Motorcycle Bag System Guide | Viking Bags
Motorcycle Bags & Luggage Guide for Riders
Saddlebags, Sissy Bar Bags, Tank Bags & More
When you're riding, storage matters. Whether you're commuting, heading to a rally, or planning a long-distance trip, the right motorcycle luggage keeps your gear safe, organized, and easy to access.
At Virginia City Motorcycle Company, we always recommend high-quality gear that riders can trust. That's why we recommend Viking Bags for motorcycle saddlebags, luggage systems, and adventure bike hard cases.
They offer luggage for cruisers, street bikes, dirt bikes, café racers, and touring motorcycles, with options designed to fit nearly every make and model.
👉 Recommended: Explore the full collection of motorcycle luggage from Viking Bags
Types of Motorcycle Bags Every Rider Should Know
Motorcycle bags attach to different parts of your bike depending on the style of riding you do. Choosing the right setup can make a huge difference in comfort and convenience on the road.
Below are the most popular types of motorcycle bags and luggage systems.
Motorcycle Saddlebags (Most Popular Storage Option)
Motorcycle saddlebags are the most common type of motorcycle luggage. They mount on both sides of the rear wheel and offer the largest amount of storage space.
Riders use saddlebags to carry:
Rain gear
Tools and repair kits
Extra clothing
Water and snacks
Riding gloves and accessories
Saddlebags are available in leather, hard shell, and waterproof touring styles.
👉 Recommended: Browse motorcycle saddlebags from Viking Bags
Sissy Bar Bags (Perfect for Touring Riders)
Sissy bar luggage bags attach directly to your motorcycle's sissy bar and stack vertically behind the passenger seat.
Benefits of sissy bar bags include:
Excellent storage capacity
Comfortable back support for passengers
Easy mounting and removal
Perfect for long road trips
Many touring riders combine saddlebags + sissy bar luggage for maximum storage.
👉 Explore: Viking Bags sissy bar luggage collection
Motorcycle Windshield Bags
Windshield bags mount to the inside of the front windshield, placing small essentials within easy reach.
They are ideal for storing:
Driver's license
Registration and insurance
Sunglasses
Small tools
Garage remotes
Windshield bags keep small items organized and quickly accessible while riding.
Motorcycle Sling & Thigh Bags
Motorcycle thigh bags and sling bags are worn by the rider rather than mounted on the bike.
They are great for:
Phones
Wallets
Keys
Small everyday items
Many riders prefer thigh bags because they stay with you even when you step away from the motorcycle.
Additional Motorcycle Luggage Options
Many riders build a full luggage setup using several different bag styles.
Here are a few more options commonly used by experienced riders.
Motorcycle Tool Bags
Motorcycle tool bags attach to the handlebars, front forks, or crash bars.
They provide a convenient place to store:
Basic repair tools
Tire kits
Flashlights
Small emergency gear
Tool bags are compact but extremely useful when riding long distances.
Motorcycle Tank Bags
Tank bags mount directly on the fuel tank using magnets or strap systems.
These bags are ideal for items you need to reach quickly, such as:
Maps or GPS
Phone
Wallet
Snacks or sunglasses
Tank bags are especially popular among touring riders and adventure bike riders.
Motorcycle Tail Bags
Tail bags (also called tail packs) attach to the rear seat or luggage rack.
They are perfect for:
Weekend travel
Extra clothing
Camping gear
Groceries or day trip supplies
Many tail bags are expandable, allowing you to adjust the storage space when needed.
Roll Bags (Barrel Bags)
Roll bags are cylindrical luggage bags that strap to the rear seat or rack.
These bags are ideal for riders who want:
Lightweight storage
Waterproof travel bags
Quick install and removal
Roll bags are extremely popular for minimalist riders and weekend trips.
Why Quality Motorcycle Luggage Matters
Motorcycle bags are more than just accessories — they make riding easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Here are a few reasons every rider should invest in quality motorcycle luggage.
Convenience
Motorcycle bags allow you to carry tools, gear, and personal items without filling your pockets or backpack.
Organization
With the right luggage setup, everything has its place, making long rides more comfortable.
Safety
Keeping important items secured in proper motorcycle bags reduces the chance of losing valuables on the road.
Style
Well-designed leather and hard shell bags complement the look of your bike and enhance its overall style.
Why Virginia City Motorcycle Company Recommends Viking Bags
At Virginia City Motorcycle Company, we only recommend brands that riders can depend on.
That's why we suggest checking out Viking Bags for motorcycle luggage, saddlebags, touring bags, and adventure hard cases.
Viking Bags is known for:
High-quality motorcycle luggage
Bags designed for nearly every motorcycle make and model
Durable materials built for long rides
Excellent rider-focused designs
Whether you ride a cruiser, sport bike, dirt bike, café racer, or touring motorcycle, you can find a luggage system that fits your bike and your riding style.
👉 Recommended: Shop motorcycle saddlebags and luggage at Viking Bags
Final Thoughts: Upgrade Your Motorcycle Storage
The right motorcycle luggage setup can completely change how you ride. From saddlebags and tank bags to touring luggage and hard cases, every rider can benefit from having secure storage on their bike.
If you're looking for reliable motorcycle bags that combine style, durability, and smart design, we recommend checking out the full luggage collection from Viking Bags.
Your gear deserves a place on the bike — and the right bags make every ride better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of motorcycle bag is best for long-distance touring?
For long-distance touring, a combination of saddlebags and a sissy bar bag provides the most storage capacity. Hard shell saddlebags offer weather protection and security, while sissy bar bags add vertical storage and passenger back support. Many touring riders also add a tank bag for quick-access items like maps, phone, and snacks.
Are leather motorcycle bags waterproof?
Most leather motorcycle bags are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. They can handle light rain, but for heavy weather, you'll want bags with waterproof liners or consider adding rain covers. Hard shell bags and roll bags typically offer better waterproof protection for extended rides in wet conditions.
How do I choose the right size saddlebags for my motorcycle?
Saddlebag size depends on your bike model and riding style. Measure the space between your rear wheel and exhaust pipes, and check your bike's weight capacity. Cruisers can typically handle larger bags (20-30 liters per side), while sport bikes need more compact options. Always verify fitment for your specific make and model before purchasing.
Can I install motorcycle bags myself or do I need a professional?
Most motorcycle bags are designed for easy DIY installation using straps, quick-release buckles, or mounting brackets. Saddlebags, tank bags, and tail bags typically require no tools. Hard-mounted systems or permanent brackets may require basic tools and mechanical knowledge, but most riders can handle installation following the manufacturer's instructions.
Will motorcycle bags affect my bike's handling?
Properly installed and balanced motorcycle bags have minimal impact on handling. The key is to distribute weight evenly on both sides and keep heavier items low and centered. Avoid overloading bags beyond their capacity, and be aware that fully loaded luggage will slightly affect braking distance and cornering, especially at higher speeds.