Luggage that delivers: Best motorcycle messenger bags

It might look a bit odd on say a Yamaha or a BMW but this bag from the official Triumph range of apparel will carry plenty of gear and keep it dry. It is made from 1000D polyester and PVC and the main compartment is waterproof with a zipped entry as well as a large flap covering it.

This diminutive bag from Held may only have a capacity of three litres but it is stylish and will work either as a messenger bag or a more urban across-the-front bag. It's made from water-resistant cotton and polyester mix and has PU (artificial) leather sections to give it a cool, urban look and feel.

This waterproof messenger bag from Eigo is made from what appears to be PVC tarpaulin material, with taped seams to ensure that the contents stay dry. It loads via a roll-top closure to keep the water out and the ends are secured by straps with quick-release carabina-style buckles.

Like much of Kriega's offerings, this messenger bag is not cheap but it is very nicely made and incredibly strong. It features 1000D polyester on the base and the back with the rest formed in Hypalon - a longer-lasting alternative to PVC.

This waterproof bag is intended for walking or cycling but its inclusion of a waist strap as well as the wide, padded shoulder straps makes it appropriate for a motorcycle as well. It's made in polyurethane and nylon for water resistance and the shoulder strap uses PU leather to spread the load.

This stylish messenger bag from Italian manufacturer Givi is perfect for an urban commute on a bike or scooter. It has a handy 12-litre capacity and features a padded laptop section that will keep your tech secure. The zips are waterproof and the material should help keep the weather out and away from your valuables.

This retro-styled canvas messenger bag will house a 15in laptop in one of the internal compartments as well as paperwork, accessories and all sorts of other bits and bobs. While the material is backed with a PVC lining, the cover flap is fastened with two spring-loaded catches and the main compartment doesn't close separately, so will always be open to the elements.

Not strictly a messenger bag, this flight bag from Sidi will be familiar to riders of a certain age, taking their PE kit to school (or indeed, everything to school) in the mornings.

Like most of SW-Motech's gear, this messenger bag is top quality and can be fixed to the bike to be used as a tailbag if preferred. It has a wide, padded adjustable shoulder strap as well as a waist strap to keep it secured against the body on the bike and it is made from waxed cotton and synthetic leather with heavy-duty nylon on the base and the rear.