10 Best Tank Bags For Motorcycles in 2026
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For riders who need quick access to a phone, map, or essentials without wearing a backpack, the Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large is the best overall choice. It has a clear touch-friendly phone pocket, a USB cable port, and a universal mounting kit. The Chase Harper USA 450 Magnetic Tank Bag is our pick for Best Classic Magnetic, while the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag is the go-to for fully waterproof storage.
A tank bag needs to sit securely on your bike’s fuel tank without scratching the paint, and it needs to let you grab your phone or map in seconds. The right bag balances capacity, attachment type, and weather protection for your specific style of riding. A magnetic bag is convenient for steel tanks, while a strap-mount system works on plastic or aluminum tanks.
This guide is based on a thorough review of manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups from the motorcycling community, and patterns found in owner feedback. We have organized ten top tank bags by award category to help you match the right bag to your bike and your riding habits.
Top 10 Tank Bags For Motorcycles in the Market
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The Best Tank Bags For Motorcycles, Reviewed
Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large
What We Like
- Clear touch-friendly phone/map pocket
- USB cable port for device charging
- Universal mounting kit for most bikes
- Organized interior with multiple mesh pockets
Trade-offs
- 8L capacity is moderate for long tours
- No magnetic mount for quick removal
An 8-liter capacity keeps this bag compact enough for day rides while still swallowing gloves, sunglasses, tools, and snacks. The clear touch-friendly top pocket lets you follow GPS directions without fumbling, and the front-facing USB cable port means your phone stays charged for the whole trip. That combination of everyday practicality and smart design makes it a strong option for riders who want one bag that handles both quick errands and all-day adventures. The universal strap-and-buckle mounting system fits most bikes, from ADV and dual-sport to cruisers and tourers, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility.
The Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large holds 8 liters of gear, enough for gloves, sunglasses, tools, and snacks, so it suits day rides or light packing rather than a full weekend trip. The included universal mounting kit uses adjustable straps and buckles for secure attachment to most motorcycles, including ADV, sport, cruiser, and touring bikes. For riders who want organized interior storage and the ability to charge a phone on the go, this bag provides those features without the bulk of larger options like the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag.
Chase Harper USA 450 Magnetic Tank Bag
What We Like
- Made in USA
- YKK metal zipper pulls
- Non-slip rubberized bottom protects tank
- Detachable map pouch with touch window
Trade-offs
- At 4 inches tall, limited capacity for bulky items
- 2.0 lb weight is heavier than some compact bags
A 12-by-9-inch footprint and 4-inch height mean this bag sits low and flat on the tank. The neodymium magnets in each wing secure the bag firmly to the tank, and the rubberized polymer bottom prevents scratching and provides added grip. The detachable map pouch features a touch-sensitive window for phone or tablet use, and the YKK metal zipper pulls are durable. This bag is designed to optimize tank space without compromising riding style, with several full-length pockets making full use of the compact size.
The trade-off is that slim profile: at 4 inches tall, this bag has limited capacity for bulky items compared to taller bags like the Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag from Nelson-Rigg, which is 8 inches tall. You’re limited to flat items and small essentials. For riders who carry only the basics and want a compact bag, that’s a fair exchange. The 2-pound weight is heavier than some compact bags, but the ballistic nylon and steel zippers explain the durability.
Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag
What We Like
- Electronically heat welded seams keep contents dry
- Adjustable divider for organized gear storage
- Touchscreen-friendly map panel
Trade-offs
- 2.0 lb weight is heavier than some magnetic bags
- No magnetic mount for quick on-off access
The Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag from Nelson-Rigg is built from heavy duty TPU with electronically heat welded seams, which keeps your gear dry in wet conditions. That construction makes it a practical choice for riders who face rain, since the bag seals out moisture effectively. Inside, an adjustable divider helps organize items, and the map panel works with touchscreen devices for easy navigation. At 2.0 pounds and 13 inches long, it offers a compact size that fits many bikes without adding bulk.
Biltwell EXFIL-2 Mini Tank Bag
What We Like
- UV-treated 1680D ballistic nylon exterior
- Fleece-lined phone slot with touch-friendly panel
- Hi-vis orange interior for easy spotting
- Hidden seam for routing charging cables
Trade-offs
- At 8" long, too small for a tablet or map
- Tapered shape limits rear storage space
A main compartment that fits two 12-ounce cans sets the scale here: this bag is for the rider who wants to carry a phone, wallet, and a snack, not a weekend’s worth of gear. The bag measures 8 inches long and 4 inches tall at the front, dimensions that make it a compact option for touring and cruiser motorcycles. The fleece-lined phone slot with a touch-friendly clear panel means you can navigate or check directions without pulling your phone out, and the hidden seam for routing a charging cable keeps the cord tidy. For quick grocery runs, commutes, or day rides where you only need the essentials, this bag does exactly what a compact mini should: stay out of the way while keeping your small items accessible.
An 8-liter capacity and waterproof zippers make the Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large a serious option for touring. The Biltwell EXFIL-2 Mini has no waterproofing in its specs, so you will want to keep electronics inside a dry bag or avoid heavy rain. Its tapered shape, 4.5 inches wide at the rear versus 5.5 at the front, means the usable space shrinks toward the back, so a larger phone or a second pair of gloves may not fit as neatly as you hope. Still, if your priority is a low-profile bag that mounts magnetically, protects your phone, and lets you charge on the go without adding bulk, this is a well-thought-out choice for minimalists.
Nelson-Rigg Route 1 Journey Magnetic Tank Bag
What We Like
- UltraMax fabric resists fading and breakdown
- Protective base prevents slipping and marking
- Hi-viz orange interior makes belongings easy to spot
- Clear touchscreen pocket fits maps and GPS
Trade-offs
- 5-liter capacity is small for long trips
- Magnetic mount only works on metal tanks
- Not waterproof; lacks sealed zippers
A 5-liter capacity keeps this bag compact and low-profile, so it won’t interfere with your riding position or catch the wind on a laid-back cruiser. The protective base grips the tank without scratching, and the UltraMax fabric holds up to sun and weather better than standard nylon. If you ride a Harley, Indian, or other metal-tank cruiser and only need quick-access storage for a phone, wallet, and sunglasses, this bag fits right into your routine without fuss or bulk.
Five liters won’t carry much more than essentials, so overnight trips will probably need a separate saddlebag or tail pack. The Cortech Super 2.0 10L offers double the space, but it sits taller and heavier on the tank. For day rides where you want a clean, secure place for your phone and map, and you don’t want to mess with straps or tank rings, this Nelson-Rigg is a simple, durable match.
Chase Harper USA 650M Magnetic Tank Bag
What We Like
- Converts to backpack with D-rings
- Anti-scratch rubberized bottom
- Includes detachable map pouch
- YKK metal zippers throughout
Trade-offs
- 2.5 pounds is heavier than some bags
- Magnetic mount limits non-metal tanks
- Side pockets are mesh, not fully enclosed
Thirteen liters of storage and a built-in backpack conversion make this bag a standout for riders who need to carry gear on and off the bike. The industrial-grade ballistic nylon resists tears and weather, while the rubberized polymer bottom keeps the magnets from scratching your tank. A detachable touch-sensitive map pouch on top holds your phone or tablet, and the side mesh pockets give quick access to small items. This bag suits anyone who wants one piece of luggage that works both on the road and on foot without extra straps or hassle.
At 2.5 pounds, this bag is heavier than several alternatives, but that extra weight comes from the backpack hardware and the multiple neodymium magnets in each wing, which hold the bag firmly in place. The magnets also mean this bag won’t work on plastic or carbon-fiber tanks, so check your bike’s material before buying. For riders with steel tanks who value versatility over lightness, this is a practical, well-built choice.
Product photos

Cortech Super 2.0 10L Tank Bag
What We Like
- Eight strong magnets for secure hold
- Non-slip, non-scratch diamond pattern base
- Removable map pocket and top flap organizer
- Reflective piping for low-light visibility
Trade-offs
- 5.0-inch height limits tall items like full water bottles
- 5-inch height limits tall items upright
With a 10-liter capacity, this bag offers enough room for a day’s essentials like a jacket, snacks, and maps. The eight magnets and non-slip diamond base keep it secure on metal tanks during normal riding, so you don’t have to worry about it shifting. That makes it a practical choice for riders who want a magnetic mount bag with organized storage, no straps required.
Riders who frequently encounter wet weather should consider storing electronics or other moisture-sensitive gear in a separate dry bag before placing them inside this tank bag. The Cortech Super 2.0 10L is constructed from 1680 denier ballistic polyester and 1800 denier twill Jacquard, materials chosen for long-lasting abrasion resistance and strength rather than waterproofing. Its two-tone red and black interior helps you spot items quickly in low light, but the bag itself is not sealed against rain. A dry bag provides an extra layer of protection so your essentials stay dry even during a sudden downpour.
Product photos

SW-Motech Quick-Lock PRO Yukon WP Tank Bag
What We Like
- Fully waterproof welded TPU/EVA construction
- Waterproof viewing pocket for phone or map
- Adjustable position via factory-mounted guide rail
- Compact 6L volume suits daily essentials
Trade-offs
- 6L capacity limits longer trips without extra luggage
- Requires compatible PRO tank ring mount (not universal)
With just 6 litres of volume, this bag stays compact, enough for a smartphone, wallet, and a light jacket. Its fully welded TPU body and EVA lid keep rain and splashes out, so electronics or a camera stay dry. The waterproof viewing compartment in the lid holds a map or smartphone for easy navigation. Riders who need weather protection and a tidy setup will find this bag fits the bill.
Six litres won’t carry a weekend’s worth of gear. For daily commutes or day rides where keeping gadgets dry matters, the Yukon WP’s factory-mounted guide rail lets you slide the bag forward or back on the tank to match your reach and riding position, a feature only PRO tank bags offer. It’s a focused solution that does one thing well.
Product photos

KEMIMOTO Tank Bag Backpack 9-12L
What We Like
- Includes 1.5L insulated hydration bladder
- Converts to backpack or duffel bag
- Expandable from 9L to 12L
- Hidden anti-theft pocket
Trade-offs
- At 3.2 lb, heavy for a tank bag
- No magnetic mount; requires strap system for installation
The KEMIMOTO tank bag includes a 1.5L insulated hydration bladder with a bite-valve drinking tube, so you can carry water without a separate pack. The 1680D PU-coated fabric resists tearing, abrasion, and road debris, and the non-slip rubber base keeps it planted through rough terrain. It suits anyone who rides hot, dry desert trails or does long adventure touring and wants one piece of luggage that does double duty on and off the bike.
Weight is the trade-off: at 3.2 pounds, this is heavier than some other tank bags. That extra weight comes from the integrated bladder, the MOLLE webbing, and the convertible backpack straps, so you are paying for versatility. If you rarely need hydration or plan to carry the bag only on short commutes, a lighter magnetic option might serve you better. But for riders who want to ditch the separate hydration pack and still have a backpack for hikes or errands, this is a clever all-in-one solution.
Product photos

Nomad Motorcycle Tank Bag 4L
What We Like
- Magnetic base for quick installation
- Touchscreen phone window for navigation
- Water-resistant zippers and materials
- Four external pockets for organization
Trade-offs
- 4L capacity limits longer trips
- Magnetic base won't stick to plastic or aluminum tanks
With just 4 liters of storage, this bag keeps things simple: it’s sized for the essentials, wallet, keys, sunglasses, a snack, without turning your tank into a bulky cargo deck. The magnetic base snaps on in seconds, and the Cordura fabric shrugs off scuffs better than many budget bags. If your rides are mostly commuting or short weekend loops, that compact footprint is a real advantage, leaving you room to move and lean without a lump pressing into your chest.
The trade-off shows up when you compare it to something like the Olympus Tank Bag Large from Tusk, which holds twice the volume and adds waterproof zippers. The Nomad’s water resistance handles light rain and splashes, but riders facing steady downpours should expect moisture to eventually seep through. For riders who want a low-cost, grab-and-go bag that doesn’t overcomplicate things, this fills that niche neatly. Just know that if you’re planning multi-day tours, you’ll outgrow it fast.
Product photos

How We Evaluated Tank Bags For Motorcycles
Our evaluation started with a close look at each bag’s attachment method, magnetic, strap-mount, or tank-ring system, because that determines which bikes it fits and how quickly you can remove it. We then compared capacity in liters, material construction, and weather resistance, using manufacturer data and the collective experience of riders in forums and product communities.
The three criteria that mattered most were attachment security and tank protection, ease of access to electronics and maps, and overall build quality for long-term durability. A bag that slides around or scratches your tank is not worth the savings, and a bag that makes you fumble for your phone is a distraction.
This is a research-led evaluation, not a hands-on test. We rely on published specifications, documented owner experiences, and industry knowledge to identify the strengths and trade-offs of each bag. Your own bike’s tank material and your typical ride length should guide your final choice.
What To Look For In Tank Bags For Motorcycles
The right tank bag keeps your gear secure, your paint safe, and your essentials within reach. Focus on how it attaches to your bike, how much it holds, and how well it protects your stuff from the weather.
Choose a bag that fits your tank material (magnetic for steel, strap-mount for plastic/aluminum), matches your trip length in liters, and offers the phone or map access you need.
Attachment Type
Magnetic bags are the most convenient for bikes with steel tanks, they go on and off in seconds with no straps. The Chase Harper USA 450 and Cortech Super 2.0 use strong magnets with non-slip bases to stay put. For plastic, aluminum, or carbon-fiber tanks, strap-mount systems like the Tusk Olympus’s universal kit or the SW-Motech’s tank ring are required. The trade-off is more setup time.
Capacity and Organization
Capacity is measured in liters. A 4-to-6-liter bag like the Nomad or Biltwell EXFIL-2 is fine for a phone, wallet, and keys on short rides. An 8-to-10-liter bag like the Tusk Olympus or Cortech Super 2.0 can hold a jacket liner, snacks, and a small tablet for a day trip. Look for internal mesh pockets, a clear map or phone window, and a dedicated charging cable port to keep things organized.
Weather Resistance
If you ride in rain, a waterproof bag is essential. The Nelson-Rigg Hurricane and SW-Motech Quick-Lock PRO use welded seams and waterproof materials to keep contents dry. Many bags are water-resistant but not fully sealed, check for covered zippers and a rain cover. For sunny-day riders, water resistance is less critical, but a bag that resists UV fading, like the Nelson-Rigg Route 1‘s UltraMax fabric, will last longer.
- Check your tank material: steel for magnetic, anything else for strap-mount.
- Measure the bag’s base to ensure it sits flat on your tank without hitting the handlebars.
- Look for a clear touchscreen pocket that works with gloves.
- Consider a hi-vis interior lining to find small items quickly.
- Verify the bag doesn’t interfere with your fuel cap access.
A bag that fits your tank and your typical ride length will serve you better than one with the most features.
Tank Bags For Motorcycles Compared
The table below compares the ten tank bags side by side, highlighting their attachment type, capacity, and key features so you can see at a glance which one fits your bike and your needs.
| Product | Capacity | Mount Type | Material | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large | 8 liters | Universal straps & buckles | N/A | 12" L x 8" W x 8" H |
| Chase Harper USA 450 Magnetic Tank Bag | N/A | Neodymium Magnets | Industrial Grade Ballistic Nylon | 12.0 x 9.0 x 4.0 in |
| Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag | N/A | N/A | Heavy duty TPU | 13.0 x 8.0 x 8.0 in |
| Biltwell EXFIL-2 Mini Tank Bag | Holds two 12-ounce cans | Magnetic | 1680D ballistic nylon | 8.0 x 4.5 x 4.0 in |
| Nelson-Rigg Route 1 Journey Magnetic Tank Bag | 5 liters | Magnetic | UltraMax fabric | 12.1 x 12.9 x 5.5 in |
| Chase Harper USA 650M Magnetic Tank Bag | 13 liters | Neodymium magnets | Ballistic nylon | 12.5 x 9.0 x 7.0 in |
| Cortech Super 2.0 10L Tank Bag | 10L | Magnetic Mount | 1680D ballistic polyester / 1800D twill Jacquard | 14.0 x 11.0 x 5.0 in |
| SW-Motech Quick-Lock PRO Yukon WP Tank Bag | 6 litres | Quick-Lock PRO ring | EVA / TPU welded | 11.8 x 8.7 x 7.5 inches |
| KEMIMOTO Tank Bag Backpack 9-12L | 9-12L expandable | Non-slip rubber base | 1680D PU-coated Oxford fabric | 13.4 x 8.1 x 6.3 inches |
| Nomad Motorcycle Tank Bag 4L | 4 liters | Magnetic base | Premium Cordura fabric | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a magnetic tank bag will fit my bike?
Magnetic bags only stick to steel fuel tanks. If your tank is plastic, aluminum, or carbon fiber, the magnets will not hold. Check your tank with a small fridge magnet first, or choose a strap-mount or tank-ring bag.
What size tank bag do I need for a day trip?
For a day trip, look for a bag between 8 and 10 liters. That is enough space for a phone, wallet, keys, a small water bottle, a jacket liner, and a snack. For shorter commutes, a 4-to-6-liter bag is usually sufficient.
Can I charge my phone through a tank bag?
Yes, if the bag has a dedicated USB cable port. The Tusk Olympus Large and several other bags include a port that lets you run a charging cable from your bike’s USB outlet into the bag. That way your phone stays powered while inside the clear pocket.
Will a tank bag scratch my paint?
A good tank bag will not scratch your paint if it has a protective base. Look for a non-slip rubberized or felt bottom, like the one on the Chase Harper USA 450. Always remove the bag before refueling to avoid trapping dirt or moisture against the tank.
Is a waterproof tank bag worth it?
If you ride in rain or live in a wet climate, a fully waterproof bag is worth the investment. Bags like the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure use welded seams to keep water out entirely. For occasional light rain, a water-resistant bag with covered zippers may be enough.
The Bottom Line
For most riders, the Tusk Olympus Tank Bag Large offers the best balance of universal fit, phone access, and organized storage. Its clear touch pocket and USB port keep navigation and charging simple, while the strap-mount system works on nearly any bike. It is the right choice for day trips and moderate touring.
If you have a steel tank and prefer a quick on-off bag, the Chase Harper USA 450 Magnetic Tank Bag is a compact, well-built alternative. For adventure riders who need full waterproofing, the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Adventure Tank Bag will keep your gear dry in a downpour. Budget-conscious commuters will find the Nomad Motorcycle Tank Bag 4L a lightweight, affordable option for essentials.
The single most important factor is attachment compatibility. Choose a bag that fits your tank material first, then match the capacity to your ride length. Everything else, pockets, color, weight, comes second to a bag that stays put and protects your bike.





