Choosing new motorcycle panniers is certainly no walk in the park and it is important to find the option that best suits your needs.
Panniers come in various shapes, sizes and abilities and whether it is for daily commutes, weekend riding or motorbike tours, there really is an option for everyone.
It is all about finding what is best for you and that is where the ultimate guide to motorcycle panniers comes in, ensuring you know what to look out for and helping you come to an educated decision before you buy.
Why Are Panniers Needed?
Motorcycle panniers are a convenient way to transport cargo on the sides of a motorcycle, offering a secure fitment and the ability to provide waterproof protection, security locking and a high degree of storage space. They come in various shapes and sizes but it is their storage offering that sets them apart, allowing weight to be evenly distributed on each side of the motorbike.
Panniers are an alternative to the use of a tail bag, which is less secure and may move around mid-journey or a backpack which, when heavy, can be rather taxing on the rider. They can either be used in place of a motorcycle top box to avoid having too much weight concentrated in a high position at the rear of the motorbike or in conjunction with one when seeking to maximise storage capabilities.
What Size Panniers Should I Choose?
Motorcycle luggage is generally listed by ‘capacity’ which refers to the internal volume measured in litres and panniers are no different. Panniers are available in an array of capacities and your choice should really depend on how much gear you need to carry, how far/long the trip will be and how many people are travelling.
A longer trip and riding with a pillion will naturally require more kit or essential items and thus more storage space while daily riding and filtering through traffic will warrant smaller-sized panniers.
Pannier Features To Consider
While size, particularly storage capacity, likely to be the primary factor when selecting a set of panniers, several other features should also influence the final decision:
Waterproof Structure – Although storage capacity of a pair of panniers may be their appeal, such space is of little use if case allows water to seep through Protecting belongings from getting wet is essential, making waterproof protection crucial consideration.
Security – For individuals rely on their motorcycle for commuting to work or embarking camping trips, it is highly likely that the motorcycle will often be parked outdoors. Consequently, the ability to secure the panniers is of utmost importance, as provides reassurance and reduces risk of theft.
Carry Handles – While it may appear to be standard feature, it is surprising how motorbike luggage brands neglect to include carry handles on side cases.
Opening – Some motorcycle panniers open from the side, while from the top, and this choice should be determined by personal preference. Side-opening panniers provide a clear view of all contents without items being stacked, but they pose the risk of falling out when opened. In contrast, top-opening panniers quick access but may interfere with certain bike designs, making them incompatible.
How To Install Panniers
To add a set of panniers to a motorcycle, only two components are required: the panniers themselves and an appropriate fitting kit. It is crucial to ensure that the pannier rack is not only compatible with your specific motorcycle but also with the pann you select, as there are various fitting kits available.
Most pannier fitting kits are relatively simple to install and come with, visual instructions, if you uncertain, it may be advisable to seek assistance of a mechanic.
Do Panniers Affect Mobility?
Compared to motorcycle top boxes, which can add excess weight and negatively impact handling, cornering, and braking, panniers have a effect on handling., larger panniers may protrude further and potentially hinder the ability to navigate through traffic efficiently.
Regarding weight distribution, if one pannier in a pair carries more cargo than the other, it may cause an imbalance reduces manoeuvrability and makes the motorcycle more difficult to handle at higher., panniers are designed to carry gear on both sides of the motorcycle to maintain an even balance.