There are a number of companies and brands that offer touring accessories, especially luggage. Big touring bikes have enough space to mount luggage, however, when it comes to naked street bikes, the choices are less. The bags need to carry enough to last a week of riding at the most, while they also need to be compact enough and not spoil the ride.
So when I was on the search for a tailbag, the Viaterra Claw Mini caught my attention. Having used Viaterra products before, it was a no-brainer and I went for it. Priced at Rs 3,899 and with a promise of being fully waterproof, it made all the sense.
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Viaterra Claw Mini tailbag — Construction and mounting
Image: Viaterra
The Claw Mini has a seam-sealed ripstop liner for the main compartment to keep water away, while an additional rain cover ensures double safety. The YKK zippers are tough and the numerous pockets make it easy to store waterproof gear, tools, cans and sprays, and even my motorcycle cover on a few trips.
Mounting is easy. The Claw Mini mounts with the help of three straps with double-D rings, making it easy and secure. Two go to the rear footpeg brackets and the third goes under the seat or a carrier if you have one. That said, mounting and unmounting the bag takes a few seconds.
What can it carry?
Image: Express Drives
On my trips – several over the 15,000 km I’ve ridden in the last year – I usually pack for three days, which includes a pair of regular shoes. The max I’ve packed is for a 10-day trip, which also includes a pair of boots for the rainy season. The bag was packed to the brim but kept me comfortable for 10 days on the road.
Apart from the long trips, there have been shorter weekend trips and the bag never looked oversized, nor has it felt small on longer trips, provided the packing is smart. The main compartment usually carries all my clothes and footwear, while the side pouch carries motorcycle essentials and the other side my rain gear and the waterproof cover for the tailbag itself.
Do I recommend it?
Image: Express Drives
The answer is yes.
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