Q: What’s your advice for loading my bike for a weeklong trip?

A: The general rule when loading a bike is light, low, balanced and centered.

Light, because the total load of the bike—you, accessories and cargo plus, possibly, a passenger –should never exceed the bike’s gross vehicle weight rating set forth in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle identification number plate.

Low, because you don’t want to substantially raise the bike’s center of gravity. That can impair the bike’s responsiveness to handling your inputs.

Balanced (side-to-side), so the load doesn’t cause the bike to pull to one side.

Centered (front-to-back), so weight distribution isn’t substantially changed, causing one tire to be overloaded (risking potential tire failure) or one tire to be under-loaded (loss of traction or responsiveness).

Aerodynamics also need to be considered. A tall or wide item can be affected by airflow and act like a sail, affecting stability and tire loading.

Since saddlebags are mounted low, those are the spots that should be filled first, especially with heavier items.

A tank bag is close to the longitudinal center of the bike, but higher than saddlebags and in a location that can cause injury if packed with sharp objects, so it is best used for clothing and small items.

You can attach cargo to the sissy bar, but keep it as light, low and narrow as possible.

A fork bag is best for your smallest, lightest items (phone, glasses, toiletries, maps, etc.) but you must be sure it does not interfere with the front suspension.

All cargo must be fastened securely. Use tie-down straps, bungees or web nets, taking care not to block any lights or moving suspension parts. Ensure there are no loose items that could shift or fall off, contact the mufflers or, worse, get caught in the wheels or chain.