Crash Bar Bags for Motorcycles

A crash bar bag turns the empty space beside your engine into storage you can reach from the saddle. It straps onto your crash guard, so the things you need during the day, like tools, gloves, a rain jacket or a power bank, are not buried under your main luggage.

You may also hear them called crash guard bags, highway bar bags or crash bar luggage. Whatever the name, it is a side bag that rides on the guard and comes off with a few quick release buckles.

The bags here come in 6L, 10L and 20L, with roll-top water resistant liners and external pockets for the small stuff.

Do you need a crash bar bag?

If your bike has a crash guard or engine guard and you carry tools, rain gear or touring odds and ends, yes, it earns its place. It frees up your panniers or tail bag and puts the things you actually reach for in easy reach. If your bike has no guard to strap onto, look at our other luggage instead.

Picking the right size

• 6L: a compact bag for tools, a puncture kit, gloves and documents on day rides.
• 10L: enough for a rain jacket, tools and snacks on weekend trips.
• 20L: a large bag for light, bulky touring items, best on bikes with sturdy guards.

Bigger is not always better here. A guard is not a pannier rack, so the heavier the load, the more it affects handling.

Fitting and loading tips

• Keep the bag clear of the exhaust and engine heat.
• Check that straps do not touch the brake lever, gear lever or steering at full lock.
• Load light items and put heavier gear in your main luggage.
• Recheck the straps after the first 20 km, since new webbing settles.
• For rainy rides, roll the liner top down firmly. Our guide on how to stay dry while riding in the rain has more tips.

FAQs

Q1: What is a crash bar bag?

A1: A side bag that straps onto a motorcycle's crash bar or engine guard. It gives you quick access to small items without opening your main luggage.

Q2: How is a crash bar bag different from panniers?

A2: Panniers sit on a dedicated rack and carry far more, while a crash bar bag is smaller and rides on the guard. Most riders use it for the items they want within arm's reach, and panniers or a tail bag for bulk.

Q3: Will it fit my bike?

A3: It fits most bikes with a crash guard or engine guard, as the straps adjust for different bar sizes. Check the clearance around your exhaust and pedals, and send us your bike and guard details if you want help.

Q4: Are crash bar bags waterproof?

A4: The bags here have a roll-top, water resistant inner liner made for moderate to heavy rain under normal riding. They are not meant to be submerged. Keep the roll-top closed and the zippers shut.

Q5: Do I need one bag or two?

A5: Each bag is sold individually and covers one side. Buy two for a balanced setup. If you only need a little storage, one bag on the side away from the exhaust is fine.