Nelson-Rigg CAS-455 Tank Bag Review + Pics

[SpyderWolf]

I received the Nelson-Rigg CAS-455 Tank Bag on Friday, April 16, 2009.

It arrived in an outer shipping box, with this box inside:

Upon opening the box I found the tank bag folded up and bound with a clear plastic strap:

The box also contained the installation instructions, and a warranty card:

Upon freeing the bag from its plastic strap, I noticed that it actually has 2 side pockets. They are identical and there is 1 on each side of the bag:

I opened the bag and found it to have quite a bit more room than I was actually expecting from a tank bag:

To make things even better, the bag has a zippered expansion section. When unzipped the top of the bag will rise an additional 2 inches, for even more room:

The see through map pocket covers the entire top of the bag, and is accessed by a velcro strap within the top of the bag. In this picture you can also see the side pocket opened up:

More to follow....

 

[SpyderWolf]

The bottom of the bag is made of a softer material, that appears to be waterproof. Unlike the BRP bag, it is not felt. This may be a very good thing for wet weather ryding conditions:

In case of wet weather ryding, Nelson-Rigg includes a rain cover for the bag to ensure it is waterproof:

Installation on the Spyder is very intuitive, and takes less than 2 minutes to figure out. They appear to have done their homework well on figuring out how to connect this bag to the Spyder without requiring any additional hardware, unlike the BRP bag.

The first step is to raise the seat and hook the back straps to the tupperware lips of the console, using the hooks that are already on the straps:

You then move the bag forward so the straps are tight, and close your seat. Then you take the front straps, and run them through the stock brackets that are underneath the steering tree. I have the BRP 1 inch riser block installed on my Spyder, and found this step very easy to do. Once you run the strap through the hole, you attach the velcro section of the strap back to itself:

This does not interfere with the steering in anyway, and the straps do not get rubbed by the steering components either. This was a very clever way to connect the bag, and makes me wonder why BRP did not do something similar. :thumbup:

This is a side view of what the bag looks like once installed on the Spyder:

Here is what it looks like with the rain cover installed over it:

This is a view from the rear of the Spyder, showing you what the bag looks like installed:

And this is the rear view of what it looks like with the rain cover installed:

More to follow....

 

[DynamoBT]

This is great seeing close up pictures of it installed!! Now I can see that the Heli Bar riser will work with this bag!!!

Thanks so much Spyderwolf!!!! :2thumbs:

 

[SpyderWolf]

Nelson-Rigg VS BRP Tank Bag Match Up

Since my wife already had the BRP Tank Bag, it was natural for me to go ahead and compare the two bags. First I will post the pictures, and then tell you of the main differences between them that I have found.

Here is a picture of the bags side by side, and you are looking at the back of the bag:

Another side by side shot, this time of the front of the bag that is nearest the steering tree:

This is a shot with the Can-Am bag in front of the NR bag, to show you the difference in styling and size:

1) The BRP bag has much stiffer sides and maintains its shape no matter what. This may be good for styling, but could also cause issues if you need to attempt to put more stuff in the bag. The Nelson-Rigg bag has softer sides and the available 2 inch expansion if I ever need it.

2) The styling is a little different for each of the bags. I like the looks of both of them; however, they are basically the reverse of each other for storage and in my opinion the Nelson-Rigg bag wins out on that front.

3) The zippers are much easier to use on the Nelson-Rigg bag. The BRP bag uses a flap system in order to try to keep the bag waterproof. However, I have seen the zipper catch those flaps quite a few times. This makes it a royal pain to free up the zipper and get it working properly again. The NR bag should not suffer from this condition at all.

4) The bottom of the BRP bag is a felt type of material, and since my wife has not used it in the rain, I am not sure what is going to happen with it. The Nelson-Rigg bag is not nearly as soft, as it does not use felt, but it is still soft and should not cause any damage to the console of the Spyder.

5) As for storage space, the Nelson-Rigg bag has much more than the BRP bag. I did not do a cubic inch comparison, but it is obvious from looking at them side by side. Add the fact the NR bag has the 2 side pockets and the expansion capability and it is a sure winner. The side pocket should work great for any men that do not want to ryde with their wallet in their back pocket as well.

6) Pricing. Considering the BRP bag is $105 retail, and the Nelson-Rigg bag is $70, I definitely feel you are getting much more bang for the buck with the NR tank bag.

Overall I am very pleased with the quality of the Nelson-Rigg CAS-455 Tank Bag. The simplistic installation, and removal, of the bag and the amount of storage capacity make this a great addition to my Spyder for traveling long distances.

If you are considering a tank bag for your Spyder, I highly recommend you add this one to your list. :2thumbs:

 

[SpyderWolf]

This is great seeing close up pictures of it installed!! Now I can see that the Heli Bar riser will work with this bag!!!

Thanks so much Spyderwolf!!!! :2thumbs:

You are welcome. I was not sure how it was going to install myself, and was expecting to have to mount a bracket like we did for the BRP bag. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised at the way it actually mounts. :thumbup:

 

[jeuchler]

Sold! :thumbup:

Thanks, SpyderWolf--

Since I just ordered one, I am sure Nelson-Rigg will be sending you a commission check for your posts and fine photos!

I have always gotten my N-R bags from New Enough, who has this bag for $57.99.

(Here is a pdf of the install instructions, BTW.)

 

[SpyderWolf]

Sold! :thumbup:

Thanks, SpyderWolf--

Since I just ordered one, I am sure Nelson-Rigg will be sending you a commission check for your posts and fine photos!

I have always gotten my N-R bags from New Enough, who has this bag for $57.99.

(Here is a pdf of the install instructions, BTW.)

Glad to hear you ordered yours as well. You also got an outstanding deal on it which gives you even more bang for the buck.

However, how am I supposed to make a living off commissions if you keep buying from the discount stores instead? :roflblack:

 

[jeuchler]

Glad to hear you ordered yours as well. You also got an outstanding deal on it which gives you even more bang for the buck.

...Turns out only a little more bang as I had to add shipping to Massachusetts.

However, how am I supposed to make a living off commissions if you keep buying from the discount stores instead? :roflblack:

Oh, yeah.

Sorry.

Well, didn't you did get that other commission check from the tankbag...that...you...bought....:dontknow:

 

[nelsonriggusa]

Thanks for the great review Michael. Glad you liked the bag. We are hoping to introduce more accessories for the Spyder next season. Any suggestions are as always welcome.

 

[jeuchler]

Thanks for the great review Michael. Glad you liked the bag. We are hoping to introduce more accessories for the Spyder next season. Any suggestions are as always welcome.

Well, I have a suggestion, but I am not sure what the demand would be compared to the tank bag:

Many folks have the BRP backrest/sportrack. It doesn't lend itself well to a generic bag back there (I have a Nelson-Rigg roll bag strapped tight there now) but it would be nice if there were something more form-fitting for those of us who have not opted for hard luggage.

Also, another set of saddle bags specifically for theSpyder would be nice. I had sold my N-R bags due to the fact that they just didn't work well with a passenger (feet cramped) and they interfered with the turn signals when pushed way back.

Two cents. Thanks for great products!

 

[SpyderWolf]

Oh, yeah.

Sorry.

Well, didn't you did get that other commission check from the tankbag...that...you...bought....:dontknow:

Perhaps there is a check in the mail. :joke: :roflblack:

Thanks for the great review Michael. Glad you liked the bag. We are hoping to introduce more accessories for the Spyder next season. Any suggestions are as always welcome.

Thanks to your company for making a great product that works well on our Spyders.

I also think it would be interesting to see a bag that could strap to the BRP Back Rest. :thumbup:

 

[SpyderWolf]

For those who may be interested, I also have the Nelson-Rigg CAS-355 Half Cover and wrote a review on it here:

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18837

 

[GeminiJane]

Thanks, Spyderwolf, for the great commentary and pictures. I, too, have been convinced that's the way to go based on your thread.

Just wanted to remind everyone that one of our own Spyder lovers, teacherbob, is the general manager of PowerSports4Less and has proven to be great to work with in the past, too. He's always matched a low price from another site and treated me well with prompt service. He also just donated multiple gift certificates for door prizes at last weekend's Spyder Rally at Cuba and it would be nice if we checked out his site, too. When I have called (or e-mailed) him directly he has always matched a posted low price - and even threw in shipping for me a time or too, also! Give him a call!

 

[SpyderWolf]

Thanks, Spyderwolf, for the great commentary and pictures. I, too, have been convinced that's the way to go based on your thread.

Just wanted to remind everyone that one of our own Spyder lovers, teacherbob, is the general manager of PowerSports4Less and has proven to be great to work with in the past, too. He's always matched a low price from another site and treated me well with prompt service. He also just donated multiple gift certificates for door prizes at last weekend's Spyder Rally at Cuba and it would be nice if we checked out his site, too. When I have called (or e-mailed) him directly he has always matched a posted low price - and even threw in shipping for me a time or too, also! Give him a call!

You are welcome. I really like the bag, and hope you will to.

That is also good news about teacherbob, as all of us like a little discount from time to time. Thanks for sharing. :thumbup:

 

[jeuchler]

Installation on the Spyder is very intuitive, and takes less than 2 minutes to figure out. They appear to have done their homework well on figuring out how to connect this bag to the Spyder without requiring any additional hardware, unlike the BRP bag... you take the front straps, and run them through the stock brackets that are underneath the steering tree. I have the BRP 1 inch riser block installed on my Spyder, and found this step very easy to do. Once you run the strap through the hole, you attach the velcro section of the strap back to itself:

This does not interfere with the steering in anyway, and the straps do not get rubbed by the steering components either. This was a very clever way to connect the bag, and makes me wonder why BRP did not do something similar. :thumbup:

OK, so I was pulling fencing and removing fence posts all afternoon, so I was a bit tired when I returned to the house and found my N-R tank bag was delivered.

Yay!

Taking SpyderWolf's time to install estimate of two minutes to heart, I was a bit disgruntled when it took me approximately 50% longer to do.

Now I see that (a) he had the 1" riser so a bit more access to the bracket holes through which to pass the front straps, and (2) His straps are above the boot and somehow mine are below the boot.

You know I am a big fan of all things Nelson-Rigg, but if I can cut the removal/install time down to the two minutes, I'll be happier. Three minutes is just way too long.

Back to the garage now...:doorag:

(I'll probably leave the bag on all the time anyhow, it looks so nice. And I love the "It's not Just a Bike" trademark on the rain cover which befits the Spyder perfectly, of course.)

 

[SpyderWolf]

Taking SpyderWolf's time to install estimate of two minutes to heart, I was a bit disgruntled when it took me approximately 50% longer to do.

Now I see that (a) he had the 1" riser so a bit more access to the bracket holes through which to pass the front straps, and (2) His straps are above the boot and somehow mine are below the boot.

You know I am a big fan of all things Nelson-Rigg, but if I can cut the removal/install time down to the two minutes, I'll be happier. Three minutes is just way too long.

Back to the garage now...:doorag:

(I'll probably leave the bag on all the time anyhow, it looks so nice. And I love the "It's not Just a Bike" trademark on the rain cover which befits the Spyder perfectly, of course.)

Sorry about that, next time I will try to install something a little slower. For what it's worth, I actually pushed those boots down like you see in the picture as well.

You know you can't please everyone all the time. :roflblack:

 

[pierrelogic]

Just received mine...installed in 2 minutes. Nice!

 

[bone crusher]

I'm missing why so many people are using this over the Can-Am bag? My bike has been in a few rainstorms and everything has remained dry in the Can-Am bag...unlike the Nelson bag, it is waterproof (a big plus). My zipper has never gotten stuck...also, the Can-am doesn't need a cover to protect it...this can get lost, fall off, etc...

As far as space goes, what do you really need in the tank bag that you can't put in your pocket, rear bag, side bags, trunk, etc...? I put my keys, iphone, water, food, small furry pets (okay, maybe not) in the tank bag and all fits just fine.

As far as price goes, on ebay, you can get the Can-Am bag far cheaper than the 105.00...can get it sometimes for below $80.00...I just got the rear bag (for the rack) for about $50.00...that was a great deal!

I think the Nelson bag looks nice and it definitely serves well as an option to the Can-Am bag, but IMHO, the Can-Am bag fits perfectly and works perfectly...

 

[pierrelogic]

I'm missing why so many people are using this over the Can-Am bag? My bike has been in a few rainstorms and everything has remained dry in the Can-Am bag...unlike the Nelson bag, it is waterproof (a big plus). My zipper has never gotten stuck...also, the Can-am doesn't need a cover to protect it...this can get lost, fall off, etc...

As far as space goes, what do you really need in the tank bag that you can't put in your pocket, rear bag, side bags, trunk, etc...? I put my keys, iphone, water, food, small furry pets (okay, maybe not) in the tank bag and all fits just fine.

As far as price goes, on ebay, you can get the Can-Am bag far cheaper than the 105.00...can get it sometimes for below $80.00...I just got the rear bag (for the rack) for about $50.00...that was a great deal!

I think the Nelson bag looks nice and it definitely serves well as an option to the Can-Am bag, but IMHO, the Can-Am bag fits perfectly and works perfectly...

Can only speak for myself here...

Since BRP did not offer a travel cover for the RS I bought it from Nelson Rigg. Great way to keep peeps off my ride! Now since I bought the cover, adding the NR tank bag just keeps things looking consistent. Besides it does clearly have more storage space than the BRP tank bag even without the zipper on the bottom that adds even more space.

As far as the rain cover, getting it lost isn't an issue to me. It can be stored right in the bag. The two options the NG bag has the BRP doesn't is the side pockets and the long inner pocket on the top. I have to show an ID to get into work every day and having NOT to have to dig into my riding jacket or pants pocket is key. Just unzip one of the side pockets on the tank bag and my ID is easy access. The long inner pocket with clear plastic will come in handy if I need to put a map in there. I mean it's visible, convenient and doubles as a GPS holder. :2thumbs:

I also have the passenger bag on order from BRP too. But it's nice not haing to shut down the Spyder to get into the frunk for stuff. Sure, once I get the passenger bag I'll have even more room to store things but honestly, I got tired of waiting on BRP to ship their items.

 

[SpyderWolf]

Different strokes for different folks.

As you saw in my review, my wife already has the BRP bag and she likes it as well. There are a couple of the features, like the side pockets and more space, that she really liked about the NR bag but this bag is mine. :thumbup:

I am also pretty sure the NR bag is water resistant; however, it is nice to have the backup of the rain cover for just in case.

In the end you have to go with what you like and want to add on to your Spyder. Right now you can get the NR bag from www.newenough.com for $57.99 all day long as well. I have not bothered checking EBay for this bag yet.

Pierrelogic, I am glad to hear yours came in and you like it as well. :2thumbs: