SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL AND USE THESE LINKS: ⚡Tusk Olympus Panniers: bit.ly/3lLUHVG ⚡Pannier/Rack Combo: bit.ly/3Ua7XDa ⚡Tusk Olympus Tank Bag: bit.ly/3yfaQbi ⚡Tusk Duffle Bag: bit.ly/3B6pOSI ⚡Tusk Pannier Racks: bit.ly/3eOI9Ms
Every single video from you is so polished and comprehensive, thank you so much for taking your carrier here so seriously, we appreciate everything you do. Thanks Ian.
That tank bag with the weird strap, just nope... Just nope. Buy a GIVI tanklock and you'll never go back. Just click.. done. Get the one that expands, it's almost backpack volume size, it's brilliant.
Those bungee straps on the tank bag are excellent. My father used to own a small car dealership in VT. He called those sort of features "cupholder features". The average person doesn't buy a car based on handling, power, braking distance. Most decisions were made based on the number of cupholders in the car. Things that seem small can have so much impact on the quality of our ride, and we often overlook them in favor of specs and bullet points. I'm glad you take the time to point out how these products are to live with, as opposed to just listing off the materials, seam welds, and volume.
USD$899.96 with the pannier racks included . This is to suit the 390 Adventure, but most bikes will be about the same I would think. Unbelievable value, and thanks Ian for making another quality, informative and no-nonsense video. More $$ saved on luggage, means more trips funded!
Tusk Olympus rack/bags/carriers/and all the hardware needed + some extra for $575 from Rocky MT ATV = best deal ever in my opinion especially if you price out the Mosko moto or Giant loop comparables , although sexier looking options they sell the bags the rack and the attaching hardware required all separately and far as i saw adds up to 3-times the price +, i already had the large matching duffle bag , this combo will hold twice the gear ill ever need
I've bought a bunch of panniers for my bikes from Rocky Mountain ATV great guys to work with, even when things don't go as planned. Tusk products are a mixed bag of good and not-so-good products. I bought a set of tusk panniers, rackless soft luggage and tusk didn't burn the holes through the backing to allow bolting together. I repaired the holes and made them connect, still horrible fitment, sent them back for full refund. I found another style tusk day excursion pannier set that fit perfectly. I don't recommend the aluminum panniers, at least not for me, racks came in at 27 pounds, almost doubled the weight with the boxes installed, added content and you now have the tail wagging the dog, just to much weight. Still Tusk offers a more economical offering that works, compared to my more expensive Mosko Moto Reckless 80L, they packed cleanly, you didn't know they were there until you went down, they actually saved my bike, unfortunately, I wiped out two sets withing 20 minutes of their first ride on a simple low sided ripping out the left holster back side. By the time I recovered my bikes from the Crashed Toys salvage yard where my insurance company insisted the bike go, so they could evaluate the damage, the yard stole the panniers, and we never recovered them to have Mosko Moto repair them, huge loss, they were great luggage.
Good presentation, Ian! A comment about the tankbag: I’ve never understood why all tankbags are not waterproof. Having to stop to put on a raincover that also then hides your map window seems silly. (Yes, I still use paper maps.) I asked a tankbag-with-showercap manufacturer years ago why he didn’t just make the bag waterproof to begin with, and he replied that he would then have to raise his MSRP. Well, okay, so do that. 🤷♂️
Kudos to the video creator / Big Rock. I am all for RMATV as a Utah local and longtime adventure rider and hardcore technical multi day rider usually on 500 bikes and now on a well setup 701. I have a Mosko Reckless 80 and the PRICE IS INSANE - TOO MUCH $$$$$. I am selling off the last of my Mosko stuff and switching to 100% RMATV beccause their products are reasonably priced. Fuck Mosko and all of the idiots spending soo much $$ to be part of the club. Mosko lost another customer - the pricing is just TOO MUCH.
Have you considered testing the Brooksautosports ADV aluminum panniers... they have holders too but the BMW R GS ones for 699 fit on the original holders... there is also a cheap top case that is mounted on a baseplate which goes on the rear rack
How are you getting on with the new KTM 890? I'm looking at the Adventure version but stories of reliability issues have me rethinking a purchase decision. I don't need a hard edge off-road bike. I'm looking for a bike for the next 8 years like did with my F800GS. The design of the 890 Adventure is close to ideal: not too heavy, low center of gravity, maybe more power than I need, good seating position, tube-less wheels, cruise control, and exceptional handling.
I buy SW-Motech. I believe in the theory of "Buy once and not ten times". You get what you pay for the first time around. Great video Ian! Great to see alternative gear. I'm not a fan of the "Dry Bag" family of gear. Too many straps and always compressing the gear inside. Just me I guess! Ride SAFE and BE safe Ian!
I haven’t a clue what to go for ? I’m doing touring on road only , security is important and waterproof secured fitting and must be soft panniers, my bike is a Benelli 502.
I can't get enough of your excellent reviews and commentaries. You consistently seem to hit on so many of the points of concern that I have myself. Thanks!
Thanks Ian for a great review! I love your style; right to the point, honest, personal feedback. I don't really ride off-road, so I opted for a GIVI Trekker hard case top box for a more secure, urban storage solution. I am looking for a small tank though for those little items. I'll check out the Tusk options and will use your link if I purchase something.
You really can't beat a top-box for commuting/day-trip convenience (especially if it's large enough to fit your helmet). As long as you're careful to keep the heavy stuff out of them while riding, they're great. I have the 'Bumot' top-box/panniers and cannot recommend it enough. Half the price of Touratech, built like a tank and they have friction hinges (lids stay open on their own). I use this setup for road trips and switch to a Giant Loop for camping.
Ian, I really trust your reviews. How about a review of the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane bags - they are equivalent affordable as Tusk in the US and the cheapest of the American designed quality bagsets available in Australia. I've recently got a set of Hurricane panniers and am very impressed with the quality - I'm now interested in replacing my falling apart, non-waterproof KTM PowerParts tank bag with the Nelson-Rigg 8 litre, which is waterproof and I'd like your opinion. Thanks again for your hardwork.
Would like to see you do a review of the Rhino Walk systems. They seem to be the cheapest waterproof luggage thats decently built but would love to get your opinion. Would help out a lot of budget riders. I just got a set of the 28L soft panniers and a 30L top bag. Seem really well built but I have nothing to compare them to. All told it cost $180 for the whole thing since I jumped on a sale. Install takes about 10-15 minutes without pannier racks though.
And PS - excellent video - the best I've seen on this product. You have an $1100 customer to RMATV as I'm ordering stuff for both bikes (701 enduro and the 1090 KTM) now. Thanks
You make sure to take the time to explain the features of the bags and why they would be needed. Your clear explanations are a big help to riders looking for new luggage bags.
Ian, consider an "About Me" video. (Edit - found this one ua-cam.com/video/sdIUKzTybrk/v-deo.html where you tell the story) Great content, so I was curious "who is this dude?" Found a podcast where you described riding from age of 11 (like me) and I had an even more embarrassing start with a lawnmower engine in a girls bicycle frame. I see the "About" on the youtube channel, but the podcast helped me see 1) very real background, as a rider, not a pro racer. 2) worked a corporate job up to the last couple years. Honestly I respect that more than a know-it-all pro racer-rider. Someone who was able to break out and follow their passion (though it is still hard work). 3) Knowing that you worked hard, in the real world, for what you have. Initially I see a beautiful log-home in the background and these expensive motorcycles - wondering "silver spoon?" But no, you earned it just like us other smucks and I find that refreshing. subscribed
Another great review. I will be checking out the TUSK products very carefully based on your experience and this video. Thank you! By the way Pannier, is a word I find a lot of people struggle with pronouncing correctly. It is in fact a French derived word and is actually pronounced Pan yeah. In a literal translation Pannier means Basket. Viola!🙂
Only $600… I got my Nelson-Riggs saddle bags for $180. I’ve put them through the ringer. I’ve literally dragged my V-Strom down a boulder going down a Black Bear Pass.
Have you highlighted the difference between the Olympus bags and the Pilot bags? If not i'd love to see it at some point. Thanks for the rebiew/overview though - these do seem quite nice. When looking at other bags and seeing that they had $1000+ price points I nearly had a stroke.
Thank you for all your videos I really appreciate, I just order my olympus tank bag for my 2022 africa twin. And the Highland 2 will be my next perchase.
Gen 1 KLR, I have the Tusk tank bag, lg duffel, and aluminum panniers and racks. The soft were out of stock. Mounted the panniers low and centered on the rack, heavy stuff on the bottom. Bike fell over at a gas station, late, tired and didn't pay enough attention to the slope where I was parked. I was getting off and over we went. It hit hard, only damage was a pannier got a slight dent from the rack. Didn't know it until I took them off at destination. More embarrassed than anything. 1k+ trip, 2 lane, hard pack, gravel, Rollins Pass (rocky, BIG potholes, gullies,etc ). , and then some Interstate getting home. Happy with the products, good bang for the $, bike handled it all well, Seat Concepts saved my, you know where. Some of the other products, while no doubt good, gave me sticker shock. 71 now and been riding since 16. SW CO.
For what it’s worth the Tusk Pannier Mounts for the 790/890 do NOT clear the SC Projects rally exhaust (a popular aftermarket choice). Can’t speak for any other slip on systems, but compared to the touratech or outback motortrek racks the tusk mounts are a much larger where the mid pipe routes around the right side of the motorcycle and it can be a very snug fit. That being said if I had stayed with the stock exhaust I would have stuck with the tusk racks.
Great review! I have the Tusk Highland X2 set on my KTM 890 Adventure S and love them. I also have the large Tusk tank bag. They are huge value for the money spent.
I put the Tusk Pannier Racks on my KLR last month. I couldn't get the package because the bags were sold out at the time. I hope to have this setup by next spring. I have a smaller Giant Loop bag setup on the CRF250L I gave my son. I want bigger bags now and just can't pay the extra money for them. If i got to use them every weekend it would be different. Realistically i'll only need them for two or three weekend trips a year. As usual great review.
Love your reviews. Honesty is your credo. Nice kit, but for my 2021 Versys 650 I went with the Hepco Becker C-Bow system and the Traveler bags. Mount and bags for about $500.
I'm from the UK and my view on this is as soon as something is made souly for motorbikes the price doubles if not trebles. Most big adventure bike owners earn good money let's be honest, I personally don't at all, im definitely on the lower scale but just because you ride a bike any bike doesn't mean company's have the right to charge ridiculous prices for their products.
I ride a cheaper motorcycle "300 rally " I use a full tusk bag setup. It would be hard to justify a bag setup that cost more than 15% of the cost of the motorcycle, that's mainly why I went with tusk. 100% satisfied with quality and performance
I rock the tank bag and panniers on my Africa Twin. +1 for Rocky Mountain ATV / Tusk bringing decent quality stuff at reasonable prices. There are some pricier name brands out there, and some cheaper Ali Baba cheap Amazon specials from South China whose sellers are here today with fake reviews and gone tomorrow, but Tusk really seems to nail the quality without breaking the bank sweet spot. Their all-terrain ATV tires (Terrabites) I run on my RZR and Brute Force as well, and they're phenomenal. They're made by a US brand, Vurban Industries, as well.
Ian, the straps over the seat (that you cut off) serve as a weight catcher when riding on very rough roads. When riding through a deep pit, the weight of the bags doubles/triples (G-forces). I wouldn't cut them off if not really necessary. Have a look how the huge diesel tanks (400 liter or more) from trucks are attached; the support bracket underneath the tank is fairly thin/small, most of the weight is held by these wide metal straps that go on top / around the tank. Myself, I prefer a one piece horse shoe watertight bag of 90 liters, that rests on the saddle behind me. It makes it quite narrow so the center of gravity is as close as possible to the bike center and no extra constructions/metal racks needed. Nice review, thanks!
Thank you, Ian, for another great and informative video. Do you have any experience with Tusk's after-sales support and service? I do have Mosko gear, which I have crashed with, and their after-sales support and post-crash replacement program are excellent. However, as you have alluded to, their equipment, while top-notch, is at a premium price.
I bought the Tusk Pilot bags and my biggest gripe was the waterproof drybag, it seems the same dry bag is in the Olympus. The drybag is so incredibly thin it doesn't do waterproofing that well. As well as the top of the drybag isn't velcroed to the top of the bag so it doesn't flow with the bag that well. It just sags and sits inside which is really frustrating when your bags are soaked. Ill be honest I absolutely hated them! The Olympus bags do look better though.
Hey Ian, good review again. I think I am going to be ordering one of the Tusk tank bags for my Africa Twin. I have never had a tank bag on a bike before.....I ordered the mini Ranger 4.5L from Lone Rider when they first released it. However at that point not having my head wrapped around the tank bag world at that time I now realize it's not really going to fit well on the AT with it not being wedge shaped and the AT having a sharp angle on the tank.
I have the Tusk Highland X2 Rackless Luggage on my 22 KLR and they have worked very well. i have had them about 6 months now i do have a few spots on the top beaver tail that are starting to frey a tiny bit but not any big deal. I love them. how ever i made my own tank bag i don't like a big bulky tank bag that site up as high as yours. so i used a Camel back pack with the water blatter with molle and pockets. i made it for a hole 10 dollars its super snug to the tank and works very good. i am going to have to look in to that duffel mine came with a 20 L its good but the direction it attaches is oppsit of how i would think it should go. so it stick out a bit for the size i think the duffel would make more sense so it would cover the tops of the side pouches so it can deter people form wanting to look in them when all strapped when you are inside store. if i get a camera set up at some point ill film it and post a link to my setup!
This channel kinda had to grow on me I admit. And while very detailed I think the structure of such reviews is what stands out from among other channels and more so than the bigger ones. GJ keep up with these. Always looking forward for the next upload ✌️
Good content and informative. I left my pannier bag straps intact, they do serve as a safe precaution, though I found it better to loop the strap around the pannier rack as a secondary security instead of across the seat and rear rack.
Hey Ian. Yeah the quick glove stash is a good idea although I tend to stash my gloves in my helmet. The raincoat for the tankbag is not a good idea - the tankbag should be waterproof. Tankbag covers invariably inflate when riding in wind and cause additional issues. Tankbags should be waterproof from the get go!
I used to stash my gloves in my helmet, too, but found it eventually made my helmet liner funky (especially in hot climates). Not sure if it was the sweaty glove materials or just the fact that it inhibited the liner from airing out properly. YMMV. As for waterproofing, I can kind of see both sides. It's somewhat difficult to make fully waterproof seams and even moreso, zippers. Even when a MFR pulls it off, they will tend to leak a bit after some amount of age/use (anyone who's ridden in an Aerostitch for years can attest). An external waterproof layer with no zippers and minimal seams is much less likely to ever leak. Yeah it's somewhat of a pain to stop and put it on, same with rain gear, but if you don't ride in the rain all that often (as I don't) it's not a big deal. Another option is to use dry-bags/Ziploc/whatever to waterproof stuff internally.
I just ordered the Pannier/Rack Combo using your link. The price is so much cheaper than I was planning to spend. THANKS for your reviews. Safe riding.
SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL AND USE THESE LINKS:
⚡Tusk Olympus Panniers: bit.ly/3lLUHVG
⚡Pannier/Rack Combo: bit.ly/3Ua7XDa
⚡Tusk Olympus Tank Bag: bit.ly/3yfaQbi
⚡Tusk Duffle Bag: bit.ly/3B6pOSI
⚡Tusk Pannier Racks: bit.ly/3eOI9Ms
Wish these companies would stop treating their customers as billboards.
Every single video from you is so polished and comprehensive, thank you so much for taking your carrier here so seriously, we appreciate everything you do. Thanks Ian.
Took the words right out of my mouth!!! Big up to tha Big Rock Moto !
He's paid for the video!! I would say just about anything for free products + money
That tank bag with the weird strap, just nope... Just nope. Buy a GIVI tanklock and you'll never go back. Just click.. done. Get the one that expands, it's almost backpack volume size, it's brilliant.
Those bungee straps on the tank bag are excellent. My father used to own a small car dealership in VT. He called those sort of features "cupholder features". The average person doesn't buy a car based on handling, power, braking distance. Most decisions were made based on the number of cupholders in the car. Things that seem small can have so much impact on the quality of our ride, and we often overlook them in favor of specs and bullet points. I'm glad you take the time to point out how these products are to live with, as opposed to just listing off the materials, seam welds, and volume.
I prefer the sw-motec quick release tank bag system. No straps make gas stops much quicker.
Make sideburns cool again, come on.
It would be interesting to see a comparison video between these and the Nelson Rigg Hurricane Dry Saddlebags!
USD$899.96 with the pannier racks included . This is to suit the 390 Adventure, but most bikes will be about the same I would think. Unbelievable value, and thanks Ian for making another quality, informative and no-nonsense video. More $$ saved on luggage, means more trips funded!
No BMW compatible Racks ☹
Tusk Olympus rack/bags/carriers/and all the hardware needed + some extra for $575 from Rocky MT ATV = best deal ever in my opinion especially if you price out the Mosko moto or Giant loop comparables , although sexier looking options they sell the bags the rack and the attaching hardware required all separately and far as i saw adds up to 3-times the price +, i already had the large matching duffle bag , this combo will hold twice the gear ill ever need
Nice bags. I just wish they were offered in Olive Drab or Desert Rock or Camo. Asphalt Black-N-Gray is soo urban.
Noticed they come with tan highlights now...nice to have at least one other option!
@@adventuristnw2321 - Tan highlights are an improvement. "Rocky Trail" would be nice, too, I think. :-)
Just purchased the Tusk tank bag using your link. Thanks for the great review.
I've bought a bunch of panniers for my bikes from Rocky Mountain ATV great guys to work with, even when things don't go as planned. Tusk products are a mixed bag of good and not-so-good products. I bought a set of tusk panniers, rackless soft luggage and tusk didn't burn the holes through the backing to allow bolting together. I repaired the holes and made them connect, still horrible fitment, sent them back for full refund. I found another style tusk day excursion pannier set that fit perfectly. I don't recommend the aluminum panniers, at least not for me, racks came in at 27 pounds, almost doubled the weight with the boxes installed, added content and you now have the tail wagging the dog, just to much weight. Still Tusk offers a more economical offering that works, compared to my more expensive Mosko Moto Reckless 80L, they packed cleanly, you didn't know they were there until you went down, they actually saved my bike, unfortunately, I wiped out two sets withing 20 minutes of their first ride on a simple low sided ripping out the left holster back side. By the time I recovered my bikes from the Crashed Toys salvage yard where my insurance company insisted the bike go, so they could evaluate the damage, the yard stole the panniers, and we never recovered them to have Mosko Moto repair them, huge loss, they were great luggage.
Just purchased the Tusk Olympus and racks using your link. Thanks for the great video, makes it much easier to choose what I need.
As an owner of a '23 KLR, inexpensive is the operative word.
I will be outfitting my mule with these bags.
Thanks for the write up.
Sold!
ok i need you to get the tuareg lol at least for a long time review !
Good presentation, Ian! A comment about the tankbag: I’ve never understood why all tankbags are not waterproof. Having to stop to put on a raincover that also then hides your map window seems silly. (Yes, I still use paper maps.) I asked a tankbag-with-showercap manufacturer years ago why he didn’t just make the bag waterproof to begin with, and he replied that he would then have to raise his MSRP. Well, okay, so do that. 🤷♂️
Not all tank bag cover block your view of maps. My Givi in this case has a clear window on the cover. But I do also understand your frustration
My Olympus large tank bag didn't have a cover. Wth?!
Kudos to the video creator / Big Rock. I am all for RMATV as a Utah local and longtime adventure rider and hardcore technical multi day rider usually on 500 bikes and now on a well setup 701. I have a Mosko Reckless 80 and the PRICE IS INSANE - TOO MUCH $$$$$. I am selling off the last of my Mosko stuff and switching to 100% RMATV beccause their products are reasonably priced. Fuck Mosko and all of the idiots spending soo much $$ to be part of the club. Mosko lost another customer - the pricing is just TOO MUCH.
...And YEs the panniers now are ridiculously expensive...stupid prices! $1550 for Mosko moto??
Your channel has quickly become my favorite. Even bought a brand new Tiger 900 and love it. Keep up the great work!
Have you considered testing the Brooksautosports ADV aluminum panniers... they have holders too but the BMW R GS ones for 699 fit on the original holders... there is also a cheap top case that is mounted on a baseplate which goes on the rear rack
How are you getting on with the new KTM 890? I'm looking at the Adventure version but stories of reliability issues have me rethinking a purchase decision. I don't need a hard edge off-road bike. I'm looking for a bike for the next 8 years like did with my F800GS. The design of the 890 Adventure is close to ideal: not too heavy, low center of gravity, maybe more power than I need, good seating position, tube-less wheels, cruise control, and exceptional handling.
Unfortunately I think motorcycle luggage has become a fashion statement like women's purses. Way overpriced and all about what people think.
I love my Tusk tank bag....
If id only KNOWN that a 2nd mortgage was an option to fund this hobby I'd have gone a little more crazy than a Royal Enfield...
I buy SW-Motech. I believe in the theory of "Buy once and not ten times". You get what you pay for the first time around. Great video Ian! Great to see alternative gear. I'm not a fan of the "Dry Bag" family of gear. Too many straps and always compressing the gear inside. Just me I guess!
Ride SAFE and BE safe Ian!
SW Motech is good stuff but man, do they charge for it. Best tank-ring mounts in the world though, very elegant.
Any chance you have tested these on the R1300GS? I just received the Highland X2 and am trying to get it installed.
I haven’t a clue what to go for ? I’m doing touring on road only , security is important and waterproof secured fitting and must be soft panniers, my bike is a Benelli 502.
Indeed the Olympus are quite large, but I found them quite heavy. I might return them and exchange for a set of Nelson Rigg Hurricane. Not quite sure.
I have a question would this set up work for a Suzuki DR200S
Where is the review of Himalayan ?? Do with scram 411 if it's possible ...
Nice review! How will you prevent theft or vandalism of these bags if you park your bike in a public place for an hour or more of shopping, etc?
What length Rok straps did you use for the duffel? Looks like they come in 24" or 60"
Ian, what other mods have you done to your KTM 890 Rally bike?
SUP bag, couple of drybags and a few good straps and you're done for no money!
I can't get enough of your excellent reviews and commentaries. You consistently seem to hit on so many of the points of concern that I have myself. Thanks!
Hi guys, I live in the UK. Do you know where it is possible to buy them from?
You did not talk about adapting to other racks? I have rally raid racks will these work on those racks?
Great review, would have considered but made in China hence cheap in price and jobs sent overseas hence need for cheaper stuff…
Great content….Pricing is allover the place on luggage….the Tusk are a great option for the cost…save about 400/500 vs my Mosko…..again nice job!!!
When is your review on the 890 adv R coming out?
Does anyone know if you can still take passengers with this system?
The website is missing my benelli in your search for your ride feature
Thanks Ian for a great review! I love your style; right to the point, honest, personal feedback. I don't really ride off-road, so I opted for a GIVI Trekker hard case top box for a more secure, urban storage solution. I am looking for a small tank though for those little items. I'll check out the Tusk options and will use your link if I purchase something.
You really can't beat a top-box for commuting/day-trip convenience (especially if it's large enough to fit your helmet). As long as you're careful to keep the heavy stuff out of them while riding, they're great. I have the 'Bumot' top-box/panniers and cannot recommend it enough. Half the price of Touratech, built like a tank and they have friction hinges (lids stay open on their own). I use this setup for road trips and switch to a Giant Loop for camping.
Ian, I really trust your reviews. How about a review of the Nelson-Rigg Hurricane bags - they are equivalent affordable as Tusk in the US and the cheapest of the American designed quality bagsets available in Australia. I've recently got a set of Hurricane panniers and am very impressed with the quality - I'm now interested in replacing my falling apart, non-waterproof KTM PowerParts tank bag with the Nelson-Rigg 8 litre, which is waterproof and I'd like your opinion. Thanks again for your hardwork.
Would like to see you do a review of the Rhino Walk systems. They seem to be the cheapest waterproof luggage thats decently built but would love to get your opinion. Would help out a lot of budget riders. I just got a set of the 28L soft panniers and a 30L top bag. Seem really well built but I have nothing to compare them to. All told it cost $180 for the whole thing since I jumped on a sale. Install takes about 10-15 minutes without pannier racks though.
Do these dry out easily after rain or would I have to worry about mold between the outer and inner bag on a tour?
And PS - excellent video - the best I've seen on this product. You have an $1100 customer to RMATV as I'm ordering stuff for both bikes (701 enduro and the 1090 KTM) now. Thanks
thank you!!
Not for a KTM 350 EXC though.... I used the Tusk system on my Honda Rally and Loved it...
You make sure to take the time to explain the features of the bags and why they would be needed. Your clear explanations are a big help to riders looking for new luggage bags.
Ian, consider an "About Me" video. (Edit - found this one ua-cam.com/video/sdIUKzTybrk/v-deo.html where you tell the story)
Great content, so I was curious "who is this dude?"
Found a podcast where you described riding from age of 11 (like me) and I had an even more embarrassing start with a lawnmower engine in a girls bicycle frame.
I see the "About" on the youtube channel, but the podcast helped me see 1) very real background, as a rider, not a pro racer. 2) worked a corporate job up to the last couple years. Honestly I respect that more than a know-it-all pro racer-rider. Someone who was able to break out and follow their passion (though it is still hard work). 3) Knowing that you worked hard, in the real world, for what you have. Initially I see a beautiful log-home in the background and these expensive motorcycles - wondering "silver spoon?" But no, you earned it just like us other smucks and I find that refreshing. subscribed
Another great review. I will be checking out the TUSK products very carefully based on your experience and this video. Thank you! By the way Pannier, is a word I find a lot of people struggle with pronouncing correctly. It is in fact a French derived word and is actually pronounced
Pan yeah. In a literal translation Pannier means Basket. Viola!🙂
Only $600… I got my Nelson-Riggs saddle bags for $180. I’ve put them through the ringer. I’ve literally dragged my V-Strom down a boulder going down a Black Bear Pass.
Have you highlighted the difference between the Olympus bags and the Pilot bags? If not i'd love to see it at some point. Thanks for the rebiew/overview though - these do seem quite nice. When looking at other bags and seeing that they had $1000+ price points I nearly had a stroke.
Thank you for all your videos I really appreciate, I just order my olympus tank bag for my 2022 africa twin. And the Highland 2 will be my next perchase.
Gen 1 KLR, I have the Tusk tank bag, lg duffel, and aluminum panniers and racks. The soft were out of stock. Mounted the panniers low and centered on the rack, heavy stuff on the bottom. Bike fell over at a gas station, late, tired and didn't pay enough attention to the slope where I was parked. I was getting off and over we went. It hit hard, only damage was a pannier got a slight dent from the rack. Didn't know it until I took them off at destination. More embarrassed than anything. 1k+ trip, 2 lane, hard pack, gravel, Rollins Pass (rocky, BIG potholes, gullies,etc ). , and then some Interstate getting home. Happy with the products, good bang for the $, bike handled it all well, Seat Concepts saved my, you know where. Some of the other products, while no doubt good, gave me sticker shock. 71 now and been riding since 16. SW CO.
For what it’s worth the Tusk Pannier Mounts for the 790/890 do NOT clear the SC Projects rally exhaust (a popular aftermarket choice). Can’t speak for any other slip on systems, but compared to the touratech or outback motortrek racks the tusk mounts are a much larger where the mid pipe routes around the right side of the motorcycle and it can be a very snug fit.
That being said if I had stayed with the stock exhaust I would have stuck with the tusk racks.
Great review! I have the Tusk Highland X2 set on my KTM 890 Adventure S and love them. I also have the large Tusk tank bag. They are huge value for the money spent.
I put the Tusk Pannier Racks on my KLR last month. I couldn't get the package because the bags were sold out at the time. I hope to have this setup by next spring. I have a smaller Giant Loop bag setup on the CRF250L I gave my son. I want bigger bags now and just can't pay the extra money for them. If i got to use them every weekend it would be different. Realistically i'll only need them for two or three weekend trips a year. As usual great review.
Love your reviews. Honesty is your credo.
Nice kit, but for my 2021 Versys 650 I went with the Hepco Becker C-Bow system and the Traveler bags. Mount and bags for about $500.
I'm from the UK and my view on this is as soon as something is made souly for motorbikes the price doubles if not trebles. Most big adventure bike owners earn good money let's be honest, I personally don't at all, im definitely on the lower scale but just because you ride a bike any bike doesn't mean company's have the right to charge ridiculous prices for their products.
I ride a cheaper motorcycle "300 rally " I use a full tusk bag setup. It would be hard to justify a bag setup that cost more than 15% of the cost of the motorcycle, that's mainly why I went with tusk. 100% satisfied with quality and performance
I have the exact setup on my 890. Works well!
Shortlist winners of what?
I rock the tank bag and panniers on my Africa Twin. +1 for Rocky Mountain ATV / Tusk bringing decent quality stuff at reasonable prices. There are some pricier name brands out there, and some cheaper Ali Baba cheap Amazon specials from South China whose sellers are here today with fake reviews and gone tomorrow, but Tusk really seems to nail the quality without breaking the bank sweet spot. Their all-terrain ATV tires (Terrabites) I run on my RZR and Brute Force as well, and they're phenomenal. They're made by a US brand, Vurban Industries, as well.
Ian, the straps over the seat (that you cut off) serve as a weight catcher when riding on very rough roads. When riding through a deep pit, the weight of the bags doubles/triples (G-forces).
I wouldn't cut them off if not really necessary.
Have a look how the huge diesel tanks (400 liter or more) from trucks are attached; the support bracket underneath the tank is fairly thin/small, most of the weight is held by these wide metal straps that go on top / around the tank.
Myself, I prefer a one piece horse shoe watertight bag of 90 liters, that rests on the saddle behind me. It makes it quite narrow so the center of gravity is as close as possible to the bike center and no extra constructions/metal racks needed.
Nice review, thanks!
Thank you, Ian, for another great and informative video. Do you have any experience with Tusk's after-sales support and service? I do have Mosko gear, which I have crashed with, and their after-sales support and post-crash replacement program are excellent. However, as you have alluded to, their equipment, while top-notch, is at a premium price.
I bought the Tusk Pilot bags and my biggest gripe was the waterproof drybag, it seems the same dry bag is in the Olympus. The drybag is so incredibly thin it doesn't do waterproofing that well. As well as the top of the drybag isn't velcroed to the top of the bag so it doesn't flow with the bag that well. It just sags and sits inside which is really frustrating when your bags are soaked. Ill be honest I absolutely hated them! The Olympus bags do look better though.
Hey Ian, good review again. I think I am going to be ordering one of the Tusk tank bags for my Africa Twin. I have never had a tank bag on a bike before.....I ordered the mini Ranger 4.5L from Lone Rider when they first released it. However at that point not having my head wrapped around the tank bag world at that time I now realize it's not really going to fit well on the AT with it not being wedge shaped and the AT having a sharp angle on the tank.
I have the Tusk Highland X2 Rackless Luggage on my 22 KLR and they have worked very well. i have had them about 6 months now i do have a few spots on the top beaver tail that are starting to frey a tiny bit but not any big deal. I love them. how ever i made my own tank bag i don't like a big bulky tank bag that site up as high as yours. so i used a Camel back pack with the water blatter with molle and pockets. i made it for a hole 10 dollars its super snug to the tank and works very good. i am going to have to look in to that duffel mine came with a 20 L its good but the direction it attaches is oppsit of how i would think it should go. so it stick out a bit for the size i think the duffel would make more sense so it would cover the tops of the side pouches so it can deter people form wanting to look in them when all strapped when you are inside store. if i get a camera set up at some point ill film it and post a link to my setup!
Just bought the bags! wish the tank bag was in stock used your link.. thanks for all the great reviews.
For a Moto Guzzi V85TT the Bumot Xtremada soft panniers for less than 500 euros are just great.
This channel kinda had to grow on me I admit. And while very detailed I think the structure of such reviews is what stands out from among other channels and more so than the bigger ones. GJ keep up with these. Always looking forward for the next upload ✌️
Salutations from Portugal Ian. Plan to give us your thoughts about the rally? best wishes for your channel!
I buy direct from the country of origin and save a lot over the US distributor and retailer Mark ups.
Good content and informative. I left my pannier bag straps intact, they do serve as a safe precaution, though I found it better to loop the strap around the pannier rack as a secondary security instead of across the seat and rear rack.
A great and factual review of luggage options. Permit me to add one downside of rack-less luggage; the use of the pillion seat is lost.
Don’t worry bro, I’ll definitely be buying with your links 💯 you got great content
Do you think it would fit on a 450l?
You’re killing it Ian. Keep up the excellent work. I’m gonna buy these for my 22 KLR based on this review.
Rock mountain does have the pannier racks and soft panniers in a combo for most bikes for 4to500 depending on make and model bikes
Had them for a couple years.. can’t beat the price my only complaint is their a little bulkier then I expected
PS all your videos are great!
Will all these Tusk Products work on 2023 Kawasaki 650 KLR Adventure? Great video
yes
Thankss
If only the Tusk Panniers weren't out of stock constantly.
Hey Ian. Yeah the quick glove stash is a good idea although I tend to stash my gloves in my helmet. The raincoat for the tankbag is not a good idea - the tankbag should be waterproof. Tankbag covers invariably inflate when riding in wind and cause additional issues. Tankbags should be waterproof from the get go!
I used to stash my gloves in my helmet, too, but found it eventually made my helmet liner funky (especially in hot climates). Not sure if it was the sweaty glove materials or just the fact that it inhibited the liner from airing out properly. YMMV.
As for waterproofing, I can kind of see both sides. It's somewhat difficult to make fully waterproof seams and even moreso, zippers. Even when a MFR pulls it off, they will tend to leak a bit after some amount of age/use (anyone who's ridden in an Aerostitch for years can attest). An external waterproof layer with no zippers and minimal seams is much less likely to ever leak. Yeah it's somewhat of a pain to stop and put it on, same with rain gear, but if you don't ride in the rain all that often (as I don't) it's not a big deal. Another option is to use dry-bags/Ziploc/whatever to waterproof stuff internally.
Ian, very though !!!
Amazing channel! Keep up the great work
Very good video. I’ve got Mosko moto and love them.
Excellent review Sir. Thank You
Excellent video! Very thorough!
Thank you !! We need you to review the other options also. Keep up the good work 👏
No cheap options for r1200gs
😍
I just ordered the Pannier/Rack Combo using your link. The price is so much cheaper than I was planning to spend. THANKS for your reviews. Safe riding.
Good info.
Well done! Thank you.
Thanks for sharing
Love your videos
Nice review 🤙