Thanks Amanda! Best feature would be waterproof and maybe lockable to keep those smaller items we all carry safe from pilfering. I enjoyed the video so don’t mind the nay sayers, doing projects like these provide far better appreciation when buying items cause you realize how well or poorly travel equipment can be made. Rock on!
Mrs.Tenacity forward forward it's almost like that college homework-a-thon. Thoroughly enjoyed. I'm going to dig out the sewing machine and take a day to figure out how to thread it. Winner!!
Congrats on a new addition. I have an older Wolfman tank bag I got soon after the bike purchase. Love it, great quality. It mounts with 2 clips on the front and 2 near the seat. I added a shoulder strap from some bag I had that works perfect as it’s adjusted so it’s snug to the bag on the outside. Worked so good when on the road; I had the valuables in it and could just unclip it like a shoulder bag and take it in when I stopped to eat or such. It has a clear top velcroed on map pouch I use but have also just slipped my phone in the top where I could see it. One great thing about the bag is I can unzip a zipper that’s just below the top lid one and it expands. I always have it in the collapsed position but it’s nice if you pick something up where you need just a little extra room. Besides other things I generally have the rain jacket there. Makes it nice, fast and handy if you to get at it. Just pull over, throw the jacket on without even getting off the bike. You just need to have sense enough to do it before the rain catches you.
Well done Amanda. Wolfman should start consulting with you on designs and features. I liked the mini tri-pod holder idea. Maybe not a stretchy material as it will rot and stretch out over time from the sun, but a great concept. I like having small pieces of velcro on my tank bag to attach my gloves when I am on and off the bike. I find it more convenient and I don't drop them on the ground or have them blow away. Tank bags should come with a small area of sewn in velcro. The stick on pieces I use tend to come off over time. Cheers.
Thanks so much Matt! :3 haha They just did a huuuuge revamp of their lineup so I think it'll be a little while before they take my input on anything :P The piece of velcro for gloves is brilliant! I normally stuff mine in the gap between my handlebars and dash, and if it's my winter gloves they stay there but my summer gloves inevitably try and run away lol
I use a magnetic base for my tank bag (MotoDry) that I have added straps to as I have two bikes I use it on, one with a plastic tank (Beemer). I find that it is more stable on my Duke using the magnets but both setups are fine. And those magnets are never going to give way to a little wind. My bag has two layers to it that zip together to double the height and capacity for real long distance stuff (overnight or more) but usually I just use the top part attached to the base as it has two side pockets to hold all the stock fill (tyre guage, visor cleaning stuff, extra camera cables, spare camera batteries etc) leaving the whole main pocket for goods (pizza, coffee flask, food and such). To reduce scratches to the tank I put a layer of felt on the base. Great video Amanda and congratulations on your win. That bag you made was really quite good.
lol I wouldn't define the gusts in Umatilla as a "little wind" but to each their own. Love a good bag that is extendable! Thanks so much Paul!! and thank you for making it to the end!! Seriously Hats off!
@@AstheMagpieFlies Sorry didn't mean to imply that you couldn't handle a bit of wind or get high winds. Here in Canturbury we get a Foen wind from our North West that can be steady at 60-70kmph gusts to 100-120km per hour. At times I have seriously thought about my sanity in deciding to ride some days as the bike is literally pushed across the road while quartering the wind, not even side on, and the bag has never moved. And why wouldn't one watch your videos to the end, they are awesome.
I really like the zip-off nature of the Giant Loop Diablo/Fandango tank bags. I also prefer a single compartment. I would like to see straps/loops in the compartment to hold things in place. Easy access pocket for registration/insurance as well.
Okay Amanda, I was going to ask this on the "How I Started Riding Motorcycles" video but here goes...what model Husqvarna sewing machine do you have? it looks older. Yes, I'm a guy asking about sewing machines. My mom taught me how to sew growing up (starting with doing all my uniform patches in Cub Scouts) and she would sew alot of her clothes and clothes for my sister. We were a military family so that was a way she saved money. I also collect things "in case I might need it" especially with camping stuff...old bags, straps, buckles, zippers, etc. I've had projects in my head for years and have put off buying a machine. Watching you work has inspired me. I love Husqvarna as a company because I know they make good products and their design is awesome. I had one of their riding lawn mowers and it was great. Really enjoyed the video and congratulations on winning!
I SO relate to this! Looks like something I’d start doing… and try to not be seen since halfway through I’d hear “what ARE you doing?” Really don’t feel like explaining… justifying my weird project. I want to create something! lol
Well congratulations on your win. I didn't notice your message until really late, after midnight of the day. However, I figured its still not midnight on the west coast so figured I'd go ahead and post the like. I guess it was pretty close so i'm glad I did. I'm not a fan of elastic straps. Exposed to weather over time they deteriorate. I prefer buckles and adjustable straps. They last longer and essentially will always fit. You did a really great job, glad you won.
You are the only person that could make me watch a sewing video and enjoy it!! Ideal tank bag... Super small so it doesn't get in the way or riding, filling gas, or turning on the bike, but big enough for a couple filming options (camera and osmo pocket?) with adjustable pockets because my choice of camera gear changes over time! Waterproof is a must, and easy access is also highly desired. I need the unicorn princess tankbag please. :-P
lol That's some high praise Kris XD Have you seen the Tin Cup Wolfman made? lol they even have a special mounting system specifically for the tin cup as a tank bag. WAYY too small for me but looks freaking funny on a BMW GS XD
I think you did an awesome job! My sewing projects always take 3 days. Lol. Congrats on winning!🙌🏻. And I can’t say what features I would want in a tank bag. I’ve never had one. 🤔 Heck I just got saddlebags not too long ago 😂
I use now, the Rapid Transit tank bag, it’s on the small size, but big enough to hold the things I need often snacks, small camera, water bottle, looking into a small water bladder to fit in the pouch, the bag is not water proof, I have to use a water proof cover. That’s the main option I’d like on a new bag. It also has a map insert on the top of the bag, but it’s not water proof either. Wish you the best, enjoy your videos.
An idea for income during this crazy time. Auction off the tank bag. I'm betting there are a number of your followers who would love to own it. Btw... you did a really nice job on it.
The first time I used a tank bag instead of a backpack, it CHANGED MY LIFE... Dude I had no idea what I was missing out on. Riding without a backpack is so freeing. I currently use the old Icon Urban tank bag because it's big, lightweight, and transforms into a backpack for when I get off the bike. Definitely wish it were fully waterproof, but beggars can't be choosers xD Sorry about your job, but hang in there!!! Proud and amazed how hard you worked on this and congrats for winning, well deserved!
I'm on the fence about a tank bag. I've never used one but I like the idea of one to keep things handy. I would want one that not to tall to get in the way of my handlebars,waterproof and lots of pockets. The divider you put in would be a must.. As always,you did another awesome video. Keep on smiling that makes us smile even more
I've got a 5L tank bag for work keys, wallet, my camera, and everyday carry type stuff, and I got the givi easy lock so it doesn't sit on the tank and scratch it. It's low profile enough that it doesn't really interfere with the movement of the bars, though they do kinda boop it a bit when they get to full lock
Well done! Nice win and you've completed your tank bag prototype course. If decide to pursue luggage production you're ahead of the game. Add a bit of R&D and some proper materials (and adequate supplies) and your off. I like a clear map pocket and a pocket or mesh on the inside of the cover.
You are very talented with that Husky sewing machine! Looks like you are making the best out of these trying times. Thank you for another nice, down to earth, video.
Nice work! I had an old BMW tankbag on my RT and it had a handle on the front of it, like yours. It was the perfect size to stick a water bottle or commuter coffee mug. The new tankbag for my newish RT does has a handle there, but it's much too small to shove a drink device in there. What were those German engineers thinking?! They obviously didn't consult with me before designing the new tankbag.
Oh that's brilliant! I have transported coffee cups before by unzipping a corner of the tank bag and nesting it in the corner and cinching the zipper around it. but utilizing the handle is very clever! lol Obviously those engineers need a talking to!
haha! She's so skiddish I'd probably only be able to do one video every 3 months lol I do get a little cuddle every great once in a while, but I have to be napping on the couch with a specific blanket lol
Great job. t looks great from here in Tucson. If you dont use it on the bike you could use it as a protection storage bag. Or just use as a tail bag for shorter trips.
That’s a brilliant project. Ive not done any sewing yet in quarantine! I’ve been doing videos on woodwork lately to fill the void! Today I made a bird box with a carved wood spirit on the front, but didn’t video it, but it’s on my Instagram. I may make another, just for a video hahahahah.. I like the idea of your straps for the tripod. I think they should be on all tankbags.
No pins, no problem. I sew a lot of flat panel projects (then assemble cases, holsters, etc. ) on my commercial sewing machine. Whenever possible I staple the panels together then when trimmed the fabrics & foam & staples go to trash.
I use a Tanklock Givi bag on my RT and have a BMW tank bag for my GSA but have never used it. I like the Givi bag because it is really easy to remove and apply. Since Wolfman sponsors you maybe they will modify and added some straps on the side. Using the elastic straps is a good idea but I would have a velcro one in the middle for added security. Since you sew you might be able to cut up a small spider net add some clips to 4 corners then sew mating stubby parallel clips on the tank bag clip straps or just sew the net to the straps on the bag.. No compromise to the waterproofing of the bag. I think you can think of a creative way to add that feature. Also available is packing material ( I suggest closed cell foam so it doesn't absorb water) fit it inside the bag then cut out the shape of your camera and other items you want to pack in it no partition required. Easy-peasy! Nice job on the bag and effort on stuffing the ballot box!!! LOL I feel left out....no email request :(
Thanks Dale! Lol sorry I didn't message you I was battling my inner need to not "bother" people but also trying to win 🤣 Since the new bags aren't made in house anymore I don't think I'll be getting any custom bags anytime soon lol 😝 is hate to ruin the new one, now that I'll have a fancy one though maybe I'll experiment with some of my older model tank bags. 🙈
So happy you won - it looks SO GOOD! Was also eagerly awaiting this video because this is a serious undertaking and I love watching people craft things!
That was a fun video. Good job and congrats. I like my tank bag because it clips into a ring around the fuel opening it doesn’t touch the tank and scratch it. It’s from SW-Motech.
Congratulations on the win! If it's not something you do every day, building things from scratch can be difficult. Add to that the current climate where we can't go out to get supplies, and you've really got to stretch your imagination to come up with alternate resources. You did great! :D You should do a side-by-side feature comparison with the bag you won showing how you'll use the new bag to do all the things you designed your bag to accomplish. I've never had a tank bag. But if I did, I'd want it to be: 1-Waterproof, 2-Secure (both securely attached to the bike & able to secure with a lock when in town, 3-Easy to Open one-handed. I don't have a fancy camera, so I'd probably use it to carry gloves, a scarf, hat, maybe some maps and a sketchbook/pens, and use it to stow my GPS/phone when I stop to eat or am parked in the city.
Looked very similar to a tank bag I bought about 7 years ago. Mine had a clear map pocket on the top. I used 1” thick foam in layers on the inside cut to the shape of my DSLR, battery charger, and a flash. It had the magnetic pads and worked ok. It also had a strap system. The bike was a 2012 Yamaha V-Star 1300T. The magnetic pads barely fit in the right spots, and the plastic buckle on one of the straps rubbed out the clear coat on the tank on my first long ride. I also didn’t like that I had to remove the bag to get to my gas cap. But overall, it did what I asked of it to do. I no longer travel with my camera gear though, so the bag is unused.
Cool video! Way back in the 1900's when I started riding 😁 there were no interwebs. You kind of had to make your own stuff because the local bike shops was all that was available. I'm not ggod at fabric. I tried to make a duct tape wallet a few years ago. It took my wife 3 hours to cut me out of the mess 🤣
Thanks man! :D XD haha! Thanks for that laugh! When I was growing up we didn't really have budget for things you "wanted" but didn't really "need" so I got really good at making things that "would do" not always the prettiest but they did the job I needed them to do lol I made my own raised bed platform out of firewood one year so I could put my desk under my bed lmao
I haven't used a tank bag for years. When I did it was just for a light jacket and my wallet. Great way to keep busy during these times. Thanks for sharing.
lol thanks. I mean I'm not a rock climber, kayaker, or through hiker so in terms of the skills of my fellow co-workers at REI, I'm lacking in a few areas XD
this is a great question, since Ihave never used a tank bag my honest answer is. I don't know what I would want in a tank bak. That said, first I think waterproof, then security , both security about the attachment and security if I "HAD" to leave it unattended so I would want nice straps that used a "locking" mechanism to hold it to the scooter. second some kind of flexible inserts of the fabric that make it VERY hard to cut with even razor sharp blades. Kevlar maybe?? andway the final consideration for me I think would be how easilt organized it can be. I do not want to dig through the bag to find something small, such as a camera battery. Great Video I hope you are staying well and happy see you on the road. Kepp the shiny side on top!
Waterproof, roomy, fastens well to the tank, clear pocket on top for paper map or cell phone, (if cell phone it needs rear-side vents to prevent phone from overheating) pockets inside and outside for organization. built-in onboard power for charging items. (I carry a AA/AAA battery charger in my tank bag to keep my batteries charged. I don't have to purchase and carry a bunch of spare batteries for my camera and headlamps etc.) I also can keep my gopro batteries on charger in my tank bag. I ran a full-time extension direct from my battery to the dash on the bike with a dual USB port on it. I then plug a 4-5 port USB hub into it which then goes to my tank bag. Works pretty well. Still working out the kinks. Rubber bands hold the batteries in their respective chargers. I have a brand new 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650DL which I purchased in Oct. 2019. My tank bag was roughing up the paint on the tank. I wanted to purchase clear contact paper to put on the tank to protect it but couldn't find any at Dollar General so I purchased black duct tape and put a layer of tape on the tank. Tank paint protected. Just some ideas.
I feel like you've thought about this! lol Thanks for such an in-depth answer! I normally run with couple battery banks in my tank bag, and I only pull of the usb plug from the battery when I have to. (Habits left over from riding Lazarus who's system really wasn't optimal for drawing extra power from the battery lol I used to run around with a solar panel strapped to my duffel bag on the back of the bike! Worked pretty well actually.) They also make tank protectors that are pretty cheap too :P
Great video, well done on the win. In the UK we are under lockdown, which means lots of time at home. I am a practical person, so after servicing several bicycles for neighbours, then my wife, then a few of mine, I made a lid out of aluminium for a tool box I bought for my MT500. Some would call it making a mess, I would call it constructive creativity. What would I like on a perfect tank bag? Proper size external pockets to take wallets or documents or a multitool or spare charging lead or other stuff you might need to get to quickly.
Congrats! There’s a lot to be said for distraction and wacky projects these days. Wait until you see mine. 😊 I don’t like tank bags, myself. I find they get in the way when I’m steering, moving, and shifting my weight around the bike. That’s just me, though.
Thanks Justin! lol oooh! Peaked Curiousity! What have you been working on? I've heard a few people say they're not a fan, and most of those people tend to be male, I'm kind of wonder if maybe since we have different centers of gravity maybe we have different postures on the bike? Nathan has also stated he's not a big fan of tank bags because they get in the way when standing, but I don't seem to have the same problem. Maybe I just don't notice because since I've started riding off-road I've always had a tank bag, or maybe it's a bike thing?
As the Magpie Flies I’ll show you later, but basically the only thing I’m riding right now is a knee scooter due to a broken foot. So I’m going to customize it like a Harley the most tacky tasteless way possible. 😄 As for tank bags, it could be a guy thing. I’m not sure. Even sitting, I like to have an open space between me and the handlebars, despite the obvious utility of a tank bag for easy access to stuff.
Hey Amanda...love this so much. I call it Positive Procrastination. It really helps to do something else you want done while avoiding the other thing that needs to be getting done. LOL
@2:15 Uh-oh a hoarder found validation in finally finding a use. CONGRATULATIONS ON THE WIN!!!! It's not a disappointment at all. It's a proto-type. I have a nice, small-ish, camera bag that has two zippers lengthwise on the top with a handle that pull both zippers. I like it and could see it as a feature on a tank bag. I can send you a picture if you like.
Never had or even thought of using a tank bag lol If it doesn't fit in my saddle bags and my tombstone bag or can't be strapped on some way it just don't go lol
You are AWESOME!! I love your videos. This one was so much fun. I could envision what you wanted!!! I'm so glad you won. Keep staying busy and doing crazy projects. I love the vids on the fun things.
Giving companies ideas of what bikers actually need is a great idea. I don't have tank bag pref, I don't have one. But if I would, I would pick waterproof and at least one easy access pocket for my passport. I have saddlebags, now I know that they are not waterproof, or resistant, more like water containers as they let water in, but not out. lol ohh well c'est la vie
Thanks so much! Ooo maybe like a hidden zipper so the pocket for your passport is on the underside of the tank bag, in the most unsuspecting place so it's also hidden from thieves!
The number one thing I need on a tank bag is a waterproof clear map cover....yes I know everyone is using a GPS but I’m a “belt and suspenders” kind of guy 😆 I had to rack my brain, but I figured out I’ve been using tank bags for 39 years 😱. And not the first one has been water proof for 💩! They might claim to be, or come with a silly “shower cap” rain cover, but if the contents aren’t in a dry bag, zip lock bag, or at least a trash bag.....they will be wet 🤨. So to see that Wolfman has a new water proof one has me excited 👍.
I've never had an issue with my maps getting wet in my Skyline Bag's map pocket. But I guess I wasn't submerging it either 😜 I'm def stoked that the whole tank bag will be waterproof tho! 🙌
As the Magpie Flies ; Oh I wasn’t too clear on that now was I 🤪. I’ve had “zip loc” type map covers that were water proof, but the bags were not 😉. And if the map “pocket” was just a part of the bag....abandon all hope of keeping your maps dry 😆.
Nice job. I'm impressed you continued through to the end. A good inspiration for me, as I start many projects but finish few. Good idea to have the lid opening from the back, and maybe you could include clear pocket on top for phone/map/lists on the..... mark 2 🤔 Always enjoy your videos 👍
Great video Amanda!! Watching with a content creator's eye, I can see the amount of thought and time you put into each sequence. It's not easy and the editing takes a lot of time! I don't have any original ideas for tank bags. Like you, mine gets used for camera gear, so I like your camera specific bag idea!
Maybe apporach Peak Design with your idea of a dedicated camera tankbag. I am sure they will create something amazing. Now you could get some Kaizen foam and create a camera insert by yourself. By the way, I also refuse to use a magnetic tankbank exactly due to the same reason you mentioned.
I have a First Gear Tank Bag that works perfectly on my Sportster. But when I travel and use it on my Heritage with the center tank console, it sucks. The problem there is that it covers the ignition switch and partially blocks my speedo. I'm been pondering making one of my own like you did.
First, good on you for taking on projects "others don't expect you to attempt or finish!" Second, Calamity? why not Cat-astrophe, Third, truly impressed with your heretofore undisclosed skills, Fourth, I'm using my lock down with my welder, not terrifying like a device hammering a stabbing flesh penetrating needle at 20,000 rpm Fifth and least expected, you are so creative and artistic you might have become...……….. a geologist as such skills are required (if sewing machine ops had been part of the curriculum I'd have washed out). Tank bags must, must have a clear plastic slide-in pocket on top so maps or travel directions can be read by those of us who refuse to use GPSs... End crew regards, as always
i sewed thru a finger once, right thru the bone. that didnt bother me half as much as the fact i needed a small sewing machine specific screwdriver to detach the needle from the sewing machine. luckily i had installed a phone near the desk [instantly dating this event lol]. yes i called the neighbors, they came and banged on the wall til my husband woke from the dead and let them in, then they all came in, looked over my shoulder and stared in wonder at my hand in the sewing machine. i said, quit staring and get the damn screwdriver! forever afterwards that itty bitty tool was taped to my machine lol.
Fun project, great way to improve skills while doing something productive (even if you won't be using it 😋). I'd probably use a tank bag if I ever did long-term traveling or became a vlogger.
Dear Amanda, congrats for your well done work ! Could you tell me where can I find your future waterproof tank bag ? Thx in advance and most primary take care of you and your family!
Thanks so much Chase! I don't really have a direct line lol I'll ask but I won't hold my breath, they're a small business after all. They do do a couple a sales during the year so I would sign up for their newsletter and keep an eye out for those! That's what I do!
i wish i knew how to sew i would make my own bag because I have not found one for my Honda Ruckus moto scooter that I can put on the floor and strap it in the lower bars next to my feet the only place it has a spot to ad a bag.
Never had a tank bag but any bags or backpack I've seen doesn't seem to have enough padded waterproof spots for the phone or little smaller waterproof pockets for grab able goodies. Thanks for the video. Have you ever worked with leather?
I have not worked with leather, my machine isn't strong enough to work with real leather. I'd have to get a different kind of needle even just to deal with pleather lol
@@AstheMagpieFlies I heard those machines were expensive. Drilling and lacing is cool in leather but only for some stuff i suppose .Thanks for the response. I appreciate you.
let's see, fasteners... chewing gum works in a pinch hahaha. steal a button, make a loop. hooks and eyes off an old bra. steal half inch pieces of velcro off other things. [mental household inventory...] shoelace ties. D rings off a damaged helmet or an old belt. cut the ziplock part off a freezer bag. steal a zipper off one of jonathan's pants [then convince him that pullup pants are so much more comfortable.] i'm trying i'm trying hahaha. u did great. as in all things, we live and learn. nobody ever had ONE prototype.
my husband and i are planning to get a tank bag for my camera and drone but i am somewhat hesitant that magnets that holds the bag might damage the gadgets when bag is removed from the tank and being hand carried. can you please share how was your experience with the tank bag and your camera in it?
To be clear, since I guess maybe it wasn't in the video? The tank bag I made was never meant to be a usable bag. I would NEVER trust my camera gear in a tank bag that wasn't secured to a bike by straps. Making the tank bag was just for a contest, it is not usable. I did it to win an actual tank bag from Wolfman Luggage, you should check out their Blackhawk Tank Bag, it's waterproof and it's how I house my camera gear. It has universal straps that work just about on any bike. Again. Me personally, even the industrial magnets they use in actual magnetic tank bags will not hold up to strong cross winds. I know because my first bag back when I started riding and thankfully when I wasn't carrying camera gear, flew off my tank riding to Umatilla. And you're right, the magnets will damage the drone. Especially the gimbal.
@@AstheMagpieFlies wow! thank you very much for your reply, it helped me a lot to decide on which bag suits for my camera and drone and i think ill just stick to my existing belt bag and get a small tank bag for our extra shirts and other things instead. thank you!😊
I just bought a $660 Bronica that I'm dying to take with me, but how do I keep it from being knocked around and still accessible. I have found nothing. I ride a Honda PC800 so there is the trunk, but...
