SW-MOTECH PRO GS TANK BAG 16-20 LITER • $370

For those of you who have larger adventure machines or machines with sloping fuel tanks, finding a tank bag that works well can be a challenge. It is even more challenging when mounting tank bags on larger ADV machines, as securing them usually takes three to four mounting straps.

The SW-Motech PRO GS Tank Bag does away with the need for such bondage, but uses a magnetically guided Pro Tank Ring that securely (and easily) attaches to your fuel tank filler cap.

The PRO GS was developed specifically for steeply sloped fuel tanks such as those of the BMW R 1250 GS, and other such adventure machines, and the tank bag offers up to 20 liters of generous storage space. 

We awere a bit leery about the PRO Ring’s installation, but reading through the directions (a few times, ‘cause we are admittedly dense), it was a very easy step-by-step installation.

These PRO tank rings are made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic. They are made to match your exact motorcycle model. This very strong PRO tank ring with magnetic guide aid secures the PRO tank bags with a mechanical QUICK-LOCK snap lock. This allows the tank bags to be attached or removed with just one hand.

This was another thing we raised an eyebrow on as it seemed too simple, but the Pro GS Tank Bag goes on and off easily, and we had no incidents, and we are confident in SW-Motech’s design. The factory-fitted upper ring guide rail also allows for the tank bag to adapt to the shape of the tank and the ergonomic needs of the driver much more easily. Called the Fidlock System, it works easily and securely.

The top of the SW-Motech PRO GS Tank Bag is equipped with the MOLLE system (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment), built with hypalo straps (a DuPont artificial rubber noted for its resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, and ultraviolet light), for holding the smartphone or tablet holder or just about anything you might need to carry. There is a reason that this system, created by the U.S. Military in the 90s, is now used world-wide by so many. Matching this, SW-MOTECH offers the patented volume expansion by zipper from 16 to 20 liters, with a mesh and padded interior, and has two outer pockets. Large zipper pulls make opening and closing this bag a breeze – even when riding down the road.

The PRO tank bags offer elegant and timeless design together with durable materials and sophisticated product features: Ballistic nylon material protects the luggage against shocks, wind, and weather. The top and bottom of the PRO GS are made of laminated and dimensionally stable EVA material, this gives the bags a distinctive shape, along with a durable, highly UV-resistant 1680D ballistic nylon with water resistant interior coating. The SW-Motech PRO GS Tank comes with a rain cover as well, in case the weather goes from just sad to very bad.

The bag also utilizes reflective panels at key points to enhance visibility for nighttime riding. Pro GS has a pass-through port to run power to your smartphone, or other powered needs, as well as a robust carrying handle for off-the-bike manageability.

We found SW-Motech’s PRO GS Tank Bag to be extremely well thought out, and in many ways different from any other tank bag on the market. It is a bit tall, but not intrusive on our riding position, and its smaller foot print on the tank lets it seem like a part of a “Clean Slate” bike design – like it should be there, unlike many bags that look like after-market add-ons.

We’re very impressed with the PRO GS Tank Bag. Yes, it is a definite, and pricey, investment, but one so well made, it’ll probably outlast your current bike.