Top 8 Best Motorcycle Backpacks To Consider In 2021 Review

No matter how much we love it, riding a motorcycle comes with some issues. And one of the most common has to be storage. To put it plainly: there isn’t any!

Scooters may have room under the seat, but for bigger bikes, you need to buy a separate solution. That can get pricey! Panniers and top boxes are all well and good, but they can be seriously expensive, not to mention bulky and cumbersome.

So why not check out a rucksack? In this review, we’ve taken a peek at some of the best motorcycle backpacks around. Who knows, maybe we can find the perfect bag for your travels!

Top 8 Best Motorcycle Backpacks You Should Buy In 2021 Reviews

1 Ogio No Drag Mach 1 Gear Bags – Best Motorcycle Backpack for Speed Demons

That’s my bag, baby

Up first, we have this Ogio backpack. This one comes with a decent capacity, at just over 22 liters. It’ll comfortably hold a laptop up to 15 inches across, and plenty more besides.

The sleek, stylish exterior is constructed from molded plastic. This has several benefits. Not only is it fully waterproof, but it also has aerodynamic qualities too. It prevents the possibility of wind drag, making this an awesome option for those speed demons out there!

And that design has another plus side. It is tough! It will protect our possessions from damage, even during high-impact falls.

Is it comfortable?

Attached to that sturdy shell are ergonomic shoulder and waist straps. These can be adjusted to suit the rider and are padded for extra comfort. Plus, that belt is set off-center, so we don’t need to worry about it scratching the paint job.

Sounds like the outside is great! How about the inside?

Well, we find a plethora of inner compartments. With tablet and laptop sleeves, plus mesh and pockets for other items, there’s room for everything. It even comes with a handy hydration pouch slot for riders who travel with a camel pack.

Are there any downsides?

Well, while those straps can be adjusted, they’re not the longest we’ve seen. Bigger dudes may find them uncomfortable. And they can be challenging to put on over heavy biker jackets.

But if that’s the only issue we can find, we think we’re onto something good here! This is a compact, robust bag that lives up to its promise. A fantastic way to start our review of the best motorcycle backpacks!

2 Ogio All Elements Waterproof SportBack Pack/Rucksack/Bags (26 Litres) – Best Waterproof High Visibility Motorcycle Backpack

Papa’s got a brand new bag

Constructed from hardy 420D nylon, our next item incredibly resilient! Backed up by TPU film laminate, here we have a completely waterproof backpack. It can be used in any kind of weather with complete peace of mind.

And it’s not just the material that gives it those water-resistant capabilities. This has a roll-top design. It completely covers the inner space, keeping the moisture out on every ride.

Our favorite thing about that exterior?

It is reflective! It features a 360° screen print. Not only does it look particularly cool, but it also gives added visibility, which any rider knows is a real asset!

On the inside, we get a capacity of around 26 liters. Featuring an array of pockets, including two with zips, it offers a convenient way to store our various possessions. And there’s an extra pocket on the outside too, for easy access.

Does it protect our goods well?

Against the weather, yes! But that’s where the line of defense ends. This is not a hard shell motorcycle backpack. In the event of an accident, it won’t prevent a device from breaking.

So, we’ll need to be super careful when out on the road, won’t we? Because we love this Ogio bag! That reflective function, plus the awesome weatherproof capabilities, make it a serious contender.

Oh, and did we mention the ventilation?

Thanks to airflow mesh, this bag offers the perfect air-conditioning system. The rider stays cool and dry, even on swelteringly hot days.

3 CUCYMA Motorcycle Backpack Motorsports Track Riding Back Pack – Best Spacious Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Backpack

Bag it up

The next motorcycle backpack comes from the CUCYMA brand. Everyone has heard of CUCYMA! They’re well-known for creating a wide range of motorcycle accessories at a low cost.

But do they trade quality for price?

Absolutely not! This is an outstanding piece of kit. Let’s find out why.

It starts with a carbon fiber shell. This is seriously tough stuff! Solid enough to absorb the impact of any fall, our belongings will stay secure and well-protected.

Plus, its streamlined design reduces wind resistance. The anti-drag capabilities are just incredible. It allows the air to cleanly pass over the bag, preventing any kind of pull.

Wait, there’s more!

It has awesome visibility, too! That carbon fiber has reflective piping. Easily picked up by car headlights, drivers cannot fail to notice us when riding at night.

Internally, it has a whopping 30 liters of space. And it’s not just a single compartment; it offers a wide range of chambers in various sizes and shapes. There’s even an outer buckle for carrying a helmet with ease.

This sounds too good to be true! What’s the catch?

If we had to find one, we could say that the straps are kind of small. Biker jackets are often large, so it might be a chore to pull the straps over the top. And strapping young men might find that they don’t fit too well.

But the good news is that they are adjustable. So even though they’re short, they’re still suitable for an array of body types. Plus, they’re extraordinarily thick and strong, too.

All that, and at a remarkably wallet-friendly price!

4 Shoei Backpack 2.0 – One Size – Best Padded Motorcycle Backpack with Helmet Holder

If the Shoei fits

Next up in our Best Motorbike Backpacks reviews is this Shoei backpack. Shoei is a name that will be a stranger to few riders! Well-known and widely respected, this Japanese brand has been producing a massive range of motorcycle accessories since 1959.

Can this item live up to its reputation?

Let’s start with a feature we don’t always see, even in the best motorcycle backpack. Here, we get a helmet holder. This handy, removable cover allows us to strap our lid to the back of the rucksack, meaning it won’t take up space inside.

And speaking of that inner space, we sure get a lot of it! There’s room for everything here. It has a huge array of pockets and compartments in different sizes, from tiny to titan.

Lightweight protection…

Plus, it has ample padding. Those pockets are well-quilted. They provide plenty of cushioning to keep our devices safe from harm.

Weighing just two pounds, this is a really lightweight motorcycle backpack. It won’t slow us down! And as it’s so light, it allows air to pass through, giving the rider a decent amount of ventilation.

It sounds too good to be true! Is it?

There is one negative here. It does not have a hard shell. While it does have that padding, a cushion can only do so much to absorb a blow.

That aside, there’s so much to like here. And we can’t deny, it looks pretty great. Top quality, and an awesome style, all at a price that won’t break the bank!

5 Motorcycle Backpack Waterproof Hard Shell Backpack Carbon Fiber Riding Backpack – Best Budget Motorcycle Backpack

Back (pack) me up

Now, one for the bargain hunters out there. This adventure motorcycle backpack is very easy on the pocketbook! Buying all the gear for a bike can get incredibly expensive, incredibly quickly, so this budget item is a great way to save a few pennies.

But does the lower cost mean lower quality?

At 2.42 pounds, this is slightly heavier than some other bags we’ve seen. But thanks to the strap design, this doesn’t matter! Crossing the shoulders, chest, and waist, they disperse that weight evenly around the body, as well as giving it stability at high speeds.

It’s big, too. We get 30 liters of room this time. And at 19 by 14 by 7 inches, it’s big enough to fit most laptops or tablets.

Does it offer much protection?

Yes! Carbon fiber construction sees to that. And as it’s supported by PVC combined with 1680D Oxford fabric, it does a great job of keeping water out.

Beware though! It is not 100% waterproof. In heavy downpours, it is possible that some moisture may creep in.

The fit?

This motorcycle backpack conforms to the body well. We won’t find any air drag here. Following the line of the back and shoulders, it molds itself gently to the rider, greatly decreasing wind resistance.

There’s just one problem. And it’s a weird one! This bag has a strange odor! It needs a good wash and a spray with some deodorizer before use.

That slightly unusual issue aside, we love this bag! It offers a fantastic amount of bang for our buck. And with a 90-day warranty, what’s not to like?

6 Osprey Daylite Daypack – Best Compact Motorcycle Backpack

Bag it up

In a massive array of different colors, this item provides an option for everyone! From classic, time-honored black to fashionable, colorful prints, there’s sure to be a design to match any bike. And with its extremely reasonable price, it’s sure to suit any wallet, too!

Compact and lightweight…

At just 13 liters, this a compact item. So, while it doesn’t have the capacity of other bags, it doesn’t have the weight either! In fact, it weighs just 1.05 pounds, making it perfect for carrying off the bike, as well as on.

And the good news is that if we want more space, it can be attached to other Osprey products. A convenient strap means it can be quickly fixed on. It’s great to have the option there for those occasions when we need to pack a lot in.

What is it made from?

Nylon comes into play here. This material is what keeps that weight down. It’s functional, durable, and breathable, too, for top-notch ventilation on the go.

Plus, a foam panel adds to that. This back piece lets the airflow through. There’s little chance of overheating, and it helps to keep us dry as well.

So, it’s long-lasting, it’s light, and it’s economical! What’s not to like?

While it does have some padding, it doesn’t provide much protection. A hard knock could easily damage our possessions. We don’t have much confidence that it will keep our stuff safe.

And yes, it does attach to other Osprey products. But what if we don’t have any? Buying that extra storage is going to push the price up.

So, there are ups and downs. But we can see a lot more of the ups!

7 MotoCentric motorcycle leather waterproof backpack riding laptop helmet shoulder bag package (Gray) – Best Water Resistant Motorcycle Backpack with Helmet Holder

Pack up your troubles

Next in our reviews of the Best Backpacks for Motorcycles is this reflective motorcycle backpack, which is a very practical bit of kit. With a massive selection of features and functions, it has something for almost every occasion.

So, could this be one of the best motorcycle backpacks around?

At 18.3 by 11.9 by 3 inches, this has a decent amount of storage. With a roomy inner compartment, and a smaller outer pocket, we can easily carry a laptop, plus other bits and bobs besides. And both of those pockets are secured with strong, large zippers for easy access even when wearing motorcycle gloves.

And there’s another zipper at the bottom of the bag. This one contains a surprise! A net helmet holder can then be pulled up and tightened around our hat for convenient carrying.

This is a soft bag made from Oxford fabric and nylon. It offers moisture resistance and excellent durability. Plus, it’s topped with reflective logos as an added safety precaution in low light.

What else?

It keeps us cool! That back panel is breathable. This fantastic ventilation system is a real bonus during those sweaty days on the road.

Are there any flaws?

Unfortunately, yes. It is not waterproof. Our belongings won’t stay dry in really inclement weather. And it doesn’t offer much protection against impact, either. Sure, there’s some padding. But it’s not enough to save our stuff in a crash.

But despite that, there’s something we love about this motorcycle backpack. It’s convenient, it’s well-ventilated, and it’s easy on the old purse strings. Plus, it looks pretty stylish too!

8 Seibertron Motorbike Backpack Motorcycle Bag Outdoor Sports Riding Package Black 37L – Most Spacious Waterproof Motorcycle Backpack

Ahead of the pack

Finally, we come to this Seibertron motorcycle backpack. At an enormous 37 liters, this is the biggest one we’ve seen here! It could be a brilliant option for those of us who like to ride with everything, plus the kitchen sink!

This is not just a backpack. It also has sissy bar straps. It can be securely anchored in place, taking the strain off the back, as well as giving the rider something to lean on.

Does it offer many features?

Plenty! There’s a hydration pocket, for one. A large, Velcro back pouch has space for a full camel pack, meaning we can stay well-watered when on the go.

And that’s not all!

There are other pockets, too. Ranging in size, there’s a space for everything here. Use the larger compartments for boots and gear, or the tiny one to hold delicate objects in place.

900D fabric makes this totally waterproof. Even during a raging storm, there’s little chance of wetness seeping in. Plus, that material is incredibly tough, making it all but impervious to rips and tears.

This item has a tactical look to it. It just exudes strength and practicality. And with its small stars and stripes badge, it’s sure to inspire anyone’s inner patriot!

Does this have any negatives?

The sheer number of straps on this thing is overwhelming! They can get pretty annoying, especially at high speeds. There are just too many for a motorcycle, as they all need to be tied down to stop them from flapping in our faces!

It’s a minor issue, but it is quite irritating! Other than that, there’s not much wrong here. What an awesome way to end our review!

Best Motorcycle Backpacks Buying Guide

We’ve seen a huge selection of motorcycle backpacks here. While it might not seem so at first, there’s actually a lot of factors to think about when choosing which one to buy. Don’t worry! We’ve put together this buyer’s guide to help you pick the bag that’s right for you.

The most vital consideration is the shape of the bag. If the very worst should happen, and we have an accident, it’s going to hurt no matter how we land! But the shape of the backpack can really affect how much damage is done.

Why?

When we land, we want to roll. Sliding along the ground is going to take off skin. The bag shouldn’t be too bulky and should have smooth, clean lines, so it doesn’t prevent us from rolling.

With that unpleasant thought out of the way, we also need to think about wind resistance. It has to be aerodynamic. Again, the shape of the rucksack is an important factor as, as some designs result in air drag.

Do we want a hard shell or a soft bag?

Strong carbon fiber cases offer the most protection. They keep things safe during a crash. If traveling with breakable items, such as a tablet, we want that line of defense to stop the screen from shattering.

We should point out, though, it is only meant to take care of our possessions! A backpack shouldn’t be considered rider protection. We need armor inside a jacket for that.

Soft bags tend to be lighter. They’re often cheaper, too. But they don’t offer the same kind of safety and security that we get from a hard shell.

What else?

Some kind of waterproofing capabilities would be nice. It doesn’t need to be 100% moisture repelling, but it should keep our belongings dry. Look for high denier nylon, or Oxford fabric, to get the best results.

Then, there’s the interior. How much capacity do we need? 20 – 30 liters is the way to go. Anything larger will be too bulky, and smaller won’t have enough space.

What else to look for inside?

That inside space should have plenty of different compartments. There should be several sizes for securing various items. If it has a hydration pouch, that would be great too.

And then there are those little extras. Things like helmet holders or ergonomic strap designs. Sometimes these factors are what really push an item ahead of its competitors.

Finally, there’s the price. Motorcycle gear isn’t cheap! But instead of going for the cheapest option, find the one that offers the best value for money. After all, low cost is often reflected in the quality.

Need more great motorcycle gear?

No problem! Read our reviews of the Best Motorcycle Rain Gear, the Best Motorcycle Covers, the Best Motorcycle Tank Bags, the Best Motorcycle Gloves, and the Quietest Motorcycle Helmets currently on the market.

Or, how about the Best Motorcycle Racing Helmets, the Best Motorcycle Shocks, the Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks, and the Best Motorcycle GPS Trackers you can buy in 2021!

Back to motorcycle backpacks…

So, which of these Best Motorcycle Backpacks won us over?

This was such a challenging decision to make! But the best motorcycle backpack has to be the…

CUCYMA Motorcycle Backpack Motorsports Track Riding Back Pack

This one has it all! Incredible storage space, that tough outer casing, and waterproofing proficiency. Combined with the aerodynamic design and reflective features, it really stood out against the other items we looked at.

OK, it isn’t the cheapest option. But it isn’t the most expensive, either. And with this backpack, we really do get what we pay for.

So, happy riding, folks!