Suraj Mahire

We are asked this question all the time but unfortunately there is no easy answer. There are so many options to choose between, depending upon which model of bike you are riding. Hard luggage is a must for many of our customers; the obvious advantages are the security that it provides and the fact that it is waterproof. Also, so quick and easy to take on and off, no fiddling about with straps when you are using hard luggage! The disadvantage can be the initial outlay if you are on a budget.

Popular makes of hard luggage include Givi, Hepco & Becker and Krauser, all of which manufacture racks/fitting kits specific to bike model. When you are looking to put hard luggage on your bike, the first point to consider is "does anyone make a rack for my bike?" Once you have established this, you will have more of an idea of the options available to you. Owners of popular bikes such as the Honda Blackbird or the Suzuki Bandit will find they have a wide choice, whereas if you have a sports bike such as the GSXR, your options will be much more limited.

Many racks are now quick-release, such as the SW-Motech racks, these are fitted to the bike with 3 or 4 fitting points which are permanent, but unobtrusive. The luggage racks can then be easily put on/taken off within minutes, using quick-release bolts.

Of course many riders do not want to put hard luggage on their bike, as they do not want the look of their pride and joy spoilt by racks. This is where soft luggage comes in, and the choice here is vast from a simple tank bag to a set of throw-over panniers and a large tail pack. One of the problems with soft luggage is that it is rarely completely waterproof. The zips are usually the area of vulnerability but more and more manufacturers are combating this problem with covered zips. There is also now a wide range of waterproof bags, such as the Helen 2 Wheels range which is very versatile and can be fitted to most makes of motorbike.

Another option for sports bikes is the Ventura range of soft luggage, which is mounted on a rear rack so easy to put on and take off. When you are not using your luggage, the rack can be easily replaced with a simple grab rail.

Aluminium luggage is another alternative which has become very popular, particularly with BMWs/adventure bikes. Most of the hard luggage manufacturers have a version of this style of luggage, which is extremely tough and durable.

If you own a cruiser motorcycle, such as a Harley, you will be looking for something completely different. There is a vast array of cruiser luggage available, whether you are looking for leather panniers, Cissy bar bags, tool rolls, and rack bags. Leather panniers can be either throw-over or fitted onto a chrome tubular rack, which will be specifically designed for your model of bike. Cissy bar bags come in all shapes and sizes. Most of this luggage is manufactured in America but is available in the UK.

Tim Tavender is a freelance writer who has written for a variety of businesses. For Motorcycle Touring Luggage he recommends The Touring Biker, an expert Motorbike Touring Company in the UK