Motorcycle Luggage: For Those Truly Serious About Racking up the Miles
Riding a motorcycle can be a truly exciting and enjoyable experience. But remember, motorcycling is not just about finding the perfect bike and learning to ride. Every experienced biker relies on additional equipment and accessories and not just his bike when it comes to superior comfort. For example, a bike has limited storage space, if any. Usually, the only place you can store items are below the seat. Now, depending on the length of the journey, you may need additional storage. Luckily for everyone, one of the bonus basic pieces of equipment is the luggage rack. It is by far the safest and most convenient option.
Luggage motorcycle racks can come in a variety of sizes, and are made for different uses. For example, some models are designed for short-term needs, like transporting groceries and light luggage, while larger racks are meant for road trips. Also, some models are closed, while others feature an open design. Basically, there is a choice for everyone’s taste. And since the market is huge, there are many brands to chose from: Oxford, Chad, Cobra, Show Chrome, etc.
Depending on the place where the luggage motorcycle is placed, you can find racks for backrests, rear fenders, solo seats, sissy bars, etc. However, finding a suitable one for your bike means being familiar with the features, prices and types.
Backrest, as the name implies, fits onto the backrest of the bike and is ideal for motorcycles that have detachable or rigid side plates.
Sissy Bar type offers versatility. For example, there are racks that bolt on easily to the motorcycle within a matter of moments as well as racks with steel tubing. Some are triple chrome-plated with included mounting hardware. Most of the sissy bar racks however, fit a range of makes and models that include popular motorcycles from Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki.
Solo models are placed in the rear fender’s contour, giving your bike a smooth, flowing look. The rack also helps protect the rear fender. On most motorcycle, you can mount the rack to an existing hole for easy installation.
Fold Down racks are extremely useful for carrying travel bags. When riders don’t want to use the bag, the rack will simply fold up against the backrest of the bike, and it gets out of the way. If you are considering this type, you should consider the bike’s fender clearance.
Rear Fender type can fit onto the back of almost all motorcycles. It can be mounted to the license plate bracket and the stock seat mounting screw.
Price wise, a luggage rack can cost anywhere from about $20 to $300, hence there’s something for everyone’s budget. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast that travels long distances often, it’s wise to invest in a more expensive model.
