Metal Mule Panniers

[rocks]

I had a good look at the Metal Mule panniers on their stand at the NEC show.
I was very impressed. Particularly with the attachment system and the speed at which the panniers can be attached/detatched.

Does anyone have a photo of their metal mule panniers attached to the GS.. prefereably from behind?

I am trying to gauage the size/width of the bike with the different setups.

I know the indicators need to be shortened.. and they do a kit which sounded pretty easy to fit, as i want to keep my widetail-LED's.

So if anyone has a photo of their GS with metal mule panniers fitted, would really appreciate it.. and your honest opinion on the product..

Cheers

John

 

[DavidHale]

Hi Rocks,

Here's a shot of my MM's in action - I know you want a direct-from-behind shot but I'm at work at the moment and there isn't one on this computer. To answer some of you questions:

The release mechanism is very simple, quick and easy to use. I would, however, recommend having the side handles fitted as it would make the paniers easier to lift on and off.

They are about the same width as the handlebars, or at least they are as close to the same width as makes no difference (I've got the large balance system).

They are robust - I recently twatted the back of a truck whilst on the M6 with mine (I was whilst filtering and entirely my fault - it was at the end of a very long day in the saddle and I was tired). The L/H sprang off, but I just picked it up, clipped it back on and carried on.

The indicators are very easy to fit - about 10 mins even for a numpty like me!

Back-up service from Paul at MM is excellent.

Bare in mind that if you fit the balance system you also need the exhaust to go with it.

HTH

David

<img src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y50/DavidHale/Bike.jpg">

 

[grandtrousers]

Whats a balance system and what exhaust do you need to fit?

 

[DavidHale]

With the positioning of the exhaust on a regular GS the paniers are odd sizes to keep the width equal. This means that the R/H panier is normally 3 or more litres larger than the L/H one. The MM system involves a new exhaust that tucks in much closer to the centre of the bike, inside the panier rails. This means that the 2 paniers are the same size, or 'balanced'. On my set it means that both are 42l, meaning that if required I can actually bring the kitchen sink with me when I go away with them.

The exhaust that MM supply is actualy made by Scorpion. It's road legal if you leave the baffle in (still sounds better than stock) and a tad loud if you take the baffle out.... Good quality though, and fits straight on without any problems.

Have a look here for more info about MM stuff. I've no connection with them other than being a satisfied customer.

 

[Iain Hogg]

OK, here are some pictures, perhaps not directly from the rear but I wasn't just taking the bike

and this one is from the front, but gives more idea of width

Iain

 

[GS TRV]

Hi Rocks,

I got the MM top box and 2x 42L panniers. I didn't bother with the balanced system as i already had a Remus can installed. Overall, they've been great and swallowed an enormous amount of gear as well as doubling as camping accessories - seat etc.

I'd try a foto but haven't worked out how to attach one. I'll email if you want.

Trev