Motorcycle Tank Bag Against Saddle Bag. So, Which To Settle On?
Posted by Eric Bogie on June 21, 2010
There has been a lot of discussion about whether motorcycle tank bags are safer or better than saddlebags. And depending on who you ask you can find every possible answer. It almost seems like there is a religious war going on between proponents and opponents of tank bags.
One of the biggest arguments against tank bags is that they are mounted higher on the bike and they therefore change the center of gravity and could lead to increased instability of the motorcycle.
While there’s no argument concerning the fact the tank bag is mounted higher on the bike, promoters claim that it’s virtually impossible to place sufficient ballast in the bag to really possess a adverse effect on the stability of the bike. You would have to pack lead balls and gold coins so the debate goes.
And while it is certainly possible that some riders use their bags to transport lead and gold around, the great majority are utilizing the tank top bag as a way to keep treasured things near them; mostly packing personal items like a camera or glasses.
Alternatively the supporters of the saddle bag are saying that it is true that the tank bag is sitting high on the bike whereas the saddlebag is sitting low on the rear axle. This moves the center of the load somewhat to the back and lower and thereby adds to the stability of the motorcycle. Also due to the placement and size of the saddle bag it is much harder to over pack it.
Of course there are also scientific approaches to this argument. The so called “load triangle” may be the argument used most. The idea is that so long as you keep almost all the load in the imaginary triangle which is formed in between the leading axle, the back axle, and the top of the riders helmet the balance of your bike is maintained.
As the tank bag is within this triangle whereas the saddle bag is well outside this triangle the preferred choice should be the bag on top of the tank.
Others say that it really doesn’t make any difference. The discussion whether the motorcycle tank bag or the saddle bag is safer is one of personal taste and faith. Both types of bags have their advantages and disadvantages. And as long as you use common sense when packing your bags, it doesn’t matter which one you use. Ride safely!
If you enjoyed this content on the disputes of the Motorcycle Tank Bag, then stop by motorcycletankbag.org where you will find up to the second critiques and variations on anything from how to pick out Hard Saddle Bags to why you should consider certain specific ones.
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