Remember when you wished to have under-seat storage like a scooter on your bike? Well, you were not alone. This very thought has ultimately brought forth bike side box, or ‘dikki,’ as Indians prefer to call it. Of course, a ride on your motorcycle is always intended to be a soothing affair. Still, the addition of extra luggage, be it as a backpack or something more heavyweight, tends to bring one’s spirit down, ultimately making the journey tiresome.
Here comes the bike side box invented by the modern man, and we have overcome that obstacle. An accessory whose contribution makes the motorcycle ride enjoyable even with luggage, the motorcycle side box is one such supplement that eventually grows on people.
The majority of bikes in the West, specifically the U.S.A., are cruiser types, so aiming for long stretches of the journey, motorcycle side box did not necessarily raise an eyebrow. However, Indian motorcycles are more down-to-earth and commuter-oriented, suffice to say a significant digression from the typical Western bikes.
People now have realized that the bike side box is easy to attach and detach from their beloved motorcycle, causes less wind drag, and does its intended job finely – optimally protecting important documents and pieces of equipment. Additionally, they are sturdy, lockable, waterproof, and come in different shapes and sizes per the rider’s comfort.
What is Bike Side Box – A Brief Overview
As the name suggests, a motorcycle side box is a storage unit generally attached to the rear end. The primary purpose is to carry and protect some essential documents and equipment like vehicle papers (registration certificate, blue book, insurance, pollution control), first-aid kit, and basic tools for emergencies. Due to its compact stature, a bike side box can be attached to either side of the two-wheeler as per one’s comfort and proper utilization. Like a car’s boot space, they are popularly termed ‘dikki’ or ‘diggi.’
What is the Need for a Side Box?
A bike side box comes in handy more than you can give it credit for. A lot of small and big hassles, which you probably thought to be unsolvable till now, can be worked out simply by installing a bike side luggage box. The benefits are listed below:
You can say Adios to backpacks after fitting a motorcycle side box. Inside it, you carry all your necessary documents without a care in the world since they come in lock and key mode, thus minimizing the probability of stealing. Moreover, your back is now strain-free from continuously carrying baggage.
Another feature of the two-wheeler side box is the quality of waterproof. So no matter what you store inside it, rest assured they will be safe and dry from rain and mud.
A bike-side luggage box is a must for a regular traveler or owner of commuter vehicles. Because in it you can carry food and drinks and documents of importance. Since they come in various shapes and sizes, a motorcycle side box is likely to be your go-to safe space.
Unlike scooters, bikes do not have storage areas. However, with the advent of the two-wheeler side box, this particular hurdle has been dodged.
A motorcycle side box is relatively easy to attach. As in, you can fit them right up with the minimum efforts of bolts and clamps. Running to the nearest garage will do the trick if you are not savvy with tools, as installing it takes little to no time.
What are the Advantages of Side Box?
A motorcycle side box is the best replacement for backpacks. Now that the rider no longer has to carry weight, they can fully enjoy the riding experience.
The motorcycle side box is typically waterproof to tackle harsh weather conditions. So the rider can ride without worrying about their belongings.
Now that the locking system comes as standard in all two-wheeler side boxes, the possibility of stealing is not there.
What are the Disadvantages of Side Box?
Much like everything, a motorcycle side box has its downside. It could be the main source of discomfort for the person riding in the pillion since it blocks a proper seating position for the passenger.
The overall aesthetic of the motorcycle is sometimes devalued after installing a two-wheeler side box. Since they come in various ranges, we urge you to attach one only after proper selection.
How to Choose Your Ideal Bike Side Box?
So how to pick your ideal bike side box? Rest easy. We got you here. Remember that not all side boxes are compatible with every kind of bike, as in some are exclusive for long drives bikes, some for sports bikes. And with that in mind, let’s go into the most basic qualities one has to have before purchasing a two-wheeler side box.
- Style: Although this factor might not always be the first priority, more often than not, it turns out to be the deciding factor. Since a bike can be termed as an extension of the owner’s personality, make sure that the motorcycle side box adds value to the overall aesthetic of the motorcycle.
- Storage: The storage area of a motorcycle side box is also essential. A big motorcycle side box is ideal for people who travel long distances. However, for daily commuting purposes, a two-wheeler side box small size is perfect.
- Sturdy: The quality of sturdiness is one attribute a rider must have while buying a bike side box. On this note, the metal side box for a bike should be a priority. At the same time, the steel side box for the bike can also be a worthy attribute to have as a defining feature.
- Waterproof: Waterproofing is a must, and it cannot be stressed enough. Every motorcycle side box carries important articles, and to ensure maximum safety, the two-wheeler side box has to be 100% waterproof.
- Payload: The carrying capacity, simplified for payload, must also be given due consideration. A small side box for the bike is ideal for lower engine displacement vehicles.
Top 12 Best Bike Side Boxes Available in India
1. STUDDS Explorer (Storage: 10 litre/ Payload: 4.5 kg)
2. Steelbird SB-509 Universal Luggage Side Box With Fitment Clamps (Storage: 10 litre/ Payload: 4 kg)
3. Bike S.S. Side Box
4. Generic Enterprises S.K. Super Side Box-01
5. UMA MS Bike Metal Luggage Carrier
6. CARRIZO Bike Side Luggage Box
7. HUUSO Trendy Bike Side Box
8. Golden Riders Brief-case Style Double-sided Motorbike Saddlebags
9. Venom Wingman Fabric Saddle Bag
10. Visionrabbit Side Box Bike Luggage Box
11. Trek’ N’ Ride Motorcycle Top Case
12. Sarte Bike Side Luggage Holder
Even with all the available knowledge on the internet, while buying a bike side box, check personally if it fills all the right criteria. And only after a test ride should you go forward with the final deal. Do you enjoy bike riding? Having one of the best bike gloves for long rides will help you enjoy riding again!
