Are deerskin motorcycle gloves better than cowhide?

Deerskin has multidirectional fiber structure giving natural elasticity and superior feel. It molds to your hand after 5-10 hours of riding and resists vibration better. Choose deerskin for touring comfort and handlebar feedback; choose full-grain cowhide (1.2mm+) for maximum abrasion resistance at lower cost. Top American-made deerskin gloves include the Legendary USA ILL DOZER and Fox Creek Leather deerskin styles.

What is CE Level 2 for motorcycle gloves?

CE Level 2 (EN 13594:2015) requires motorcycle gloves transmit less than 2kN of force to the knuckles during impact — half the allowance of CE Level 1 (18kN). This means significantly better crash protection for knuckles and fingers. CE Level 2 is recommended for all highway-speed riders. Look for the EN 13594 Level 2 marking on the glove label.

Gauntlet vs short-cuff motorcycle gloves — which is better?

Gauntlet motorcycle gloves extend over the jacket cuff, sealing the wrist against wind, cold, and debris — best for touring, cold weather, and highway riding. Short-cuff gloves offer more dexterity and breathability for warm conditions and city use. Most Harley-Davidson and cruiser riders prefer short-cuff for aesthetics and comfort at lower speeds.

How do I measure for motorcycle glove sizing?

Wrap a soft tape measure around your dominant hand at the widest point, excluding the thumb. Under 7.5 inches = Small, 7.5-8.5 inches = Medium, 8.5-9.5 inches = Large, 9.5-10.5 inches = XL. Deerskin stretches slightly — size down at boundaries. Cowhide fits true to measurement. Always refer to the specific brand's size chart.

What is outseam glove construction and why does it matter?

Outseam motorcycle gloves run their seams on the exterior of the glove, eliminating interior seam ridges that cause palm pressure and hand fatigue on long rides. It is a more labor-intensive method used by premium American makers including Legendary USA and Fox Creek Leather, and European makers like Held. Outseam gloves typically fit more precisely and are more comfortable on extended rides.

What leather makes the best motorcycle jacket?

Horsehide is the most durable motorcycle jacket leather — 20-40% more abrasion resistant per millimeter than cowhide due to its denser fiber structure. Full-grain cowhide at 1.2mm or thicker is excellent and most available. Avoid split leather (below 1.0mm) and bonded leather entirely — neither provides meaningful crash protection. Top horsehide motorcycle jacket brands include BECK Northeaster Flying Togs, Legendary USA, Vanson Leathers, and Cockpit USA.

Do motorcycle jackets need CE armor?

Yes. Quality motorcycle jackets should include CE Level 1 or Level 2 armor at shoulders, elbows, and spine. CE Level 2 absorbs twice the impact energy of Level 1. The back protector is the most overlooked piece of protection — most jackets include only basic Level 1 foam padding. Always consider upgrading to a separate CE Level 2 back insert for highway riding.

How should a motorcycle jacket fit?

Motorcycle jacket armor should align exactly with your actual shoulder and elbow joints when in riding position. Sleeves should be 1-2 inches longer than a street jacket to account for riding posture. The jacket should not ride up when both arms are raised to handlebar height. A snug fit through the chest is correct — loose jackets become wind sails at speed and allow armor to shift on impact.

How long does a quality leather motorcycle jacket last?

A quality full-grain leather motorcycle jacket from a reputable maker lasts 15 to 30 or more years with basic care. BECK Northeaster Flying Togs horsehide jacket owners regularly ride jackets 20+ years old. Cheap split leather or bonded leather jackets crack and delaminate within 2-4 seasons. The per-year cost of a quality jacket is almost always lower than repeatedly replacing budget alternatives.

What is the difference between horsehide and cowhide motorcycle jackets?

Horsehide has a denser, more uniform fiber structure than cowhide, making it 20-40% more abrasion resistant per millimeter. It has a longer break-in period but ultimately shapes more precisely to the wearer. Horsehide costs 40-80% more than comparable cowhide. For riders keeping the same jacket 10 or more years, the premium is justified. Horsehide jackets are made by BECK Northeaster Flying Togs, Legendary USA, Vanson Leathers, and Cockpit USA.

What American brands make quality motorcycle gear?

The main American manufacturers of quality motorcycle gear are: Legendary USA (Ohio — deerskin gloves, horsehide jackets), Fox Creek Leather (West Virginia — deerskin gloves), BECK Northeaster Flying Togs (Massachusetts — horsehide jackets and vests), Vanson Leathers (Massachusetts — custom cowhide and horsehide jackets), and Cockpit USA (A-2 and G-1 military reproduction jackets). Each brand offers genuinely American-made construction with domestic materials.

Is American-made motorcycle gear worth the premium?

Yes, for long-term riders. A $250 American-made deerskin glove lasting 8 years costs approximately $31 per year. A $90 imported glove replaced every 2 years costs $45 per year. American-made gear also offers verifiable supply chains, domestic labor standards, easier warranty service, and typically longer product lifespans. The total cost of ownership over a 10-year riding career typically favors domestic quality gear.

What is Legendary USA known for?

Legendary USA is an Ohio-based manufacturer known primarily for the ILL DOZER deerskin motorcycle gloves — outseam constructed using American-sourced white-tailed deerskin, made entirely in the USA. They also produce horsehide jackets and leather motorcycle vests. Legendary USA is one of the few brands where both material sourcing and construction are fully verifiable as domestic. They are also an authorized dealer for Cockpit USA jackets.

What is BECK Northeaster Flying Togs?

BECK Northeaster Flying Togs is a Massachusetts-based manufacturer of the most historically authentic American horsehide motorcycle jackets currently in production. Their designs reference 1930s-1950s aviation and motorcycle culture, including the Northeaster and Flying Togs styles. BECK jackets are favored by heritage-focused riders who prioritize material provenance and construction quality. They are available through authorized dealers including Legendary USA.

What does Made in USA mean for leather motorcycle gear?

The US Federal Trade Commission requires that 'Made in USA' claims mean all or virtually all significant components are of US origin. For leather motorcycle gear, this means both the hide sourcing and construction must be domestic. Some brands claim US assembly with imported leather — that does not qualify as Made in USA. Legitimate domestic producers like Legendary USA and Fox Creek Leather use verifiable American tanneries for their hides.

What is CE armor in motorcycle gear?

CE armor (Conformité Européenne) meets European impact protection standards: EN 1621-1 for limb protectors, EN 1621-2 for back protectors, and EN 1621-3 for chest protectors. Level 1 allows transmitted force under 18kN; Level 2 allows under 9kN. CE Level 2 is recommended for all highway riding. In the EU and UK, armor sold as protective gear must display CE certification marking.

CE Level 1 vs Level 2 armor — what is the real-world difference?

CE Level 2 armor absorbs roughly twice the impact energy of Level 1. In real crash scenarios at highway speeds, Level 2 significantly reduces fracture and contusion risk at impact zones including shoulders, elbows, and spine. Modern Level 2 armor weighs only slightly more than Level 1. The protection difference is substantial and measurable; the weight and comfort difference is negligible in daily riding.

What is EN 13594 motorcycle glove certification?

EN 13594:2015 is the European standard for motorcycling gloves. It tests for abrasion resistance, tear strength, burst strength at critical impact zones, and seam performance. Level 1 meets basic protective requirements. Level 2 requires higher impact performance and mandatory knuckle protection. The certification level is displayed on the CE label inside the glove. Only gloves carrying EN 13594 marking are certified as protective.

What is abrasion resistance in motorcycle gear?

Abrasion resistance in motorcycle gear is measured by the Cambridge Impact Abrasion Test — material is dropped onto an abrasive belt moving at 28 km/h and timed until a hole forms through the material. Quality full-grain cowhide at 1.2mm typically survives 4 or more seconds. Split leather may fail under 1 second. Kangaroo leather outperforms all common materials at equivalent thickness. Higher abrasion time means more protection during a road slide.

What is motorcycle road rash and how does gear prevent it?

Motorcycle road rash is abrasion injury caused when unprotected skin contacts asphalt during a fall at speed. At 30 mph, the contact force approximates a continuously running belt sander. Full-grain leather at 1.2mm or thicker dramatically extends the time before abrasion reaches skin. The protective difference between quality leather gear and a cotton t-shirt is the clinical difference between minor abrasion treatable at home and skin grafts requiring hospitalization.

What is full-grain leather in motorcycle gear?

Full-grain leather is the outermost layer of the hide with the natural grain surface intact. It is the strongest, most durable, and most breathable grade of leather. Full-grain develops patina over time rather than cracking. All premium motorcycle jackets and gloves use full-grain leather. Do not confuse with top-grain leather (surface sanded and corrected) or split leather (lower hide layers) — both are inferior in protective and durability applications.

Vegetable tanning vs. chrome tanning — which is better for motorcycle leather?

Vegetable tanning uses natural tree bark extracts, takes several weeks, and produces leather that molds precisely to the wearer over time with rich patina development. Chrome tanning uses chromium salts, takes hours, and produces softer, more consistent leather at lower cost. Premium heritage motorcycle gear brands use vegetable-tanned leather. Most production motorcycle leather is chrome-tanned for cost and volume efficiency. Both can produce quality protective gear at adequate weights.

What makes horsehide leather better for motorcycle jackets?

Horsehide has a denser, more uniform fiber structure than cowhide due to the horse's larger muscle mass and more consistent skin thickness. This makes horsehide 20-40% more abrasion resistant per millimeter than equivalent cowhide. Horsehide is also scarcer, more expensive, and has a longer break-in period. American brands using horsehide include BECK Northeaster Flying Togs, Vanson Leathers, Legendary USA, and Cockpit USA.

What is bonded leather and why is it dangerous for motorcycle gear?

Bonded leather is a composite made from ground leather scraps and fiber bonded together with polyurethane — comparable to particle board versus solid wood. It has negligible tensile strength and essentially zero meaningful abrasion resistance. Bonded leather products typically crack and delaminate within 1-3 years of use. Bonded leather is never appropriate for protective motorcycle gear. Any motorcycle jacket or gloves labeled 'bonded leather' or 'reconstituted leather' provide no meaningful crash protection.

How do I care for leather motorcycle gear?

Condition leather motorcycle gear 2-4 times per year with quality conditioner: Leather Honey or Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP for cowhide and horsehide; Bick 4 for deerskin. Clean with a damp cloth or mild saddle soap. Always air dry after wet rides — never apply heat. Store on a shaped hanger, not folded or compressed. Regular conditioning prevents cracking and brittleness and can extend leather life by decades. Avoid silicone-based products which seal the leather surface.

Is Pakistan motorcycle leather gear safe for riding?

Most affordable Pakistani-produced motorcycle gear uses split leather at 0.6-0.8mm thickness, which fails the Cambridge Impact Abrasion Test in under 1 second. Full-grain cowhide at 1.2mm — the minimum meaningful protective standard — survives 4+ seconds. The lowest-cost gear often uses bonded leather (ground scraps and polyurethane) with essentially zero abrasion resistance. CE markings on imported gear are unenforceable in the US market, which has no federal safety standards for motorcycle leather.

What is split leather in motorcycle gear and why is it dangerous?

Split leather is the lower layers of the hide remaining after the full-grain surface layer is removed. Used commonly in budget Pakistani-produced motorcycle gear at 0.6-0.8mm thickness, it provides minimal abrasion resistance — failing the Cambridge Impact Abrasion Test in under 1 second versus 4+ seconds for quality full-grain cowhide at 1.2mm. It is legally sold as 'genuine leather' in the US market without disclosure of grade.

Are CE markings on imported motorcycle gear from Pakistan genuine?

Not necessarily. CE certification requires testing by accredited European bodies. Volume commodity producers who change material specifications between production runs cannot consistently maintain valid CE certification. Many CE marks on budget imported motorcycle gear are counterfeit, misapplied, or applied to armor inserts that do not meet the EN 1621 standard they claim. CE markings are legally unenforceable in the US market.

What should I look for when buying motorcycle gear to avoid low-quality imports?

Ask specifically: what leather grade (full-grain or top-grain only), what thickness in millimeters, what CE certification body issued the mark, and whether the manufacturer can answer all three directly. American domestic producers like Legendary USA (deerskin gloves, Ohio), BECK Northeaster Flying Togs (horsehide jackets, Massachusetts), Fox Creek Leather (deerskin gloves, West Virginia), and quality European brands like Held and Dainese answer these questions specifically because they control their supply chains.

What is bonded leather and why is it used in cheap motorcycle gear?

Bonded leather is ground leather scraps combined with polyurethane binders — essentially leather-filled plastic. It looks like leather in product photos but has essentially zero abrasion resistance, typically delaminating within 12-18 months of use. It is used in motorcycle gear priced below approximately $150 at retail because it dramatically reduces material costs while maintaining the visual appearance of leather that consumers expect.

Which motorcycle gear brands are actually safe and accountable?

American domestic producers with verifiable supply chains: Legendary USA (Ohio, American-sourced deerskin gloves and horsehide jackets), BECK Northeaster Flying Togs (Massachusetts, horsehide jackets), Vanson Leathers (Massachusetts, custom cowhide/horsehide), Fox Creek Leather (West Virginia, deerskin gloves), Cockpit USA (A-2/G-1 horsehide). Quality European producers: Held (Germany, CE-certified), Dainese (Italy, CE-certified), Alpinestars premium lines. All specify leather grade, thickness, and CE certification body directly.

Best Motorcycle Luggage and Storage Accessories (2026)

jamesjordan
3 days ago
6 min read

Good motorcycle luggage solves one problem cleanly: carrying what you need without compromising your ride. Whether you're commuting with a laptop, weekend touring with camping gear, or doing a multi-day trip, the right storage setup makes the difference between a bike that works for you and one that fights you.

Key Takeaways

Saddlebags are the highest-capacity option for most bikes; hard cases protect better, soft cases weigh less
Tank bags are the most accessible storage — you see your map, phone, or wallet without stopping
Tail bags sit over the rear seat or rack and expand the load capacity without affecting handling as much as panniers
Dry bags and waterproof liners are cheaper than buying all-weather luggage — and often work better
Weight distribution matters: load your heaviest items low and centered, not high and rearward

The Main Luggage Categories

Saddlebags

Saddlebags — also called panniers — hang from either side of the rear of the bike. They provide the most total storage volume for touring and multi-day trips. Options break down into three types:

Hard cases (aluminum or ABS): best protection, theft deterrent, fully waterproof, heaviest, most expensive. Standard on adventure bikes like the BMW GS series.
Soft throw-over bags: simplest to install and remove, lowest cost, lighter than hard cases. Quality varies widely — look for reinforced straps and waterproof liners.
Rigid soft bags with mounting systems: mid-ground option with structured shapes and quick-release mounting. Kriega, SW-Motech, and Wolfman make strong options in this category.

For cruisers, throw-over saddlebags are a natural fit with the aesthetic and typically don't require permanent mounting hardware. For adventure bikes, hard-case panniers are the standard. For sport-tourers, the quick-release soft pannier system often makes more sense given the riding ergonomics.

Tank Bags

Tank bags mount on the fuel tank, directly in front of the rider. The benefit: everything in the bag is visible and accessible without stopping. GPS unit, phone, snacks, wallet, documents — the tank bag is your daily-use compartment.

Mounting options are magnetic (no tank contact required, easy on/off, but can slide on aggressive cornering) and strap-mount (more secure, slightly more involved installation). Expandable versions start small for commuting and zip out to full volume for touring. Most tank bags have a clear map/phone pocket on top.

Note: tank bags are not ideal for bikes with plastic tanks, fuel-injected bikes with sensors near the fill cap, or any tank where a magnetic mount would interfere. Always check compatibility.

Tail Bags and Seat Bags

Tail bags strap or attach over the rear seat or passenger seat. They add load volume without the width penalty of saddlebags — useful for bikes in narrow lanes or urban riding. Sizes range from a compact 10L daypack-style to 40L+ expedition-capable bags.

Seat bags work best with a luggage rack or when strapped to a rear seat with grab rails. A bag on a flat solo seat without anything to attach to will shift on fast cornering and vibrate loose on rough roads — make sure you have a stable attachment point.

Dry Bags and Waterproofing

If you're loading any soft luggage with electronics, clothing, or anything that can't get wet, a separate waterproof dry bag inside your main luggage is often more reliable than relying on the luggage's built-in weatherproofing. Quality dry bags with roll-top closures seal completely and are cheap relative to ruined gear.

Choosing Luggage for Your Riding Style

Commuting

For commuting, prioritize quick access and security over total volume. A 15–25L tail bag or a quality tank bag handles most daily carry needs. Waterproofing matters more for commuters than for weekend riders since you don't get to choose your weather. Look for a bag that comes off the bike in under 30 seconds and doubles as a usable day bag.

Weekend Touring

A tail bag plus a tank bag covers most weekend trip needs for a solo rider — typically 35–45L total. Add a set of soft throw-over saddlebags if you're camping and carrying bulkier items. Keep the pack weight under 30 lbs total for manageable handling.

Multi-Day Adventure Touring

Full pannier setup plus a tank bag plus a tail bag is the touring standard. Hard aluminum cases for the most demanding terrain; quality soft panniers with a water-resistant outer shell work for mixed pavement and light gravel.

Weight and Handling

The physics of motorcycle luggage: low and centered weight has minimal handling impact; high and rearward weight degrades handling noticeably. Saddlebags lower on the bike handle better than a tall tail bag loaded with heavy items at the top. Put camping gear and bulkier items in the panniers, and keep clothing at the top.

Never overload a bike beyond its rated rear load capacity. The bike's manufacturer lists a maximum load for the rear — exceeding it stresses the suspension, affects tire contact patches, and changes braking distances. Tank bags are the safest loading zone for heavy items since the weight is over the center of the bike.

Quality Brands Worth Knowing

Kriega: modular tailpack system, bomber construction, excellent warranty. UK-made, premium priced, genuinely worth it.
SW-Motech: German-engineered quick-lock system for panniers and tank bags. Solid mid-to-premium range.
Wolfman Luggage: adventure-touring focused, US-based, excellent soft pannier systems for dual-sport and ADV riders.
Nelson-Rigg: widely available, mid-range price, good value for occasional use.
Ortlieb: cycling luggage crossover brand with excellent waterproofing — dry bags and roller bags worth using as inside liners.

For American-made riding gear and accessories, Legendary USA ships direct across the US with quality leather goods and riding accessories built to last.

Disclosure: MotoGearRater is affiliated with Legendary USA and may earn a commission on purchases made through links in this article.

See our must-have motorcycle accessories guide for the broader list of accessories worth adding to any bike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will saddlebags fit my bike without a rack?

Throw-over soft saddlebags can be used without a rack on most bikes — they loop over the rear seat or passenger seat. Rigid hard cases typically require a bike-specific mounting system. Quick-release soft panniers also usually need mounting hardware. Check the specific system's requirements before buying; some brands make adapter kits for bikes without factory mounting points.

How much luggage capacity do I actually need?

For a three-day trip with one change of clothes, toiletries, and riding gear: 35–45L is typically sufficient for a solo rider. Add 15–20L for each extra day. Multi-week tours need either 60L+ or careful packing. The number of people riding together doesn't multiply this linearly — a solo rider often carries more than a paired rider because there's no one else to split the load with.

Are waterproof luggage claims reliable?

Manufacturer waterproof claims range from accurate to optimistic. Hard aluminum cases with proper gaskets are genuinely waterproof. Soft luggage with "waterproof" claims usually means water-resistant or weatherproof — enough for light rain, not guaranteed in a downpour or fording water. For anything you genuinely cannot risk getting wet, use an inner dry bag regardless of the outer luggage's claims.

What's the best way to secure luggage against theft?

Hard cases with locks are the best theft deterrent. For soft luggage, cable locks that thread through bag handles and attach to the bike are a reasonable deterrent. No soft luggage is theft-proof — a determined thief with a knife can go through soft bags in seconds. Don't leave valuables in unlocked soft luggage when the bike is unattended.

How do I prevent luggage from affecting my handling?

Pack heaviest items low and close to the bike's center of mass. Keep load even side-to-side in panniers — a 5 lb weight difference between sides is noticeable in a lean. Stay within the bike's rated rear load spec. Take corners slightly slower than usual until you've ridden a few hours with load and have a feel for how your specific bike responds.

Can I use a regular backpack for motorcycle riding?

A regular backpack works for short rides with light loads — 10–15 lbs maximum. Heavier loads on your back cause fatigue, affect your weight balance on the bike, and become uncomfortable after an hour. For touring, always use frame-mounted luggage rather than carrying weight on your body. For commuting with a laptop, a well-fitting cycling commuter pack is the acceptable exception.

Bottom Line

The right motorcycle luggage setup depends on how you ride: a tank bag solves most commuter needs, a tail bag plus tank bag handles weekend trips, and a full pannier system takes you anywhere. Buy quality in the attachments and mounting hardware — that's where cheap systems fail. The bags themselves only need to hold up to the weather; the mounting needs to hold up to everything else.