One Week. 1,400+ Miles. Plenty of Rain.
When Viking Bags reached out and let us use one of their Renegade Motorcycle Dry Backpacks, we were excited to put it through a real-world review. Rather than a quick ride around town, we took the bag on a week-long motorcycle trip through the Smoky Mountains, covering more than 1,400 miles of winding roads, changing elevations, and some of the heaviest rain we encountered during the trip.
If you're going to put a product with "Dry Backpack" in its name to the test, this was the perfect opportunity.
More importantly, we weren't carrying spare clothes and inexpensive gear. We trusted the Renegade Dry Backpack with electronics, camera equipment, chargers, and other items that absolutely could not get wet. When the weather turned ugly, this backpack had one job: keep everything inside dry.
We're happy to report that it delivered.
Real-World Performance
Throughout the trip, the Renegade Dry Backpack was mounted to the sissy bar of a 2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST. Mountain roads can be demanding on luggage, especially when you're spending hours carving corners, climbing elevations, and riding through unpredictable weather.
The backpack remained securely mounted for the entire trip. The included straps were easy to use and inspired confidence once tightened down. Even during aggressive riding through the curves of the Smokies, the bag never shifted or loosened.
Most importantly, despite multiple encounters with heavy rain and wet road conditions, the interior remained completely dry. Every piece of gear we stored inside came out exactly as it went in.
What We Loved
Excellent Storage Capacity
The Renegade Dry Backpack offers plenty of room for travel essentials. Whether you're carrying clothes, electronics, camera gear, tools, or a few beverages for camp, the bag provides more storage than you might expect while maintaining a manageable size on the motorcycle.
For weekend trips or riders needing extra luggage space without committing to a larger touring setup, this backpack hits a sweet spot.
Truly Waterproof Performance
Many products claim to be weather-resistant. This one actually backed up its claims.
After spending hours riding through rain, we never found moisture inside the bag. For riders who regularly travel long distances or find themselves caught in unexpected weather, that level of protection offers valuable peace of mind.
Easy Mounting System
One of the standout features was how simple the bag was to secure. The included straps made mounting straightforward and provided a secure hold throughout the entire trip.
There was no constant re-tightening or worrying about the bag shifting while riding.
Durable Construction
From the stitching to the materials used, the Renegade Dry Backpack feels well-built and designed for motorcycle travel. Nothing about the bag felt cheap or flimsy.
After a week of constant use, loading and unloading, exposure to weather, and thousands of vibrations from the road, the backpack still looked ready for the next adventure.
Great Value
Motorcycle luggage can get expensive quickly. One of the things we appreciated most about the Renegade Dry Backpack is that it delivers premium performance without carrying a premium price tag.
You get quality construction, waterproof protection, useful storage capacity, and reliable mounting options without breaking the bank.
Final Verdict
At Mauldin Motors, we're big believers in putting products through real-world testing before recommending them. The Viking Bags Renegade Motorcycle Dry Backpack exceeded our expectations during this trip.
It stayed secure, kept our gear dry, provided plenty of storage, and held up to everything the Smoky Mountains could throw at it. That's exactly what riders want when they're packing for a long trip.
If you're looking for a dependable motorcycle backpack that can handle changing weather conditions and extended travel, the Renegade Dry Backpack is absolutely worth a look.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country ride, or simply need extra storage for your daily adventures, this backpack deserves a spot on your short list.
Check out the link below to see the exact Renegade Dry Backpack we tested and learn more about Viking Bags' full lineup of motorcycle luggage and travel gear.