Motorcycle Top Boxes: Essential Storage Solution for Every Rider

By Steven Harrisson, July 18, 2024

Being a motorcyclist isn’t easy. It’s a free lifestyle and it’s great for travelling but there are many challenges. One of those challenges is transporting your gear and other things from one place to another on the motorcycle. While backpacks and saddlebags are a common solution, they often fall short when it comes to convenience and capacity. This is where the amazing motorcycle top box comes into play. These devices are the ultimate answer for anyone looking to carry a decent amount of cargo without compromising on comfort and safety. 

What is a Top Box?

top-box
source: motorcycletourer.com

A motorcycle top box, or a top case, is a hard lockable storage unit that attaches to the rear of your box. They are usually made from durable materials such as aluminium and they offer a secure and weatherproof space to keep your belongings, whether you’re commuting to work, going on a weekend trip or running errands around town. These boxes come in various shapes and designs, ensuring that there’s an option to suit every rider’s needs and bike style.  Are topboxes safe? These boxes are relatively safe as some of them come with locking lids, so your things can be locked inside them without you having to worry about them.

Benefits 

Instaling these top boxes provides more benefits than you can imagine, from convenience to comfort and safety. So, let’s name some of these benefits.  Their primary advantage is the capacity. Unlike saddlebags that hang on the sides of the motorcycle, they sit securely on the back offering a generous amount of storage space without adding width to your bike. This means you can navigate through traffic and tight spots easily and without fear. 

Another benefit is the weather protection they offer. Depending on the material they’re made of, they protect against rain, snow or dust, keeping your gear dry and clean. This is particularly useful for those who ride in all weather conditions be it rain or sunshine. You can enjoy the ride with peace of mind.

Comfort is another key benefit. Carrying a backpack can be a literal pain in the neck after a while, especially on longer rides when it’s heavy on your back. With these boxes the weight is distributed on the bike rather than your body, reducing fatigue, and improving overall riding comfort and experience.  It also improves safety. Carrying a heavy backpack weighs you down and is dangerous in case of a crash. Having your belongings in a top box makes it easier for you to save yourself in any type of accident.

What to Look For?

motorcycle-top-box
source: rideapart.com

Now that you know the benefits, it’s time to move on and focus on the things you need to consider when buying a top box. The first and foremost feature is the size. As mentioned, they come in different sizes and capacities, so you need to think about what you typically carry and choose a box with enough capacity to accommodate it. If you carry a laptop, helmet or even groceries, make sure that the box can fit these items comfortably without having to squeeze them. 

Then you have the material of the box. There are many types, some are made from plastic which is more affordable and lightweight, but might not be as durable as others. Aluminium boxes, on the other hand, tend to be more robust and can take a bit more beating, making them ideal for those riders who like to go out and ride in the wild or like to travel for a longer time on their bikes. Additionally, look for features like waterproof seals and easy-to-use locking mechanisms, to make this process easier for you.

Installation 

This process is generally a straightforward one, but it can vary depending on the make and model of both the box and the bike. Most top boxes come with a mounting place that needs to be attached to your back. This usually involves using a few bolts and a bit of elbow grease.  YOu can do this on your own or you can let a mechanic take care of it. Once the mounting plate is in place, the top box itself can be attached. Many top boxes have a quick-release mechanism that allows you to snap the box onto the plate and lock it in place. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully during installation to ensure a secure fit. A box that’s not correctly installed can affect your bike’s balance and stability, especially at higher specs or when carrying heavy loads.

Motorcycle top boxes are an indispensable accessory for any rider to add convenient and secure storage to their bike. They offer ample space, protect your belongings from the elements or potential theft, and enhance riding comfort by taking the load off your back. They are even more than an accessory, top boxes are an essential part of your toolkit. Whether you’re a casual rider or a hardcore adventurer there’s a top box out there that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So, get a top box, be safe and enjoy the ride.