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Motorcycle tank bags: Your ultimate guide to tank rings, magnets, and straps
Where should you put the things you need to have handy on every ride? Your smartphone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, a small snack, or the toll card for the mountain pass. Your pockets are uncomfortable and unsafe, and a backpack gets in the way after a while. The solution is as ingenious as it is classic: the tank bag. It's your cockpit butler, your glove compartment on two wheels, and probably the most practical and easily accessible storage space you can add to your motorcycle. It sits right in front of you, doesn't interfere with aerodynamics, and keeps your most important items within reach.
But the world of tank bags has undergone rapid technological development in recent years. The all-important question today is: How do I attach it securely, quickly, and, above all, without damaging the paintwork on my motorcycle? Should I go for a classic magnetic system, a versatile strap system, or a modern, contactless tank ring system? In this ultimate guide, we take you deep into the world of fastening technologies. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of each concept, introduce you to the leading systems from SW-Motech and Givi, and help you find the perfect co-pilot for your next tour with detailed purchasing advice.
The art of attachment: The heart of every tank bag
Choosing the right attachment system is the most important decision. It depends on your motorcycle type, your comfort requirements, and your budget.
The tank ring system (click system): The modern premium solution
How it works
This is the most elegant, secure, and paint-friendly method. A vehicle-specific adapter ring is securely screwed onto your fuel cap. The tank bag itself has a counterpart on its underside that clicks into place on this ring. This causes the tank bag to “float” a few millimeters above the paintwork of your tank.
Advantages & disadvantages:
Advantages: Absolutely secure and stable hold even at high speeds, no risk of scratching the paintwork, can be attached and removed in seconds.
Disadvantages: Higher purchase price, as a tank bag and vehicle-specific tank ring are required.
The leading systems in detail:
SW-Motech PRO Tank Ring: The patented system from SW-Motech uses a magnetic guide that makes attaching the tank bag extremely easy. The mechanical lock then ensures a rock-solid hold. You need one that fits your specific motorcycle model.
Givi Tanklock System: Givi was one of the pioneers of this technology. The Tanklock system is extremely popular and known for its robustness and ease of use. Here, too, a model-specific lock is combined with a universal lock.
The magnet system: the flexible classic
How it works
Strong, rubber-coated magnets are incorporated into the “wings” or base plate of the tank bag. These attach directly to the tank of your motorcycle.
Advantages & disadvantages:
Advantages: Extremely flexible use on different motorcycles (as long as they have a steel tank), usually cheaper, no ring installation necessary.
Disadvantages: Only works on steel tanks (not on aluminum or plastic tanks). There is always a risk of micro-scratches from dust and dirt that gets between the magnet and the tank. The underside must be meticulously clean before every ride.
The strap system: The universal problem solver
How it works
A strap system is attached to the steering head and under the seat on the frame of the motorcycle. The tank bag is then secured to this strap base with buckles or zippers.
Advantages & disadvantages:
Advantages: The most universal system. It fits any tank, whether steel, aluminum, or plastic, and even heavily curved “enduro” tanks.
Disadvantages: It is more difficult to attach and remove than other systems. If installed incorrectly, the straps can rub against the paintwork.
Product example: Nelson Rigg Hurricane Adventure
The Nelson Rigg Hurricane Adventure tank bag impresses with its robust design and watertightness thanks to its PVC tarpaulin outer material.
Buying advice: How to find the perfect tank bag
Step 1: Check your tank!
This is the most important first step. Hold a normal refrigerator magnet to your tank. Does it stick? Then you have a steel tank and can theoretically use all systems. Does it not stick? Then you have an aluminum or plastic tank and will need to use a tank ring or strap system.
Step 2 (for tank ring systems): Find the right ring
The tank ring is always vehicle-specific. Use our parts finder or the product description of the tank ring to ensure that the ring fits the make, model, and year of your motorcycle exactly.
Step 3: Choose the right size and shape
The volume of tank bags is measured in liters.
Small (3-7 liters): Perfect for everyday use, for the “holy trinity” of cell phone, wallet, and keys.
Medium (8-15 liters): Ideal for a day trip. It can also hold a small water bottle, a snack, and a rain jacket.
Large (16-25+ liters): The choice for long trips. Many models can be expanded in volume with a zipper. Pay attention to the shape! A long, narrow backpack fits better on steeply sloping “enduro” tanks. You have more choice on wide touring tanks. Make sure that the tank bag does not touch the handlebars or your hands, even when the handlebars are turned fully!
Step 4: Pay attention to the features
Card compartment & cell phone compartment: A transparent compartment on the top is ideal for quick navigation.
Cable feed-through: A waterproof opening to feed a charging cable for your cell phone or navigation device inside.
Waterproofing: Is the tank bag itself waterproof or does it come with a separate rain cover?
Carrying strap/backpack function: Handy for conveniently carrying the tank bag with you when you reach your destination.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about motorcycle tank bags
1. Which is better: a magnetic or tank ring tank bag?
Technically, the tank ring system is superior: it is safer, more stable, and 100% paint-friendly. The magnetic system is more flexible if you ride several motorcycles with steel tanks, and is often cheaper.
2. Does a magnetic tank bag scratch the paintwork?
If you're not careful, yes. It is crucial that the underside of the tank bag and the surface of the tank are completely clean before every ride. A single grain of sand under a magnet can cause fine scratches.
3. Does a magnetic tank bag stay in place even at high speeds?
High-quality models from brand manufacturers with strong magnets stay securely in place even at very high speeds. However, an additional safety strap for the steering head is always recommended.
4. How do I find the right tank ring for my motorcycle?
Use the part-specific filter in our shop or the compatibility list on the product page of the tank ring. You need to know the brand, model, and year of manufacture of your motorcycle.
5. Can I attach an SW-Motech tank bag to a Givi ring?
No, the systems are not compatible with each other. You must always choose a tank bag and tank ring from the same manufacturer and from the same system family (e.g., SW-Motech PRO).
6. Does a tank bag interfere with riding?
A properly fitting tank bag does not interfere at all. However, a tank bag that is too large or too high can obscure the view of the instruments or interfere with the steering angle.
7. Are tank bags waterproof?
Some premium models have waterproof main compartments. However, most come with a separate, custom-fit rain cover that you can quickly put on if necessary.
8. What is an “electrified” tank bag?
These models have a built-in power supply that is fed from the motorcycle's electrical system via a special “electric tank ring.” This allows you to charge your devices inside without having to run a cable through an opening.
9. Can I also attach a tank bag to the passenger seat?
Many strap tank bags can also be attached as rear bags on the passenger seat or a luggage rack.
10. My motorcycle has a plastic tank. What options do I have?
You will need a tank ring system or a strap system. A magnetic tank bag will not hold in this case.
Conclusion: Your indispensable co-pilot for every tour
A good tank bag makes your motorcycle life easier, more comfortable, and more organized. It is the perfect place for all the small but important things you need on the road. Modern tank ring technology has revolutionized handling and now offers a safer and more paint-friendly solution than ever before. No matter which system you choose, once you've experienced the freedom of having your most important items always within reach, you'll never want to be without it again.
Find the perfect companion for your tank now.
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