Engine guard and crash bar bags

Crash bar bags are bags designed to be attached directly to a motorcycle's crash bar (or engine guard), making use of normally unused space to carry items that need to remain within easy reach. They are a popular solution for motorcycle travelers who need to increase carrying capacity without changing the main luggage setup.

Motorcycle crash bar bags: what they are and what they are used for

A crash bar bag is a container made of fabric or technical material with a mounting system that attaches to the engine protection bars installed on the sides of the motorcycle. They are also called engine guard bags or motorcycle engine guard bags: these are the same type of product, since “crash bar” and “engine guard” refer to the same component.

Their main purpose is to provide additional motorcycle luggage space positioned low and to the side. They are generally used to store tools, repair kits, spare gloves, documents, cables, snacks, water bottles, or small items that would be inconvenient to look for inside a saddlebag or side case.

Why use bags on the crash bar

Installing bags on the crash bar meets practical needs during everyday use and long trips:

• Quick access to frequently used items without having to open the main luggage;
• Load distribution at a low point on the motorcycle, where the weight has less impact than when positioned higher up;
• Recovery of space in an otherwise unused area of the motorcycle;
• Luggage organization, keeping tools and dirty materials separate from personal belongings;
• Versatile use, including short rides when you do not want to install the entire set of cases.

Keep in mind that any added accessory changes the vehicle's weight and dimensions: the load should always be distributed evenly and kept within the limits specified by the motorcycle manufacturer and the bag manufacturer.

Crash bar bags for Adventure and Touring motorcycles

Adventure motorcycle bags and touring motorcycle bags in this category are mainly used on motorcycles already equipped with tubular engine guards, typically maxi enduros, crossovers, and touring road bikes.

The most frequent uses are:

• Long-distance trips, when extra capacity is needed in addition to cases and a rear bag;
• Mixed and unpaved routes, where it is useful to have tools and tire kits immediately accessible;
• Day rides, with a reduced load and no bulky luggage;
• Urban and suburban use, to keep technical and personal items separate.

Within the broader world of Adventure motorcycle accessories, crash bar bags complement the main luggage rather than replacing it.

Inflatable versions and rigid-structure versions

This category includes two different constructions. Inflatable motorcycle bags have a body designed as an airtight air chamber: the pair LOBOO Wanderer BHGB05T 6 L for Ø 25 mm bars is the version designed for engine guards and, when inflated, the manufacturer states a load capacity of at least 300 kg with an IPX7 waterproof rating.

How to inflate the air chamber, how to mount it on the tube, and what it actually protects are explained in the guide to inflatable engine guard bags, which includes the manufacturer's technical panels and a comparison with the roll-top version.

Roll-top versions do not require inflation and use an internal PP support to maintain their shape: the pair of LOBOO Wanderer bags in waterproof TPU fabric prioritizes stability and load capacity over passive protection. The same inflatable principle, applied to 18 mm side frames, gives rise to the Alps inflatable side cases in 23 and 30 L.

How to choose crash bar bags

Before purchasing, it is useful to check several elements, always consulting the individual product page:

• Mounting system: how the bag attaches to the tubular bar and which diameters or geometries are supported by the manufacturer;
• Capacity and dimensions: the dimensions stated by the manufacturer must be compatible with the space actually available on your motorcycle;
• Materials and finishes: check the product page for construction details and any information about resistance to weather conditions;
• Configuration: single or pair, symmetrical or asymmetrical;
• Interference: the presence of an exhaust, radiators, auxiliary lights, guards, or other accessories already installed;
• Accessibility: whether the bag can be opened without obstruction when the motorcycle is loaded;
• Carried weight: compliance with the limits specified by the bag and crash bar manufacturers.

Compatibility with crash bars and engine guards

The compatibility of crash bar bags does not depend solely on the motorcycle model, but on a combination of factors: the crash bar actually installed, its geometry and tubular diameter, the presence of other accessories, and the position of the surrounding mechanical components.

For this reason, compatibility must be checked on a case-by-case basis by comparing the information in the product page with the actual configuration of your motorcycle. For inflatable bags, the decisive factor is the tube diameter: the guide explains how to measure the engine guard tube and lists the 25 mm crash bars available in the catalog. If you do not yet have mounting bars, Endurrad offers crash bars and engine guards. If you have questions about pairing a bag with your engine guard, our customer service team can help you evaluate the most suitable solution before ordering.

Crash bar bags at Endurrad

In this collection, you will find the selection of crash bar bags available from Endurrad, with the technical information provided by the manufacturers listed on the respective product pages. Visit each page to learn about the features, dimensions, and mounting instructions, and complete your motorcycle travel luggage setup with the solution that best suits your riding style.

Frequently asked questions about crash bar bags

What are crash bar bags?

They are bags designed to attach to a motorcycle's crash bar, that is, the engine protection bars. They provide additional, easily accessible storage space.

Where are crash bar bags mounted?

They are mounted on the tubular bars of the crash bar or engine guard, in a low, lateral position relative to the engine. The exact installation point depends on the bag model and the structure of the engine guard.

Are crash bar bags and engine guard bags the same thing?

Yes. “Crash bar” and “engine guard” refer to the same component, so the two terms are used interchangeably to describe this type of bag.

Are crash bar bags universal?

Not necessarily. Some models are designed for specific crash bars, while others have more adaptable mounting systems. This information should always be verified on the individual product page.

How can I check compatibility with my motorcycle?

Check the manufacturer's instructions on the product page and compare them with the crash bar installed on your motorcycle, taking any existing accessories into account. If in doubt, you can contact our customer service team.

What are they used for during a motorcycle trip?

They keep tools, repair kits, small spare parts, and frequently used items within easy reach, without having to open cases or the rear bag at every stop.

Can they be used on Adventure motorcycles?

They are mainly used on Adventure and Touring motorcycles equipped with engine guards. Compatibility must still be checked against the specific bag model and the installed crash bar.