I am Max, a cyclist with high expertise in motorcycle repair. The 2005 MotoGP at Laguna Seca is a memorable event for me that I visited with my father. The spirit of adventure, speed, and race become a big passion for me. Since that time, I learned a lot about mechanics and bikes. I can assure you there is so much to learn concerning the vehicle. Now, I want to conduct a review on the best motorcycle top case for convenient luggage transportation.
Many people might be wondering why you need an adventure motorcycle top case when you can easily mount the luggage on the grilled end of the bike. Others might see a top case as an instrument that consumes space and affects the comfort of your passenger. Well, all those drawbacks are genuinely raised and true. However, I have reviewed cases that will help solve all those issues in a whiz.
Your passengers’ comfort will be ensured, and your luggage will be in safety. Before that, we need to look at some of the most critical reasons why you need a top box:
- if you work in a delivery company as an excellent supplier, be it a door-to-door or pick-up station supplier, you need to keep the items sheltered from damage;
- if you use the bike to and from your workstation, you need to securely lock the documents you use and other essentials without fear of damage even during bad weather;
- in case you are out shopping, you do not have to leave your bike behind because there is no room to carry your goods on. The top case will have your issues solved;
- when you need to store your heavy biking gear and helmet, there is no better choice than locking them in a place convenient for retrieval when you need them.
It is almost impossible to list all the benefits of having a high-quality, spacious motorcycle top box.
You might be interested in this motorcycle tail bag with a bottle holder. This is a very convenient, inexpensive, and stylish option for additional storage space:
Motorcycle Top Box Review – Find the Best Option Here
- AUTOINBOX Universal Motorcycle Rear Top Box – Tail Trunk Luggage
- Comie Motorcycle Tour Tail Box – Extra Large Motorcycle Top Box
- Yescom 30L Adventure Motorcycle Top Case – Good Rated Top Box For Motorcycle
- Chase Harper 4200 – Hideaway Tail Trunk
- EGO BIKE – Best Top Box For Motorcycle
- MMG – Top Tail Trunk Luggage Box
- Emgo 72 32440 Travel Trunk – Good Option for Traveling
Many beginners find themselves in a difficult situation when making a motor case purchase. This is despite the many choices available for buying. I have, therefore, seen it essential to review the best motorcycle cases to make this process straightforward for you.
Everything you need to know is in the blog underneath. I will go a step ahead to pick the best item that will fit your spending limit and quality expectations.
1. AUTOINBOX Universal Motorcycle Rear Top Box – Tail Trunk Luggage
The Autoinbox top case is built in modern-day technology for the best biking experience. The most important feature to consider is its vast capacity. It measures 22.6 inches long, 17.9 inches wide, and 12 inches deep. This volume is more than enough for storing your helmet and all biking gear.
Next to consider is the safety of your luggage. There are a lock-in place and two keys in provision. To ensure the goods stored do not sway as you race, a strap cord has been attached. The box will perfectly fit any bike. It is straightforward to install, and the process has been simplified further by the provision of an installation manual.
All you need is to mount the case on the bike rack that has been provided. The case is dust and waterproof. Your luggage will be well sheltered from damage even when you use the box during bad weather. The only con is that the case lacks led lights though there are reflectors fitted for quick spotting of the case during the night.
The cost is also a bit high, but the material the case is made of and its vast capacity, deserve it. The quality should compel you to buy the box. I profoundly recommend you buy it, as it will serve beyond your imagination.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- Durable
- Large to accommodate most of your luggage
- A good fit for many bikes
- Secure as it can be locked
- There is a strap cord mounted
- It is a bit expensive
- There are no led lights
2. Comie Motorcycle Tour Tail Box – Extra Large Motorcycle Top Box
The case is perfect, but it is hard to be installed on your luggage rack. The seller is providing the required hardware for mounting the item. It is lightweight and contains a handle for easy portability when not installed on the bike. Your customer’s comfort has been ensured through the fitted softback.
The case can hold a two-sized helmet and all biking gear. Its dimensions are 22.3 by 17.3 by 12.6, corresponding to length, width, and height. There are different colors that will enable you to pick your bike’s best match. It has a lock and two keys that are included in the package.
It comes at a favorable price, and its quality is not compromised. The case is not waterproof. Using it during rainy seasons might lead to damage to goods. You do not have to drill the box to install it. There is some caution you should take when mounting it. Do not fix the screws too tightly as it will lead to damage to the base.
Given the cost and quality of the box, I profoundly recommend you buy it without hesitation. Not forgetting the way the box is made for all bikes. Finding your choice here should not be a concern.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- Easy to mount
- Huge capacity
- Sturdy
- High quality
- The case is not waterproof
3. Yescom 30L Adventure Motorcycle Top Case – Good Rated Top Box For Motorcycle
In case you are under a strict spending limit, then I see no other affordable and high-quality evidence to suit your needs. This is the cheapest case I have come across in my reviews. It is, however, a bit small for two-sized helmets. It measures 16 inches wide, 13 inches long, and 6 inches deep. You can use it to store a helmet, but not just in any position. It must be on the curved space inside.
You can easily lock the case, and there are two keys provided at delivery. Installing is straightforward as there is no drilling required. All the necessary fixing accessories are provided. The case is lightweight, and it can be easily removed and carried so that it doesn’t stay in bad weather for long. You cannot unmount the case unless it is unlocked. That’s a security-added feature.
Comfort has been ensured through the soft backrest. The motorcycle’s aluminum top case is fitted with reflectors although there is no led lighting. Given its price, you do not expect the case to be made of the densest and most sturdy exterior. It, however, does the job to your satisfaction, and it is durable. Resilience and low cost are two primary reasons why I highly recommend you to buy the item. You can use it when you do not have to carry a bigger box with you.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- Low price
- Easy to fix as there is no drilling required
- Removable
- Secure
- Quality is a bit low
- Small
4. Chase Harper 4200 – Hideaway Tail Trunk
When I first came across the item listed among the motorcycle top cases, I thought it was a listing error and scrolled without checking. The price also made me think it would be a waste of money to buy a bag and mount it on my bike. The images available do not disclose the quality of the bag thoroughly.
Since making a purchase, the chase harper motorcycle luggage carrier has met my expectations beyond imagination. First is the superior quality of the bag. I wondered what was in the seller’s mind when they offered a lifetime warranty on the product. Durability here is the last thing to worry about. The bag is small, but it will fit most of your essentials with ease. It is foldable for secure storage and transportation.
I use the bag to carry my laptop, and even during the rainy season. I have my goods protected as it is waterproof. The chase harper luggage bag will not tear easily, and it is highly durable. The straps are elastic, and you can use them as a backpack. You can use it on any bike, with no stressful mounting or drilling.
Given its universal applications, I see no reason why you shouldn’t take advantage of the low price and have a quality that lasts a lifetime. Your safety is a significant concern as the bag has been fitted with highly reflective materials. I profoundly recommend you buy the item as stock lasts. Do not miss this super brand.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- Highly durable
- Water-resistant
- Affordable
- Foldable
- Protected by a lifetime warranty
- Small
5. EGO BIKE – Best Top Box For Motorcycle
Built in the most spectacular design to fit any biker’s requirements, the box is more than you need for a safe ride. It is enormous to accommodate two sizeable helmets with its 21 by 14.5 by 10-inch dimension. The back has been crafted to offer the comfort you are looking for.
There is a compatibility issue as the aluminum top box motorcycle can only fit in an 8 by 8-inch rack. You will additionally be required to drill the base for mounting. The case is a bit complicated to install, and it never came with a manual. It is water-resistant, and you have little to fear concerning your goods’ damage during bad weather. It is made of high-quality material that will not wear out quickly.
Your luggage security comes as a concern to the manufacturer as the box is lockable and keys are provided on delivery. Most products under my reviews lacked led lighting, but it has been included in the box. Your safety is highly considered as the light will be easily visible to all motorists. The cost is moderate due to its high-quality product. I highly recommend you make a purchase. Your expectations will be met and exceeded.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- High quality
- Durable
- Fitted with led lighting
- Huge capacity
- Complicated to install
- Has some compatibility issues
6. MMG – Top Tail Trunk Luggage Box
To anyone looking for a mid-sized motorcycle case, you need to stop the hassle and settle on this. The top-case motorcycle is made of durable plastic which makes it sturdy. It measures 16.5 by 15.7 by 12 inches. It can hold a helmet and a pair of gloves.
Mounting the case is easy as all the hardware you require is provided. The case has been made to fit a wide variety of scooters and bikes. However, you may be required to drill some holes in the case to ensure it matches the existing ones on the mounting board. The base is built of high-quality and durable material that will shield it from breakage.
The safety of the goods inside is nothing to worry about, as the case is lockable with two keys in provision. For enhanced visibility during the night, the case has been fitted with high-quality reflective material. It is lightweight for transporting wherever you want. You can also remove the case easily in case you do not need to use it.
The box is the perfect choice for starters. You will spend little and get a high-quality product. I recommend you buy it if you intend to use it on a small or mid-sized scooter or bike. For those with huge bikes, there is a variety of choices to consider.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- Lightweight for easy portability
- Removable
- Easy to install
- Sturdy
- Suitable for small and mid-sized bikes
- You may be required to drill to mount it
7. Emgo 72 32440 Travel Trunk – Good Option for Traveling
The Emgo top case is the best motor case I have ever used. It is designed to meet all the needs of a biker. The size of your luggage is the least of your worries as the trunk measures 16.5 long, 12 inches wide by 11 inches deep. Whether you want a case to put your documents in, this is the carrier to go for.
Your luggage security has been enhanced, as there is a lock-in place that comes with a couple of keys in case you misplace one. The key remains in the lock until you have closed it. There is a mounting board provided, with no holes on the lower part. Therefore, you will be required to drill the holes for easy clamping. That remains the only drawback I have come across in the five months I have been using the item.
It is made of a tough exterior that doesn’t crack easily. Inbox your bike falls, rest assured of having your luggage safe as you placed it. The surface doesn’t get damaged as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun. Even if you use it during the rainy season, your goods will remain perfectly sheltered from water.
The cost is affordable and favorable to all. I see no reason why you shouldn’t buy the item. Using it has been fun, and it is close to impossible to get such a high-quality product at a bargain. No matter the bike you are riding, you will find a way of fixing the case and enjoy the benefit of a well-crafted product. I highly recommend you buy the item. With the Emgo travel trunk, regret upon purchase is a thing of the past.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]- High quality
- Affordable
- Contains a lock and keys
- Durable and robust against all weather
- You need to drill it to fix the case
A Step-By-Step Buying Guide
Under this section, you will find the most important aspects to consider when making a motor case purchase.
Design of saddlebags
Top cases come in different layouts so that you can pick the best match for your bike. The more important to consider is the softness or sturdiness of the case. I have reviewed six hard-top cases and one soft bag. In terms of durability, hard cases tend to live long without wearing out.
The quality of the hard cases is nothing to worry about, and neither is their ability to prevent water from damaging your goods. Although portability when un-mounted may be hindered due to bulkiness, the hard case serves well and some are handled for easiness in transportation.
Capacity
Depending on your preference, top boxes come in two most common sizes: a 23-liter and 43-liter capacity. The 23-liter volume case is suitable for holding only one helmet, whereas the extra-large motorcycle top box 43-liter one can store two helmets and other essential accessories.
The more significant capacity case is useful in the event you put the bike into frequent use and have lots of luggage to carry. When riding for short distances or at your workplace, you can use the smaller one without fear of inconvenience.
Ease of installation
You need a case that is straightforward to install. Some situations require drilling to mount, but others are flawlessly crafted from the industry to fit in the place you would like them to. I recommend you go for a box that gives you no stress when fixing and removing.
Weather resistance
Wherever you are, a case for frequent use needs to shelter your goods from dust or rain. Whether it is a laptop or documents you are carrying, bad weather should not hinder you from going on with your daily activity.
FAQ
Do I need a motorcycle top box?
If you’re looking for a way to add more storage to your bike, a top box is a great option. They can also keep your belongings safe while you’re away from your bike. However, they’re not for everyone. Some top boxes can be quite expensive. So, we’ve put together a list of our favorite top boxes to help you choose the right one for your needs.
How to mount a motorcycle with a top box?
How To Fit A Top Box?
- Position the mount. First, find the recommended mounting points for your bike model in the instructions. Some common mounting points are the grab rail, top shock, or standard rack. Next, remove the stock parts that are currently attached at those points. Finally, attach the new brackets loosely.
- Position the mount. After you have your brackets attached not too tightly, put the mounting plate in position and connect it to the brackets. If the mounting plates have different holes, be sure to follow the instructions so you attach them to the right ones. Once you have everything on, check to be sure there is enough space around the tail unit, and then tighten the bolts on the brackets and the mounting plate. If your kit came with grommets or plugs, use them to give a nicer appearance.
- Attaching your top case. After you have everything ready and in its place, you can put it on your top box and begin your journey.
Closing Remarks
As promised, I will provide my top choice for the best motorcycle top box. The emgo motorcycle trunk is my preferred choice. Its cost is considerably low, and it has a high capacity that is adequate to carry two sizeable helmets. I have used the case for so long, and therefore its durability is not a concern. I profoundly recommend you choose the item as it will solve all your luggage transportation problems for a lifetime.
The product is inseparable from the chase harper bag. It is tear-resistant and waterproof. It is the only bag under my review, but it is worth the value of high-end and costly hard-top cases. If you need a motorcycle soft top case that’s multipurpose, then the item should come second to none in your choice. It is durable and a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer puts all your purchasing doubts away.
Given the high number of people who do not use motorcycle cases, I hope the blog will help them realize the much you have been missing and settle on one of the reviewed products. If you are yet to find a perfect match for your bike, comment, and I will help until you get the best quality at your spending limit.
What is your experience using bike boxes? Would you recommend a friend to use the product? I will leave the comment section open for any questions regarding motorcycle top boxes.
Bruce was born in Atlanta. He started riding motorcycles when he was 10 and has been passionate about them since. Bruce says he feels absolute freedom when he’s on two wheels. He prefers riding his bike slowly and smoothly along a country road and hardly ever enjoys wildly speedy rides. With a strong Ducati Multistrada 1200 in the current stable, Bruce enjoys his super powerful, comfortable and easy rides. Ducati Diavel is the beast he’s currently dreaming about…
Hello, Max! My name’s Daniel. First of all, I wanted to say that I really love this site and what you guys do for it. I also wanted to thank you for your reviews and articles because I always find them useful. By the way, I’m an amateur cycler, and I got my first bike only two years ago, so you’re helping me with a lot of questions I have as a newbie. It’s really cool to have such quality information from professionals in free access, and I hope that you guys will keep on doing your thing.
This review is also great. I got here because my friends got me a comie motorcycle top case for my bday. And once I’m here, I wanted to ask you a question. Among the reviewed top cases, there are some without brake lights on them as well as the comie one. Can you please give the information on how to install extra brake lights on a motorcycle top case? Or maybe it is better to go to the local service station? I’m looking forward to your answer!
Hi, Daniel! Thanks for your kind words. This is what actually aspires us to write and keep on updating this blog 🙂
Transport lightning is a totally important thing. It is especially necessary for the dark time of the day and in poor visibility. Driving on public roads without lights or with faulty lighting is prohibited by the rules because its absence can trigger an accident.
As for the question you’ve asked, I don’t really think that you need extra brake lights if your motorcycle already has them. However, a couple of months ago, a good friend of mine asked me to install some extra lights on his brand new top case. This was done to make the bike more noticeable on the road. So, the task was to get the LED backlight that will serve as a duplicate brake light and sidelight of the bike. At the same time, the convenience of using a case should not suffer.
Since the case will be used for its intended purpose, I used the flat LED strips that were placed between the case surface and red reflectors (so that we don’t ruin the case). I recommend using red strips. To realize the brake signal function, I’ve decided to use the same tapes as for the sidelights, changing only the brightness of their glow.
To do this, I’ve created a special system that changes the level of the voltage and therefore changes the brightness of the lights. Connect the common wire, running and brake lights, and the LED strip to the output. This system should be placed behind the central reflector. After that, put the tapes behind the diffusers and seal the seams with silicone sealant.
Put the wire inside the case and fix it so that it does not get destroyed when closing. Then, pull it out through the sealed rubber ring. Remember that you have to move your top case without problems, so set a sealed moisture-proof connector on the wire and connect additional wiring to the existing brake light.
That’s all. I believe that with this simple guide, you won’t need to go to the service stations.