Motorcycle Tail Bags
Motorcycle tail bags carry luggage on the passenger seat or rear rack. The range here includes Oxford roll bags and SW-Motech tail bags, from compact expandable bags to larger touring luggage. Compare the dimensions, mounting method and rain protection before choosing a capacity.
What size tail bag will fit?
Start with the space on the bike as well as the amount you need to carry. Oxford gives the filled dimensions of its 50-litre Aqua T-50 as 60 cm wide, 35 cm high and 34 cm deep. SW-Motech lists the smaller PRO Roadpack at 36 × 28 × 15 cm, with a zipped expansion from 8 to 14 litres. The capacity tells you the volume; the dimensions help you judge whether the bag will sit where you intend to mount it.
How do the bags keep rain out?
Oxford describes the Aqua T-50 as waterproof
, with welded seams and a roll-top closure. Its front-pocket zip is only described as water-resistant. SW-Motech describes the Drybag 350 main compartment as waterproof
. For the PRO Roadpack, it specifies a supplied waterproof inner bag
; the outer bag has a splashproof lining. Check the individual bag's specification, including the pockets, if rain protection is the deciding factor.
Does a tail bag need a luggage rack?
That depends on the bag and its mounting instructions. Oxford's Aqua T-50 uses an attachment system with an underseat security strap. SW-Motech supplies the PRO Roadpack with loop straps and describes mounting it to a seat or rack. Check the mounting points on your bike and the bag's supplied fittings before ordering. A strap-mounted bag should not be treated as a confirmed fit for every motorcycle.
Comparing the bags
The Oxford Aqua T-50 listings here are different colours of the same 50-litre bag. For a comparison of ION, PRO, Legend Gear and Drybag models, the SW-Motech tail bags page sets out capacities, mounting methods and which bags include rain liners. Check the product page for the exact contents of the box.