Best Motorcycle Backpacks: Take More Stuff With You

Whether you want to cut across a city or jungle, there’s a bag out there that’s perfect for you. And while some of you might think that a regular backpack does the job just as well, trust me when I say that a motorcycle-specific model with a good chest harness will change your mind within minutes.

To choose the best motorcycle backpacks on the market, I employed The Drive’s comprehensive research methodology and evaluated dozens of backpacks before choosing the top contenders. Although I haven’t personally tested these products, my selection is informed by consumer testimonials, expert reviews, discussions on relevant online forums, and my institutional knowledge of the motorcycle industry.

Designed by riders for riders, the Kriega R22 essentially does it all. It's a virtually indestructible backpack and luggage system. This 22-liter backpack is nicely sized and large enough to hold a 17-inch laptop. Its harness is designed to move the bag's weight to your chest, sternum, and waist, reducing fatigue by keeping the weight off of your shoulders. Everything is fully adjustable, which is a must for getting that custom fit for maximum comfort. The roll-top bag is waterproof and comes with a removable internal tape-seamed liner.

I love that this bag is part of the US-Drypack line by Kriega, so you can attach additional bags to this one for more luggage storage if needed on a longer ride. My only complaint is that there is no specific padded or lined pocket for your laptop, so you are just shoving it in the main compartment. There is also a lack of small external pockets for quick access to smaller items like your wallet, keys, and sunglasses.

If you are not looking to make a considerable investment, the Cortech Super 2.0 is an excellent option for both men and women. The lower placement of the chest strap makes it more comfortable for a broader range of body and chest types. The locking zippers help to keep it closed and prevent flapping while riding. Unlike other backpacks at this price point, this one is hydration bladder compatible. There is even a built-in sip tube/headphone port.

The back panel has mesh padding to improve air circulation and keep you feeling cool, helping it to feel more comfortable in warmer climates. There is an included padded helmet house, freeing up your hands when you're off the bike. Finally, I like that there is an internal organizer inside the main compartment and external pockets for quick access. Unfortunately, limited strap adjustability makes this backpack uncomfortable for some people. The laptop pocket is also small, making it not large enough for laptops larger than 14 inches.

The Ogio No Drag Mach 5 backpack an ideal choice for those riding a sport bike. I like that it opens from the back panel, giving you added urban security by preventing access to the compartments while wearing it. The molded outer shell is weather resistant, and there are multiple fleece lined pockets to protect your smartphone and other electronics. There are plenty of internal compartments, making it a good option for commuters looking to stay organized.

An expansion gusset gives you more storage when needed. In addition, you will find that the ergonomic shaping of the back panel and shoulder straps help them conform to your body. I wish that this backpack came with a chest or waist strap, as only having shoulder straps can put extra pressure on your shoulders when the backpack is fully loaded. The hardshell design can also feel rigid on your back, which takes some getting used to.

The Kriega Trail18 has a waterproof and huge water bladder compartment, making this backpack extremely practical. It's available in an eye-catching neon color scheme, but it also comes in an all black version for those who prefer subtly. This bag is rugged and ready for any adventure. While this model is 18 liters, there is also a smaller 9-liter model. The roll-top design of the main compartment means you can take it through a monsoon, and your stuff will stay dry. A separate compartment is hydration bladder ready, but you will have to purchase that separately.

This backpack is overkill for city riding but has the features you need for adventure riding. There are YKK heavy duty zippers, an external Hypalon net, removable waist strap, Quad Loc-Lite harness, and internal waterproof electronics pockets. Unfortunately, there are some design flaws. The first is the placement of the large main compartment. This is where you'll put the heaviest stuff, yet it is not placed against the body, creating more pull on the shoulders when loaded down. The sternum strap has no stretch or adjustability, so it'll be tight on those with a bigger or broader chest.

Stay hydrated on any length of adventure with the USWE Core 25 Daypack. A group of enduro riders founded USWE in Sweden, and you can see their experience in the details of this backpack. A No Dancing Monkey 2.1 and Snug-Me harness system keeps the backpack securely on your back. There are a ton of small pockets and compartments everywhere you look to keep you organized and everything within a moment's reach. Standout features are the padded goggle, tool organizer, and phone pockets. An internal hook lets you use a hydration bladder up to three liters in size, but the bladder isn't included in the sale, unfortunately.

It's capacity for a bladder isn't the only stand-out feature of this model. The ripstop nylon and webbing construction makes this one of the most durable backpacks on this list and a must for adventure riders. After rigorously testing the USWE Core 25 Daypack, Senior Commerce Editor, Jonathon Klein had this to say, "It’s a great backpack, has solid tear and abrasion resistance, and can bring everything you need for a multi-day vacation to some far-flung land such as sunny Los Angeles. For a premium backpack that reduces back strain while increasing ride safety, it’s absolutely worth the price of admission."

Stay true to your moto passion while looking professional with the Alpinestars City Hunter backpack. Alpinestars is not known for keeping the logos subtle, but somehow they manage to show restraint with the black color option for this backpack. I like the fleece lined 15-inch laptop pocket and matching smaller phone pocket that keeps your electronics safe during your commute. The 25-liter capacity makes it large enough to carry other items, like your lunch. The entire backpack is waterproofed and comes with a cover, so you can use it rain or shine and know your stuff will stay dry.

A built-in helmet carrying system helps to keep your hands free. Finally, Alpinestars thought about comfort with ergonomic shoulder belts and back padding that are lined with perforated foam. My one complaint about this backpack is that the zipper pulls can come off. Once this happens, it can make it harder to operate the zipper while wearing your gloves.

My top pick for the best motorcycle backpack is the Kriega R22 Backpack. It is designed for comfort, is fully adjustable, and is waterproof. In addition, the large internal capacity gives you plenty of room for all of your stuff. 

The Cortech Super 2.0 Backpack is a great budget-conscious alternative with plenty of nice features to make it versatile for a range of riding styles.   

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