Furchtlos Everst 50L Duffel Bag Review from BMW Owners News
I have never been much of an early adopter, but I’m not certain you could describe the latest waterproof duffel bag as any kind of new technology. I have always appreciated durable dry bags as a packing solution whether I’m backpacking or motorcycling; the objective is the same–keep my stuff dry, clean and secure.
Although it doesn’t seem like a new idea, I believe I’ve found my new favorite dry bag for motorcycle travel in the Furchtlos Everest 50 Liter Duffel Bag. Furchtlos is new to the MOA, but not inexperienced in the motorcycle luggage game. The owners of the company have been riding motorcycles for over 60 years and recently developed a line of motorcycle luggage, including the Everest Duffel Bags.
The Everest Dry Bag is manufactured from welded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with Hypalon reinforcements that give the bag a durable, reliable and waterproof storage solution. I had to do a little internet research to understand those manufacturing terms, but basically it means that the material, panels and seams are more durable and waterproof compared to standard cloth stitched seams. It also indicates a manufacturing process that can be more consistent with higher quality standards, which all seems like good things when I need my stuff to stay dry!
The buzzwords are great, but how does the bag stand up on the bike in challenging environments? After spending time with the bag in various weather conditions and during long rides, I’ve found the Everest 50-liter duffel is a well-crafted piece of gear with some remarkable features.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Furchtlos 50L waterproof duffel bag is the quality feel. The bag’s overall design is simple but effective. It features a cylindrical shape that maximizes packing space and allows for easy loading and unloading. It has some rigidity to it, more like a suitcase than a cloth duffel bag, so that it stands up to easy packing and unpacking. It also holds its shape on the bike without being rigid, stiff or immovable.
The body of the bag is constructed from a robust, heavy-duty material that is both tear-resistant and highly durable, ensuring the bag can withstand rough handling and harsh conditions. Whether it’s being thrown onto a motorcycle or dragged through the dirt, the bag’s build shows that it’s made to endure the rough-and-tumble life of a motorcyclist.
At 50 liters, the Furchtlos duffel bag strikes a good balance between providing ample storage space while remaining compact enough to fit on most motorcycles without being overly bulky. Measuring 22 inches long and nearly 12 inches deep and tall, I can pack for at least seven days with this bag and even use it as a separate suitcase or carry on for non-motorcycle travel.
Inside the bag, you’ll find a rigid, but removable panel that gives the bag its shape. The insert creates a spacious, single compartment, which is the hallmark of a traditional duffel bag. There are two internal pockets on each end to organize small items, but space in these compartments is limited. If you’re the type who likes to organize smaller items separately (think electronics, toiletries or other essentials), you might need to consider additional packing cubes or small pouches.
That said, the large open space is great for larger, bulkier items like clothes, camping gear or protective gear, as they can be easily loaded and unloaded. When you're on the move, packing and unpacking becomes straightforward, as there’s no complicated internal structure to deal with.
The standout feature of the Everest duffel is undoubtedly its waterproof capabilities. The bag is fully waterproof thanks to the afore-mentioned welded seams and a roll-top closure. When fully sealed, the bag remains dry even when submerged in water, making it a reliable option for harsh conditions. This isn’t the testimony of the company. I managed to test the bag over six weeks in several rainstorms including a solid summer thunderstorm and not a drop of water made it inside. Score one in the plus column for keeping my stuff dry.
In addition to rain, the welded material and sealing system are resistant to dirt and dust. You don’t have to worry about the elements damaging or contaminating your clothes, equipment or electronics. Since it is fully waterproof, cleanup is easy with a damp rag or even a hose. On top of all that, there’s a very handy air release valve to allow air to escape the sealed interior when rolling the top closed. Ingenious!
As with any high-end motorcycle gear, durability is crucial, and the Everest duffel bag does not disappoint. The bag has been built to handle the demands of long-distance riders or adventurers. I took the bag through a range of conditions, from heavy rain to dry, dusty roads and it performed admirably. The strong, abrasion-resistant material ensures that the bag holds up well over time, even after extended use. My expectation after a few thousand miles is that the bag has a long life ahead of it, which is good because it is quickly becoming my favorite.
The Everest bag comes with a set of Furchtlos’ Speed Straps that allow attachment to any grab rail or loop on the bike. Whether you’re strapping it to the rear seat, panniers or a tail rack, the tie-down points ensure that the bag stays in place while you ride. I am a lifelong ROK Strap user, and it will be difficult to get me to switch, but the important note is that this bag comes with the straps. Multiple MOLLE loops are included to allow plenty of opportunity for attaching other bags or gear to the Everest bag.
When it comes to carrying the Everest bag, Furchtlos has covered all the bases. In addition to a convenient traditional double carry handle, the Everest bag includes a sturdy, removeable shoulder strap that’s padded for comfort. There are two grab handles on either end of the bag that are reinforced for extra durability. Finally, the Everest bag has integrated backpack straps and a kidney belt for big loads. I didn’t find it necessary to use these straps, but they conveniently store inside a panel on the bottom of the bag and stay out of the way when not in use.
The Furchtlos 50L Waterproof Duffel Bag is a winner and an excellent choice for motorcyclists who need a durable, waterproof, and functional storage solution. The spacious main compartment, combined with its ability to keep your gear dry in all weather conditions, makes it a top contender in the motorcycle luggage market. It is quickly finding a home alongside my plethora of camping gear and waterproof bags. If I am forced to weigh the pros and cons, my only knock is the size of the bag encourages me to overpack and becomes a little heavy when packed with a week’s worth of gear. Of course, this is a shortcoming for the reviewer and not the bag itself.
One final feature of the Furchtlos bag is the BMW MOA logo emblazoned on either side. Furchtlos is supplying the bags to the MOA with the logo included and at a special member price. Standard retail for the Everest 50L Duffel bag is $399, but MOA members can purchase at bmwmoa.org/furchtlos for only $349. The bags are available in three colors including carbon black, slate gray and arctic white.
I would like to say the Furchtlos duffle will be the last bag I ever buy. The quality and durability certainly lead me to believe that is true. But who are we kidding? I am yet to be convinced I have bought my last motorcycle or my last duffel bag!
Jerry Adlini, MOA #214416