Depending on the type of bike you ride, you can use different types of luggage. Top case, soft or hard cases, tank bags, saddle bags, backpacks, etc. Choose those corresponding to the quantity of luggage you wish to take and the fixtures available on your bike. It’s important that your luggage is waterproof and as light as possible to avoid unbalancing your bike. Spread the load equally when packing.
Our tips on how to properly load a motorcycle
Our tips on how to properly load a motorcycle
©A. Millès/Michelin
The performance and holding of a two-wheel vehicle vary greatly depending on its payload and the total weight transported. Riding with luggage thus requires taking a few precautions before, during and after your ride.
Altered riding
Be wary of road holding, which is altered by changes in the centre of gravity and the increase in total transported load. The suspension may be affected which can lead to alterations in steering such as swaying, increased widening of trajectory, reduced precision…
Similarly, increased wind drag can lead to swerving, particularly in the case of gusts of wind. Keep a close watch on drag and turbulence when overtaking HGV. Lower suspensions will reduce ground clearance. This can surprise, particularly if the stand touches the tarmac earlier than usual. When driving in cities, bear in mind that your luggage makes the bike wider than usual when lane splitting.
Less horsepower makes it more difficult to overtake without a run-up. Attempt to modify your former reflexes, particularly if you are used to riding a lightweight bike, because you won’t be able to overtake as easily with a loaded bike.
Generally speaking, practice beforehand with travel payloads so you can get used to riding what is, in effect, a new bike.
Resist any temptation to overload
The rear sections of the frame, steel or aluminium, do not take kindly to the excess weight from luggage racks, top cases or side luggage. Apart from the risk of distorting the rear sub-frame, road holding is significantly affected. The lighter front becomes vague and wobbly steering can appear at high speeds, which can degenerate into head shake.
Respect maximum payload capacity. Check the maximum authorised load of your motorbike which is indicated on the vehicle’s registration documents. Luggage racks, whether factory fitted or added, carry a maximum payload that must not be exceeded, as is the case for soft luggage or hard cases. Warning: the capacity (in litres) of a bag or top case does not correspond to the maximum authorised load (in kilogrammes). Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.
When stationary, be careful not to get your feet stuck in luggage when mounting your bike or that you find yourself off balance when the passenger gets on. When you put your bike on its stand, remember that it will sink into soft ground or hot tarmac faster than normal
What type of luggage?
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