Does tank bag size matter?

[SNF]

I want to ride to work a few days a week but I need to take my shoes and stuff with me so I need to get a bag. Rather a tank bag than a backpack, especially since I'll be on the motorway. Is there a generic size, was thinking something like this http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/moto...-550530537.htm

[ellipsis]

...it's not the size I've heard, but the way you use it...

[onearmedbandit]

...it's not the size I've heard, but the way you use it...

Says those with small tank bags.

[FJRider]

That is pretty much "Top of the line" type bag. Smaller ones (read cheaper) are about. Second hand ones show up now and then.

A better deals here ...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/moto...-550620097.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/moto...-550789809.htm

[george formby]

You really got to try before you buy. Tank bags, particularly bigger, fuller ones can make it harder to reach the bars, change your riding position for the worse & reduce your steering lock if the handlebras or your hands, wrists hit the bag. I,ve only ever had satisfaction from a small one for wallet, waterproofs, toll money & sat nav. I would have to put my #11's on the back or use them as out riggers.

[Mully Clown]

Consider buying a pair of shoes to leave at work. Far easier than lugging the things around every commute. Personally I'm a backpack guy but I've yet to try a tank bag out.

Other option would be a tail bag if you're not 2up.

[FJRider]

Consider buying a pair of shoes to leave at work. Far easier than lugging the things around every commute. Personally I'm a backpack guy but I've yet to try a tank bag out.

Other option would be a tail bag if you're not 2up.

Magnetic tank bags can scratch the paint if a soft cloth is not place under the bag.

I thought the same way once. I got given a tank bag ... then changed my mind fast. Seldom go far without it now.

A 5 litre bag is ample unless you are using it to tour. More than that ... a pack rack and bag is better.

[FJRider]

You really got to try before you buy. Tank bags, particularly bigger, fuller ones can make it harder to reach the bars, change your riding position for the worse & reduce your steering lock if the handlebras or your hands, wrists hit the bag. I,ve only ever had satisfaction from a small one for wallet, waterproofs, toll money & sat nav. I would have to put my #11's on the back or use them as out riggers.

That would depend more on the bikes tank (and bag) size/shape ... as I use one all the time and this is never an issue. (A 23 litre flat topped fuel tank helps though)

[george formby]

That would depend more on the bikes tank (and bag) size/shape ... as I use one all the time and this is never an issue. (A 23 litre flat topped fuel tank helps though)

T'is true. Hence the try it first bit. My old Kwaka had a coffin sized (& shaped) tank and I used a big tank bag until it came adrift with a dozen beers in it. So yeah, na, yeah, weight is another consideration.

A mate got one for his Fireblade, a morning to fit, 15 minute test ride & straight onto trade me. He struggled to reach the bars. Arms like a gibbon are a bonus.

[FJRider]

T'is true. Hence the try it first bit. My old Kwaka had a coffin sized (& shaped) tank and I used a big tank bag until it came adrift with a dozen beers in it. So yeah, na, yeah, weight is another consideration.

Yep try first. 5 litre bags should be ample. Bigger than that just creates other issues .... and shoes will fit in one of those.

[Spazman727]

I've got an Oxford First timer small tank bag. It easily fits a pair of shoes, book and work uniform, or a 6 pack, plus a bike lock in one side pocket and some tools in the other. Doesn't get in the way on the 550 but did a wee bit on the 250, bit I think it was worth it for the handy storage.

As was said before, the magnetic ones do scratch the tank a bit if you aren't careful about making sure there is nothing stuck to the under side of the bad.

I almost always use mine, and its handy to have the clear pocket for a map, phone or GPS.

[imdying]

This'll be me next: http://www.google.co.nz/search?q=tan...+lock+tank+bag

Screw straps and magnets!

[mulletman]

Ive got a ventura Sport-Pack http://www.ventura-bike.com/products...ack/p0110.aspx with
http://www.ventura-bike.com/products/sportrack.aspx , works well for me, ive had 2 large vienna
loafs,puncture repair kit, sunglass case and a garage remote with a bit of room to spare.It has a seperate zip compartment for keys and shoulder strap etc.

[paturoa]

Yes, size does matter.

For me the biggest size issue (pun intended) is the width and height at the front of the bag. If it is too wide it can interfer with your bars when you are doing tight turns. If it is too tall then it can obscure your speedo. On the ride I did on Sunday just gone, a small tank bag would have been great, as I was doing a lot of tight turns etc, but couldn't use my tank bag cos it is a big un.

Length can also be an issue with shorter tanks or curvey tanks.

[BMWST?]

tank bags are teh bomb.i hate pack racks