Evaluation Abstract
The SHAD SH38X aspect instances supply revolutionary expandable storage, waterproof building, and glorious construct high quality. With versatile mounting choices and considerate options like mesh pockets and safe locking, they’re ultimate for touring riders. Beginning at $550, they supply sturdy worth and trendy performance for a variety of bikes.
Supplies & Construct High quality
Execs
Smooth design with waterproof building
Expandable by 70 mm to suit an XL helmet
Simple side-loading and safe locking system
Versatile mounting choices (3P and 4P methods)
Inside mesh pocket and non-obligatory internal luggage for added group
Nice worth for premium touring baggage
Cons
The aluminum trim possibility is expensive.
Evaluation Abstract
- The SHAD SH38X is a premium onerous plastic baggage. Their key characteristic is the flexibility to break down and develop shortly relying in your wants.
- The bike-specific mounting system permits for the instances to be mounted to a big number of bikes.
- Beginning at $550 for a pair of instances, plus roughly $225 for the bike-specific mounts, the SH38X represents a superb worth.
- SHAD has a big choice of instances and luggage to satisfy most wants. I feel the SH38X suits properly within the Journey Touring class with an emphasis on touring.
About SHAD
SHAD is a part of the NAD Group, based in 1992. Dedicated to engineering and design, we proceed to supply options acknowledged in additional than 80 nations. All our merchandise are designed and developed at our headquarters in Barcelona.
NAD was based in Barcelona in 1973. With over 50 years of expertise, NAD is at this time a world chief within the manufacture of motorbike seats, instances, and equipment for essentially the most worldwide manufacturers.
Introduction
I used to be first launched to SHAD by a buddy who had the SH36 instances on his Yamaha FJ09. He would later exchange the Yamaha with a BMW, however not the instances. After getting new brackets, the SH36s have been again in enterprise.
First launched within the fall of 2023 at EICMA, the brand new SHAD SH38X generated vital curiosity proper out of the gate.
Quick ahead to this previous winter, and I had the respect of talking with Michael from SHAD USA. After chatting about my Norden 901, we determined the aluminum-trimmed SH38X would make for a superb overview.
After seeing the instances mounted seamlessly and looking out nice, I used to be excited to get began.
I want to thank Michael from SHAD for the chance to check and overview the SHAD SH38X Facet Instances.
SHAD SH38X Options and Operation
The SHAD SH38X aspect instances characteristic flexibility.
- Expandable by 70 mm (40%) to carry an XL modular helmet.
- Appropriate with SHAD 3P and 4P methods.
- It affords most safety because of its revolutionary “Premium Good Lock”
- The case may be opened, closed, and faraway from the motorbike in only a few seconds.
- Contains two security keys and an additional cylinder lock, permitting one key to open three instances
- 2 Interior internet included, along with securing the load, lets you retailer small objects or documentation inside.
- Optionally available equipment: Expandable internal bag (X0IB38). 4P Becoming Adapter (204632R), interchangeable coloration covers: black (D1B38E21), white (D1B38E08) and unpainted (D1B38ER).
For a whole checklist of options, go to SHADUSA’s product page.
SH38X Instances Dimensions & Weight
- Size: 50 cm (19.7 in)
- Depth: 27 cm (10.6 in), 34 cm (13.4 in) expanded
- Peak: 39 cm (15.4 in)
- Weight: 5.75 kg (12.7 lbs) every
- Max Load: 10 kg (22 lbs) every
It’s Expandable!
The Shad SH38X instances develop 40 p.c from the usual place, rising capability from 28 to 38 liters after they slide out 70 mm (2.75 in) on all sides. That’s sufficient to suit my XXL modular helmet.
All it takes is opening three inside latches/tabs, pulling out the telescopic part, after which closing the tabs—no instruments or fuss required.
I used to be impressed with how straightforward the enlargement works. Listed below are just a few phrases from the SHAD web site explaining the know-how…
Engineering and design come collectively within the SH38X Expandable to create a baggage set that stands out for its expandable mechanism, primarily based on the idea coming from structure: Tensigrity.
This know-how has been tailored to the wants of the motorbike world to create a brand new idea distinctive up to now: dynamic tensigrity. An revolutionary mechanical system of compensated stress that permits the instances to develop and contract telescopically in a matter of seconds and uniformly. Its cutting-edge design and know-how have earned it the celebrated Reddot Design Award 2024.
I admire the pliability it gives when carrying smaller masses, permitting me to scale back the bike’s width by 14 cm (5.5 in).
The next three photos present the again of the bike with the instances totally collapsed, expanded, and the left aspect solely expanded.
The SH38X aspect instances have equal capability. There aren’t any cutouts to compensate for the exhaust. The usual measurement makes luggage extra common in becoming many alternative bikes.
Why is the left aspect solely expanded, you would possibly ask? I present this as a result of the 3P (and 4P) mount for the Norden 901 is prolonged 70 mm additional on the suitable aspect previous the exhaust. By increasing the left case totally (70 mm), the width of the instances from the middle of the bike is equal.
Simple Locking, or To not Lock
My brother Bob has the SHAD Terra aluminum aspect instances, and our buddy Tim had the SH36. In each instances, the important thing has two positions, totally locked and unlocked/open. The locked place secures the instances to the rack and locks the case closed. Unlock permits for elimination from the rack and permits opening the case. That’s to say, the secret is required to open the case.
The SH38X has three positions—totally locked, unlocked, and elimination/set up. For set up and elimination, use the extra latch molded into the highest nook of the case.

This locking system means you’ll be able to journey with the instances unlocked, however you can not take away them from the bike with out the important thing. Based mostly on the envious feedback from Bob and Tim, it is a nice characteristic, and I agree.
Throughout the overview interval, Tim traded in his BMW for a 2025 Honda Transalp 750. One of many first issues he added to the bike was a set of SHAD SH38X instances.
In case you intend so as to add a SHAD High Case, the package deal consists of an extra tumbler and two units of keys. This extra tumbler permits commonplace keying of three instances,

Inside Options of the SH38X Instances
Except for the principle characteristic of the flexibility to develop, there are a few different good options contained in the instances.
First, whereas many side-opening instances make the most of an X strap to assist in retaining objects when the case is open, the SH38X incorporates a mesh pouch. The pouch serves two functions: each to maintain gadgets within the compartment and as a useful place to retailer small objects.
The pouch attaches to the case with small hooks. It’s straightforward to detach to permit easy accessibility to load and unload the case.

SHAD 3P Mounting System for Facet Instances
The 3P mounting kits are bike-specific, designed and developed to suit every make, mannequin, and yr of motorcycle. Within the case of my Norden 901, this implies a right-side bracket that extends past the exhaust system.
- 20mm Body
- Black Powder Coated
- All {hardware} wanted for mounting
- 2-year Guarantee
For bikes with a excessive exhaust or different obstruction, the suitable aspect bracket is prolonged. Within the case of Norden 901, the extension is 70 mm.
The SH38X reviewed right here can also be suitable with the SHAD 4P (four-point) Facet Case mounting system, requiring solely the addition of an adaptor. The 4P has options just like the 3P, with extra energy supplied by the extra attachment level.
3P System Format
The 3P system consists of two stable brackets with aspect mount sections; the left and proper L-shaped 20mm tubing frames and ahead mounts; and a bag of black metal {hardware}.
For the Norden 901, the brackets all mount to present mounting factors on the bike that might be utilized for OEM baggage racks. The higher aspect brackets mount on the rear subframe beneath the seat and rear rack. The ahead bracket mounts to present mount factors within the passenger footpeg brackets.
Fitment of SH38X Facet Instances on the 3P System
To put in the SH38X aspect instances:
- Flip the important thing to the unlock place, and push down on the important thing meeting to launch the deal with.
- Flip the important thing totally clockwise to the arrow place.
- This permits the latch on the entrance of the case to be lifted. Lifting this latch opens the mounting lock mechanism on the again aspect of the case.
- Now place the aspect case onto the assist tube, guaranteeing the three mounting factors are totally seated. This takes some getting used to. I discovered elevating the rear of the case and sliding ahead helped to interact the decrease mounting level.
- Return the ahead latch to the closed place. If the latch doesn’t shut simply, the mounts might not be totally seated.
- Flip the important thing to both the locked or unlocked place.
- Return the deal with to the closed place.
To take away:
- Flip the important thing to the unlock place, and push down on the important thing meeting to launch the deal with.
- Flip the important thing totally clockwise to the arrow place.
- This permits the latch on the entrance of the case to be lifted. Lifting this latch opens the mounting lock mechanism on the again aspect of the case.
- Carry the case from the mount.
The procedures above could appear to be lots of steps, however they’ll each be accomplished in underneath a minute.

Different Info
Spare Elements
SHAD maintains a complete checklist of alternative components within the occasion of an accident. Go to SHAD Spare Parts for Cases.
Guarantee
SHAD affords a 2-year guarantee. For extra data, go to SHAD Warranty and Returns.
Optionally available Interior Bag
SH38X Interior Collection Bag – The Interior Collection luggage, just like the SH38X, are expandable (PN X0IB38). They’re constructed from a sturdy cloth that seems to work for a few years. The bag suits snugly into the aspect case.

The 360-degree zipper permits the enlargement cloth to open.

The inside is nylon-lined. An X strap with a clip helps maintain gadgets in place. The bag features a deal with on the highest together with D-rings to connect the included shoulder strap. One ultimate contact is that the highest incorporates a zipper mesh enclosure for storing small gadgets or toiletries.

On the Street and Closing Ideas on the SHAD SH38X Facet Instances
I acquired the SHAD SH38X Facet Instances in April. Spring got here late to central Ontario this yr, so I used to be motivated to get out for some spring driving.
Whereas reviewing the SH38X, I used to be additionally reviewing the Richa Infinity Professional 3 jacket and pants, together with an summary of Richa’s glove line. It was the glove overview that the aspect instances would first come in useful.
I initially thought I might have the instances eliminated as typically as I had them put in. The gloves overview modified all that. With eight pairs of gloves within the overview, I used one aspect case to hold gloves every time I used to be on the bike.
I discover the SH38X so handy that I hardly ever take them off the bike. Within the collapsed type, they don’t seem to be overly imposing, but have lots of carrying capability. Expanded, they’re large. For operating errands and all-day rides, they’ve been glorious.
The actual take a look at can be a visit. Previously, on this bike, I’ve used Kriega OS tender baggage for journeys. They labored nice, however the capability was missing, and unlatching every thing at your vacation spot was a minor problem. I typically connected a dry bag to the again rack for added storage.
Mid-July was my annual journey with outdated pals from highschool, and new pals that I’ve met by this yearly journey—the primary large take a look at for the SH38X.
The instances have been distinctive!
With a forecast of sizzling climate (warmth warnings), I solely wanted to pack shorts, t-shirts, and a pair of trainers. Utilizing the non-obligatory internal bag, I used to be capable of pack every thing in a single unexpanded aspect case. The opposite aspect, additionally unexpanded, carried rain gear, further gloves, instruments, and water (lots of water). It was good to see that all of it match with the instances collapsed. I’m assured that I can simply pack for a extra prolonged journey or for cooler climate with the SH38X aspect instances expanded.
If planning a big journey that features tenting, the TR47 Terra aspect instances may be a greater possibility. If the journey consists of some off-road, the TR40 Terra Journey Saddlebags could possibly be the baggage of alternative. However for me, the SH38X aspect instances hit the candy spot with versatile capability whereas touring.
As you’ll be able to see, I’m very impressed with the SH38X instances. It’s straightforward when the instances present stable construct high quality, an revolutionary enlargement system, a bike-specific mounting system for an in depth vary of bikes, and what I feel are nice seems to be, all at a aggressive value.
Execs
- Nice seems to be
- Conveniently expandable by 70 mm, with a capability to carry a helmet
- Waterproof
- Two straightforward choices for the mounting system
- 90-degree side-loading instances for straightforward entry
- Handy locking system
- Accessible internal luggage
- Inside mesh pocket
- 3P aspect case mounting package is much less obtrusive with instances eliminated
- Competitively priced, an ideal worth
Cons
- The aluminum trim possibility is expensive.
Specs
- Producer: SHAD
- Worth: (When Examined)
- Facet Instances (Pair) – $650 (Aluminum), $550 (Carbon look)
- 3P System Mounting – $228 or 4P System Mounting – $287
- Optionally available Interior Bag – $68
- As examined: $946
- Made In: Spain
- Colours: Black/Aluminum, Black/Carbon
- Evaluation Interval: Could – July 2025
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