The Best Motorcycle Backpacks (Review) in 2020

Buying the right motorcycle backpack for your needs is important and the one you need will depend as much on what you want to fit in it as much as anything else. If you buy one that is too small it will be of little use, too big and you could find that you start carrying more than you need or fit it hard to get a comfortable fit. In this section of the guide, we explore the features of motorcycle backpacks in more detail and consider the key features you should look for when purchasing the backpack that you need. We also explore the difference between backpacks that are designed for motorcycle use and regular backpacks. Finally, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about motorcycle backpacks.

Features to Look for When Buying a Motorcycle Backpack

With such a wide range of backpacks available it can be difficult to know what makes one stand out from another. The best way to create a short list of the best motorcycle backpacks that best suit your needs is to understand the features that you need to look for when buying a motorcycle backpack.

The first, and the most important feature of any motorcycle rucksack is usability; is the backpack you are considering fit for purpose? To answer this, you need to consider the main reason why you are purchasing a backpack and what it is you need to carry in it. If you are going on a road trip, then you are going to need a lot of space and potentially mesh or straps for carrying additional items. If you are looking for something for your daily commute, then you probably don’t need as much room, but you may need to consider whether it can safely carry a laptop and has room for a change of clothes or your work shoes.

Other Key Features to Consider

Durability – Your motorbike backpack is going to be open to the elements and to the dangers of the road. It needs to be hardwearing and durable. Look for high-quality materials that are specifically designed for riding. Check the stitching and the zippers as well. Choose metal zippers that have corrosion resistant coatings, and which are covered where possible. A poor quality backpack could lead to your possessions being easily damaged in an accident or scattered across the road if the backpack is not designed for prolonged exposure to the elements.

Wind resistance – The open road can get windy, even on a good weather day, and particularly if you are riding at speed. You need a moto backpack that will hold its shape, sit tightly to your back, and that will not flap around in the wind causing drag and potentially becoming a hazard for you and other road users. A lot of motorcycle riders choose a hard shell backpack for this reason.

Water resistance - Choose a backpack that is weatherproof or that comes complete with its own rain cover to create a waterproof motorcycle Backpack. This is the only way to ensure that your belongs do not get soaked through in bad weather or unexpected rain storms.

Fit – It is not just the size of the riding backpack that is important, but also how well it fits the rider. Always go for a backpack that has adjustable shoulder straps. Ideally, you also want adjustable waist and chest straps so you can ensure a secure fit as well as a good fit.

Comfort – If the backpack is not comfortable, then it is not going to be used very often, so comfort is very important. Look for wide padded shoulder straps that do not cut in at the neck. Padding on the back of the backpack is also important. Not only does this make it more comfortable to wear, but it also provides a little extra protection in the event that you come off the motorbike.

Weight – The empty bag needs to be as light as possible. Remember that it will soon gain weight once it is full and all that weight will be focused on your back. Weight distribution is another key aspect to consider. If the bike backpack does not distribute the weight of the contents evenly, then you could find yourself leaning to compensate. As well as being uncomfortable, this is potentially dangerous.

Why You Should Use a Motorcycle Backpack

While there are plenty of excellent backpacks out there, it is always best to choose one that is specifically designed for motorcycle use. The main reason for this is the design. A motorcycle backpack is designed with the needs of the rider at the center. This means it is designed to be comfortable when in a riding position. It is designed to deal with a host of weather conditions and to be durable enough to deal with regular use and even the occasional fall.

Motorcycle backpacks are also shaped with their purpose in mind. Many are designed to be able to fit a helmet in or for one to be attached to it. They are shaped to reduce drag and to perfectly balance the weight that they are carrying.

Regular Backpacks vs. Motorcycle Backpacks

One of the main reasons riders consider going for regular backpacks instead of motorcycle backpacks is cost. While it is true that a regular backpack is usually cheaper to buy, this does not equate to it being good value for money.

Regular backpacks are not designed to be worn over protective clothing. This means that even if they are adjustable, they are likely to be difficult to take off and put on and are likely to be uncomfortable when worn.

Weight distribution is another consideration with a regular backpack. In a normal design, the weight is distributed on the neck and shoulders. This can increase rider fatigue and rider discomfort. A purpose designed motorcycle backpack redistributes the weight so that it is uniformly distributed to the hips and back. This makes it more comfortable to use, particularly on a machine built for speed, and it reduces rider fatigue.

Regular backpacks are not always waterproof and very few are abrasion resistant. This reduces their usefulness and their durability under normal riding conditions. Motorcycle backpacks are designed with both and often also include a separate rain cover for heavier winter weather.

Best Motorcycle Backpacks FAQ:

Q:  Are motorcycle backpacks water resistant?

A:  Most motorcycle backpacks are made from water-resistant nylon or poly-nylon blends. This makes them suitable for use in the rain, although they should not be submerged in water. Those motorcycles that are not completely water resistant usually have a rain cover that can be easily attached in the event of rain. Generally, such covered are stored in the hood of the backpack.

Q:  What should I keep in my backpack?

A:  This depends on the size and style of backpack you have purchased and what you need to carry with you on your journey. Most motorcycle backpacks are suitable for carrying at least your essentials, including phone, license, and other driving documents, wallet, keys, a change of clothes, shoes, or a spare helmet. Check the capacity and dimensions of the backpack before you purchase it to ensure it will fit everything you need. Larger electronic devices should only be carried in your motorcycle backpack if it is designed to hold them safely and securely. Such a backpack will have additional internal padding or a purpose built pocket specifically for carrying a laptop or iPad. Check the size of that pocket or padded area before you buy.

Q:  Can I use a motorcycle backpack with a passenger?

A:  If you have a pillion passenger, it is safer if they wear a backpack. If you wear it, you increase the chances of your passenger falling off the back of the motorcycle if you stop suddenly or collide with an object. It is also probably more comfortable for both you and the passenger if they are carrying the backpack, so it is not squeezed in between you both.

Q:  Are motorcycle backpacks safe?

A:  As long as they are worn correctly with the weight evenly distributed then a motorcycle backpack is safe. It becomes unsafe if it is uncomfortable and takes your concentration away from the road, if it is not properly secured and could come loose, or if the weight distribution is uneven and you are having to lean to the to compensate. It is also unsafe for you to wear the backpack and then have a pillion passenger behind you.

Our Top Pick

Our top pick is the AXO 29101-02-000 Red Commuter Backpack. It includes a spacious inner pocket that is large enough to hold a standard helmet. The bag is made from side heavy duty nylon and features large tooth plastic zippers on all the major pockets. It is designed with rider comfort in mind and has a padded back and padded shoulder straps. As well as the main pocket the bag has enclosed saddle bag pockets and side mesh pockets. It also has sliding webbing adjustment straps and belts to help you create the perfect fit.