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A revolutionary detachable system, "V-LOC," has been launched for side bags by the German brand SW-MOTECH, founded in 1999. The system allows for instant attachment by simply bringing the bag closer to the carrier, guided by magnetic force, and removal with a single lever pull. The side carriers, designed specifically for each motorcycle model, also feature a compact design that minimizes impact on the bike's styling.

Applying the Innovative Tank Ring Concept to Side Bags

SW-MOTECH, founded in Germany in 1999, is a leading global motorcycle accessory supplier, building partnerships with Japanese manufacturers and brands such as BMW, KTM, Harley-Davidson, Husqvarna, and Triumph.

Since 2020, the company has been offering the "PRO Tank Bag" and "PRO Tank Ring" systems, jointly developed with FIDLOCK, also based in Germany. This system involves attaching a model-specific tank ring around the fuel cap. When the bag is brought close, it is guided into the correct position by magnetic force and then mechanically locked. Removal is as simple as pulling a tab and lifting the bag, earning high praise from riders worldwide.

The image shows the PRO Sport Tank Bag (¥40,810). A model-specific PRO Tank Ring is required for attachment to the tank.

This led to the idea: "Could this mechanism be applied to side bags?" This concept gave birth to the newly developed "V-LOC" system.

The New Standard for Side Bags: Attachable with One Hand

Side bags and panniers can be broadly categorized into two types: those attached to dedicated carriers and those secured only with straps. Riders who prioritize stability and ease of attachment tend to choose the former.

However, existing dedicated carrier systems require aligning hooks, rails, or protrusions correctly, often necessitating visual confirmation during attachment. This can be frustrating in dimly lit parking areas or when the bike is heavily loaded.

The "V-LOC" system solves these frustrations. As the name suggests, the side carrier features a V-shaped groove. Simply bringing the bag's base close to it allows the internal magnets to guide it into the correct position. Then, a wedge-shaped lock expands sideways to securely grip the V-groove, providing a mechanical lock. While the magnets serve for guidance, the mechanical lock ensures secure attachment during riding, guaranteeing high reliability.

The ease of attachment, simply by bringing the bag close to the carrier, is truly revolutionary. SW-MOTECH's official promotional video even shows one-handed attachment, and riders accustomed to older systems will surely appreciate its convenience.

The V-LOC side carrier combines a forged steel bracket with a polyamide V-shaped holder, utilizing the FIDLOCK magnetic system.

Removal is also simple: just pull the tab and lift the bag. Furthermore, an optional V-LOC key cylinder can be installed to lock the bags.

Two Bag Types in Four Variations, Considering Existing Users

Currently, there are two types of V-LOC compatible bags available in four variations: the "Legend Gear Side Bag," combining Eco-Tech polyester and synthetic leather, and the "Side Bag WP," emphasizing waterproofing. Both are available in 11L and 16L capacities.

Legend Gear Side Bag 11L Black (¥39,400). Features include a waterproof inner bag and MOLLE panel for accessories. Dimensions: 15.0 x 34.0 x 30.0 cm. Weight: 2.0 kg.

Legend Gear Side Bag 16L Black (¥40,268). Features include a waterproof inner bag and MOLLE panel for accessories. Dimensions: 15.0 x 34.0 x 40.0 cm. Weight: 2.3 kg.

Side Bag WP 11L (¥44,880). Offers excellent waterproofing with TPU material and a roll-top closure. Dimensions: 15.0 x 34.0 x 30.0 cm. Weight: 2.3 kg.

Side Bag WP 16L (¥46,970). Offers excellent waterproofing with TPU material and a roll-top closure. Dimensions: 15.0 x 34.0 x 40.0 cm. Weight: 2.3 kg.

It's also possible to combine an 11L bag on the right side (where the muffler is) and a 16L bag on the left side for increased capacity. Furthermore, the symmetrical design allows for flexible use, such as mounting only an 11L bag on the left side when carrying less luggage.

V-LOC side carriers are available as model-specific products for 28 models. They are sold separately for left and right sides, preventing waste for riders who only wish to attach a bag on one side.

Additionally, users who own side bags or side cases from the previous SLC series can use the separately sold SLC conversion adapter to attach them to the V-LOC side carrier. This consideration for existing customers is noteworthy.

Achieving Both Usability and a Smart Appearance at a High Level

The biggest appeal of the V-LOC system lies in its unprecedented ease of attachment – simply bringing the bag close. By combining magnetic guidance with mechanical locking, it achieves both secure fixation and excellent operability. This system significantly reduces the stress associated with attaching and detaching side bags.

For riders who frequently attach and detach bags during touring, as well as those seeking a combination of usability and a smart appearance, the V-LOC system is poised to become a new standard.

V-LOC Side Carrier Lineup (Partial)

The left shows the Legend Gear Side Bag 16L Black mounted on a Yamaha MT-09, and the right shows the Side Bag WP 16L on an XSR900. Please use this as a reference for size.

YAMAHA MT-09 '2024 - '2025, MT-09 (ABS) '2024 - '2025
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥24,640 (Left side sold separately ¥24,640)

YAMAHA XSR900 '2022 - '2025, XSR900GP '2024 - '2026
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥24,640 (Left side sold separately ¥24,640)

HONDA XL750 TRANSALP '2023 - '2025
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥23,540 (Left side sold separately ¥23,540)

SUZUKI GSX-8S '2023 - '2025, GSX-8T '2025 - '2025, GSX-8TT '2025 - '2025
V-LOC Side Carrier (Set of Left and Right) ¥52,360

KAWASAKI Z900RS '2018 - '2026 (50TH ANNI 22), Z900RS CAFE '2018 - '2020, Z900RS SE '2022 - '2026
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥24,640 (Left side sold separately ¥24,640)

BMW R nineT '2014 - '2023, R nineT Pure '2017 - '2023, R nineT Racer '2017 - '2020, R nineT Urban G/S '2017 - '2020
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥24,640 (Left side sold separately ¥24,640)

DUCATI SCRAMBLER Full-Throttle '2023 - '2025, SCRAMBLER Icon '2023 - '2025 (including DARK)
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥22,440 (Left side sold separately ¥22,440)

TRIUMPH TRIDENT 660 '2021 - '2025
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥25,630 (Left side sold separately ¥25,630)

MOTO GUZZI V7 SPORT '2025 - '2026, V7 SPECIAL '2021 - '2026, V7 STONE '2021 - '2026
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥22,440 (Left side sold separately ¥22,440)

KTM 390 ENDURO R '2025 - '2025, 250 ADVENTURE '2025 - '2025, 390 SMC R '2025 - '2025, 390 ADVENTURE '2025 - '2025
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥22,440 (Left side sold separately ¥22,440)

ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC 650 '2025 - '2025, SHOTGUN 650 '2024 - '2024
V-LOC Side Carrier (Right) ¥23,540 (Left side sold separately ¥23,540)

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