Motorcycle equipment

Luggage

All bikers need to know how to travel light. But this depends on the luggage you have, and the conditions in which you'll be spending your vacation. The amount of luggage you can take with you depends on whether you're traveling alone or with a partner. Bear in mind that some of the available space will be taken up by a few essential items, such as an anti-theft device, a puncture-proof kit, vehicle documents (driver's handbook, maintenance booklet, photocopies of vehicle registration documents and green card), a high-visibility vest (compulsory since January^1, 2016), several accident reports, not forgetting a pen and even a camera (or the one on your phone) to provide evidence in the event of a dispute. Also useful are a microfiber cloth for wiping everything down, earplugs, rain gear and warm equipment (such as a choker and winter gloves), especially if you're planning to ride in the mountains. Remember that the breathalyzer remains a mandatory accessory in all motor vehicles since 2012.

The tank bag

Close to the motorcycle's center of gravity, they are ideal for fairly heavy objects. Flexible and sometimes equipped with one or more gussets for variable capacity, the most voluminous exceed 30 liters.
Almost always equipped with a waterproof card holder, they also have side pockets where you can slip in, for example, toll tickets. Check that the bag includes a rain cover. As with all soft luggage, packing fragile items in plastic bags remains a reliable solution for keeping them dry. There are several types of attachment. Magnetic panniers attach directly to the tank. They are attractive in terms of price and easy to fit. However, it is advisable to clean the tank thoroughly before installation to prevent scratches. Tank mats, on the other hand, have the advantage of protecting the tank from the ravages of time and from any damage, subject to scrupulous maintenance here too: dust can creep under the mat and wear away the paintwork through friction. The mat includes fixings for manufacturer-specific panniers. The weak point of this solution lies in its cost: to the purchase of the pannier must be added that of the mat, sometimes for the same amount. In addition to its classic models, Bagster offers universal mats with minimal surface area, called Easy, at a very competitive price. Givi also offers Tanklock models. The manufacturer's panniers can be clipped onto a bracket fixed to the tank by means of the tank cap screws.
Check that the pannier does not restrict your field of vision or manoeuvring too much. Once filled, the larger models hide the dashboard and reduce the bike's manoeuvrability if the handlebars come up against the pannier (beware of accidentally knocking in the starter, or even the kill switch). Finally, it's best to avoid leaving your tank bag on your motorcycle if you're going to be away from it for a long time. Quick to install and remove, interchangeable, they can easily be stolen! Most are fitted with shoulder straps so they can be worn as a backpack.

The top case

This is one of the most common items of luggage. It can hold up to 72 liters. Some models come with a brake light kit. When used as a duo, it can be fitted with a backrest to enhance passenger comfort. When riding in heavy traffic, it lets you carry luggage without increasing the size of your motorcycle. When stationary, it can accommodate a helmet, or even two for larger models.
Check that the top-case does not pose a safety hazard when loaded. Positioned well back from the center of gravity and high up, it modifies the motorcycle's aerodynamics and weight distribution. Even if it is part of the original equipment, it makes the motorcycle more sensitive to turbulence, and may cause it to sway.
Make sure that the weight carried will be supported not only by the top-case and luggage rack, but also by the latter's supports. If a turntable is available, it will certainly be sold separately. Buying one can increase the quality of the top-case's support, and save you from having to do a lot of fiddly work on the original luggage rack.
The locking system is first and foremost a deterrent. All models are more or less easy to break into, including those supplied by the manufacturers. As a result, many thefts regularly occur from parked motorcycles or scooters (contents of the top-case or top-case itself). Remain vigilant and do not leave any valuable objects or documents inside. Leave it open if it's empty.

Riding bags

These saddlebags are attached much like a horse saddle. Care must be taken to balance them properly, and to secure them so they don't flap around. If the fastening system passes over the saddle, it can interfere with the passenger's comfort over time. It is therefore preferable to dismantle the saddle and pass it underneath. It's also worth noting that the fastening systems supplied can quickly be damaged, and are sometimes insufficient to guarantee the stability of the assembly. It's best to use additional turnbuckles. Affordable, expandable, these panniers come with removable covers, as they are not always completely watertight. Beware of their positioning, as they can melt on contact with exhaust pipes, although manufacturers are trying to adapt to this constraint with thermal protectors. These panniers can be carried over the shoulder or on the back.

Hard cases

They are easy to install once the permanent bracket is in place, and have the advantage of being waterproof. They can be detached and transported by hand. They feature a locking system which, as with top-cases, is primarily a deterrent, but not tamper-proof. If you leave your suitcases on your parked motorcycle, be sure not to leave any valuable objects or documents in them. On motorcycles that are not equipped with a suitable rack, you'll need to install a special one, which is often non-removable and can seriously compromise the charm of your ride. What's more, mounts and cases represent a certain investment - but they pay for themselves with a long service life. Be careful the first few times: once you've fitted this luggage, the rear of the bike is wider than usual. Also bear in mind that painted panniers are very attractive, but much more prone to scratches than black, tinted panniers. Protection, often in the form of a rubber band, is available on certain models, sometimes as an option.

The saddle bag

It can be attached to the passenger seat or to the luggage rack. These include "soft-case" bags, which resemble tank bags. There are also waterproof "duffel" bags of varying capacities (up to 90 liters), to be strapped on using the fasteners supplied or turnbuckles. But for carrying luggage behind you over short distances, there's no need to invest in a special motorcycle bag. A classic bag or backpack can be secured with a "spider", a stretch net with hooks - an extremely practical and inexpensive accessory.

The trailer

With a trailer, there is no deprivation in sight: its large carrying capacity (up to several hundred liters) makes it possible to bring back souvenirs and to carry a lot of spare clothes. They are easy to handle and designed not to interfere with the ease of movement that characterizes the two-wheeler. A few manufacturers share the market, with very diverse products, with one or two wheels, with a retro or futuristic look, and at prices that are often high due to the low volume of sales. For a trip abroad, be aware of the regulations in each country. Some may restrict the use of luggage trailers, or even prohibit it.

The backpack

Today, there are specific motorcycle backpacks, equipped with preformed straps and back protections for more comfort and safety. Tightenings are designed to improve the stability of the bag and a removable cover often improves the waterproofness (not always guaranteed at the origin). Their capacity can vary from 10 to more than 50 liters. Check that the bag's wind resistance will not hinder you. For the most bulky bags, the ideal is to be able to rest the lower part on the saddle, without loosening the straps and risking to destabilize you.
Whatever the model of backpack, it is absolutely necessary to avoid carrying rigid, blunt or heavy objects (typical examples: a lock), very dangerous for your back if you fall. And what about glass bottles when you have been shopping or going to a party.
If you have no choice but to carry your belongings in a backpack, the People Delite Aero from the Swedish manufacturer Boblbee is one of the ergonomic models. It has a level 2 approved hard shell.
In any case, if you fall and slip, remember that any backpack can hurt you because of its prominent shape and that it can get caught on other vehicles or street furniture. Of course, it is not recommended for airbag wearers.

The helmet bag

Helmets are hard to find a place on a parked motorcycle. For full-face and modular helmets, one solution is to attach them to the bike with a flexible, expandable lock. If you are concerned about the safety of your latest replica helmet, there are either specific backpacks for helmets or covers, often supplied with the helmet at the time of purchase (don't hesitate to ask for them as gifts). The latter allow first of all to protect the helmet from small shocks and dust. They also constitute bags of transport thanks to their straps or cords. Make sure to check regularly the solidity of the latter, especially the knots that slowly unravel. Some covers are covered with a shell.

Comfort accessories

Some motorcyclists add an array of equipment to improve comfort against the bite of the cold, the rain or the inconvenience of a long ride. Available at the design stage on an increasing number of models, heated grips can be purchased at a later date for older bikes or without this option. They replace the original grips or can be fitted over them. They only heat the inside of the hand and do not prevent frostbite in extreme cold. For effective protection against the cold (in addition to gloves, which must still be worn), you can install muffs, a kind of mittens attached to the handles into which gloved hands slip. This is an effective system, but is often criticized by motorcyclists for being unsightly. They can also be heated. At the price of questionable aesthetics, but formidable effectiveness, the leg apron is the ideal tool for protection from the cold and rain. Like muffs, they can also be heated. An increasing number of GT and trail bikes offer a heated seat. The passenger section can be managed separately. Some saddlers and accessory manufacturers also offer heated saddles as adapters.
We could laugh about it, but the truth is there, and all motorcyclists will tell you: our posterior is the part of our anatomy most sensitive to lack of comfort on long journeys. The cheapest way to deal with this recurring problem is to have your original saddle reworked. In this case, you'll need to take the saddle directly to the saddler or to a motorcycle dealer, who will then send it by courier. You'll also need a replacement if you need to use your bike while the part is unavailable. Going through a motorcycle dealer sometimes offers the advantage of being able to borrow a saddle; it's also possible (depending on your model) to order a complete saddle to replace your original one. Of course, this is more expensive! Note that for medium-sized riders, the specialist can lower the seat height by reducing the thickness of the foam. It is then possible to ask for a gel insert (driver and/or passenger saddle) which, while saving on thickness, offers very good comfort.

The navigation system

GPS (Global Positioning System) is the only system to date developed on a large scale to help us navigate. With GPS, the trip loses spontaneity, but gains in efficiency. Without much interest on a known route, this tool brings an important help to the motorcyclist on a trip. You always know where you are (provided you can get a satellite signal) and even if the route indicated is not always the most direct or the most pleasant, you are sure to reach your destination. It is no longer necessary to stop to consult a map or change the map fold (especially at night, under a streetlight or in the light of headlights). In addition, the GPS provides a considerable amount of information, called POI (points of interest), such as gas stations, garages, tourist spots, hotels and restaurants, or accident zones. Finally, the speed limits are indicated and any overtaking can be reported to the driver depending on the chosen settings.
The GPS can be used "on the fly" by giving you the shortest route in distance or the fastest route in time, including traffic (often at a cost), with or without tolls, from your current location to your final destination. Intermediate stages can also be chosen.
For a "free" afternoon stroll, some GPS units offer a very useful "winding road" option in their menu, which will allow you to take only the side roads and other alternative routes... but of course always chosen by the unit's algorithms.
For trips where you want to impose a particular route, dedicated planning software (BaseCamp for Garmin, My Drive for Tom Tom ...) can prepare on computer the route of your choice and then store it in your GPS. Many smartphone applications also allow you to read GPX files prepared in advance (Geo Tracker, Trails, GPX Viewer...). Osmond is one of the most suitable for motorcyclists.
The main question remains: which model to choose among the plethora of products, whose prices are constantly falling? The motorcycle GPS are waterproof and made to be used with gloves. However, it should be noted that many smartphones increasingly offer these two features, with or without the addition of pockets and the installation of suitable supports. Some car GPS devices can also be used in the same protective conditions. Another criterion to consider is the mounting system, which can be brand-specific (BMW, Ducati, certain Japanese models, etc.) or universal (RAM Mounts, Touratech, etc.). Depending on the size of the GPS and the possibilities offered by the type of motorcycle, the device can be integrated into a specific housing, attached to the handlebars, the windscreen or the steering column. Make sure that it does not obscure the dashboard, that it does not interfere with the installation of a tank bag and that the orientation of the screen allows you to read it without suffering from reflections or taking your eyes off the road.
All current models of GPS have Bluetooth, which allows you to receive voice instructions through the audio system built into the helmet (the use of the headset is prohibited since 2015). The sound volume adapts to the ambient noise.
If you are a long-distance traveler, consider using an external power supply, as internal GPS batteries do not last more than 5 to 7 hours in continuous use. The easiest way to do this is to plug the GPS into an on-board outlet or directly into the power supply (protected by a fuse).
When choosing a GPS, test the buttons and touch screen if possible, keeping in mind that the GPS will often be used with gloves on. Indeed, if it is not recommended to manipulate the device while driving, we are reluctant to remove our protective equipment when stopped, especially when it is cold. The use of a stylus remains possible, but not very suitable. Remember also that the touch screen can be quickly scratched by the action of fingers, gloved or not. A protective plastic film will therefore be most useful.
Among the competitors on the market of GPS for two-wheelers, we can mention the Dutch TomTom, the American Garmin, the Belgian Tripy and the French Mappy. Their GPS are commonly available with a France or Europe map.
Driving assistance systems (DAS) are not related to navigation and their purpose is not there. As radar detectors and alarms were banned in France in 2012, the devices were simply converted into danger zone alarms. Inforad is the only manufacturer known in France to provide specific devices to the motorcycle.

Communication systems and devices

Sharing impressions is one of the pleasures of riding with a duo, or even motorcycle to motorcycle. There are solutions if you don't want to have to turn your head and listen to yourself. Let's remember that any sound source distracts some of your alertness to the detriment of your safety, especially if you are engaged in an ongoing conversation. Let's also remember that, since 2015, it is illegal in France to drive a car, motorcycle or scooter with a headset, wired or wireless. The Bluetooth kit uses a wireless technology that allows you to communicate with a duo, or even with several motorcycles, and to receive calls or listen to music from devices that are also Bluetooth. With the main market leaders (Scala Rider, Cellular Line, Nextel, etc.), each helmet must be equipped with earphones, a microphone and a transmission box. Some helmets (Shoei, Nolan, Schuberth, BMW, etc.) have an integrated slot for the receiver and the microphone/earphone fitting.
The electronic intercom consists of a box, an earphone and a microphone for each biker, with the possibility of connecting a telephone, a GPS, a music source... A connection cable is necessary for the pilot and the passenger. Despite their excellent performance, they have given way to Bluetooth wireless systems. Hands-free kits for smartphones and other cell phones are now added to all these communication systems originally intended for the rider and his passenger. The device itself can be attached to the handlebars thanks to the numerous attachment systems and carrying cases available. Preferably, waterproof covers are available. Be careful to respect the French regulation prohibiting the wearing of an earpiece. Before leaving for a foreign country, find out about the legislation in force. Among other technologies, the American Buhel marketed from 2015 a Bluetooth kit (D01 and D02) that did not use internal earphones. The micro-receiver was positioned on the helmet by an adhesive system, and then the received sound is transmitted by vibration to the helmet wearer directly from the cap. The company no longer exists, but kits are still available on the net.

Video recording

Video recording has gradually taken its place in the world of motorized travelers, whether to preserve the beauty of landscapes, the fun of the road or tangible proof in the event of an accident. Colloquially known as a dashcam, for motorcyclists it refers to the camera mounted on the helmet or chassis. Video and audio recording quality, image stability, angle of view, robustness, ease of use (important when piloting the motorcycle), wireless connectivity, autonomy and brand are just some of the factors that determine the price of this little toy, with prices ranging from €100 to €500 for the most advanced.
There are a number of important factors to consider when buying a "biker": the choice of support (motorcycle, rider's chest, helmet) and cable routing, vibration attenuation (less on the helmet), hence the importance of a good image stabilizer, and perfect waterproofing for filming whatever the weather (camera itself or protective case).
Beware of regulations in various countries, including those close to our borders. In some countries, our cameras are strictly forbidden for privacy reasons. In particular, their use is punishable in Germany, Austria, Luxembourg and Portugal. This list is not exhaustive, and should be updated before any departure abroad or border crossing.