ABATE of Maryland, Inc.

Protecting Maryland motorcyclists' rights since 1974.

The Largest Association of Motorcycle Riders in Maryland


ABATE of Maryland, Inc. is the only organization in Maryland exclusively engaged in representing the rights of Maryland motorcyclists since 1974. We maintain a presence in Annapolis, your state capitol, from the ABATE of Maryland, Inc. state office. Local chapters throughout the state provide the foundation for our organization.

Our members have joined together to advocate training as the foremost means of reducing accidents and injury, to put an end to discriminatory legislation, to communicate clearly, to explore ways to improve the overall motorcycling experience in Maryland, and to provide for and assure a continuing freedom and affordability of motorcycling.

Motorcyclists in Maryland and nationwide are presented with challenges from some elements of society that would eliminate or severely restrict motorcycling. Those who would like to restrict motorcycling attempt to do so with restrictive laws or prohibitive insurance costs. We perceive the risks associated with motorcycling as being manageable through programs of rider and driver education. The only effective method of reducing motorcycle injuries is accident avoidance.


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ADV Soft Panniers Vs. Hard Side Cases: Which is Better for Off-Roading?

By duda • May 19, 2026
Table of Contents 1. What Makes ADV Soft Panniers Stand Out 2. What Makes Aluminum Hard Side Cases Stand Out 3. Off-Road Performance: Soft Panniers vs. Aluminum Cases 4. Which One Is Better for Off-Roading? 5. Final Thoughts Picture a winding dirt trail far from the main road, a loaded ADV bike pushing through loose rock and mud, and gear that needs to survive every bump, drop, and downpour. That is the real test of ADV motorcycle luggage, and not every bag passes it. The choice between soft panniers and aluminum side cases is one of the most talked-about debates in the ADV riding world, and for good reason. Each type has real strengths, and each has clear trade-offs. Viking Bags, the best ADV motorcycle luggage maker trusted by riders around the world, has been building model-specific storage for major bike platforms like the BMW R1250GS, Harley Pan America, Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, Yamaha Tenere 700, Suzuki V-Strom 1050, and Kawasaki Versys 1000. With a full lineup of ADV soft panniers and hard aluminum side cases, Viking offers riders the option to choose the luggage system that best fits their riding style. But choosing the right one starts with knowing exactly what each option brings to the table. Continue reading to get a full breakdown of ADV soft panniers versus aluminum cases for off-roading, so the best call can be made for any setup.

A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments