Awesome review! Very useful, thank you! It is always easy to find raving reviews of people who have little experience with the gear they review. This is truly public service for a guy like me who is considering buying this sort of bag and struggles with the thought of making an ill-founded purchase.
Decent review. I bought these bags last year but have not been able to use them much yet due to Covid-19. I think your review is spot on. I was also doubting between the cheaper stuff and the much more expensive Mosko Moto gear.
Great review. I was looking at picking some of these up second hand for much cheaper than retail price. I am mostly looking at removing the hard panniers for weight savings on a road bike, and ease of removal and storage of the panniers when not in use.
Hi Mat. Great review. I have had mine on board for a year. I really like the quality, but am grateful for your honest review. Give me the soft bags over the clunker pizza boxes any day. Love your channel.
Thanks for the update....I think given your experience with bits breaking and the poor customer service mosko moto are probably the better option although I appreciate they cost a bit more 👍🇬🇧
Great review. I bought mine in 2019 from my local shop with the idea that I wanted to mount them to more than one bike. So I ordered an additional mounting kit at the same time. They are a little heavy otherwise I've had great luck with them. Maybe I've just been lucky but the only issue I have had is a broken buckle while riding COBDR. When I got home a friend of mine who is a retired seamstress who used to work a lot with heavy duty fabric fixed it in less than an hour and all it cost me was buying her lunch. Too bad about the poor customer service from GIVI. You can buy the mounting kit separately. If you have a good local shop get it from them. A lot less hassle.
Hi Robert - I bought a pair 2nd hand - the side dry bags were missing - any change you can measure them and let me know the dimensions so that I can source replacements - I emailed GIVI to ask them, but got not response. Thanks
Thanks for the review. I got some Altrider Hemisphere Bags and they have been horrible. I had them on for about 5000 miles and the stitching started coming apart. When I called them for warranty they said that they would not cover it since they were discontinued. After saying it should not matter they have just never replied, same as you. Had a number of other little issues with them so next time I think I will go with the Mosco bags, sounds like a good product with good after service.
Good review with lots of good comments I will keep in mind while I continue the search for my "perfect" luggage (I know, there is no such thing, but the model with the fewest compromises and best price-performance ratio). One issue I am having trouble with and it is not restricted to GIVI, and that is all the soft bags with backing plates required for mounting lose a huge part of the weight advantage they have over hard bags. That leaves security issues, cost, and leg safety to consider. Even cost is not always relevant given you can easily drop close to a grand one some brands of soft luggage and that is not even considering the rack (for those brands which require one).
I am with you. Soft luggage used to cost so much less than hard luggage but now it's the same, and there are equal amounts of compromise just different. Hard decision to make for sure.
Hi Matt, I have these bags too now for 6 months, 5.000km. Happy with them so far. Thanks for the good evaluation and for the points you mention to consider while using and maintaining them in good shape. Really useful 👍. Sorry to hear that you couldn’t get extra backing plates. The shop where I bought my bags here (in Europe) lists all parts and components also as separately available for sale. Innerbags, hooks, keys etc AND backplates.. I suppose it’s difference in the GIvi operations EU vs USA and their supply chain and customer service. Too bad. Like the bags so far especially the easy attaching, detaching and locking of them to the bike. One plus-point you didn’t mention (perhaps because you didn’t use it) is the fact that Givi has the “one-key solution” available for these bags. This is easy if you also have one of their topcases, and/or toolboxes too. You can than (un)lock all your Givi bags, cases and boxes with one key. I find it handy. One minor issue I experience is that one (bag) one of the metal locking hooks, which turn into the backingplate by turning the key is extremely stiff. Sometimes I am affraid that the key might break while trying to turn. One strange thing is, at least I don’t see the logic, is that you can only take the key out of the lock if the lock is in the locked position. But all that is not a dealbreaker, I recommend these bags, happy with them.
Thanks for your comments. I lost my right side bag over the weekend. It came off while riding really extreme terrain. Someone took it so its lost. I am not sure if I didnt secure it well or if the lock broke, I will never know. Glad you are liking the bags, just watch for the issues I highlighted.
Hey Matt! Great review! I would suggest changing the title of this content to something with “soft panniers” in the description. I only found it whith specific givi name in it. Personally I would name the content with something catchy like: “don’t buy the soft panniers before you watch this” or maybe even “don’t buy givi panniers before you watch this” as they didn’t give a shiat about your inquiry. In a way, your review applies to all the soft luggage solutions and your review really adds much to the decision making process. Anyways thank you for the review. Much helpful and appreciated 👍
@@advmatt or “don’t buy givi panniers before you watch this”. I guess their customer service is crap regardless the panniers being soft or hard cases 😉
Thank you so much for this. I would really like to hear your thoughts about your thoughts about the luggage setup for the KTM 390 Adventure in particular. Not that I would even conscider bying the Givis after hearing your problems - but the input is still useful in pursuit for alternatives (hopefully Mokso for me). Finding info on soft pannier options and racks for this bike is proving extremely difficult. The OEM Side cases are IMHO not suitable for adventure motorcycling. They are not waterproof, they are small, they have zippers that I am sure will break in the first fall (or from normal use), has no options to mount stuff to the outside has side loading that will get old real quick (in addition to zippers that also will get tiresome), etc. But your video gives me hope. The Givi bags are quite similar in size and features to the very popular Mosko Moto Backcountry - which are the bags at tne top of my wishlist... if I can find a good mounting option that doesn't make the bike too wide or the bags towering over the seat (to clear the exhaust). Also, I want to use the bags on both my Tenere 700 Rally and the 390 Adventure. After hearing your problems with Givi customer service trying to aquire an extra set of nylon plates - I won't even bother trying and go for something else. Also, if there ever was a warranty issue??? Mosko offer extra nylon plates and other spares right in their webshop. Their customer service gets back in hours...
With your luggage needs you might want to consider a rackless luggage option. I used the Giant loop Great Basin on my first trip on the 390 ADV and worked okay. I am not a fan everything in big bag but I think the Mosko Moto style of rackless would make moving your luggage between bikes really easy. Tusk also makes a rackless option that is affordable. I lost one of my Givi panniers over the weekend, i am not sure what failed and how it came off, but I am know also looking for new luggage again. Givi is making a rack for the 390 ADV now for mounting bags that looks pretty good. I am not sure of its availability. With the rackless you don't need the pannier racks, maybe just a good tail rack. Just my thoughts on luggage to consider. Good luck, hope this helps and have fun riding.
Thanks. The blue pack is not a true tail bag, it's an old hydration pack I had that I stopped using. I velcro and bungie strapped it to the back. I dont remember who makes it, it is some off brand.
Hi Matt, Great review mate! What are those molle water bottle holders you use? I have the GRT709 and they look perfect? Or can you suggest some others? Cheers...
Hi Matt, thank you for the good review. What would your thoughts be if you were able to contact Givi and the pricing would still be the same when you bought it, and if the buckle could be replaced easily. Regarding the buckle, there is a good and easy solution that I use for my rucksack and my scuba diving BCD. With the rucksack and the BCD the buckle cracked and I replaced them with the "Field Repair Buckle - Side Release 2 Pin" from Sea to Summit. It works. Regards Waldo
I wasn't happy with how the bags started sagging over time, and I didnt like how the inner plate was mounted. If I wasnt planning any offroad riding I might consider these, but after my experiences with them I dont think I would choose these bags again.
Thanks for an excellent review. I was considering these because I already have Givi racks, but will pass on them because of the defects you mentioned. Have you tried to contact Givi Italy about buying additional mounting plates?
You’ve probably already sorted this, or someone else has mentioned in the comments but I think ZGRT709FS is the plates you’re looking for for your other bike.
Wolfman for sure. I also like the Tusk Olympus bags but haven't had a chance to try them. The Olympus bags have quick release plate. I would also try the Enduristan bags before using these Givi bags again.
@@advmatt Same problem here in Sweden, I bought two bags Givi GRT720 but did not get the plates I see you have on your motorcycle. Now I'm trying to find a product number or similar to be able to order ... retailers in Finland have asked a question to Givi in Italy ... Thanks for all your videos, they are appreciated. Sicerely Pär
@@Bull189 that is a hard question to answer. I dont think there is a single perfect solution, at least for me. My top choices are Wolfman, Mosko and maybe Enduristan. Good luck choosing.
thank you, after this movie i decided not to buy givi. For little less price i ordered saddlebags from small manufacturer. (red mamut 5 seconds - 2x40L)
Awesome review! Very useful, thank you! It is always easy to find raving reviews of people who have little experience with the gear they review. This is truly public service for a guy like me who is considering buying this sort of bag and struggles with the thought of making an ill-founded purchase.
You are very welcome. It's hard to find anyone willing to have a real conversation about products.
Decent review. I bought these bags last year but have not been able to use them much yet due to Covid-19. I think your review is spot on. I was also doubting between the cheaper stuff and the much more expensive Mosko Moto gear.
The last 2 minutes of this review were super helpful. Thank you!
Great review. I was looking at picking some of these up second hand for much cheaper than retail price. I am mostly looking at removing the hard panniers for weight savings on a road bike, and ease of removal and storage of the panniers when not in use.
Super Erfahrungsvideo, ehrlich und kompetent, danke.
Hi Mat. Great review. I have had mine on board for a year. I really like the quality, but am grateful for your honest review. Give me the soft bags over the clunker pizza boxes any day. Love your channel.
Thanks for the update....I think given your experience with bits breaking and the poor customer service mosko moto are probably the better option although I appreciate they cost a bit more 👍🇬🇧
I agree ordered Mosco today
Ty for the detailed review. Lots of good info. Happy travels!
Great review. I bought mine in 2019 from my local shop with the idea that I wanted to mount them to more than one bike. So I ordered an additional mounting kit at the same time. They are a little heavy otherwise I've had great luck with them. Maybe I've just been lucky but the only issue I have had is a broken buckle while riding COBDR. When I got home a friend of mine who is a retired seamstress who used to work a lot with heavy duty fabric fixed it in less than an hour and all it cost me was buying her lunch. Too bad about the poor customer service from GIVI. You can buy the mounting kit separately. If you have a good local shop get it from them. A lot less hassle.
Hi Robert - I bought a pair 2nd hand - the side dry bags were missing - any change you can measure them and let me know the dimensions so that I can source replacements - I emailed GIVI to ask them, but got not response. Thanks
Thanks for the review. I got some Altrider Hemisphere Bags and they have been horrible. I had them on for about 5000 miles and the stitching started coming apart. When I called them for warranty they said that they would not cover it since they were discontinued. After saying it should not matter they have just never replied, same as you. Had a number of other little issues with them so next time I think I will go with the Mosco bags, sounds like a good product with good after service.
Good review with lots of good comments I will keep in mind while I continue the search for my "perfect" luggage (I know, there is no such thing, but the model with the fewest compromises and best price-performance ratio). One issue I am having trouble with and it is not restricted to GIVI, and that is all the soft bags with backing plates required for mounting lose a huge part of the weight advantage they have over hard bags. That leaves security issues, cost, and leg safety to consider. Even cost is not always relevant given you can easily drop close to a grand one some brands of soft luggage and that is not even considering the rack (for those brands which require one).
I am with you. Soft luggage used to cost so much less than hard luggage but now it's the same, and there are equal amounts of compromise just different. Hard decision to make for sure.
Hi Matt,
I have these bags too now for 6 months, 5.000km. Happy with them so far.
Thanks for the good evaluation and for the points you mention to consider while using and maintaining them in good shape. Really useful 👍.
Sorry to hear that you couldn’t get extra backing plates. The shop where I bought my bags here (in Europe) lists all parts and components also as separately available for sale. Innerbags, hooks, keys etc AND backplates.. I suppose it’s difference in the GIvi operations EU vs USA and their supply chain and customer service. Too bad.
Like the bags so far especially the easy attaching, detaching and locking of them to the bike. One plus-point you didn’t mention (perhaps because you didn’t use it) is the fact that Givi has the “one-key solution” available for these bags. This is easy if you also have one of their topcases, and/or toolboxes too. You can than (un)lock all your Givi bags, cases and boxes with one key. I find it handy.
One minor issue I experience is that one (bag) one of the metal locking hooks, which turn into the backingplate by turning the key is extremely stiff. Sometimes I am affraid that the key might break while trying to turn.
One strange thing is, at least I don’t see the logic, is that you can only take the key out of the lock if the lock is in the locked position.
But all that is not a dealbreaker, I recommend these bags, happy with them.
Thanks for your comments. I lost my right side bag over the weekend. It came off while riding really extreme terrain. Someone took it so its lost. I am not sure if I didnt secure it well or if the lock broke, I will never know. Glad you are liking the bags, just watch for the issues I highlighted.
Hey Matt! Great review! I would suggest changing the title of this content to something with “soft panniers” in the description. I only found it whith specific givi name in it. Personally I would name the content with something catchy like: “don’t buy the soft panniers before you watch this” or maybe even “don’t buy givi panniers before you watch this” as they didn’t give a shiat about your inquiry. In a way, your review applies to all the soft luggage solutions and your review really adds much to the decision making process. Anyways thank you for the review. Much helpful and appreciated 👍
Good suggestion, I will do that.
@@advmatt or “don’t buy givi panniers before you watch this”. I guess their customer service is crap regardless the panniers being soft or hard cases 😉
Thank you so much for this. I would really like to hear your thoughts about your thoughts about the luggage setup for the KTM 390 Adventure in particular. Not that I would even conscider bying the Givis after hearing your problems - but the input is still useful in pursuit for alternatives (hopefully Mokso for me). Finding info on soft pannier options and racks for this bike is proving extremely difficult. The OEM Side cases are IMHO not suitable for adventure motorcycling. They are not waterproof, they are small, they have zippers that I am sure will break in the first fall (or from normal use), has no options to mount stuff to the outside has side loading that will get old real quick (in addition to zippers that also will get tiresome), etc. But your video gives me hope. The Givi bags are quite similar in size and features to the very popular Mosko Moto Backcountry - which are the bags at tne top of my wishlist... if I can find a good mounting option that doesn't make the bike too wide or the bags towering over the seat (to clear the exhaust). Also, I want to use the bags on both my Tenere 700 Rally and the 390 Adventure. After hearing your problems with Givi customer service trying to aquire an extra set of nylon plates - I won't even bother trying and go for something else. Also, if there ever was a warranty issue??? Mosko offer extra nylon plates and other spares right in their webshop. Their customer service gets back in hours...
With your luggage needs you might want to consider a rackless luggage option. I used the Giant loop Great Basin on my first trip on the 390 ADV and worked okay. I am not a fan everything in big bag but I think the Mosko Moto style of rackless would make moving your luggage between bikes really easy. Tusk also makes a rackless option that is affordable. I lost one of my Givi panniers over the weekend, i am not sure what failed and how it came off, but I am know also looking for new luggage again. Givi is making a rack for the 390 ADV now for mounting bags that looks pretty good. I am not sure of its availability. With the rackless you don't need the pannier racks, maybe just a good tail rack. Just my thoughts on luggage to consider. Good luck, hope this helps and have fun riding.
Hello, great practical test. Where did you buy the plastic opening carabiner? Thanks and greetings from Germany from Michael!
I don't remember where I purchased the plastic carabiner clips. I think they came with some bottle holders.
Great review
I have these bags and say spot on. Great bags but some limitations
Honest review. However, Givi has big shortcomings in quality. I wanted to buy it, but Kriega will win this comparison.
Completely agree, Givi is made for the masses not for the more extreme riders.
Great vid. Sea to Summit uk makes ‘field repair buckle’ look it up.
I dig your videos Matt I'd like some information on that blue tail bag you got on the KTM 390 please
Thanks. The blue pack is not a true tail bag, it's an old hydration pack I had that I stopped using. I velcro and bungie strapped it to the back. I dont remember who makes it, it is some off brand.
@@advmatt thanks for getting back to me and let me know it's a good idea
Hi Matt, Great review mate! What are those molle water bottle holders you use? I have the GRT709 and they look perfect? Or can you suggest some others? Cheers...
The bottle holders are nothing special. The cheapest MOLLE bottle holders I could fine on Amazon. Thanks for your feedback.
@@advmatt Cheers mate!
Great review long term. what kind of other bags cheaper and better than these would your consider kindly provide me with the names . Thanks
I think Nelson Rigg bags are pretty good for the price. The Tusk brand bags are also good for the price.
Ty
Hi Matt, thank you for the good review. What would your thoughts be if you were able to contact Givi and the pricing would still be the same when you bought it, and if the buckle could be replaced easily. Regarding the buckle, there is a good and easy solution that I use for my rucksack and my scuba diving BCD. With the rucksack and the BCD the buckle cracked and I replaced them with the "Field Repair Buckle - Side Release 2 Pin" from Sea to Summit. It works. Regards Waldo
I wasn't happy with how the bags started sagging over time, and I didnt like how the inner plate was mounted. If I wasnt planning any offroad riding I might consider these, but after my experiences with them I dont think I would choose these bags again.
Great review thanks
I cross checked with givi dealers in India and they confirmed that we can buy the part which goes on saddle stay separately also.
That's good. Givi contacts in the United States didn't return my calls or respond to emails. Disappointing.
Thanks for an excellent review. I was considering these because I already have Givi racks, but will pass on them because of the defects you mentioned. Have you tried to contact Givi Italy about buying additional mounting plates?
I only tried to contact Givi USA with no luck.
Thank you for the update video 🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇
Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, I had decided on these bags for my new bike. After watching this I’ll look elsewhere
Glad this was helpful. Finding good bags can be a challenge.
Thanks man 🌹
Great review! Just one question: how much do they weigh?
I can't remember exactly, six to eight pounds as a pair. I don't have them anymore so I am unable to weigh them for you.
@@advmatt thanks anyway! ;)
You’ve probably already sorted this, or someone else has mentioned in the comments but I think ZGRT709FS is the plates you’re looking for for your other bike.
I couldn't find them sold separately when I was looking a few ago. I have moved on from these bags. Thanks information, others might find it helpful.
Matt, what soft luggage model would you consider better then the Givi Canyon for the same price?
Wolfman for sure. I also like the Tusk Olympus bags but haven't had a chance to try them. The Olympus bags have quick release plate. I would also try the Enduristan bags before using these Givi bags again.
Thank you..
From where did you purchase the bottle holder? Can you send a link?
I did a video on this. Links are in the description. th-cam.com/video/GaMxnLzZ3f4/w-d-xo.html
I wonder what the plastic plate that sits on your motorcycle is called or has for product number at Givi?
That is a great question, I hear in Europe these can be purchased. I could never get into contact with US reps.
@@advmatt Same problem here in Sweden, I bought two bags Givi GRT720 but did not get the plates I see you have on your motorcycle. Now I'm trying to find a product number or similar to be able to order ... retailers in Finland have asked a question to Givi in Italy ...
Thanks for all your videos, they are appreciated. Sicerely Pär
For this amount of money which would be a better option ?
Yes, I would not buy these again.
@@advmatt any reccomendation?
@@Bull189 that is a hard question to answer. I dont think there is a single perfect solution, at least for me. My top choices are Wolfman, Mosko and maybe Enduristan. Good luck choosing.
@@advmatt thanks for the answer!
3-4 months that's ridiculous. And still no reply? Thank you. Looking at Round the world bags. Those plastic parts break too easy!
Never got a response. Disappointing for sure. I looked at those bags too. Hope those work out for you.
Is possible to buy new drybag?
@@michail-ariskalantzis1020 not that I am aware of. I tried contacting Givi numerous times and could not get anyone to respond.
@@advmatt i have same problem, after one off-road the drybag has a small hole, but the rubber was there...
@@michail-ariskalantzis1020 yeah, I had to get out the gorilla tape.
thank you, after this movie i decided not to buy givi. For little less price i ordered saddlebags from small manufacturer. (red mamut 5 seconds - 2x40L)
What's your experience with the pair? Thank you 🙏
Ty .looks good
@@RestlessRoamers Very good. Nothing happens with them. They're practical, easy to use and mount/unmount from motorcycle
i have the givi grt718 and its been 1 year already but the quality of the material is already cracking
I was disappointed in the Givi luggage I have used over the years.
@@advmatt i also have the buckle part in the grt718 the snap buckle color are red and mine become whitish red, discoloration already
how many bikes do you have dude lol
2, I always seem to have two, or have for the past few years. I seem to change bikes a bit too regularly.
I’m impressed, but they are pricey.
For the money I think there are better options.
great review thanks.