Hey There! 👋 As a motorcycle rider with over 150 thousand kms under my belt, I understand the significance of having the right gear for a comfortable and safe ride.
A reliable motorcycle backpack that can withstand the elements, carry all your essentials, and provide comfort during long rides is a must-have for any rider.
However, not all backpacks are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your riding performance, comfort, and safety.
This is where motorcycle backpacks come in, designed to cater to the unique needs of riders. They differ from standard backpacks in several ways, such as durability, weatherproofing, aerodynamics, fitment, storage, and style.
Contents
What to Look for in a Backpack that is Used on a Motorcycle?
Durability is Key. Motorcycle backpacks are made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear, making them long-lasting. They are built to be more durable and weather-resistant, as riders often face harsh weather conditions. Riders can be confident that their belongings will stay safe, even in rain or snow.
Weatherproofing Keeps Your Belongings Safe. Motorcycle backpacks are weather-resistant and made of materials that keep water out. Riders can be confident that their belongings will stay dry, even in rain or snow. This feature is crucial for riders who frequently ride in different weather conditions.
Aerodynamics Makes for a More Comfortable Ride. Motorcycle backpacks are designed to be aerodynamically efficient, reducing wind resistance. This feature makes the backpack comfortable to wear, even at high speeds. Riders can focus on the road ahead without being weighed down by the wind.
Fitment Ensures Rider Safety. Motorcycle backpacks have a better fitment that ensures that the bag stays in place, even during sudden maneuvers. This feature is crucial for rider safety. The backpack’s secure fitment ensures that the rider’s balance and maneuverability are not compromised. Look for backpacks that have sternum panels, waist strap, and wide shoulder straps to distribute weight across larger body areas without pushing on one particular spot.
Storage for All Your Essentials. Motorcycle backpacks have several compartments that provide ample storage space for riders to carry their essential items. They also have external straps that can be used to secure helmets, jackets, or other items. This feature is especially useful for riders who use their motorcycles for commuting or traveling.
Practicality Matters. Motorcycle backpacks are available in different styles, colors, and designs, allowing riders to choose one that matches their personal use cases. Style is not only about aesthetics but also about practicality.
Tips and Recommendations
- Look for a backpack with multiple compartments to keep your items organized. This will make it easier to access what you need while on the road.
- Choose a backpack with a chest strap to distribute the weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders. This will help prevent fatigue and discomfort during longer rides.
- Consider a backpack with a hydration system if you plan on riding for long periods. Staying hydrated is important for your health and safety while riding.
- Look for a backpack that is waterproof if you plan on carrying your laptop or other electronics. This will protect your valuable items from the elements.
- Consider a backpack with an aerodynamic shape, especially if you ride a sportbike. This will reduce wind resistance and make your ride more comfortable.
- Look for a backpack with a hard shell to protect fragile items. This is especially important if you plan on carrying items like cameras or glasses.
- Consider a 15-25 liter backpack as it optimally balances capacity and ease of carrying, holding essentials such as a laptop and clothes without being too cumbersome.
- Consider a durable, weather-resistant backpack crafted from high-quality materials like nylon or leather, featuring a streamlined design with secure fasteners, that enhances safety and resists the wind.
- Reflective elements on the pack enhance visibility and safety on the road.
- Choose a lightweight yet durable backpack to prevent maneuverability issues or fatigue during long rides. Balance is essential for a seamless motorcycling experience.
Motorcycle Backpacks
Best Overall
#1 KLIM Tek Pak
Volume: ✅ 21L
Waterproof: ⚠️ Water-resistant
Waist Strap: ⚠️ No
Sternum Panels: ✅
Material: Nylon and DWR
Benefits & Features
✅ Inner Volume of 21 Litres: The KLIM Tek Pak strikes the perfect balance between size and functionality. With an inner volume of 21 liters, it’s spacious enough to carry all your essentials for a day trip or weekend getaway, without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
✅ D3O Frontal Padding: The D3O frontal sternum panels are a standout feature of the KLIM Tek Pak. It’s designed to protect your chest from impact and shock as well as work as a buffer distributing pressure from shoulder straps across a wider chest area.
✅ Cable Lock and Pockets: The KLIM Tek Pak comes with a steel cable, which adds an extra layer of security when you’re away from your bike. While there’s no integrated locking, you can use this cable and your own lock to secure KLIM Tek Pak to your bike.
✅ Hidden Inner Pocket: Another great feature of the KLIM Tek Pak is the hidden inner pocket. Located at the back of the backpack, it can only be accessed when you take the backpack off. This is a great place to store your passport, money, or other important documents when you’re traveling. It’s a clever design that adds an extra layer of security to the backpack.
⚠️Water-Resistant: The KLIM Tek Pak is water-resistant, which means it can withstand light rain and splashes. While it’s not waterproof, I’ve used it in light rain and my belongings stayed dry. Just be sure not to use it in heavy rain or submerge it in water.
Runner Up
#2 KLIM Nac Pak
Volume: ✅ 15L
Waterproof: ⚠️ Water-Resistant
Waist Strap: ⚠️ No but does not need one
Sternum Panels: ✅ Yes
Material: Nylon
Benefits & Features
✅ Quality materials and convenient use. The color scheme and 3M Scotchlite reflective material ensure that you’ll be visible to other road participants while looking great. Made with heavy-duty nylon and YKK zippers, this backpack is built to last. The custom glove-friendly zipper pullers make it easy to access your gear even with gloves on.
✅ Comfortable fit. The shoulder straps integrate into the sternum and side straps for a secure fit. The molded and
✅ Vented back panel provides airflow allowing your back to breathe adding to the comfort during long rides.
✅ The backpack also features an emergency whistle attached to the sternum strap for added safety – a useless feature in my opinion but whatever.
✅ Hydration bladder compatible. KLIM Nac Pak has a separate compartment for a hydration bladder, however, the bladder is not included.
✅ Convenient storage compartments to organize your luggage. Features a zippered mesh pocket and a removable water-resistant tool pouch. The secondary compartment has a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, another zippered mesh pocket, and a key clip.
✅ The external features include a helmet holder, a shovel holder, side compression straps, and a molded goggle pocket with a goggle chamois. The backpack also has a horizontal tool bag attachment that allows for additional storage options.
Worth Mentioning
#3 Kriega Trail 18
Volume: ✅ 18L
Waterproof: ❌ No (1L pocket is Waterproof)
Waist Strap: ✅ Yes
Sternum Panels: ✅ Yes
Material: Cordura Lite fabric
Benefits & Features
✅ Distinctive design that sets it apart from other motorcycle backpacks. Its rectangular shape with rounded corners and a curved back panel that follows the shape of the spine make it comfortable and ergonomic to wear for extended periods.
✅ Most Durable fabric in this list. The backpack is made of 420-denier Cordura Lite fabric, which is lightweight but strong and durable. It can withstand rough handling, occasional tumbles, and abrasions from rocks or branches.
✅ Easy to use with gloves equipped. The backpack’s YKK zippers with glove-friendly pullers, Hypalon zipper garages, and alloy hook buckles enhance its durability and ease of use.
✅ Adjustable shoulder straps with air-mesh lining, a removable waist strap, and a Quadloc-Lite harness that connects at the mid-chest and distributes the weight evenly across the chest, reducing shoulder fatigue and improving comfort.
✅ Has 3 sections for organizing items: a 7-liter zippered section at the back that can hold a hydration system or other items; a 1-liter waterproof pocket at the front that can hold a phone or wallet; and a 10-liter roll-top main compartment that can hold clothes or tools.
✅ Has a waterproof pocket for your passport or essential documents.
✅ The backpack also has reflective details, a helmet holder, a rain cover, and an optional hydration reservoir, enhancing its functionality, convenience, and safety.
Best for Transporting Laptop or Tablet
#4 GIVI Gravel-T
Volume: ✅ 25L
Waterproof: ✅ Yes
Waist Strap: ❌ No
Sternum Panels: ⚠️ No
Material: 50% Polyester and 50% Nylon
Benefits & Features
✅ Most Waterproof backpack on this list. The roll-top closure creates a tight seal at the top of the main compartment and prevents water from entering inside. The water-resistant zippers with rubber pullers block water from entering the pockets.
✅ Best for Laptops due to the rectangular form that holds its shape. It also has a laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop
✅ The side pockets have elastic openings that make it easy to insert and remove items without opening the zippers. The front pocket has a zipper closure that keeps items secure and accessible.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, selecting the perfect motorcycle backpack depends on your specific needs and preferences as a rider. We have reviewed four standout options, each catering to different types of riders and use cases:
- KLIM Tek Pak: Best Overall – Ideal for riders who value a balance between size and functionality, the KLIM Tek Pak offers a 21-liter capacity, D3O frontal padding, cable lock, and a hidden inner pocket. Although it’s only water-resistant, it is suitable for light rain and offers a comfortable and secure fit for various riding adventures.
- KLIM Nac Pak: Best for Offroad – Designed for offroad riders who appreciate quality materials, comfort, and convenience, the KLIM Nac Pak features a vented back panel, hydration bladder compatibility, and an array of storage compartments. The backpack also includes external features like a helmet holder, shovel holder, and a molded goggle pocket, making it a great choice for off-road enthusiasts.
- Kriega Trail 18: Worth Mentioning – Perfect for riders who value durability and distinctive design, the Kriega Trail 18 is made of 420-denier Cordura Lite fabric and offers a comfortable and ergonomic fit. With a three-section design for easy organization and an optional hydration reservoir, this backpack is a solid choice for those who prioritize durability and versatility.
- GIVI Gravel-T: Best for Transporting Laptop or Tablet – For riders who need to carry a laptop or tablet, the GIVI Gravel-T is the top choice. With a 25-liter capacity and a laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 15-inch device, this backpack is not only waterproof but also features a rectangular form that maintains its shape, providing extra protection for your electronics.
When choosing the right backpack for your motorcycle riding needs, consider factors like durability, weatherproofing, comfort, storage capacity, and special features that cater to your specific requirements. Each of the backpacks mentioned above offers unique benefits, so evaluate your priorities and choose the one that aligns with your riding preferences and style.
