Bike rides are a thrilling experience, but they come with various challenges that should be navigated confidently. Some logistic challenges may include carrying extra fuel and luggage on your motorcycle. For a secure and enjoyable voyage, understanding and handling these challenges with the right balance of utility and safety is very important.

I'll help you find the appropriate gear and ways to distribute weight effectively through this article. Let's delve into the details of mastering these techniques for an exhilarating ride on the open road.

Methods for Carrying Extra Fuel on a Bike

Let's start this guidebook by covering some important methods and tips for safely carrying extra fuel on your motorcycle without any risk. Have a look at some of the best motorcycle fuel storage options:

Jerry Cans

• The top option to store and carry flammable liquid like fuel is to use these large rectangular containers of HDPE, known as Jerry cans.
• These cans are the best for carrying fuel on your bike for a long ride, as they can store large amounts of fuel.
• You can easily store 5 gallons (18 litres) of fuel in one Jerry Can, which is enough for a long journey.
• The only cons about Jerry cans are that they are heavy in your pocket and take up a large space.

Fuel Bottles

• For a small trip or to carry a small amount of fuel as a backup, the best option is the fuel bottles.
• Fuel bottles are the best with a great motorbike travel safety system, but their storage volume could be much higher.
• These bottles are perfect as they can fit easily in the provisions of many motorcycles.
• One fuel bottle carries about 750mL to 1 litre of fuel, so make sure to carry two fuel bottles as the sweet spot.
• The only bad point about the fuel bottles is that they are not for long off-grid rides.

Fuel Bladder Bags

• I am moving on to the next option for carrying fuel on a bike: the fuel bladder bags, which are foldable and can be kept as luggage when not filled with fuel.
• It is a safe motorcycle packing option carrying fuel from 1 to 1.5 gallons (3.5 to 5 litres).
• Fuel bladder bags can carry fuel bottles and Jerry cans, and once you've used all the fuel from the bag, collapse it.
• The point that minus its qualities is that these bags start to smell if you need to maintain them better.

Rotopax Canisters

• The next option on my list to properly tick my travel gear checklist is the Rotopax Canisters, similar to Jerry's cans.
• Rotopax Canisters usually come in rectangular shapes and carry mountable fuel but in a small capacity.
• These mini Jerry cans carry fuel of about 2 gallons, which is 7.5 litres.
• These leakproof canisters take up small space as they can stack neatly on a bike.
• One negative point about these canisters is that you need a mounting kit for them as they require high maintenance.

Auxiliary Gas Tank

• I am concluding my methods for carrying extra fuel on a bike with an auxiliary gas tank, which is costly.
• The best thing about these tanks is connecting any tank with the fuel pipes so that the fuel can directly flow from the tank to the carb and then to the engine.
• An auxiliary gas tank acts as a secondary gas tank and increases the capacity of your motorcycle tank.
• The only worst points about these tanks are that they are too expensive and add weight to the bike.

Methods for Carrying Extra Luggage on a Motorcycle

Rear Suitcase

• An option topping my list for carrying extra luggage is the rear suitcase, commonly known as a top case.
• This motorcycle luggage box is the one that couriers and riders use, and it has both supporters and detractors.
• A rear suitcase may spoil your bike's aesthetic, but it is a practical solution for carrying extra luggage or weight.

Side Cases

• To carry a larger luggage volume, side cases are the best option with the luggage rack, especially on long trips.
• These side cases are durable with weather-resistant material and offer reliable attachment points.
• Ensure that you properly attach them to your bike to maintain stability.

Leg Bag

• Leg bags are fanny packs with a closing mechanism, which can easily be attached to your leg to carry extra items.
• It is the best option to carry the basics like keys, cell phones, documents, chargers, etc.
• These bags take up very small space and are compatible with the rest of the luggage options.

Bungee Cords or Cargo Nets

• Installing cargo nets on your motorcycle is the most applicable and perfect method for carrying extra luggage.
• The cargo net is a stretchy net with hooks that are the best for holding items and carrying extra items on a long journey.
• You can carry clothes, camping gear, groceries, etc., on a bike at a time through cargo nets.

Distribute Weight Properly

• Achieving a balanced weight distribution is critical for carrying extra luggage while maintaining stability.
• Proper luggage weight distribution helps you carry extra items, so make sure to place heavy items close to the bike's centre of gravity.
• Placing items over or near the rear axle will give you some extra space to carry more luggage.
• This method also reduces the risk of instability during turns and sudden manoeuvres.

Final Words

Learning how to carry extra fuel and luggage safely on your motorcycle is very important for any safe and joyful journey. In this article, I've discussed all the quality luggage systems and secure fuel storage methods. All these methods and tips will make your long off-grid journey more safe and convenient.

So, follow all these measures and embark on a long and exhilarating journey. I wish you safe and happy travels and look forward to your valuable feedback.