The best motorcycle rucksacks

Carry even more on the move with a proper motorcycle rucksack.

A rucksack on a motorcyclist

by Jim Blackstock |

From time to time, you will need to carry some stuff with you on your bike, and one of the most convenient ways to do that is in a rucksack.

It’s easy to get on and off, you can tailor the fit to get it just right for you, and there is a huge range of motorcycle rucksacks, from cheap to expensive and everything in between.

The main types are soft or hardshell rucksacks, with features like waterproofing or an aero shape an extra consideration. We've included some more buying advice at the bottom of this article.

Here's a selection of the some of the best motorcycle rucksacks.

1. RST Rucksack

Description

Tested by Gareth Evans for six months, 3,000 miles, Quality 5/5, Value 5/5

For one

RST Rucksack

2. JDC 24 litre

Description

Not only does this rucksack get great reviews, but it's also Amazon's choice and it's easy to see

JDC 24 litre

3. QBag Waterproof Backpack 15

Description

Tested by Justin Hayzelden for 2 months, 1,000 miles, Quality 5/5, Value 5/5

At less

QBag Waterproof Backpack 15

4. Alpinestars Sealed Sport Pack

Description

Tested by Ali Silcox for 18 months/2500 miles, Quality 5/5, Value 3/5

For me, a

Alpinestars Sealed Sport Pack

5. Oxford Heritage 30 Litre Backpack

Description

Tested by Gareth Evans over one year, 3000 miles, Quality 4/5, Value 3/5

This was my

Oxford Heritage 30 Litre Backpack

6. Lomo Dry-bag

Description

A fairly basic rucksack, but excellent value and completely waterproof, winning a Best Buy

Lomo Dry-bag

7. Kriega R30

Description

Kriega luggage is not cheap but it is excellent quality and this 30-litre rucksack is no

Kriega R30

8. Oxford Aqua B25

Description

Oxford produces different ranges of luggage, including heritage for retro style bikes and its

Oxford Aqua B25

9. SW-Motech Baracuda

Description

This waterproof rucksack from SW-Motech is formed in PVC tarpaulin and features a handy external

SW-Motech Baracuda

10. Kriega Urban Shoulder Bag

Description

The 16-litre capacity means that you won't be able to fit the kitchen sink into this messenger bag

Kriega Urban Shoulder Bag

What to consider when buying a motorcycle rucksack

There are several factors to consider when you’re looking at a rucksack or backpack. One is the design of the section that sits against your back; more motorcycle rucksacks may have engineered sections here to help your back breathe when you’re wearing it.

Similarly, look at the straps and consider how they will fit you and your jacket. Broad-chested riders may find shoulder straps splay, so at least a small strap linking them, or a different design, may be better suited.

You may want a series of compartments in your motorcycle rucksack, for say, a laptop computer or other bits and pieces to keep them organised and if so, there are plenty of options for you. Similarly, consider the size – if you’re heading off for a weekend, you may want 25 litres or so for a night-away kit.

Also, consider weatherproofing; you probably want a waterproof bag, so think about the construction, the closure and any external zips. Consider whether you might want to mount the rucksack to the bike at some point (some have mounting straps available) and whether you might want to carry a helmet – some have expandable sections to allow this, though they can get a bit ungainly.

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