Givi and SHAD are two of the biggest names in the world of motorcycle luggage, pitted against each other once more with their adventure and aluminium ranges under the spotlight.

In fact, both of the luggage giants often offer motorcycle cases and bags that are of a similar size, standard and function. Givi’s Trekker range and SHAD’s Terra range are no different and like many other motorbike riders, you may be torn trying to decide which brand will be the best fit for you and your bike.

Like any product in any area of life, you simply want the option that will bring the most bang for one’s buck. Unlike a lot of other products, motorcycle luggage is an investment that will be with you for many years and therefore, it is only right to make an informed decision.

So, is there a clear answer as to either Givi’s Trekker or SHAD’s Terra being the best option? Well, that is where we come in, unwrapping all of the pros, similarities and differences to help you make that all important choice.

Givi Outback Evo & Dolomiti vs SHAD Terra  Top Boxes

While there really is not much to separate SHAD’s Terra top boxes from their Givi Outback Evo and Dolomiti counterparts when it comes to storage capacity, SHAD get their noses in front due to the additional features on offer.

There is not much to separate them in terms of looks.

The main incentive with the SHAD aluminium cases is convenience with three main additions that cannot be found with the Givi products. The first two come in the form of the inclusion of a base plate and an integrated carry handle, which go hand in hand (pardon the pun), to form an advantage that Givi simply do not offer. The base plate facilitates mounting the top box to its fitting kit for a smooth, effortless fit in a matter of seconds while the carry handle allows you to comfortably transport your top off the motorcycle with ease.

If that was not enough, Givi top boxes must be locked and unlocked with each open and close while SHAD further enhance convenience, allowing you to open and close your top box without the need of your key unless fully locked.

Givi vs SHAD Aluminium Panniers

When it comes to Givi and SHAD's aluminium motorcycle panniers, the key points that feature in the top boxes are also applicable. However, there are a few other things you should consider.

Both brands add security with the ability to lock each case to the motorbike. However, stability is just as important as security and SHAD go one step further to ensure this through their employment of a 20mm steel frame and reinforced crossbar, preventing the panniers from moving around on even the most taxing of rides.

The benefit of both of Givi’s Outback Evo and Dolomiti panniers is they are top opening, which not only allows for quick access but also eliminates the risk of your belongings falling out. Whereas with SHAD’s side-opening panniers you run the risk of items falling out when opened and although this can be combated by adding an inner bag or extra inner mesh, they will come at an additional cost.

Givi Canyon GRT723 vs SHAD TR50

In the case of soft tail bags, SHAD’s TR50 and Givi’s Canyon GRT723 are pitted against each other. Not only do they match each other stride for stride in terms of aesthetics, they each have very contrasting incentives.

Givi's waterproof tail bag (left) & SHAD's optional rain cover (right).

Much like the aluminium top boxes, SHAD’s TR50 tail bag does include a base plate and effortless opening and closing. However, Givi do have a clear advantage themselves. The Canyon bag is waterproof, ensuring its contents remain dry regardless of the weather and in this case it is SHAD’s product that comes at a cost as you will be required to purchase a waterproof bag separately if you wish to have the same protection.

While Givi do edge in front with the waterproof offering, SHAD should not be written off in this particular race. Although the TR50 and Canyon GRT723 both feature a capacity of 40 litres, the difference offered by the TR50 is the ability to increase storage possibilities. Not only does it offer an external port for a bottle holder and a zipped inner pocket for organisation, it also has internal panels and compartments that can be removed to create extra storage space.

Givi GRT709 Canyon vs SHAD TR40 Panniers 

Much like the soft tail bags, when it comes to soft motorcycle adventure panniers, Givi’s GRT709 Canyon and SHAD’s TR40 share similarities and each boast contrasting features that distinguish themselves from the other.

Both brands’ panniers bags include features that allow them to become waterproof with the Canyons employ waterproof closures and a waterproof inner bag while the TR40s also add a waterproof inner bag to accompany its ‘Molle System’ which can be rolled down to create a waterproof seal. So, they really cannot be separated in that respect.

Similarly, despite the GRT709 Canyon’s 35 litre capacity topping the TR40’s 32 litres of storage space, the SHAD panniers make up for this with an external bottle holder freeing up space internally and although the addition of eight bolstered tiedown points allow you to store additional cargo on top of the bag, this can be cumbersome and time consuming in comparison to the larger storage of the Givi product.

With that being said, it is perhaps SHAD who gain the advantage thanks to two features that have been omitted from the Givi counterpart. SHAD’s double locking system provides an extra level of security to the TR40 panniers and there are two fitting systems on offer. The 3P fitting kit offers a reduced framework for a clean, minimalist look while the 4P mount offers an enhanced sturdy fitment in the same level as it does for the aluminium panniers.

So, with consideration given to all the advantages, similarities and differences, is there a clear and obvious choice?

In truth, to put it plainly, the answer is no. It is clear to see that both SHAD’s Terra and Givi’s Trekker adventure luggage have a fair share of incentives to offer and for that reason, it simply comes down to personal preference and what exactly it is you are looking for.