Motorcycle Airbags

Motorcycle inflatable bags are bags whose body is an airtight air chamber: when deflated, they remain semi-rigid and take up little space; once inflated, they become an elastic cushion that fills the gap between the motorcycle’s structure and the luggage. The manufacturer LOBOO states that this technology supports a load of at least 300 kg per inflated bag and provides at least 6 hours of protection per inflation.

The two families: crash bar and side bags

The term “inflatable motorcycle bags” covers two different products, which are mounted in different parts of the motorcycle and meet different needs.

• Crash bar inflatable bags — a pair of 6 L bags (12 L total), secured to engine guard bars with a round Ø 25 mm tube. They make use of the irregular space between the bars and the side panels and provide quick-access storage for a puncture repair kit, rain gear, documents, and gloves. They complement panniers; they do not replace them.
• Inflatable side bags — 23 L or 30 L per side, attached to 18 mm side frames and replacing a set of side panniers. The same inflatable principle, with main-luggage capacity.

How to choose

Compatibility depends not on the motorcycle model but on the tube diameter to which the bag attaches: 25 mm for crash bar versions and 18 mm for side-bag frames. Measure the tube with calipers before ordering, or wrap a measuring tape around it and divide the circumference by 3.14.

Then check that the bag does not interfere with the exhaust, cylinder heads, or steering at full lock, and that the selected section of tube is unobstructed across the entire width of the bag.

Inflatable or hard-sided

An aluminum pannier offers more volume and a shell that protects against impacts and theft, but it requires dedicated frames and remains on the motorcycle all year. An inflatable bag costs less, does not require frames if you already have crash bars, disappears when not needed, and makes use of otherwise empty space; in return, it holds fewer liters and its contents are not protected by a rigid shell.

Related products

If you do not yet have anchor bars, you can find crash bars and engine guards on Endurrad. For non-inflatable versions with a rigid internal structure, see the crash bar bags, and for complete luggage, see the motorcycle panniers and bags.

Frequently asked questions

Can inflatable motorcycle bags be punctured?

The body is made of TPU fabric on an 840D nylon base, the same type of material used for motorcycle dry bags: puncturing it requires a significant penetration, not ordinary rubbing. If the bag loses air, the contents remain inside and the bag stays attached because its mounting does not depend on air pressure.

Do they require a pump or compressor?

No. Inflation is done by hand through a one-way valve with an integrated pump.

Are they an approved safety device?

No. The stated load capacity refers to the inflated bag during static testing: it is an accessory passive protection system that does not replace engine guard bars or protective clothing.