We are asked this question all the time but unfortunately there is no easy answer. There are so many options to choose between, depending upon which model of bike you are riding. Hard luggage is a must for many of our customers; the obvious advantages are the security that it provides and the fact that it is waterproof. Also, so quick and easy to take on and off, no fiddling about with straps when you are using hard luggage! The disadvantage can be the initial outlay if you are on a budget.

Popular makes of hard luggage include Givi, Hepco & Becker and Krauser, all of which manufacture racks/fitting kits specific to bike model. When you are looking to put hard luggage on your bike, the first point to consider is “does anyone make a rack for my bike?” Once you have established this, you will have more of an idea of the options available to you. Owners of popular bikes such as the Honda Blackbird or the Suzuki Bandit will find they have a wide choice, whereas if you have a sports bike such as the GSXR, your options will be much more limited.

Many racks are now quick-release, such as the SW-Motech racks, these are fitted to the bike with 3 or 4 fitting points which are permanent, but unobtrusive. The luggage racks can then be easily put on/taken off within minutes, using quick-release bolts.

Of course many riders do not want to put hard luggage on their bike, as they do not want the look of their pride and joy spoilt by racks. This is where soft luggage comes in, and the choice here is vast from a simple tank bag to a set of throw-over panniers and a large tail pack. One of the problems with soft luggage is that it is rarely completely waterproof. The zips are usually the area of vulnerability but more and more manufacturers are combating this problem with covered zips. There is also now a wide range of waterproof bags, such as the Helen 2 Wheels range which is very versatile and can be fitted to most makes of motorbike.

Another option for sports bikes is the Ventura range of soft luggage, which is mounted on a rear rack so easy to put on and take off. When you are not using your luggage, the rack can be easily replaced with a simple grab rail.

Aluminium luggage is another alternative which has become very popular, particularly with BMWs/adventure bikes. Most of the hard luggage manufacturers have a version of this style of luggage, which is extremely tough and durable.

If you own a cruiser motorcycle, such as a Harley, you will be looking for something completely different. There is a vast array of cruiser luggage available, whether you are looking for leather panniers, Cissy bar bags, tool rolls, and rack bags. Leather panniers can be either throw-over or fitted onto a chrome tubular rack, which will be specifically designed for your model of bike. Cissy bar bags come in all shapes and sizes. Most of this luggage is manufactured in America but is available in the UK.

Any motorbike owner will know the importance of a good quality, reliable security system, as bikes are said to be more than twice as vulnerable as cars when it comes to theft. Those who use their bikes for travel regularly, or need to leave it in a public place frequently (during working hours for example) will need to think particularly carefully about their security systems and how they can protect their bike. There are a great range of locks and chains available, which are made from incredibly durable materials and will offer a high level of protection from theft. However, it is always a good idea to employ more than one security measure to increase bike protection. With this in mind, a good bike alarm system is generally the best way to secure any motorbike, and there is a wide range to choose from that should suit any user and budget.

There are a wide range of bike alarm systems available to choose from, and online suppliers may be able to provide the widest choice, often at the most competitive prices. The most basic style of bike alarm will feature a high pitched siren, which will sound in the event of a theft or attack. These generally have a range of well thought out features such as water resistant construction, low power usage, sleep modes for those who lock their bike up during the winter, and integrated remote controls with an ignition key. Although this style of bike alarm is the most basic, it can be enough for some users, and before purchasing any items customers should check if they are accredited by any well known organisations. Thatcham is the UK’s leading vehicle security system testing organisation, and works closely with the police and many manufacturers to assess and recommend the most effective vehicle protection systems. Many good bike alarm systems are accredited by Thatcham, and this mark of quality can help to reduce insurance rates and improve any motorbike’s security.

For those who would like additional security from their bike alarm, a model with an integrated immobiliser may be a good option. These add another aspect of security to any bike, and many people prefer to use an alarm and immobiliser combination unit, to provide these different styles of protection simultaneously. These alarm and immobiliser systems should again all have well thought out features such as waterproofing and back up sirens. They will vary in price depending on the amount of extras that are provided, and some should come with the option of fitting included in the price. This is a great service to look for, as fitting can often be expensive and time consuming. Finding a company that will deliver the item and fit it upon delivery is a great idea, and will keep any unexpected extra costs down. Searching online is a great way to find the best alarm system for any motorbike owner, and there is a huge range to choose from that should suit any bike and budget.