After talking to hundreds of riders around the world, and combining that input with our own personal wants and needs, we decided that, rather than start with a traditional 'toaster' shape, we would divide the Nomax's space into six vertical layers, each with its own specific mission. We compiled a massive list of the things people store in their tank bags and found the majority of the items on the list were very small. A vertical layout maximizes the utilization of space without making the bag too tall.

The top layer of the Nomax features three columns of MOLLE webbing (made from die cut Hypalon), which can be used to mount our rain-proof MOLLE Map Pocket, or other MOLLE-compatible items like our Navigator Cell Phone Pocket. It's also a great place to store a MOLLE-compatible multi-tool, fixed-blade knife, or protective cell phone holder. MOLLE webbing enables you to customize the rider-facing top layer of the Nomax to suit your individual travel style. Some riders like a map pocket, some don’t.

Below the MOLLE webbing, the next layer is an expandable beavertail. If you already have some of our other bags, you know how handy a beavertail can be. On the Nomax, the beavertail serves as a quick-stash spot for things like sunglasses, gloves, snacks, or even a small DSLR camera. If you use it for your DSLR, we provided webbing loops on the beavertail side bellows, so you can clip the D-rings on your camera case directly to the bag. Inside the beavertail, we added a pocket for an InReach or SPOT, and there's a gated clip to hold your GPS/camera/beacon lanyards so nothing tumbles out if your bike goes down.

The third layer zips back into your lap, and is specifically designed for small-item organization: things like charging cables, pens, change, batteries, earplugs, chapstick, passport, and bike documents. There are six mesh pockets, three elastic cable holders, two pen holders, and a fleece-lined glasses pocket. No more tangled soup of miscellaneous items floating around in the bottom of your tank bag, everything has a home.

The fourth layer is a large open compartment, featuring plenty of space for bulkier items like extra maps, spare gloves, wallet, CCW, and food. There are two large mesh pockets (one with sidewalls and one flat), which are available if you need them, but compress out of the way if you don't. Also, for contact lens wearers, on the foam-reinforced sidewall there's a removable lens case holder, which can be rotated to keep the cases vertical depending on the orientation of the bag.

Under the main compartment, accessible from a pocket at the top of the bag, there's a long, flat pocket that accommodates a 2L hydration reservoir, which is included with the bag. In warmer climates and on long distance trips, you can relocate the weight of your drinking water from your backpack to the tank. If you'd rather keep the Nomax as tight as possible to the bike, and/or if you'd like to maximize space in the main compartment, you can remove the reservoir and store it elsewhere on the bike.

The sixth and final layer of the Nomax houses a quick-stash spot for two sewn-on, crushable backpack straps. Simply unclip the Nomax from the bike, pull out the backpack straps, clip them to the D-rings at the bottom of the bag, and the Nomax converts into a fully functioning hydration pack. The side straps, which normally connect the Nomax to the bike, now become your waist strap. We use these backpack straps on dualsport trips all the time, from morning hikes to running errands around town. And the best part is that the Nomax doesn't feel like a 'tank bag on your back.' It looks, feels, and functions like a normal backpack.

The Nomax includes a waterproof rain cover, with a welded-seam top panel and sealed seams on the side, to keep your belongings dry in a heavy downpour. There's a stash-spot for the rain cover on the top of the bag, and a leash so it doesn't get lost. Also, hidden away in two of the zipper pulls, you’ll find a SIM card tool and storage compartment, and a safety whistle for emergencies.

After years of design and development work, plus tons of real world input from the riding community and from our own trips, we've tried our best to design the ultimate adventure touring tank bag. We hope you like it!

Notes:

• Due to the Nomax's long torso, it may not fit on smaller dualsport bikes or bikes without a front gas tank
• We specifically designed the Nomax to sit much farther forward on the bike than a typical tank bag. It's not uncommon for the top of the bag to extend over the handlebars on some bikes. We recommend rigging it as far forward as possible.
• The Nomax expands & contracts as needed. If you prefer a tight fitting tank bag with a low profile, remove the hydration reservoir and map pocket, and cinch it down tight to the bike
• For more capacity, take full advantage of the beavertail

Download a PDF of the Nomax's User Manual to help with fitment to your bike HERE.

Download the Nomax Footprint PDF illustration to see how it fits on your bike HERE.