Motorcycle Luggage Review

Hey everyone on the internet, welcome back to my blog!

Today, I want to share a recent experience from my search for a new sissy bar bag for my 2016 HD Sportster Iron 883, a.k.a. Lola.

Lola is almost 10 years old now. Over the years, Barret and I have customized her into exactly what I imagined. While the frame and engine are still original, her factory look has changed a lot. Among the upgrades are new Vance & Hines 2-in-1 exhaust pipes, MT60 Pirelli tires, heart-shaped mirrors from Lowbrow Customs, LED headlights from Hogworks, a Saddlemen seat, upgraded 11” handlebars, and a sissy bar that we designed and built ourselves at BRAMMOTO.

The only thing Lola never had was her own “sissy” bag. After years of improvising with Barret’s old gear, I decided it was time to invest in something as cool as the bike itself.

That’s when I came across Viking Bags. Out of all the options on the market, their social media posts and the clean look of their products really caught my attention. I wanted something that would fit my sissy bar without compromising Lola’s style.

At first, I was tempted by their sharp-looking side saddlebags, but my real goal was something I could also use off the bike. Easy on, easy off. That’s why I went with the Large Tactical Backpack—it seemed perfect for weekend trips and even airport travel.

To know more about Viking Bags products click here

The bag arrived within a week of ordering. Since then, I’ve been using the Viking Bags Large Tactical Backpack, and I’m impressed with its sturdiness and overall build quality. It fits perfectly on my bike, with plenty of hooking points for a secure fit. The space is well thought out—it easily carries a weekend’s worth of clothes plus my gadgets, which is exactly what I needed.

I haven’t tested it in the rain yet or taken it through an airport, but so far, everything checks the boxes. It feels like a backpack built to last.

Final thoughts:

For now, I couldn’t be happier with the quality and functionality. If you’re looking for a dependable motorcycle bag that doubles as a practical travel backpack, this one’s worth checking out.

What is a "trunk show"?

Hello. If you look up the definition of the word "Trunk," you will find amongst its meanings:

Please, note definition number 4.

Trunk: a large box with a hinged lid for storing or transportation clothes and other articles.

That is precisely what our shop is like: a trunk full of goodies for riders, mostly for woman. At the "BRAMMOTO Trunk Show," we cater to female riders, mostly in Northern New York state, showcasing and selling clothing that was created by either a woman or a family-owned small business, apparel that is stylish, protective, and that fits in our busy lives.

Think of our "trunk show" as a little biker boutique. But since BRAMMOTO, as a business and a brand, came from the way we live our "in-between" time, it was essential for us to set it as a small family operation.

In other words, it had to fit in with our lifestyle, respecting the reality of our geographical location, our job schedules, and our parenting responsibilities.

We also wanted to make it kid-friendly so that Vince can take part in shows and trips.

Check out the making of our "trunk show" in the video below.

FULL CYCLE

by Gabi

In the early 1900s, my great-grandfather arrived in Brazil from Lebanon to build a new life. He settled in the countryside of São Paulo State, where he began to sell household goods and sewing materials. He traveled from farm-to-farm, with his merchandise in a buggy.

Later the family established a brick and mortar place in the city. Years passed, and the new generations went on to more academic careers. And even thou, I don't remember the year the family store closed its doors, I am one of the few in my generation who got to take naps under the store's countertops.

Fast forward to a new millennium, and here I am: like my great-grandparents I too migrate from my home country to build a new life. In 2019, not only I established this business, but I also finished my naturalization process, becoming an American citizen; and I am selling goods in a traveling show.

Can life be more beautiful than this?

Let's talk about riding pants

Did you know road rash injuries can be fatal? And that there are three levels of road burn, just like if you were to be burned by fire? Well, if you didn't know about that, now you do. And as the saying goes: "knowing is half of the battle."

Point is: both Barret and I are from a generation that grew up riding cars with no seat belt or car seat. Yes, we survived just fine, but knowing as much as we do today, we don't do the same to our son. I also remember riding (backpack) motorcycles all over my hometown, in the countryside of São Paulo State, Brazil, with no helmet. Another example of something I wouldn't do knowing as much as I do today.

Total throwback, circa 2013.

At BRAMMOTO we are an ATGATT - All The Gear, All The Time - kind of crew. That means, helmet, gloves, jacket, closed-toe shoes, pants, etc. And we made it part of our mission to empower riders to go further wearing proper riding gear.

Here is where I'll talk to you about riding pants. Made with material that offers abrasive resistance, often equipped with hip and knee pads, these pieces are like a helmet for your skin. And as the female riding community grows, the market is waking up to fulfill our style needs, combining fit designed for the woman body and safety.

CORSE riding pants

When I started riding on my own, in 2012, I became obsessed to find a pair of pants that not only would protect my leg from accidental exhaust burns, but that would also give me a chance with the pavement. Years went by, and I got a small collection. But, all this while, my greatest struggle was to find something that would fit my needs, my budget, and my curves.

Yes, there was a lot of returned purchases, size exchanging purchases, and a few disappointments with the final product upon its postal delivery. But overall, I've been riding with Kevlar-lined pants since I was able to hold the throttle myself.

BRAMMOTO PANTS

The pants featured in this article are made by the Brazilian company, Corse. They are Kevlar lined and come with removable knee and hip pads. The outer shell of these pants is made with a cotton and elastane blend, that is light enough for warmer days and very form fitting. The high waist of Corse's pants will protect you from showing too much when in riding position; and they do make the cropped top look sharp.

Respect your curves

Another brand of riding pants we are excited to carry is GogoGearLA (picture bellow). Their riding leggings, fully Kevlar lined, can be used as is or as an underlayer for colder days. One of the best investments for your biker wardrobe.

Ideas and tips

If you want to learn more about riding pants, brands, and styling ideas, send me an email or leave a comment below. As a multi-brand store, and BRAMMOTO's inventory curator, I'd love to hear more about your riding style, your impressions, and needs on riding apparel; and as a style fanatic, I'd like to help you find clothing that translates your personality while also protecting your beautiful skin.