Of all the things that can put the brakes on a motorcycle journey, running out of gas has to be the easiest to avoid. I ride by this maxim: “Know thy range, read thy map, and carry extra fuel.” That last bit became much easier when I bought Giant Loop’s 2-gallon Armadillo Bag, which is designed for carrying powersports liquids. Note that careful wording, as Armadillos are not recognized as portable fuel containers by ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), the EPA, or California’s Air Resources Board. Giant Loop is very clear about this and informs its customers prior to their purchase.
Built Like an Armadillo
Inside the Armadillo is an RF-welded TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) bladder that safely holds hydrocarbon liquids like diesel and gasoline, as well as other automotive fluids, such as coolant. Every bladder is stress-tested before leaving the factory, and completed units are randomly examined and tested at multiple points. I dropped a full Armadillo five times from the height of my motorcycle rack without damaging it. Encasing the bladder and ready to take a beating is an abrasion-resistant Cordura sleeve. Two daisy chains along its length allow for securely strapping down the bag. Handles at each end and on one side aid in filling, carrying, and emptying it.
Fill ‘Er Up
To fill the empty bag, I hung it from a handlebar with a carabiner (not included), put the nozzle into the filler hole, then pumped in exactly 2 gallons. There’s a max fill line on the Armadillo’s exterior, but it was easier for me to watch the pump. Securing the leak-proof cap was the final step. A tether on this critical item to keep it close at hand would be most helpful.
Giant Loop includes a plastic spout in a pocket on the Armadillo’s cover for dispensing fuel into the motorcycle. Following their instructions to the letter, especially the “go slowly” warning, I managed a spill-free transfer the first time. However, attempting to transfer just part of the contents would have been messy. On the way home I noted a slight smell of fuel from the spout pocket. It wasn’t bad, but it reminded me not to pack an Armadillo with my clothing.
Armadillo Fills the Void
For me, Giant Loop’s system nails two key criteria: lightweight (1 pound for the 2-gallon model) and compact (3-inch diameter when empty). Armadillos are available in 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-gallon capacities and are suitable for any kind of overlanding vehicle.
$135/2 gallon | giantloopmoto.com
Editor’s Note: This Giant Loop Armadillo bag article was originally published in Overland Journal’s Summer 2023 Issue.
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