Motorcycle Tank Bag Buying Guide: Which Type Is Right For You?

When you need somewhere to keep your phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses and other essentials while riding, a motorcycle tank bag can be one of the most convenient luggage options available.

Unlike a backpack, there's no weight on your shoulders, and unlike larger tail bags or panniers, your belongings remain within easy reach. Tank bags are ideal for everything from the daily commute to long-distance touring—but there are a few things to consider before choosing one.

Tank Ring Mounted Bags

For many riders, our first recommendation is a SW-MOTECH tank bag combined with their bike-specific tank ring system.

It's important to understand that you'll normally need two components:

1. The tank bag itself

2. The correct tank ring for your motorcycle

The tank ring attaches around the fuel filler area and provides a secure mounting point for the bag. Once installed, the tank bag can be quickly attached and removed without needing straps around the frame or magnets against the fuel tank.

SW-MOTECH offers tank bags in a variety of shapes and capacities, allowing you to choose something compact for everyday essentials or a larger option for touring.

Because the tank ring is model-specific, always check compatibility with your exact motorcycle before ordering.

Magnetic Tank Bags

For motorcycles with a suitable steel fuel tank, a magnetic tank bag provides an even simpler alternative.

Strong magnets hold the bag securely against the tank, making installation and removal extremely quick. There's also no separate tank ring required.

However, magnetic bags aren't suitable for motorcycles with plastic or aluminium tanks, and care should be taken to keep the magnets and contact surfaces clean to avoid scratching the paintwork.

What Size Tank Bag Do You Need?

Think about what you actually want to carry.

A small tank bag is perfect for a phone, wallet, keys and other everyday items while keeping the cockpit relatively uncluttered. Larger bags provide room for extra clothing, drinks and touring essentials, but it's important to ensure the bag doesn't interfere with your handlebars or controls at full steering lock.

A Convenient Luggage Upgrade

For many riders, a tank bag becomes one of those accessories they wonder how they ever lived without.

At Hurtle Gear, we stock a wide selection of SW-MOTECH tank bags and model-specific tank rings, making it easy to build a luggage setup specifically suited to your motorcycle.

Whether you're commuting across town or heading away for a multi-day adventure, a quality tank bag gives you convenient storage exactly where you need it.