R80G/S subframe

[Ruaha]

Dear all,

I posted some time ago about a Argentina to Alaska trip planned for this October on my R80G/S PD.

I replaced the stock rearshock to an Ohlins after the original gave up (under no extra weight) on Surrey's finest tarmac roads. I'll be two up with luggage on the trip.

The bike's currently with StahlKoffer getting panniers/frames fitted. They're concerned. The subframe, in their view, is about 40mm off centre. The bike has not been involved in any knocks since I've had it and I'm unsure about it's history before that - it's a BAMW restoration (I've sent him an email).

Does anyone have any suggestions? The options in my eyes, are:
a) 'Bodge'/weld the existing subframe, fit the panniers and frame and accept it may fail on route later down the line
b) Source a replacement rear subframe and hope that that solves the problem

I'd appreciate your collective wisdom on the matter,

Daniel

 

[DrAlf]

If I was doing that kind of trip I'd be looking at getting a reinforced custom subframe made up. The OEM item is little under engineered to say the least.

Two up, pan America on a g/s sounds like a great adventure

 

[Rob Farmer]

The standard G/s subframe is very weedy. The Basic subframe was very similar in shape but much stronger. Gary (at BAMW) makes a copy of the Basic subframe but I've no idea how strong it is or what steel he uses.

Your best bet would be to get in touch with Overland solutions and get him to prep your sub frame and maybe do some other mods. He prepared Cynthia Miltons bike for one of her trips http://www.overland-solutions.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29&Itemid=40

 

[ianboydsnr]

What do they mean the subframe is off centre?

You need an uprated subframe as others have said,

 

[Ruaha]

Thanks all - much appreciated.

Have thought a lot about reinforcing the subframe, including the overland solutions option.

Have actually spoke to Gary since my first post and he mentioned plans for a repro subframe for the G/S due shortly.

I'm not entirely sure what they mean by the subframe being off centre. Presumably deviated at angle from the main frame. I must admit that I hadn't noticed anything untoward....

If it really is an issue and makes fabricating/installing their panniers a no go then I will pursue one of the above two options....

My worries about reinforcing the existing weak subframe is propagating that force elsewhere and simply delaying the inevitable and potentially damaging a part of the frame less accessible and repairable on the road.

Thanks again for your thoughts - I'll keep you posted!

Daniel