Best Soft Panniers For Motorcycles: Compare 10 Options

#1 · Best Overall

1. TUSK Pilot Pannier Bags

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Material Type: Nylon
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Roll-top touring gear hauler.

Why it ranks #1: The pair offers 35 liters per bag, a roll-top design, TPU reinforcement panels, YKK hardware, and a replaceable strap system.

A 35-liter-per-bag capacity paired with a roll-top closure gives the Tusk Pilot room for substantial loads while letting riders close the opening without relying on a rigid lid. Its 252D nylon body and TPU reinforcement panels add material support, while replaceable straps make the fastening system serviceable over time.

The roll-top design lets you adjust the closure around the load, while the 35-liter capacity in each bag provides space for touring essentials on both sides of the motorcycle. YKK hardware and nylon stitching form the fastening and seam details; TPU reinforcement panels add support to the 252D nylon body. The replaceable strap system is a practical maintenance feature if a strap needs changing, rather than treating every fastening component as permanent.

Skip it if you need a single compact 16-liter bag; the TUSK Traverse Pannier Bags list that smaller capacity.

Choose these for motorcycle touring when you want two generous roll-top bags and replaceable straps. The 35-liter-per-side capacity suits substantial loads, but account for the listed 9-pound item weight when planning what to carry.

Listed on Amazon as: Tusk Pilot Pannier Bags – Black/Grey, Roll-Top Closure

#2 · Best Waterproof Pair

2. Nelson Rigg Hurricane Saddlebags

• Capacity: 28 liters
• Material Type: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Compressible waterproof adventure pair.

Why it ranks #2: These 28-liter adventure saddlebags use PVC tarpaulin and electronically heat-welded seams, with a roll closure and compression purge valve.

Electronically heat-welded seams and a watertight roll closure make the Nelson Rigg Hurricane a strong choice when keeping dust and water away from packed gear is central. The pair can hold its shape when empty or compress against the rack to less than five inches thick, helping reduce bulk between rides.

The PVC tarpaulin exterior and electronically heat-welded seams provide the stated waterproof construction, while quick-release buckles secure the roll closure. Removable liners make it easier to maintain the contents separately from the outer bags, and the purge valve lets riders compress the luggage. When not fully loaded, the bags can be compressed against the rack to under five inches thick, freeing space around the motorcycle’s rear luggage area.

Skip it if you need a 50-liter pair for a larger load; the KEMIMOTO 50L Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags list that capacity.

This pair fits adventure riders prioritizing waterproof storage, removable liners, and a low-profile compressed shape. Its 28-liter capacity and 13-pound listed weight are important boundaries when comparing load size and carried mass.

Listed on Amazon as: Nelson Rigg Hurricane Waterproof Adventure Saddlebags

#3 · Highest Capacity

3. KEMIMOTO 50L Saddlebags

• Capacity: 50 liters
• Material Type: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: High-capacity adventure luggage.

Why it ranks #3: The 50-liter PVC set provides substantial paired storage for touring, with an explicit instruction to maintain at least three inches of exhaust clearance.

A 50-liter total capacity, split into two 25-liter bags, gives the KEMIMOTO saddlebags room for substantial adventure and overlanding loads. Their PVC construction is listed as waterproof, while the product calls for at least three inches of clearance between each bag and the tailpipe—a specific installation constraint riders must account for.

The paired 25-liter bags provide more total storage than the listed 30-liter KEMIMOTO set, which can help when packing for longer rides or overlanding. PVC material is specified for the waterproof saddlebags. Before mounting, the supplied guidance requires at least three inches between the bags and tailpipe, and asks riders to measure seat-to-tailpipe distance; that clearance affects whether the luggage can be positioned safely on a given setup.

Skip it if you cannot maintain three inches of tailpipe clearance; the Nelson Rigg Hurricane compresses against the rack instead.

Choose these for adventure, dirt, or dual-sport trips where 50 liters of storage is useful. The decisive fit consideration is the required three-inch tailpipe clearance, so measure the motorcycle before settling on this pair.

Listed on Amazon as: KEMIMOTO Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags 50L(25Lx2) Large Luggage Side Bag

#4 · Best Compact Pair

4. Rhinowalk 28L Saddlebags

• Capacity: 28 liters
• Material Type: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: ATV, Motorcycle

Best for: Waterproof paired rack bags.

Why it ranks #4: This 28-liter pair is supplied as two 14-liter bags with four straps and uses waterproof PVC construction with cam-buckle strap adjustment.

The Rhinowalk MT1428 comes as a matched pair of 14-liter bags, with waterproof tarpaulin construction and seamless welded connections to help keep rain out. Cam-buckle fixing straps can be tightened against the load, addressing movement on bumpy rides while keeping the 28-liter total divided across both sides.

Each 14-liter bag gives the pair a balanced arrangement for motorcycle or ATV travel, and the supplied four straps use cam buckles that can be tightened to stabilize the bags over rough surfaces. Waterproof fabric and seamless welded construction help resist rain penetration; the waterproof glue layer on the outer sides is described as wear-resistant and easy to clean. The shoulder strap supports carrying a bag away from the vehicle when the ride ends.

Skip it if you need more than 28 liters in a pair; the KEMIMOTO 50L Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags offer 50 liters total.

Pick this pair for riders seeking waterproof, easy-clean luggage and cam-buckle stabilization on bumpy routes. The 14-liter-per-side format divides gear neatly, though its 28-liter total sets a clear limit for longer packing lists.

Listed on Amazon as: Rhinowalk Motorcycle Saddlebags 28L(14L2) Waterproof Motorbike Side Bags, Travel Luggage Panniers with Shoulder Strap for Adventure & Sport Motorcycle Racks, 1 Pair

#5

5. KEMIMOTO 30L Saddlebags

• Capacity: 30 liters
• Material Type: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Rackless 30-liter side storage.

Why it ranks #5: The two-sided 30-liter PVC setup is listed for adventure, dual-sport, sport, and dirt bikes, offering a middle capacity between 28 and 50 liters.

Rackless mounting is the defining fit feature of these KEMIMOTO saddlebags, with 30 liters total split into two 15-liter sides. The listing names adventure, dual-sport, sport, and dirt bikes among intended applications and identifies an IPX6 waterproof rating, pairing flexible mounting with a stated weather-resistance specification.

Two 15-liter bags provide separate side storage for commuting or touring, while the rackless format suits the motorcycle types named in the listing, including KLR650, R 1250 GS, Tenere 700, and CRF450L. The IPX6 rating is the product’s stated water-resistance specification. Riders should also heed the listing’s tailpipe-clearance warning and check the motorcycle’s setup before mounting, since clearance is an explicit fit consideration.

Skip it if you need 50 liters total; the KEMIMOTO 50L Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags provide a larger listed capacity.

These suit riders wanting rackless side storage for a listed adventure, dual-sport, sport, or dirt bike. The 30-liter total and IPX6 rating define the offer; tailpipe clearance remains a practical fit check.

Listed on Amazon as: KEMIMOTO IPX6 Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags 30L(15Lx2) PVC Side Tail Bag

#6 · Bottle-Holder Option

6. TUSK Pilot Bottle-Holder Panniers

• Capacity: 50 liters
• Material Type: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) Nylon
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Bottle-holder touring panniers.

Why it ranks #6: The Pilot configuration lists 50 liters of capacity and includes bottle holders, making it relevant for riders prioritizing extra storage and bottle access.

Included bottle holders distinguish these TUSK Pilot panniers for riders who want dedicated places for bottles alongside their packed gear. The listed 50-liter capacity provides substantial storage, and the specification names TPU and nylon materials. The product is identified as motorcycle-compatible, giving touring buyers a high-capacity soft-bag option.

The 50-liter listed capacity gives these panniers room for a larger load, while the bottle holders provide a separate carrying spot for bottles rather than placing them among other packed items. TPU and nylon are the specified materials, and motorcycle is the stated compatible vehicle type. Together, these facts make the listing relevant to riders considering high-capacity panniers with bottle storage, while the supplied details do not specify a per-bag capacity split.

Skip it if you need a stated capacity for each side; the TUSK Pilot Pannier Bags list 35 liters per bag.

These fit motorcycle travelers who want high-capacity panniers with bottle holders for touring gear. The 50-liter figure is useful, but riders who need a stated per-side capacity should note that the listing does not provide that split.

Listed on Amazon as: Tusk Pilot Pannier Bags with Bottle Holders

#7

7. Rhinowalk 35L Quick-Release Bag

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Material Type: Polyester
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Quick-release organized luggage.

Why it ranks #7: This 35-liter single-side bag has a one-click removal mechanism, an internal support system, and a removable waterproof inner bag.

A one-second, one-click quick-release mechanism makes the Rhinowalk 35L saddlebag especially useful when luggage needs to come off the motorcycle quickly. Its removable waterproof inner bag can also serve as a handbag, while the separate tool pouch, electronics organizer, and waterproof map pocket help divide gear by purpose.

The 1680D thickened Oxford-cloth exterior is described as wear- and tear-resistant, while the seamless, waterproof inner bag provides a separate layer for contents exposed to rain. Remove that liner for carrying away from the bike; the quick-release mechanism helps detach the saddlebag without unpacking it first. A dedicated tool pouch and electronics organizer keep small essentials sorted, and the separate waterproof map pocket gives route material its own protected space.

Skip it if you need two matched bags in one purchase; the Rhinowalk MT1428 is listed as a 14L-per-side pair.

This suits riders who want organized storage and expect to remove luggage at stops. Its single 35-liter bag and detachable waterproof liner suit that workflow, but it is not a two-sided pannier set.

Listed on Amazon as: Rhinowalk Motorcycle Saddlebag 35L Waterproof, Quick Release Motorbike Side Bag, Universal Fit Motorcycle Side Bag (1-Piece)

#8

8. Rhinowalk 35L MOLLE Bag

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Material Type: Polyester
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Expandable quick-release storage.

Why it ranks #8: The single bag lists 35 liters folded and up to 45 liters expanded, with a quick-release system, reinforced polyester, and a waterproof inner compartment.

Capacity that grows from about 35 liters folded to as much as 45 liters expanded gives this Rhinowalk bag flexibility as a load changes. A high-strength nylon quick-release system simplifies attaching and removing it from a motorcycle side frame, while the fully waterproof seamless inner bag separates protected contents from the outer luggage.

The 1680D polyester body is reinforced with Hypalon for stated wear and tear resistance, making the outer construction relevant to frequent travel use. Keep the bag folded for its roughly 35-liter capacity or expand it for up to 45 liters when the load grows. The quick-release system supports removal from the side frame, and the waterproof seamless inner bag gives contents a dedicated protected compartment.

Skip it if you need two bags included; the Rhinowalk MT1428 lists a matched pair with 28 liters total.

Choose this for motorcycle travel when a single side bag needs to accommodate changing load sizes. Expansion to 45 liters and a waterproof inner bag are useful features, but the one-bag format may not suit paired-luggage setups.

Listed on Amazon as: Rhinowalk Motorcycle Saddle bag Waterproof Luggage Bag 35L Quick Release with MOLLE System Fits Most Adventure and Sports Bike Motorcycle Racks (Black, 1 Pack)

#9

9. Rhinowalk 20L Quick-Release Bag

• Capacity: 20 liters
• Material Type: Polyester
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Tool-free single-bag commuter.

Why it ranks #9: This 20-liter single bag installs without tools, includes a shoulder strap, and uses a cam buckle intended to resist loosening on bumpy rides.

Tool-free installation using hooks and straps makes the Rhinowalk 20L bag convenient for riders who want to attach and remove luggage without a tool-based setup. Its non-slip, wear-resistant back plate is intended to sit against the frame, while the quick-release mechanism and included shoulder strap support taking the bag along after parking.

The 20-liter capacity offers a single-bag storage option, with a top handle for quick access and a shoulder strap for carrying away from the motorcycle. Hooks and straps enable the stated tool-free installation on the rack. A pressing cam buckle helps prevent loosening during bumpy riding, and the non-slip, wear-resistant back plate is described as protecting the frame’s paint from wear.

Skip it if you need paired panniers and 28 liters total; the Rhinowalk MT1428 is listed as a 14L-per-side pair.

This is a practical match for commuters who want one 20-liter bag that can be carried off the bike. Its single-bag format is the main boundary for riders who need balanced storage on both sides.

Listed on Amazon as: Rhinowalk Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags Luggage Bags 20L Quick Release for Adventure & Sport Bikes, Black (1 Pack)

#10

10. TUSK Traverse Pannier Bags

• Capacity: 16 liters
• Material Type: Nylon
• Compatible with Vehicle Type: Motorcycle

Best for: Compact nylon pannier option.

Why it ranks #10: At 16 liters, this is the smallest listed option, and its product data provides less detail about construction and mounting than the higher-ranked choices.

A 16-liter capacity gives the TUSK Traverse Pannier Bags a compact storage scale for riders who do not need large-volume luggage. The supplied specifications identify nylon construction and motorcycle compatibility, while the product is described as a base system with pannier bags only, making the stated package scope important when planning a setup.

The 16-liter capacity is the clearest guide to how much these bags can hold, making them a smaller-volume option than panniers listed at 28, 35, or 50 liters. Nylon is the specified material, and motorcycle is the compatible vehicle type. The size listing identifies a base system with pannier bags only, so buyers should treat the product as that stated bag component rather than assume other accessories are included.

Skip it if you need high-volume paired luggage; the KEMIMOTO 50L Waterproof Motorcycle Saddlebags list 50 liters total.

Consider the Traverse when a smaller-capacity nylon pannier option matches your motorcycle storage needs. Its 16-liter listing is the key boundary: riders packing bulky equipment or extended-trip supplies may need substantially more room.

Listed on Amazon as: Tusk Traverse Pannier Bags