need.

On big trips I generally keep a pair of trainers in the main compartment, stuffed and surrounded with odds and ends. I can fit wash bag and clothes over the top and keys, wallet, change, toll tickets, phone and nick-nacks in the side pockets. I use a rucksack or panniers for everything else. Strong handles and a shoulder strap make it easy to carry, too. It comes with an internal waterproof liner that works perfectly in heavy rain, but even without it, the bag can withstand a light shower. I don’t use the top map holder, or the sat nav pocket with its sunshield. At my age I can’t get far back enough to see it properly.

Is the Oxford M15R tank bag good quality?

Oxford offer a lifetime guarantee against faulty materials or manufacture and it’s easy to see why. Its nylon construction is robust, the zips are strong and previous time spent with their tank bags has shown they can withstand thousands of miles or use and abuse in all weathers. After just 3000 miles this one still looks like new.

Is the Oxford M15R tank bag good value?

It’s at the pricier end of the market, but you get what you pay for in terms of quality and usefulness. That said, you can find huge bargains online if you click around.

Other magnetic tank bag options:

Does the Oxford M15R tank bag look good?

Oxford’s tank bags have come of age. They have a clean, quality look about them with nice detailing, textures, graphics and fasteners. It’s easy to keep clean with a damp sponge. The brand itself has become has also become cooler over the years, too.

so what’s the verdict?

Just like the Oxford luggage I’ve used in the last couple of decades the M15R magnetic tank bag doesn’t disappoint. It’s strong, hard-wearing, easy to wipe down, simple to use and always dependable. It couldn’t be easier to fit and the storage space and how it feels on the bike is perfect for me. A tank bag like this also doubles up as a chest rest to take the weight off my arms and wrists. It’s pricey, but you get what you pay for and it will last you a biking lifetime. Highly recommended.

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