MOTORCYCLE LUGGAGE TIPS

Courtesy of MCN's "Motorcyclists Welcome"

The essential accessory for touring by motorcycle has to be some form of luggage carrier. If touring was in mind at the time of purchase, then your bike may already be fitted with factory luggage. Many riders want more versatility from their machine often opting for a sport-tourer or one of the many other styles of bike now available.

Motorcycle luggage is available in as many forms as styles of bike and each has its advantages over others. As you did when you selected your motorcycle it is important to choose the type that fits your specific needs. Some of the options available to select from are as follows:

Soft Luggage

The majority of soft luggage available is designed for universal fitment but some companies do manufacture bike-specific items. The bags are typically made of tough water-resistant material and can be fixed to the bike in a variety of locations. This style of luggage is ideal for short trips where a limited load is needed or for occasional touring use. Fitment is often very easy and it doesn’t need to be a permanent fixture on the bike. It’s always a good idea to have your bike with you when shopping for soft luggage. Try it on the bike before you buy and have the dealer demonstrate how to fit it correctly. Know exactly what requirements you have before you make a purchase and inform the dealer so that they can advise you of the selection available.

Hard Luggage

Often fitted to touring motorcycles as standard, several companies produce aftermarket bike-specific versions for a wide variety of models. This type of luggage is often more expensive than the soft type but has the advantage of higher security, better weather protection and increased capacity. Some systems are quick release and the style is often in line with the bike. Colour options are now common and most models can be fully or partially colour co-ordinated. Availability for your bike can be checked by your motorcycle dealer or via the internet.

Top Tips

Carrying any type of luggage on your bike will have an effect on the handling characteristics of the machine
Always make sure that the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding loading is followed and that the luggage is fixed to the bike correctly and securely
Suspension settings and tyre pressures can have a significant effect on the handling performance of your bike when carrying extra load. It’s always worth having a competent mechanic adjust your bike’s settings if you intend to go touring
The addition of luggage to the rear of the bike can exaggerate tyre wear issues.
Always take care when first riding your bike after luggage is being carried as instability may be more noticeable on some models, particularly under deceleration
In most cases, instability can be corrected with suspension and tyre inflation adjustment
Never exceed the load capacity guidelines of the luggage manufacturer or exceed the recommended maximum speed. These limits are in place for your safety
Always get advice from your dealer before you buy and try soft luggage on the bike to ensure a firm and secure fit. If you’re not sure, ASK!
Take a spare key with you for hard luggage as a lost key can spoil your trip
Load heavy items within your luggage as near to the bike’s centre of mass as possible to reduce the effect on handling
The addition of luggage may increase the width of your bike. Try to find luggage that does not exceed the width of your mirrors to avoid problems
Check luggage security regularly throughout your trip. Soft luggage in particular can and will move around on the bike to a degree and newly fitted parts can work free