Semi-rigid motorcycle panniers: how they’re made and which frames they fit on
Endurrad technical guide
Soft panniers on the outside, with the shape of a hard case
LOBOO Wanderer semi-rigid panniers are waterproof technical-fabric panniers with a polypropylene core that keeps them in shape, available in 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 liters, with two included 20-liter waterproof inner bags. Here you'll find how they are made, which frames they fit, how they attach, how much they hold, and what the manufacturer actually states.
Every piece of data comes from LOBOO user manuals and official technical panels. Anything the manufacturer does not state is identified here as not stated.
In short. A semi-rigid motorcycle pannier is a pannier made of technical fabric, as light as a soft bag, but with inner panels that give it the shape and stability of a hard case. LOBOO's Wanderer semi-rigid panniers are sold in pairs, in 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 liters, with two included 20-liter waterproof inner bags.
The requirement is the frame, not the motorcycle. Side frames with an 18 mm tube are required. The mounting plate has four pre-drilled patterns for LOBOO PIKE TRACKER, TIBET-B, and TIBET frames. The frames are not included.
The manufacturer's stated figures. Waterproofing IPX6; dimensions 450 × 270 × 400 mm per pannier; 5.9 kg for the 40 L and 5.8 kg for the 30 L; complete set approximately 13.7–13.8 kg. The maximum load per pannier is not stated.
| Data | Value | Where it comes from |
|---|---|---|
| Models | Pairs BCB4030TBK (40 + 30 L) and BCB4040TBK (40 + 40 L); left pannier BCB40T, right BCB30T or BCB40T | LOBOO manuals |
| Measurements per case | 450 × 270 × 400 mm, excluding the roll-top closure | LOBOO manuals and panels |
| Weight per pannier | 5.9 kg for the 40 L, 5.8 kg for the 30 L | LOBOO technical panel |
| Included waterproof inner bag | One per pannier: 20 L, 400 × 200 × 250 mm, 1 kg | LOBOO technical panel |
| Pannier materials | TPU, 840D nylon fabric, Hypalon; PP inner panels with edge guards | LOBOO manuals |
| Mounting plate | Aluminum alloy, nylon, and silicone | LOBOO manuals |
| Waterproofing | IPX6 | Manufacturer's statement |
| Required frame | 18 mm Ø tube, mounting patterns for PIKE TRACKER, TIBET-B, and TIBET | LOBOO manuals |
| Plate bolt tightening | 8 N·m | LOBOO manuals |
| Anti-theft | Two keyed cylinders per pannier | LOBOO manuals |
| Maximum load per pannier | Not stated by the manufacturer | — |
Photo: Wanderer panniers mounted
Official LOBOO and Endurrad customer photos, showing the panniers on BMW, Ducati, KTM, Honda, and CFMOTO motorcycles. Tap a photo to enlarge it.
What is a semi-rigid side pannier?
Aluminum panniers hold their shape and close like a safe, but they are heavy and bend together with the rack when dropped. Soft bags are lightweight, but when empty or half full they collapse and flap around. Semi-rigid panniers are the middle ground: they are made of fabric on the outside, with panels inside that hold their shape.
The shape of the Wanderer panniers comes from two polypropylene panels, or PP: one U-shaped and one side panel, with corner protectors fitted over the corners, which are the first parts to touch the ground or a wall during actual use. The outer shell is waterproof technical fabric, closed at the top with a roll-top, meaning a closure that rolls up and locks with a buckle.
In English, they are called semi-rigid panniers, semi-rigid side bags, or reinforced soft panniers. They are all the same type of product: fabric side luggage with an internal structure, designed to attach to pannier racks.
LOBOO calls them WANDERER Side Bag. On Endurrad, you can find them on the page for the Wanderer 40 + 30 L or 40 + 40 L semi-rigid panniers.
How it is made: materials and structure
The LOBOO user manuals list the materials part by part. It is worth reading them this way, because each material serves a different purpose.
- Pannier: TPU, 840D nylon fabric, and Hypalon. TPU is the waterproof layer, 840D nylon is a thick, abrasion-resistant yarn, and Hypalon is a technical synthetic rubber used at the most heavily stressed points.
- Fabric: TPU composite on 840D mesh, with a stated thickness of 0.6 mm.
- Internal structure: U-shaped PP panel and PP side panel, removable, with corner protectors.
- Inner bag: TPU and 840D nylon fabric.
- Mounting plate: aluminum alloy, nylon, and silicone.
The practical details
According to the manual: handle for carrying, drainage hole on the bottom, magnetic top closure, reflective inserts, MOLLE panels, and attachment buckles for the straps. These details matter at the end of the day: the pannier can be detached and carried to your room like a bag.
IPX6 water resistance and roll-top closure
IPX6 is a designation in the IP code under the IEC 60529 standard: the X indicates that protection against dust has not been classified, while the 6 indicates resistance to powerful water jets from any direction.
For the Wanderer panniers, IPX6 is declared by the manufacturer. This is the right rating for heavy rain, wheel spray, and washing; it does not cover immersion. If you cross a deep ford, the pannier is not designed to remain underwater.
The roll-top closure
Water resistance depends on how the top is closed. The manual says to fold the sides inward, roll the top twice, fasten the Velcro downward, and close the upper buckle. A rushed closure, rolled only once, is where water gets in—not through the fabric.
For cargo that must stay dry under all circumstances, there are two included 20-liter dry bags: they can be placed inside the pannier or on top, secured with quick-release straps.
Capacity: 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 liters
The left pannier is always the 40-liter one. On the right, you choose between 30 and 40 liters, and the choice depends not on preference but on the frame.
- 40 + 30 liters: for asymmetrical frames, where there is less space on the exhaust side. This is the typical configuration for many large adventure bikes with a side-mounted exhaust.
- 40 + 40 liters: for symmetrical frames, where both sides have the same amount of space.
- Price: the two configurations have the same list price. Choose based on the frame, not the price.
| 40 + 30 L | 40 + 40 L | |
|---|---|---|
| Cases | 70 L | 80 L |
| With the two 20 L bags | 110 L | 120 L |
| Set weight | approximately 13.7 kg | approximately 13.8 kg |
| Measurements per case | 450 × 270 × 400 mm, excluding the roll-top | |
LOBOO does not specify the maximum load capacity per case. The limit specified by the motorcycle manufacturer and the frame manufacturer applies.
Compatibility: the 18 mm frame matters, not the motorcycle model
The Wanderer cases attach to side frames with 18 mm tubing using an adjustable quick-release plate. The plate has four preconfigured drilling patterns, one for each LOBOO frame series.
| LOBOO frame series | Center-to-center distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PIKE TRACKER P45 and P37 | 358 × 182,5 mm | Factory-prepared holes: immediate installation |
| PIKE TRACKER P35 | 318 × 204 mm | Mounting points to move on the P35 template |
| TIBET-B TB35 | 334,5 × 183,5 mm | Distance between the clips: 124.5 mm |
| TIBET T34 | 334,5 × 183,5 mm | Distance between the clips: 114.5 mm |
How to determine which template to use
The manual asks you to measure the inner spacing of the side frame, both in width and height, and compare it with the templates. If your frame is a LOBOO PIKE TRACKER, TIBET-B or TIBET series frame, the template is already provided. Other frames with 18 mm tubing can be used by checking that the hole spacing matches.
Original motorcycle frames
The Wanderer cases do not mount on the motorcycle’s original frames, with one exception: the CFMOTO 800MT, whose standard frames are manufactured by LOBOO. All other motorcycles require a dedicated LOBOO frame, which is purchased separately. You can find them in the additional frames for adventure and touring motorcycles collection.
For the most popular motorcycles, you will find the frame, configuration and template in the table below.
Wanderer for your motorcycle: frames and configuration
For the most popular motorcycles, we have a dedicated guide with the matching LOBOO frames, the correct configuration and the drilling template to use on the plate.
| Motorcycle | LOBOO frames | Configuration | Plate template | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW R 1200 GS, R 1250 GS and Adventure | JP071B | 40 + 30 L | P45, factory-installed | Wanderer for R 1200 and R 1250 GS |
| BMW R 1300 GS and GS Adventure | JP131B and JP151B | 40 + 40 L | P45 and P37, factory-fitted | Wanderer for R 1300 GS |
| Ducati DesertX | JP581B | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for DesertX |
| KTM 1290 Super Adventure R and S | JP251B | 40 + 30 L | P45, factory-installed | Wanderer for KTM 1290 |
| KTM 790 and 890 Adventure | JP221B | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for KTM 790 and 890 |
| Husqvarna Norden 901 | JP901B | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for Norden 901 |
| Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports | JP322B | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for Africa Twin |
| Yamaha Ténéré 700 | JP871B | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for Ténéré 700 |
| CFMOTO 800MT and 800MT-X | Standard on the 800MT, JP603B on the 800MT-X | 40 + 30 L | P35 | Wanderer for CFMOTO 800MT |
If your motorcycle is not listed, send us the make, model, and year: we will tell you whether a compatible LOBOO frame exists and which configuration you need.
Exhaust and alternative holes
The exhaust side determines the installation. The pannier is shaped to leave room for the muffler, and the plate has alternative holes for moving the fastening points when the pipe runs nearby.
- Alternative holes: provided in the manual for motorcycles where the exhaust runs close to the main fastening points.
- Stated limitation: the manufacturer says the Wanderer panniers are not suitable for motorcycles where the exhaust pipe touches or is aligned with the pannier. Examples include the Honda CB400X, CB500X, NX400, and NX500, for which their use is not recommended.
- Configuration: the 30-liter pannier goes on the exhaust side of asymmetrical frames.
If you are unsure about the available space, send us a photo of the frame from the exhaust side.
Step-by-step installation
The plate is set up once on your frame; afterward, the pannier can be attached and detached by hand. Only the included hex key is required. Tighten the plate screws to 8 N·m.
-
Free the plate
Remove the U-shaped PP panel and side panel from the pannier, then remove the bottom fastening buckle.
-
Set the frame pattern
Measure the frame's inner wheelbase, identify the corresponding pattern, and move the fastening points. Tighten the screws to 8 N·m. With PIKE TRACKER P45 and P37 frames, the factory position is already correct.
-
Refit the bottom and panels
Refit the bottom buckle, then the side panel and the U-shaped PP panel.
-
Close the roll-top
Fold the sides inward, roll the top down twice, fasten the Velcro downward, and close the top buckle.
-
Hook and lock
Hook the pannier onto the frame and close the side buckle with the lock. The 20 L bag goes inside or on top, secured with the quick-release straps.
The LOBOO user manuals, with the parts list and drawings for each step, can be downloaded here: 40 L pannier manual (PDF) and 30 L pannier manual (PDF). The manuals also contain the QR code for the installation video.
Anti-theft protection and key
Each pannier has two keyed cylinders: one upper cylinder with a 32 mm tongue and one side cylinder with a short tongue. They lock the upper buckle and the attachment to the frame.
It protects against someone opening it out of curiosity or trying to detach the pannier in a parking lot. It does not turn a fabric bag into a safe: keep documents and valuables with you.
One key for everything
According to the LOBOO panel, the key can be matched to the one for LOBOO aluminum panniers, such as the PIKE TRACKER panniers, by providing the key number when ordering. If this interests you, write to us first: we will check with the distributor whether it is possible for your order.
MOLLE, reflective details, and accessories
In addition to their internal volume, the Wanderer panniers offer three ways to carry more and be more visible.
- MOLLE panels on the sides: a grid of sewn webbing, of military origin, to which pouches and accessories can be attached. LOBOO states that they are also compatible with MOLLE attachments from other brands.
- Expansion loops for securing extra cargo, such as a tent, with straps or bungee cords.
- Reflective inserts on the corners and sides for visibility when riding at night.
- Optional accessories, sold separately: a MOLLE bottle holder and the 7-liter Wanderer MOLLE bag.
Semi-rigid, inflatable, or aluminum: which should you choose?
Endurrad offers three LOBOO families of side luggage. They meet different needs.
| Wanderer semi-rigid | Alps inflatable | PIKE TRACKER aluminum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What gives it shape | PP inner panels | Air chamber | Aluminum shell |
| Capacity | 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 L, plus two 20 L bags | 23 or 30 L per side | 65 to 90 L per pair |
| Frame | Ø 18 mm tube, LOBOO frames | Ø 18 mm tube, rectangular profile | Dedicated frames |
| Stated waterproof rating | IPX6 | IPX7 | View specifications |
| When it makes sense | You want plenty of volume with lightweight luggage that can be removed by hand | You want luggage that acts as a cushion in a fall | You want a hard shell against impacts and break-ins |
| Specifications | Wanderer | Alps Guide | PIKE TRACKER |
All side luggage available on Endurrad is in the side luggage collection.
What is included in the package, and what is not
Included for each case
- The 40 or 30 L case with mounting plate
- The 20 L multipurpose dry bag
- The U-shaped PP panel and the PP side panel
- The 32 mm upper cylinder, the short side cylinder, two C-clips, and a key
- The decorative lock cover
- Two LOBOO quick-release straps
- The hex key
- With the 30 L case, the seals and screws for the TIBET-B frame are also included
LOBOO user manual contents.
Not included
- The side frames, purchased separately
- The MOLLE bottle holder and the 7 L MOLLE bag
- Free shipping in Italy on orders over €100
- Free shipping in Europe on orders over €250
- Returns within 14 days of receipt
- 24-month legal conformity warranty for consumers
Maintenance and usage limitations
Maintenance
- After use, clean the surface with a soft cloth dampened with water and soap.
- Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or acidic or alkaline detergents.
- Do not machine-wash, iron, dry-clean, or tumble-dry.
- Leave it to air-dry without exposing it to the sun for long periods.
- If you do not use it for a long time, store it in a cool, dry place and regularly remove dust and dirt.
Limitations to know
- They require side frames with an 18 mm tube, not included.
- They cannot be mounted on the motorcycle's original frames, except on the CFMOTO 800MT.
- Not suitable for motorcycles with an exhaust that touches or is aligned with the case.
- IPX6 protects against water jets and rain, not immersion.
- The maximum load per case is not specified by the manufacturer.
- The load must not extend beyond the limits set by the Highway Code.
Frequently asked questions about semi-rigid panniers
What are semi-rigid motorcycle panniers?
They are cases made of waterproof technical fabric with internal panels that provide shape and stability, halfway between a soft bag and a hard case. LOBOO Wanderer cases have polypropylene panels with corner protectors, a roll-top closure, and a stated IPX6 waterproof rating, and are sold in pairs of 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 liters.
What is the difference compared with aluminum cases?
Aluminum cases have a hard shell that better withstands impacts and break-ins. Semi-rigid cases weigh less, detach and can be carried by hand like a bag, and when dropped they do not bend together with the frame like a metal shell. In return, the fabric is less resistant to break-ins than a metal case.
Which racks do the Wanderer cases fit?
They mount on side racks with 18 mm tubing. The plate has four pre-drilled patterns: PIKE TRACKER P45 and P37 (358 × 182.5 mm), PIKE TRACKER P35 (318 × 204 mm), and TIBET-B TB35 and TIBET T34 (334.5 × 183.5 mm, with clips at 124.5 or 114.5 mm). Other 18 mm racks can be used if the hole spacing matches.
Do they mount on the motorcycle's original racks?
No, with one exception: the CFMOTO 800MT, whose standard racks are manufactured by LOBOO. All other motorcycles require a dedicated LOBOO rack, sold separately.
How do I know which drilling pattern to use?
Measure the internal center-to-center distance of your pannier rack, both in width and height, and compare it with the diagrams: 358 × 182.5 mm for PIKE TRACKER P45 and P37, 318 × 204 mm for PIKE TRACKER P35, and 334.5 × 183.5 mm for TIBET-B and TIBET. With the P45 and P37 racks, the factory position is already correct.
Is 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 liters better?
It depends on the rack. The 40 + 30 is for asymmetrical racks, where there is less space on the exhaust side; the 40 + 40 is for symmetrical racks. They cost the same, so the choice depends on the rack, not the price.
What is their total capacity?
The cases hold 70 liters in the 40 + 30 version and 80 liters in the 40 + 40 version. With the two included 20-liter dry bags, the total capacity reaches 110 and 120 liters, respectively.
Are they waterproof? What does IPX6 mean?
The manufacturer states an IPX6 rating, which under IEC 60529 indicates resistance to powerful water jets from any direction. It covers heavy rain and splashes, but not immersion. Water resistance also depends on the roll-top closure, which must be rolled twice and secured with the upper buckle, as indicated in the manual.
Can they be locked?
Yes. Each case has two keyed cylinders, one on top and one on the side, which lock the closure and the attachment to the rack. According to LOBOO, the key can be matched to the keys of LOBOO aluminum cases; feasibility must be verified before ordering.
How much do they weigh?
The 40-liter case weighs 5.9 kg, the 30-liter case weighs 5.8 kg, and each 20-liter dry bag weighs 1 kg. The complete set weighs approximately 13.7 kg in the 40 + 30 version and 13.8 kg in the 40 + 40 version.
How much weight can I load?
LOBOO does not specify a maximum load per case. You must comply with both the maximum load specified by the motorcycle manufacturer and that specified by the pannier-rack manufacturer.
What tools are needed to install them?
Only the included hex key. The mounting-plate screws must be tightened to 8 N·m; achieving the torque precisely requires a torque wrench. Once the plate has been prepared, the case can be attached and detached by hand.
What’s included in the package?
Two cases with mounting plates, two 20-liter waterproof bags, the PP inner panels, two keyed lock cylinders per case with keys and clips, LOBOO quick-release straps, and a hex key. The side frames are not included.
How do you clean them?
With a soft, damp cloth and soap. The manual prohibits bleach, fabric softener, and acidic or alkaline cleaners, and advises against using a washing machine, iron, dry cleaning, or tumble dryer. They should be air-dried and not left in direct sunlight for long.
Are they suitable for the Honda CB500X or NX500?
No. LOBOO lists them as unsuitable for motorcycles where the exhaust pipe touches the case or is aligned with it, citing the Honda CB400X, CB500X, NX400, and NX500 as examples.
Technical terms glossary
- Semi-rigid case
- A fabric case with inner panels that give it shape and stability.
- Side frame
- The tubular frame on either side of the tail section to which the cases attach. Also called a pannier rack.
- Center-to-center distance
- The distance between the axes of two frame tubes, in width or height.
- Roll-top
- A closure that rolls up on itself and fastens with a buckle. On the Wanderer cases, it must be rolled twice.
- IPX6
- Ingress protection rating under IEC 60529: resistance to powerful water jets, not immersion.
- TPU
- Thermoplastic polyurethane: a flexible, waterproof plastic layer laminated to the fabric.
- 840D
- Thread denier: indicates a thick nylon yarn that is resistant to abrasion.
- Hypalon
- Technical synthetic rubber, resistant to abrasion and weathering.
- PP
- Polypropylene: the material of the inner panels that keep the case in shape.
- MOLLE
- A system of webbing sewn in a grid pattern, of military origin, for attaching pouches and accessories.
- Quick release
- A mounting system that allows you to attach and remove the case by hand.
- Alternative holes
- Spare mounting positions on the plate, to move the case farther away from the exhaust.
- N·m
- Newton-metre, the unit of torque: indicates how tightly a screw should be tightened.
Not sure which frame or configuration you need?
Send us the motorcycle make, model, and year, plus a photo of the exhaust side. We’ll tell you which LOBOO frame you need and whether the 40 + 30 or 40 + 40 configuration is right for you, before you order.
Related information: Wanderer semi-rigid side cases · additional motorcycle frames · side cases · guide to inflatable motorcycle side bags · Wanderer for CFMOTO 800MT