Tank Bag Recommendations?

Givi Tanklock bags work really well
https://www.givi.co.uk/givi-product...ters/attitude-adventure-en/TANKLOCK+tank+bags

 

I've been using the SW Motech bags for years on lots of different bikes and really pleased with them.

I expect the Givi ones are probably just as good, but I've not tried them so can't comment.

Never had an issue with them not feeling secure, or flopping around when only part full. I've got a couple now (small and large) and find them really useful

 

It's not a twist - you drop it on and the latch engages, then there's a cord you pull to release. If you don't pull the cord it absolutely isn't coming off.

I use both for different things - small for just holding a spare layer, drink bottle etc or larger one if I need to carry lots - touring, or when I want all my waterproofs close to hand but don't want top box and panniers etc.

It's basically all the stuff I'd have jammed into my pockets or in a day sack, but more comfortable

 

Not sure how well it would work on your tank shape but I've always been impressed with Bagster.
Previously they did expensive individually designed and colour coordinated tank jackets but now they also offer universal "bra's". These come in x2 sizes to fit road bikes or trail bikes.

When camping I use my tank bag for food and cooking. With it being expandable the odd bit of on route shopping slips in here prior to an overnight.

I suppose it really depends on your volume expectations, personally I like to travel unexpanded so that I always have a few litres spare capacity.

 

I don't use a tank bag Ian but depending on how precious you are about protecting your tigger from damage you might want to think about putting some PPF (paint protection film)on the tank so it doesn't get scratched arojnd the filler cap where the tank bag could rub on the tank?

I've had some put on the sides of my tank on the ditchpump to stop the matt paint getting damaged as I'm more anal than most about keeping mine is decent nick.

 

Yes once saw a matt green Street that looked well except where leg rub on the tank had polished the matt into a semi gloss finish.
It looked really odd and got me thinking how do you return something to matt finish without repainting
Any ideas anyone?

 

Simple answer is you can't as the clear coat that gives the matt finish has a rough finish at a microscopic level which disperses the light making the paint look matt. If you then polish it you then remove the rough finish leaving it smoother so it then becomes gloss (I know this as I tried it after damaging one of the tank panels that BMW then agree to replace under warranty). The only way is to protect the paint to stop it getting damaged in ghe first place.

 

I expect the Givi ones are the same, but on the SW Motech ones the tank bag doesn't get anywhere near touching the tank so there's no rubbing.

 

That's useful to know if you're someone who's after a tank bag though if your bike has matt paint then some form of protection is almost mandatory unless you're not bothered about your tank getting marked up. Why bike manufacturers use matt paint is beyond me tbh, but so is why do they put such pathetic horns on bikes too so drivers don't hear us when we're classed as vulnerable road users. I've got 3 on mine- the original plus a soudbomb mini and one off a BMW car, fook me they're loud

 

I got the XS308 Givi, it is large!
It does touch the tank once it is loaded with stuff
so another vote on protecting the paint
- Once the bag is on it is extremely difficult to turn the ignition key while seating on the bike and wearing gloves.
- The strap to tie it to the handlebar is way to long, if not tied many times around the handlebar it will be floating in the air in front of the screen but it happens until you are rolling at some speed that makes it impractical to stop, specially if your are in a group.

 

Smaller to a point is probably more usable than over large. Having said that too small is nigh on useless!
My mate bought one that's about the size of a tarts clutch bag and it holds nothing.

In day mode my Bagster is probably 100+ mm tall and doesn't get in the way at all. Fuel stops are just x2 briefcase clips and the bag swings forwards to the clocks. It is really handy if the temperature is undecided and a spare jumper would be a good idea.
In camping mode expanded its probably 240mm tall. The bonus here is on a boring motorway run you have somewhere to rest your helmet.

 

I have a small SW Motech tank bag for use on my 900 GT Pro. The locking ring fits onto the filler cap surround and the bag clicks into this and is released by pulling on a spring loaded pin. It sits well clear of the tank so no chance of paint damage.
Handy for the usual stuff you carry and don't want in your pockets but especially useful for your passport, tickets etc.
Only problem with the 900 Tiger is that you need to move it to reach the ignition!