There are many features found with motorcycle luggage that could be considered selling points and one that stands out in particular is storage space.

When assessing the array of motorcycle top boxes and panniers on the market, internal storage capacity is a wide spectrum. Take SHAD for example, their top boxes span everything from 26 to 58 litres while their panniers range between 23 and 38 litres.

While the desired storage capabilities are subjective, there are some motorbike luggage cases that go a step further by offering expandable luggage.

With that said, what exactly is expandable motorcycle luggage and what are the best examples?

Why Expandable Motorcycle Luggage Is A Game Changer

It is all well and good praising expandable motorcycle luggage without elaborating to explain what it has to offer and why it is worth considering. However, the incentives are evident.

Firstly, the expandable function works both ways, increasing and decreasing in size depending on the storage needs at that particular time. Naturally, the larger size is used when additional cargo space is required while the reduction can be used when carrying less gear to improve mobility and in the case of motorcycle panniers, retain the ability to filter through traffic.

This expandability provides a level of versatility that is the main attraction of these luggage cases. Offering the best of both worlds, expandable motorbike storage boxes eliminate the need to have two separate boxes for varying cargo needs, one smaller in size and one larger. For instance, imagine you are on holiday or have nipped to the shops and bought one or two items too many, you will be wondering how you would ever have managed without the added room.

Aesthetics are another selling point that comes into play with the size reduction on offer. When using the lower storage capacity options, the appearance is undoubtedly improved, resulting in a more compact and less bulky looking top box or panniers for a clean, modern aesthetic.

What Is The Best Expandable Motorcycle Top Box?

SH58x: Maximum size, maximum convenience.

The first example of expandable luggage to consider is a motorcycle top box and the one that really jumps out straight away is SHAD’s SH58x top box.

The SH58x from SHAD stands out for good reason. That is because, without putting it lightly, it is the pace-setter in its field and although it is not the only expandable top box around,it has been recognised with a prestigious accolade. The Red Dot Design Award winner offers capacities of 46, 52 and 58 litres, all of which boast the ability to hold two full-face helmets and evidently, it also has that desirable trait that is the capability to reduce in size.

The expandability and storage offerings are the main draws of this particular rear case, however, the additional features also help to set it apart from the competition. A 100% waterproof structure is ensured thanks to its double-profiled rubber edge while the premium locking system provides peace of mind. Not only is the SH58x quick and easy to mount and dismount, the presence of an ergonomic handle allows it to be taken on the go and facilitates effortless one-handed opening and closing.

A well-rounded top box that would not go amiss on any motorcycle.

What Are The Best Expandable Motorcycle Panniers?

SH38x Panniers: a true one of a kind.

As for expandable motorcycle panniers, there is one option that sets itself apart from the rest and that is SHAD’s SH38x.

As the only expandable aftermarket panniers out there, the SH38x are able to offer storage capacities up to 38 litres thanks to their +70mm telescopic extension and a total expansion of up to 40%. This allows an XL modular helmet to be stored on each side of the motorbike while bringing greater mobility with limited impact on filtering when operating at the reduced sizes.

Like all of SHAD’s hard motorcycle panniers, the SH38x also boasts bonus features that are often omitted from some of the alternative side cases out there. Not only are these full waterproof panniers lockable themselves, they can also be fitted to both of SHAD’s ‘3P’ and ‘4P’ pannier fitting kits which take security to a new level by locking the panniers directly to the motorbike using what is known as the SHAD double locking system.

Sticking with the fitting kit theme, the 3P rack further aids the ability to filter through traffic with a minimalist structure while the 4P, using an adaptor to mount the SH38s, features an additional mounting point which brings extra stability with it and offers a secure fitment throughout your journeys.

With the benefits of their panniers and top boxes laid bare, it would be more than fair to say SHAD offer the best expandable motorcycle luggage on the market.

Not only are they setting the pace with their aftermarket expandable cases, the list of additional features really set them apart. The waterproof structures, security locking and convenience of SHAD’s SH58x and SH38x allow them to claim the title of the best expandable motorcycle luggage.