If you are an adventure rider, you know how important it is to have your gear protected from harsh weather, rain, dust and mud. Motorcycle crash bar dry bags are designed to offer you convenient, functional, small luggage storage that can be strapped and secured to your crash bars while on the road. This article will provide you with a review of the best motorcycle crash bar dry bags in the market. Yes, with a focus on waterproof crash bar bags, no water-repellent, splash proof nonsense here.
Why do I need a crash bar bag for my motorbike?
Protect your kit from the driving rain.
When riding on rough terrain, in the rain it’s easy for your non-waterproof luggage to get damaged, damp, sodden, covered in mud, ruined etc. A dry bag crash bar bag provides a barrier between your luggage and the water and muck from the road. A crash bar bag system can protect your gear from rain and dust, ensuring that your belongings remain dry and clean throughout your ride.
Convenient Storage
With a crash bar bag, you can easily store your gear in an accessible location. The bag is usually mounted on the crash bar, making it easy to grab what you need without too much difficulty. You can stash your water bottle, camera, phone, and maps in the bag making it a great option for those who like to have their essentials close by.
Improved Weight Distribution
A crash bar bag helps distribute the weight of your luggage evenly across your bike, which can make it easier to ride. This can potentially help reduce neck, back, and shoulder pain, allowing you to stay on the road for longer periods.
What should I look for in a motorcycle crash bar bag?
Waterproof Material
We recommend as always you look for a crash bar bag made from waterproof material to protect your gear from rain and other elements. This feature is especially important if you are planning a ride in a rainy location or season. i.e here in the UK (Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales are always wet, even in the Summer and especially in the Winter. )
Durable Construction
A crash bar bag should be made with a durable material that can withstand the rigours of adventure biking. The bag should be able to keep your belongings safe even in harsh riding conditions and minor crashes. Therefore we don’t recommend taped seams, we like to recommend RF welded and heavily glued seams, these are far more robust and durable over time.
Secure Mounting System
The bag should be equipped with a secure mounting system to prevent it from falling off while on the ride. It should be able to hold the luggage in place during sudden movements and bumpy terrain. Be it a universal Molle system that allows for a wide variety of mounting options or a dedicated manufacturer-specific mounting system for a rack or a particular brand of motorcycle.
What are the top picks for motorcycle crash bar bags?
Lomo Motorbike Crash Bar Dry Bags
The Lomo Motorbike Crash Bar Dry Bags come as a pair of waterproof bags. They are specifically designed for adventure riding, ensuring that your gear remains safe throughout your ride. The bags are equipped with secure webbing straps and the simple Molle mounting system and can be easily mounted to the crash bars on your bike.
Other great crash bar bag options
How do I install a crash bar bag on my motorcycle?
Mounting with Straps
Most crash bar bags come equipped with straps that allow you to mount the bag on the crash bar easily. The straps can be easily adjusted to fit your needs, and the bag can be removed quickly, making it highly convenient. Some come with dedicated mounting systems, however, these will generally be more expensive.
Attaching to a Pannier Rack and Tail.
You can also attach the crash bar bag to a pannier rack at the rear or mount them on top of hard luggage as well. This is an excellent option if you want to have extra storage space or if the crash bar is occupied by other accessories.
Mounting with Custom Hardware
If you have a hard pannier, you can mount the crash bar bag on the steel bars. Custom hardware can be used to attach the bag’s straps to the pannier, ensuring that it stays in place during the ride.
What are some other options for carrying gear on my motorcycle?
Tank Bags
Tank bags are mounted on the fuel tank of your motorcycle and provide additional storage space. They are ideal for carrying small items such as maps, phones, and wallets.
Tail Bags
Tail bags are mounted on the rear of the motorcycle and provide additional storage space. They are ideal for carrying larger items such as tents, clothes, and sleeping bags.
Panniers
Soft luggage panniers, specifically dry bag panniers, have become a popular choice for touring, motorcycle camping, and adventure riding. While they may not provide the same level of protection as hard panniers, they are a more affordable and lightweight option. Additionally, some dry bag panniers may offer better waterproofing capabilities.
Q: What are the best motorcycle crash bar dry bags?
A: The best motorcycle crash bar dry bags on the market are the Lomo Waterproof Crash Bar Bags, the Kriega Drybags.
Q: How many bags will I get when I buy a pair of crash bar dry bags?
A: This depends, some manufacturers sell single bags, however, when you buy a pair of crash bar dry bags you will get two.
Q: Are the Royal Enfield Waterproof Crash Bar Bags waterproof?
A: Yes, the Royal Enfield Waterproof Crash Bar Bags are made of PVC tarpaulin and have a roll top closure that creates a water-resistant seal. They’ll keep your belongings safe even during heavy rain or brief immersions when riding at speed.
Q: Are the SW-Motech Waterproof Crash Bar Bags adjustable?
A: Yes, the SW-Motech Waterproof Crash Bar Bags have adjustable webbing straps and tension buckles that allow you to fasten them securely to your crash bars.
Q: Can I attach these crash bar bags to other types of luggage racks?
A: Yes, some crash bar bags come with webbing straps that allow you to attach them directly to your luggage rack.
Q: Can I add extra storage to my motorcycle with these crash bar dry bags?
A: Yes, these crash bar dry bags are perfect for adding extra storage to your motorcycle and they have a low profile when not in use.
Q: Do these crash bar dry bags come with a shoulder strap?
A: Some of these crash bar dry bags come with a shoulder strap, but others don’t. Make sure to check the product specifications before purchasing.
Q: What materials are these crash bar dry bags made of?
A: These crash bar dry bags are made of rugged, water-resistant materials like PVC tarpaulin and have roll top closures to ensure waterproofness.
Q: How confident can I be that these crash bar dry bags will keep my belongings dry?
A: You can be confident that these crash bar dry bags will keep your belongings dry in even the heaviest of rain or during brief immersions when riding at speed.
Q: Can I get free shipping on my crash bar dry bag order?
A: Shipping and delivery may vary depending on your location and the product, but some companies offer free shipping on UK mainland orders or for orders over a certain amount.
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