Arkel Tailrider racktop bag

Pictures: Black (from the front) , Red (from the back)

The Arkel Tail Rider bag fits on top of a rear luggage rack, holds 700 cubic inches or more, and weighs 1.1 pounds. This trunk bag is a sleek, aerodynamic profile that really stands out compared to the boxy shapes of most trunk bags. It also has all the subtle features and attention to fine detail that is the hallmark of all Arkel products.

The main compartment measures 16” long by 6” wide, and varies in height from a minimum of 3” to a maximum of 6”. All six sides of the main compartment are lined with closed cell foam for insulation and protection. The compartment is divided into two sections by a removable partition. The left and right sides of the compartment are lined inside by elastic-topped mesh pockets, which you can use to keep small objects separate and easily found. The compartment is accessed through a large top flap that has two full-length zippers, so it opens quickly and completely to get at the bag’s contents. This top flap has a expansion bellow built in, so the bag can expand to hold more gear when necessary. The flap has two compression straps built in, which serve to keep the bag compact when on the bike no matter how full. The straps double as a handle for carrying when off the bike. The TailRider has two outside pockets, one on each side, which measure roughly 8” long by 1” thick and range from 2.5” to 4” tall. Each is accessed through a zipper across the top.

All the zippers on the TailRider are waterproof. This bag also has a full rain cover built in. When it looks like serious rain is coming, simply pull the cover out of its pocket and wrap it over the bag. When the rain has stopped, stow the cover back in its pocket and continue on. Simple!

This bag attaches to any typical rear luggage rack, using four velcro strips. The attachment straps are backed by reflective bands, as is the rear-facing light holder strap. The TailRider has all of Arkel’s typically excellent construction, using sturdy Cordura nylon for virtually all the surfaces that could be exposed to wear or water, YKK zippers with nickel plated sliders, no skimping on velcro where it is used, and excellent seam quality. This bag carries Arkel’s standard lifetime guarantee on workmanship and manufacturing. (The guarantee does not cover normal wear and tear.)