Mosko moto Backcountry panniers on BMW R1300GS

The BMW R1300GS is a phenomenal touring machine, built to devour miles in comfort. While rack-less luggage setups have their appeal—especially off-road—there are distinct advantages to using traditional rack-mounted panniers for pavement-focused adventures. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how the Mosko moto Backcountry panniers work on a big GS equipped with Touratech Pannier racks.

To offer more flexibility when configuring luggage setups, we have developed an integration kit that allows Touratech pannier racks to be used in combination with the Perun Moto Top Luggage Rack – Sport. The kit is simple and consists of four spacers and two bolts. All parts are standard so you could source them locally if needed.

For detailed installation instructions please click HERE (Section IV). 

Now, let's go back to Backcountry panniers. First time installation took me less than 15 minutes. Mounting plates need to be bolted onto pannier racks. Once that's done, it takes only second to click panniers securely into place.

To take the panniers off the racks, there is a pull-out latch on side of the bag. Simply pull the latch and lift the bag up (be mindful about the weight of the loaded bag).

Once installed, panniers behave like an integral part of the bike. There's no shifting weight, no bouncing around.

I have mounted the panniers as low as it's possible. Top part sits above the seat. Not an issue, but I would love if they could sit a bit lower.

Backcountry panniers are surprisingly narrow. Even with the added width of pannier racks, overall width is narrower than the handlebars. This is something I really appreciate.

Second photo provides more accurate perspective.

One advantage of using rack-mounted panniers over rack-less setups is that the grab handles remain accessible, making it easier to maneuver or lift the bike when needed.

Having a Top luggage rack installed in conjunction with pannier racks allows for the addition of tail bags, offering even more luggage capacity for longer trips or bulkier gear. Mosko moto Backcountry Duffle works nicely and makes for a great set.

Backcountry duffle is secured to our luggage rack by two cinch straps which are looped trough slots on the rack. Any other high quality strap can be used with same effect. Since all edges of the rack are smooth and chamfered, there is no risk of straps getting cut or damaged. 

Straps pass underneath tent pole pocket to compress and secure the bag.

Since Backcountry panniers sit above the seat, there will be some interference between them and the duffle bag. Backcountry duffle has roll top closures at both ends so its size/length is adjustable. Be mindful about how much luggage you put inside. Filling the duffle bag to maximum would make it really difficult or even impossible to install and remove the panniers. 

A short video overview for the end.