Luggage Racks
About Luggage Racks
A luggage rack gives bags and boxes a solid platform behind the rider, and on many bikes it is the part everything else mounts to. Riders shop here to add a rack for a top case or tail bag, to carry gear on an adventure bike, or to replace a bent or missing rack.
Racks are usually built for a specific model, as the listings for BMW GS, KTM Super Duke, Triumph Tiger, Suzuki DL 650, Kawasaki KLR 650 and Harley-Davidson models show. A rear rack carries a top case or bag, and some listings are supports for side cases, such as the side case mounts for particular bikes. Tour trunk racks suit cruisers that carry a trunk.
Check the rack's load rating, whether it keeps room for a passenger and whether it clears your seat, tail light and exhaust. If you plan to mount a top case, confirm the case uses the same mounting system as the rack, since many are made as matched systems. Fit the rack with the hardware supplied and check the bolts after the first few rides.
Brands listed here include COBRA, Drag Specialties, Memphis Shades, SW-MOTECH and GIVI. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. To use the rack, look at Top Boxes & Tail Bags, Saddlebags & Panniers and Tank Bags & Flanges. The whole group is Luggage, Racks & Storage.
FAQs on motorcycle luggage racks
Do I need a rack to mount a top case?
Usually yes. Most top cases bolt to a mounting plate that attaches to a rear rack or carrier. Some systems come with their own bracket for a specific bike, so read the listing to see what is included and what you still need to buy.
What is the difference between a rack and a side case mount?
A rear rack is a platform behind the seat for a top case or bag. A side case mount is a bracket on each side of the bike that holds a pannier or side case. They do different jobs, and many adventure setups use both.
How much weight can a rear luggage rack hold?
Every rack has a rated load from its maker, and your motorcycle has its own limit for total load. Stay under the lower of the two. Heavy items behind the rear axle can affect steering, so keep the load light and centered.
Will a luggage rack make it harder to carry a passenger?
It can. Some racks sit over the passenger portion of the seat or tail and cut down the room. Look at the rack's shape and size in the listing, and choose one that leaves space if you ride two-up.
How can I tell if a rack is made for my motorcycle?
The listing names the make, model and years, for example a particular KLR 650 or GS generation. Match those against your bike, and use the Ride Finder at the top of the page to narrow the list to parts made for it.
