Hello all,
We just bought a 2002 Suzuki GS500, which I am going to use for commuting sometimes (more so when it warms up a bit). I can use a bicycle messenger bag but would like to know if there is a good cargo "solution" out there (saddle bags, tank bag, etc.). I'd like something I wouldn't need to take off the bike every time, but that would be okay (I guess).
Thanks for the help,
Paul
I have Chase Harper bags. They are the European Tour 4000 (http://www.chaseharper.com/SaddleBags/SaddleBags.htm) If I ever go camping I can bungee a backpack over the top of them so I can have a backpack to hike with.
(http://motorcycle-motorcycle.com/catalog/images/3300.jpg)
These bags can be removed in 10 seconds. They have two velcro straps in the middle that strap either over or under the seat, and two little slide-release clips on each side.
A rack and a lockable removable 'top box' is good. Get a big enough one and it can hold two helmets. Givi is a good make (Italian).
GS Twinner Kerry's site has some great shots of his touring hard cases. Look here (http://www.bbburma.net/Trips/2004_12_GlobeAZ_to_OremUT/Day_2.html) for pics. There are several threads on this topic on the board. I really dig his setup. Very nice.
How much space are you looking for?
I just needed a bag to that would hold my lunch and my half-cover. I found a Nelson-Rigg tail pack (http://www.nelsonrigg.com/classic.htm). I bought the TP-902 Tailpack and it does what I need:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/redshift/5771af76.jpg)
As per the Nelson-Rigg web site, there's lots of different luggage to consider. They make good, rugged and well thought-out products. Have a look. If you want to buy, try www.newenough.com (http://www.newenough.com/product_group_misc_luggage.htm). There's often a sale and they have a good selection of products.
If you go for hard bags, make sure the racks will fit an '01+ GS500. Because of the changes in the plastic side covers, the '01+ body style has a whole different set of parameters than pre-'01 bikes.
I'm not even sure how well my soft luggage (http://www.bbburma.net/HowTo/TourMaster_CortechBags/) will fit on an '01+ bike. :dunno:
anyone know how to tie a duffle bag down?
i tired bungee cords...and everything...
but it keeps sliding...
Anybody have suggestions on a good tank bag?
Quote from: Frostanyone know how to tie a duffle bag down?
i tired bungee cords...and everything...
but it keeps sliding...
You might try some rubber matting between the duffle bag and the seat. The vinyl is quite slippery. When I'm in my riding pants, I slide all over the place, LOL.
--Mike D.
I have a good cheap solution for a tank bag.
I use a day sack I got for GBP10. This also has the advantage of being a
rucksack when you take it off the bike.
The only modifications is a 6 inch length of webbing strap attached onto
the end of one of the straps and 2 webbing straps with adjusters on the
end tied to the frame under my seat.
1st I undo the straps from the bottom adjusters on the rucksack.
This leaves 2 padded straps from the top end of the bag and 2 webbing
straps from the bottom corners of the bag.
I pass the 2 straps around the neck of the bike just behind the steering head.
Then pass the 6 inch of webbing through the adjuster on the opposite strap.
Thats the top end secure.
Next pass the 2 webbing straps through 2 clasps I have on the bike just
infront of the seat.
Hmm This is hard to describe.
If anyone is interested I'll put up some photo's.
I use this pack on occasion. Roomy but not too large. Easy to remove and of course handy shoulder straps...
(http://www.nelsonrigg.com/products/New-04/MSB-100-small.jpg)