Magnetic vs Non-Magnetic Tank Bags: Which is Right for Your Bike?

Tank bags are among the most versatile and practical motorcycle accessories, providing quick access to essentials while riding. But when shopping for a tank bag, you'll face a crucial decision: magnetic or non-magnetic? In this comprehensive guide, we'll compare both types and help you choose the right one for your motorcycle.

Understanding Magnetic Tank Bags

Magnetic tank bags use strong magnets to attach directly to your motorcycle's metal fuel tank. The Wanderlust Magnetic Tank Bag features 5 powerful magnets that create a secure connection to metal-bodied tanks.

How Magnetic Mounting Works:

The bag's base contains multiple strong magnets (typically 4-6) that create a magnetic field strong enough to hold the bag securely even during high-speed riding and aggressive cornering. A protective layer prevents the magnets from scratching your tank's paint.

Pros of Magnetic Tank Bags:

Quick Installation: Simply place the bag on your tank and it attaches instantly. No straps, clips, or complicated mounting required. Perfect for riders who frequently remove their tank bag.

Secure Hold: Quality magnetic tank bags like the Wanderlust Magnetic Tank Bag use strong neodymium magnets that keep the bag firmly in place even on rough roads and at highway speeds.

Clean Look: No visible straps or mounting hardware creates a sleek, streamlined appearance.

Easy Removal: Lift the bag off when you stop—perfect for fuel stops, quick errands, or preventing theft when parking.

Universal Fit: Works on any motorcycle with a metal fuel tank, regardless of tank shape or size.

Cons of Magnetic Tank Bags:

Metal Tank Required: Only works on motorcycles with metal (steel) fuel tanks. Won't work on plastic, fiberglass, or fiber-covered tanks.

Paint Concerns: While protective layers prevent scratching, some riders worry about long-term paint effects. Using a tank protector pad eliminates this concern.

Magnetic Interference: Rare, but strong magnets can potentially interfere with electronic devices. Keep credit cards and electronics away from the magnetic base.

Understanding Non-Magnetic Tank Bags

Non-magnetic tank bags use alternative mounting systems—typically straps, clips, or specialized mounting plates. The Wanderlust Non-Magnetic Tank Bag uses a push-clip system with a tank pad for secure attachment.

How Non-Magnetic Mounting Works:

The Wanderlust Non-Magnetic Tank Bag includes a tank pad that you mount once on your fuel tank. The bag then attaches to this pad using four push clips, creating a secure connection without magnets.

Pros of Non-Magnetic Tank Bags:

Works on All Tank Types: Compatible with plastic tanks, fiber-covered tanks, and metal tanks. Perfect for Royal Enfield Meteor, Hunter, and other bikes with non-metal fuel tanks.

No Magnetic Interference: Safe for all electronics, credit cards, and magnetic-stripe cards stored inside the bag.

Secure Attachment: Push-clip systems provide extremely secure mounting that won't shift during aggressive riding.

One-Time Setup: Install the tank pad once, then attach and remove the bag easily using the clips.

Versatile Compatibility: Works on tanks where magnetic bags won't, expanding your options.

Cons of Non-Magnetic Tank Bags:

Initial Setup Required: You need to install the tank pad before first use, though this is a one-time process.

Visible Mounting Hardware: The tank pad remains on your tank even when the bag is removed (though it's usually small and unobtrusive).

Slightly More Complex: Requires aligning clips with the pad, which takes a few extra seconds compared to magnetic attachment.

Which Motorcycles Need Non-Magnetic Tank Bags?

Royal Enfield Models:

• Meteor 350 (fiber-covered tank)
• Hunter 350 (fiber-covered tank)
• Classic 350 (some variants have fiber covering)
• Bullet models with fiber tank covers

Other Bikes with Non-Metal Tanks:

• Many modern sport bikes with plastic tanks
• Adventure bikes with plastic fuel tanks
• Scooters and smaller displacement bikes
• Any motorcycle with aftermarket tank covers or wraps

Which Motorcycles Work with Magnetic Tank Bags?

Royal Enfield Models:

• Himalayan (metal tank)
• Continental GT 650 (metal tank)
• Interceptor 650 (metal tank)
• Thunderbird (metal tank)
• Classic 350 (metal tank variants)

Other Bikes:

• Most cruisers (Harley-Davidson, Indian, etc.)
• Older motorcycles (typically metal tanks)
• Many touring bikes
• Standard and naked bikes with exposed metal tanks

How to Check Your Tank Type:

Magnet Test: Hold a small magnet against your fuel tank. If it sticks firmly, you have a metal tank and can use magnetic bags. If it doesn't stick, you need a non-magnetic bag.

Visual Inspection: Fiber-covered tanks often have a textured or matte finish. Metal tanks are usually smooth and glossy.

Owner's Manual: Check your motorcycle's specifications for fuel tank material.

Shared Features: Wanderlust Tank Bags

Both the Wanderlust Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Tank Bags share these premium features:

3-in-1 Versatility: Use as a tank bag, convert to a rear bag, or wear as a backpack. Remove the magnetic pad or detach from the tank pad, and the bag transforms for off-bike use.

22-28L Expandable Capacity: Start with 22 liters for daily rides and expand to 28 liters for longer trips. Perfect for carrying essentials, extra clothing, or camera gear.

Sun Visor Protection: Integrated sun visor protects your phone from overheating and reduces glare, making GPS navigation easier during sunny rides.

Phone Holder Compartment: Dedicated transparent compartment keeps your phone visible and accessible for navigation while protecting it from the elements.

Waterproof Protection: Water-resistant interior with included dry bag and rain cover ensures your gear stays dry during monsoon rains.

Reflective Safety Elements: Reflective materials enhance visibility during night rides on Indian highways.

Durable Construction: 1000D polyester fabric with EVA lining provides durability and protection for years of use.

Making Your Decision

Choose Magnetic Tank Bag If:

• Your motorcycle has a metal fuel tank
• You frequently remove your tank bag
• You want the quickest installation/removal
• You prefer a clean look without visible mounting hardware
• You ride bikes like Royal Enfield Himalayan, Interceptor 650, or Continental GT 650

Choose Non-Magnetic Tank Bag If:

• Your motorcycle has a fiber-covered or plastic tank
• You ride a Royal Enfield Meteor, Hunter, or similar bike
• You want zero magnetic interference with electronics
• You don't mind a one-time tank pad installation
• You need a tank bag but magnets won't work on your bike

Can You Use Both?

Some riders own multiple motorcycles with different tank types. The good news is that both Wanderlust tank bags offer identical features, capacity, and versatility—only the mounting system differs. If you have both metal and fiber-covered tanks in your garage, consider getting both types for maximum flexibility.

Installation Tips

For Magnetic Tank Bags:

1. Clean your tank surface thoroughly
2. Consider using a tank protector pad (optional)
3. Center the bag on your tank for balanced weight
4. Ensure all magnets make contact with the tank surface
5. Test security before riding

For Non-Magnetic Tank Bags:

1. Clean the tank surface where the pad will mount
2. Position the tank pad centrally for balanced weight
3. Press firmly to ensure strong adhesion
4. Wait 24 hours before attaching the bag (for adhesive to cure)
5. Align the bag's clips with the pad and press to secure

Maintenance and Care

Magnetic Bags:

• Wipe the magnetic base clean after rides to remove dust and debris
• Inspect the protective layer for wear
• Check magnet strength periodically
• Use a tank protector to prevent any paint concerns

Non-Magnetic Bags:

• Keep the tank pad clean and free of debris
• Check clip integrity regularly
• Ensure the pad adhesive remains strong
• Replace the tank pad if adhesive weakens (rare)

Conclusion

The choice between magnetic and non-magnetic tank bags comes down to your motorcycle's fuel tank type. If you have a metal tank, magnetic bags offer unbeatable convenience and quick installation. If you have a fiber-covered or plastic tank, non-magnetic bags provide the same functionality with a different mounting system.

Both the Wanderlust Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Tank Bags deliver the same 22-28L expandable capacity, 3-in-1 versatility, sun visor protection, and waterproof features. The only difference is how they attach to your bike. Check your tank type, choose the appropriate mounting system, and enjoy the convenience and versatility of a premium motorcycle tank bag on every ride.