How to Add Storage to Motorcycle – Full Guide for Every Rider

How to add storage to your motorcycle might seem like a tricky question at first, but trust me, it’s easier than you think.

You’ve probably seen other riders with their motorcycles perfectly set up—top boxes, saddlebags, and even tank bags neatly attached. Ever wondered how they do it?

Whether you ride a lightweight sports bike, a rugged adventure motorcycle, or a touring bike, the right storage units can transform the way you ride. From carrying groceries to packing for long road trips, the options are endless.

And here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an expert or spend a lot to make it happen. Let me walk you through some simple, no-fuss ways to set up your motorcycle storage just like the pros.

Sound good? Let’s jump right in!

How to Add Storage to Motorcycle: Simple Ways

Riding a motorcycle is so much fun, but let’s be honest—it’s hard to carry things on it, right? If you’ve ever wondered how to fix this, don’t worry. 

Learning how to add storage to your motorcycle is actually pretty simple.

There are many easy ways to carry your stuff, like using boxes, bags, or other handy tools. 

These motorcycle storage ideas can make your life easier, whether you ride a lightweight sports bike, a sturdy cruiser, or a touring motorcycle. The right storage units ensure you can carry your essentials without hassle.

You don’t need to spend a lot of time or money to make this work. In this section, I’ll show you how to add luggage to your bike step by step.

 I’ll also share some simple bike travel tips to make sure everything stays safe while you ride.

Let’s get started!

Simple Ways to Add Storage to Your Motorcycle

Learning how to add storage to your motorcycle is actually pretty simple.

Whether you own a compact sports bike or a touring motorcycle built for adventures, there are storage solutions to fit your needs.

You can choose from practical storage units like top boxes, saddlebags, tank bags, and tail bags, each designed to make your rides more convenient.

1. Add a Top Box

A top box gives you a secure and weatherproof way to carry items. Riders often use it for helmets, backpacks, or small luggage.

Why choose a top box?

• It keeps your items dry and safe in all weather.
• You can lock it to protect your belongings when you leave your bike.
• It holds enough for daily commutes or small shopping trips.

How to set it up:

• Buy a mounting plate that fits your bike’s rear rack.
• Attach the plate securely with the bolts from the kit.
• Lock the top box onto the plate, ensuring it clicks firmly in place.

A top box works perfectly for riders who need an easy and durable solution.

2. Use Saddlebags

Saddlebags give you a stylish and functional way to carry larger items. Riders love them for long trips and daily use.

Why use saddlebags?

• They add lots of extra space for tools, clothes, or groceries.
• You can choose soft bags for flexibility or hard ones for added security.
• They stay balanced when you attach them properly.

How to attach them:

• Install saddlebag supports to keep them from hitting your wheels.
• Use straps or clips to secure the bags to the sides of your bike.
• Check the balance to ensure they don’t affect your ride.

Saddlebags give you plenty of storage while keeping your bike’s style intact.

3. Attach a Tank Bag

Tank bags make it easy to grab your essentials while you ride. These bags sit on the fuel tank and work great for small items.

Why choose a tank bag?

• It keeps your items within arm’s reach.
• Some bags include clear panels for maps or phones.
• You can remove it quickly and carry it like a backpack or purse.

How to attach it:

• Place the bag on your fuel tank.
• Use the built-in magnets or straps to secure it in place.
• Test its stability to ensure it doesn’t move while riding.

Tank bags work best for riders who want quick and easy access to their essentials.

4. Use a Tail Bag

Tail bags provide a lightweight and portable storage option. These bags attach to the rear seat or luggage rack and work great for short rides.

Why tail bags are helpful:

• They hold small to medium-sized items without adding bulk.
• You can remove them easily and carry them around like a regular bag.
• They keep your bike light and manageable.

How to secure one:

• Position the bag on your rear seat or luggage rack.
• Tie it down using bungee cords or straps.
• Shake the bag gently to make sure it stays in place.

Tail bags work well for riders who want a compact and practical solution.

5. Try Quick Fixes

If you need storage in a hurry, quick fixes can save the day. Riders often use these options for temporary storage.

• Bungee Cords: Wrap the cords around your items and tie them to your rear seat or rack.
• Cargo Nets: Cover your luggage with a net to keep everything secure.

These quick fixes give you a fast and affordable way to add storage, but always double-check that your items stay secure while you ride.

Choosing the Right Storage Option for Your Motorcycle

When I first thought about how to add storage to my motorcycle, I wasn’t sure what to choose.

I asked myself, “What do I really need?” At the time, I was commuting daily, so a tank bag seemed like the perfect fit for carrying my essentials.

Just like I did, you’ll need to figure out your needs before deciding on the right option.

Whether you’re commuting, touring, or riding just for fun, finding the right storage units depends on the type of motorcycle you ride and your specific needs.

Let me guide you through the options so you can find the best fit for your motorcycle.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before you pick a storage solution, think about what you want to carry. 

Do you need space for a laptop and lunch for work?

Or are you planning to pack clothes and tools for a long road trip?

Here’s how to assess your needs:

• Daily Riders: If you commute or run errands, you probably need compact storage for essentials like a helmet or a small bag.
• Touring Riders: Long rides call for extra space. Saddlebags or a top box can hold your gear and keep it secure.
• Occasional Riders: If you only ride on weekends or for short trips, quick and flexible options like tail bags or cargo nets work best.

Start by thinking about how often you ride and what you’ll need on the road.

2. Match Storage Types to Riding Styles

Not every storage option fits every riding style. 

Here’s how to choose the best match for yours:

• Daily Riders:
  Tank bags and tail bags are perfect for short rides. They are easy to carry, space-saving, and keep your essentials within quick reach.
• Touring Enthusiasts:
  Go for saddlebags or top boxes. They hold more gear, are weatherproof, and keep your items secure over long distances.
• Occasional Riders:
  A cargo net or bungee cords can help you carry light loads without committing to permanent storage.

By matching your riding style with the right solution, you’ll make every ride more comfortable and stress-free.

3. Think About Budget and Durability

Your budget plays a big role in choosing storage, but so does quality. 

Investing in something that won’t last is something you want to avoid.

Here’s what to consider:

• Affordable Options: Soft saddlebags, tail bags, and cargo nets are budget-friendly and practical for most needs.
• Premium Solutions: Hard-shell top boxes and waterproof saddlebags cost more but offer better security and durability.

Give priority to waterproof materials if you ride in the rain frequently.  For long-distance travel, pick something sturdy that can handle rough conditions.

4. Factor in Installation and Ease of Use

Nobody wants to spend hours figuring out how to install storage. 

Some options are super easy to set up, while others might need a bit of extra effort.

• Quick-Install Options:
  Attaching and removing cargo nets, tank bags, and tail bags is easy.  Perfect for riders who need flexibility.
• More Permanent Solutions:
  Saddlebags and top boxes take a little more time to install but offer a solid, long-term solution. Make sure to check if your bike needs extra supports or mounting plates.

Choose what works best for your schedule and your bike’s design.

Types of Motorcycles and Matching Storage Solutions

Not every storage option fits every type of motorcycle. Choosing the right storage solution depends on the kind of bike you ride and your specific needs. Let’s explore how different motorcycle types can benefit from tailored storage units:

Sports Bikes

Sports bikes are designed for speed and agility, so it’s essential to maintain their aerodynamic structure. Compact and lightweight storage options work best.

• Recommended Storage Units: Tail bags, tank bags.
• Why They Work:
  • These options don’t interfere with the bike’s streamlined design.
  • Ideal for carrying small essentials like tools, snacks, or a lightweight jacket.
• Example Use: A tank bag with a transparent panel for maps or smartphones is perfect for quick access on short rides.

Touring Motorcycles

Touring motorcycles are built for long journeys, requiring ample storage space for extended trips.

• Recommended Storage Units: Saddlebags, top boxes.
• Why They Work:
  • Provide sufficient space for clothing, tools, and travel gear.
  • Often come with weatherproof options to protect items during long rides.
• Example Use: A hard-shell top box can store helmets and other bulky items securely.

Cruisers

Cruisers are known for their classic aesthetics, so storage solutions should complement their retro design while offering functionality.

• Recommended Storage Units: Leather saddlebags, stylish tail bags.
• Why They Work:
  • Enhance the bike’s look while providing practical storage.
  • Great for carrying medium-sized items like groceries or spare parts.
• Example Use: Leather saddlebags with quick-release buckles for easy access.

Adventure Bikes

Adventure bikes are designed for off-road trips and rugged terrains, so storage solutions need to be durable and weather-resistant.

• Recommended Storage Units: Panniers, waterproof saddlebags.
• Why They Work:
  • Can withstand tough conditions and keep items secure on uneven roads.
  • Provide large storage capacity for camping gear or extra fuel.
• Example Use: Aluminum panniers for carrying tools, tents, and supplies during long adventure rides.

By matching your motorcycle type with the right storage solution, you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free ride, no matter where the road takes you.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Add Storage to Your Motorcycle

Adding storage to your motorcycle doesn’t have to be complicated. 

With a few tools and some basic instructions, you can set up the perfect storage system for your bike.

Let’s go through it step by step.

1. Installing a Top Box

A top box is one of the easiest ways to add storage to your bike. It’s secure, weatherproof, and can hold a lot of items.

Steps to install a top box:

1. Buy a mounting plate that’s compatible with your bike’s rear rack.
2. Using the bolts included in the package, firmly fasten the plate.
3. Lock the top box onto the plate, making sure it clicks into place.

A top box is perfect for riders who want a reliable storage option without much hassle. 

It’s as important to maintain a well-functioning bike as it is to have enough storage—just like you’d explore a motorcycle running lean solution for better performance.

2. Attaching Saddlebags

Saddlebags give you plenty of space and look great on most motorcycles. They’re perfect for long rides or carrying larger items.

Steps to attach saddlebags:

1. Install saddlebag supports to keep the bags from touching your wheels.
2. Secure the bags using straps or clips, ensuring they’re balanced on both sides.
3. Test their stability by gently tugging on the straps before you ride.

Saddlebags are ideal for riders who need a stylish yet practical storage solution.

3. Using a Tank Bag

A tank bag is a small and convenient option for carrying your essentials, like your phone, wallet, or snacks.

Steps to attach a tank bag:

1. Cover your petrol tank with the tank bag.
2. Use the built-in magnets or straps to secure it in place.
3. Adjust the bag so it doesn’t block your handlebars or gauges.

Tank bags are small, simple to secure, and perfect for those quick rides when you need your essentials within reach.

4. Securing a Tail Bag

Tail bags fit on your luggage rack or back seat and are small and simple to use.

Steps to secure a tail bag:

1. Place the bag securely on your rear seat or the luggage rack of your motorcycle.
2. Use bungee cords or straps to tie it down tightly.
3. Check that the bag doesn’t move or shift during your ride.

Tail bags are great for short trips or carrying medium-sized items.

5. Quick Storage Fixes

If you’re in a hurry or don’t want a permanent storage option, try these:

• Bungee Cords: Wrap stretchy cords around your items and tie them to your rear rack.
• Cargo Nets: Use a net to secure odd-shaped items like backpacks or small boxes.

These quick fixes are great for temporary use, but always double-check that your items are secure before heading out.

Tips for Maximizing Motorcycle Storage

Adding storage to your motorcycle is a great start, but making it practical and safe is just as important.

Always choose waterproof and durable materials to protect your items from bad weather and wear.

Investing in quality storage saves you trouble in the long run. Avoid overloading your bike because every motorcycle has a weight limit, and exceeding it can affect safety.

Distribute the weight evenly to keep your bike balanced and easy to handle.

Pack smart to use your space efficiently by placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.

Use small pouches or organizers to keep everything tidy and accessible.

Double-check that your storage is secure before every ride by ensuring straps, clips, and locks are tightly fastened.

A loose bag can shift while riding and create a safety hazard.

Maintain your storage regularly by cleaning your bags or boxes to prevent dirt and damage.

Inspect mounting plates, straps, and supports for wear, and replace them if needed.

Just like learning how to shorten a motorcycle clutch cable, taking care of your storage ensures a smoother, safer ride.

By following these tips, you’ll keep your motorcycle storage reliable and efficient.

Whether you ride daily or for adventure, smart storage choices make every trip better.

Conclusion: Why Smart Storage Matters for Every Rider

When I first added a bag to my bike, I messed up the straps. The bag wobbled a little, and I thought I’d made a mistake. 

But guess what? 

It stayed on and got the job done! Sometimes, things don’t have to be perfect. If it works, it’s a win.

Adding storage is easier than you think. 

Choose the option that fits your needs—whether it’s a top box, saddlebags, or a tank bag. 

Follow the steps, pack smart, and secure everything properly. 

It’s all part of the process, and the more you do it, the better you’ll get.

And remember—nobody’s born knowing everything.

We all learn by trying. 

If you love DIY, then roll up your sleeves and give it a shot! Who knows, your first attempt might even be better than mine.

Try it, enjoy the ride, and make your motorcycle truly yours