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Riding a motorcycle is an exciting experience, but one that comes with its own challenges. Especially when dark clouds roll in and rain threatens, a motorcycle ride can quickly turn into a wet nightmare. One of the biggest challenges is getting your stuff to your destination dry.
And in most cases, a normal backpack is simply not enough to protect your stuff from rain, damp fog or snow. For these purposes, a waterproof motorcycle backpack is essential.
In this blog article, you’ll learn more about the benefits of your new waterproof motorcycle backpack, what materials they’re made of, 6 factors to consider when choosing your backpack, how to maintain waterproofness, get tips on how to choose the best backpack for your needs, and last but not least, the top 5 best rated waterproof motorcycle backpacks you can find on the web right now.
Whether you commute every day or love to be outdoors, a waterproof motorcycle backpack is a must-have when it comes to keeping your important stuff safe and dry.
Benefits of a waterproof Motorcycle Backpack
The waterproof Fabric with taped seams ensures the Backpack is 100% waterproof. Even in heavy Rain or Snow, your Stuff inside will remain dry and protected.
The use of reflective Materials on the front, back and sides of the Backpack significantly increases the visibility of the Rider, especially in low light Conditions and/or in the Dark. This reduces the Risk of Accidents and improves Safety.
This Combination makes the Motorcycle waterproof backpacks not only functional, but also safe.
What is a waterproof Motorcycle Backpack made of?
The most common Materials used in the construction of waterproof backpacks are:
- Nylon: is a popular Material because it is lightweight, durable and waterproof. It is also easy to clean.
- Polyester: is also commonly used for waterproof Backpacks because it is just like nylon, a lightweight Material, durable and water repellent. Polyester is also resistant to UV rays, making it a good choice for Backpacks in Summer and/or sunny Environments.
- PVC: Polyvinyl chloride a synthetic plastic Material, is often used for waterproof Backpacks. Because PVC is highly resistant to Water and Moisture, it is a great choice for Backpacks used in wet Environments.
- TPU: Thermoplastic polyurethane is not only flexible but also extremely durable. And is thus commonly used for waterproof Backpacks. TPU is Water-, abrasion and puncture resistant, and that´s why the best choice in my opinion.
To keep Water out even better and protect your Stuff, waterproof Backpacks are also equipped with waterproof Zippers, taped Seams and other Features.
6 Factors to consider when choosing a Motorcycle Waterproof Backpack
However, before you choose a waterproof motorcycle backpack there are a few factors to consider. Here are some of the most important factors you should keep in mind:
- Waterproof: make sure the backpack is made of waterproof material, not just water resistant, and has sealed seams, because even if a backpack is made of waterproof material, its seams can be a weak point.
- Capacity: You should choose a backpack that is big enough for all your (daily) stuff. But again, not too big, so that it bothers you when carrying or during the ride.
- Fit and comfort: A comfortable backpack is a must for long rides.
When making your choice, look for backpacks that have padded straps and back panels, as well as adjustable straps to ensure a good fit.
In addition, the weight should be evenly distributed on the shoulders and back, because a heavy backpack can be very uncomfortable to wear over long periods of riding. - Durability: Look for a backpack made of high quality and durable material.
Ideally, it should be resistant to abrasion, tears, strong sunlight and other potential damage. - Visibility: A backpack with reflective materials or bright colors increases your visibility on the road, which is especially important when you’re out at night or in low light conditions.
- Additional features: would of course also be quite cool. Some backpacks therefore have integrated rain covers, are compatible with hydration bladders to allow you to drink during longer trips. Or a helmet compartment in which you can easily attach or store your helmet. And beyond that, of course, the backpack should fit your personal style.
If you consider these factors when buying your waterproof motorcycle backpack, you will not only carry dry stuff and have a comfortable ride. But also have a long time of enjoyment with it.
How to maintain the waterproofing of a Motorcycle Waterproof Backpack?
In order for you to enjoy your waterproof motorcycle backpack for longer, it is essential to maintain its effectiveness and durability.
Here are some tips:
- Cleaning: dirt and grime from long rides could damage the backpack’s coating, so I recommend cleaning it regularly. But please avoid harsh cleaners and instead use a soft damp cloth or a special spray such as: this one ….(Aff. Link)
- Store the backpack properly: If you ever come in the rain, which probably can not be avoided sooner or later (unless you are a fair weather rider 🙂 ) then hang the backpack in a dry and well-ventilated place to avoid and prevent mold. Even though some backpacks are resistant to UV rays, do not leave it in direct sunlight for long periods of time.
- Check: Check your backpack regularly for damage, such as tears or holes. Also make sure all seams are closed and zippers are working properly.
- Renew waterproofing: Over time, the waterproof coating of the backpack can/will wear off. To counteract this, it helps to waterproof the backpack at regular intervals. In and of itself are such sprays as: this one …. (Af.Link) are easy to use, but please read the instructions thoroughly before use.
Top 5 best rated waterproof motorcycle backpacks
When selecting the waterproof motorcycle backpacks, I not only paid attention to my preferences, but also attached great importance to the customer reviews and thus their experience with the respective product.
#5: Riderbag Reflector 35
the Commuter #3
The Riderbag features a sleek and stylish design that is both durable and functional. Its reflective accents, light weight and large capacity (up to 35 liters) make it the ideal companion for the commuter. In addition, the padded shoulder straps and back panel provide comfort on longer trips. The material is made of durable 600D nylon and retro-reflective fabric.
Pros:
- Capacity up to 35L
- Very lightweight, weighing just 1.09 lb or 0.49kg
- Laptop compartment fits a screen up to 16″
- Offers the option to attach a back protector ( available separately)
- Helmet net to carry a helmet
- 2 side pockets for water bottles
- Available in several colors
Cons:
- Water repellent only
#4: Givi EA129 Urban 15L
the Commuter #2
The Givi EA129 Urban 15L Backpack is a combination of durability, functionality and practicality for motorcyclists looking for a reliable everyday backpack.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Laptop compartment: fits most 17″ laptops.
- Thermoformed hard shell pocket, for fragile items
- Padded shoulder straps and chest strap for added stability
- One side mesh pocket for a water bottle
Cons:
- only 15 liters capacity (which can have its benefits)
- Water resistant, but additional protection is provided by the highly visible yellow rain cover
#3: Kuryakyn 5173 Torke Dry Bag Backpack – the Commuter #1
I honestly don’t know what the designer was thinking with this backpack. I think he watched too many Spongebob series in his home office. But it makes up for its ugly appearance with its positive features.
Because the Kuryakyn Torke Dry Bag backpack is designed for both commuters and outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to its 25-liter capacity, it is 100% waterproof and has room for a 17″ laptop. It can also be used as a traditional backpack and/or mounted on the passenger seat of a motorcycle with or without a sissy bar.
Pros:
- it´s Price/Performance Ratio
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity up to 25 liters
- Welded TPU construction and IPX7 rated waterproof zippers.
- Waterproof exterior pockets
- Breathable back padding and adjustable padded shoulder straps
- Air release Valve reduces space requirements
Cons:
- Its uggly appearance 😉
#2: OGIO All Elements Aero-D Backpack – commuter/outdoor #2
The OGIO All Elements Aero-D Backpack is a versatile and durable backpack designed for outdoor needs. The aerodynamic shape reduces drag and air turbulence at higher speeds.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof
- 3 waterproof outer pockets
- Capacity up to 26L
- removable organizational pocket
- for laptops up to 15″
- padded, air-permeable back panel
- Reflective accents for visibility at night
Cons:
- aren’t known to me
- other colors would be nice
And last but not least, drum roll please …
#1: Nelson Rig Hurricane 2.0 outdoor #1
It’s 100% waterproof and made of UV-coated 24 oz. thick tarpaulin PVC material with electronically welded seams, making the pack extremely rugged and durable. Its UV-coated exterior and the ability to use it as a luggage bag, combined with an optional hydration bladder and its straightforward and easy handling, make it the perfect companion for longer outdoor adventures.
+Pros:
- 100% waterproof
- UV coated outer material
- Electronically taped seams
- Capacity up to 30 liters
- Laptops up to 15″
- vent valve for easy compression
- padded back panel for better air circulation
- can be used as a luggage bag
- Integrated external pocket to hold an optional hydration bladder (sold separately)
- uncomplicated and easy to handle
–Cons:
- approx. 3.5 lbs/1.59 kg empty weight
- his look
Conclusion
In summary, a waterproof motorcycle backpack is a good investment for you if you value dry things. Most of the backpacks presented above not only offer 100% waterproof protection, but also increase your visibility on the road with reflective materials.
In order to get the most out of your backpack, it is recommended to maintain the backpack with specially designed products, to store it in a dry place and to check it regularly for damage so that the waterproof coating remains intact.
When choosing your backpack, it is important that you consider several factors to ensure that it meets your needs and offers you the best possible comfort.
That’s why it’s up to you to decide whether you want to go for one of the waterproof motorcycle backpacks presented above and rated the best by most people on the web that you can currently find on the market.
Or, you continue to use the backpack as before and forgo the unique features and great benefits that a waterproof motorcycle backpack offers you and hope to bring the things that are important to you dry to your destination in the next rain.
But in the End, of course, the decision is yours.
