Tank bag thoughts please

[IakWhisky]

I'm looking at luggage options for commuting.

My bike came with the panniers which are great but I'd prefer to go without for when I'm trying to get through traffic. On my previous bike I used a topbox but I don't want one for the 950S.

So plan B is either a tank bag or tail pack. My considerations (if possible/realistic) are:

- Up to 25 litre capacity (will that get in the way, affect comfort and visibility etc.?) for laptop, shoes, jeans, the occasional bottle of whisky etc.
- Quick/easy to fit and remove. I don't want to be faffing about in the rain.
- Waterproof, no covers to be added separately. (Although I'll probably pack everything inside in plastic bags anyway.)
- Won't scratch the tank (or anything else). 
- Doesn't look too hideous, or even  worse ... too adventure bike
- Not Ducati kit prices!

All suggestions and recommendations gratefully received. Thanks.

Roll on Spring! 

[BrownTrousers]

For the kind of usage you describe i would go tail bag rather than tank bag. Just because frequent use (unpacking, packing, removing) such heavy loads from around the tank area will eventually cause some scratches to something. It's also annoying for regular access to fuel cap. The biggest advantage of a tank bag is having everything to hand quickly; great for maps/phone/toll booth tickets when touring, but not relevant for shoes or laptop.

I don't have a tail bag on my current bike but the Kriega ones get decent reviews, especially when it comes to their waterproofing. I'm not sure how quick they are to fit/remove but might be worth a look.

I've had a oxford one in the past, which was actually decent for the price but i wouldn't trust it with laptop etc. from a waterproofing point of view.

Depending on your length of commute, have you considered a rucksack as an alternative? I know some people dislike the idea of one day sliding down the road attached to your luggage but it would be the most convenient and versatile option and there is a wide array of options available.

[IakWhisky]

Originally Posted by BrownTrousers

For the kind of usage you describe i would go tail bag rather than tank bag. Just because frequent use (unpacking, packing, removing) such heavy loads from around the tank area will eventually cause some scratches to something. It's also annoying for regular access to fuel cap. The biggest advantage of a tank bag is having everything to hand quickly; great for maps/phone/toll booth tickets when touring, but not relevant for shoes or laptop.

I don't have a tail bag on my current bike but the Kriega ones get decent reviews, especially when it comes to their waterproofing. I'm not sure how quick they are to fit/remove but might be worth a look.

I've had a oxford one in the past, which was actually decent for the price but i wouldn't trust it with laptop etc. from a waterproofing point of view.

Depending on your length of commute, have you considered a rucksack as an alternative? I know some people dislike the idea of one day sliding down the road attached to your luggage but it would be the most convenient and versatile option and there is a wide array of options available.

Good points. Thank you. I'll look into the Kriega tail pack.

My commute is just under 25 miles each way and most is out of town. So I'm not keen on the rucksack option.

[neilb]

Givi Tanklock bags are great. Not a chance of scratching anything and removed in a second or two. I’ve got them on my two bikes. Far more convenient than fiddling with straps on a tailpack.

[20220727]

Most tank bags are not waterproof........I know go figure, if you want something as big as 25ltrs I would go for a roll top rucksack

[neilb]

Originally Posted by BabyD

Most tank bags are not waterproof........I know go figure, if you want something as big as 25ltrs I would go for a roll top rucksack

Most, if not all, tank bags come with a waterproof cover that can be fitted in seconds.

[Wassers]

IakWhisky - I have to take in a laptop, lunch and a spare shirt on my commute. I do have a Kriega bag for the back seat/rack which is excellent, but I tend to use that only for touring as its a bit of a faf securing it to the bike, although you get quicker with practise, but I think you would get fed up using that on a daily basis. Most tank bags won't be big enough for what you want to carry, and if you do get a large tank bag, it can impact the bars on tight turns.

My solution was to use a Oxford Rucksack. I didn't want to use a rucksack, but its been brilliant as its designed for bikers having a strap around your chest and another around your waist. Its so easy to get on and off. The rucksack design also  takes all the weight off and is extremely comfortable. Its also totally waterproof. I've never had any water seep in and I ride in all weather conditions. It also has a good reflective strip on the back for visibility in the dark. They are only £33, worth a punt IMO.

[thenozzle]

You can also look at the 30lt Lomo dry bag

[IakWhisky]

Originally Posted by Wassers

IakWhisky - I have to take in a laptop, lunch and a spare shirt on my commute. I do have a Kriega bag for the back seat/rack which is excellent, but I tend to use that only for touring as its a bit of a faf securing it to the bike, although you get quicker with practise, but I think you would get fed up using that on a daily basis. Most tank bags won't be big enough for what you want to carry, and if you do get a large tank bag, it can impact the bars on tight turns.

My solution was to use a Oxford Rucksack. I didn't want to use a rucksack, but its been brilliant as its designed for bikers having a strap around your chest and another around your waist. Its so easy to get on and off. The rucksack design also  takes all the weight off and is extremely comfortable. Its also totally waterproof. I've never had any water seep in and I ride in all weather conditions. It also has a good reflective strip on the back for visibility in the dark. They are only £33, worth a punt IMO.

I'm afraid that I have an aversion to rucksacks on motorcycles. Especially with anything solid or hard inside. I broke my back in a climbing accident 20+ years ago and am always a bit wary as a result! But thanks for the suggestion.

[thenozzle]

You don't have to put it on your back, you can strap it to the rear