Top Boxes?

[rocks]

I am after some peoples views and opinions. I have never owned a top box for a bike. I am thinking of getting one, for the convienience of storing a lid, and not adding too much width to the bike for the commute to work.

What are the advantages of Aluminium v Givi type plastic units?

I am thinking of getting some ali panniers in the future.. as they look as if they hold more than the standard black BMW plastic system i have at present.

Can an Aluminium topbox like the ones TT do, (zega..i think ) be easily taken off and put on? Do i need a special mount etc?

How do they compare on price and security?

Comments welcome and appreciated. Cheers.. rocks

 

[Nick Marshall]

ally panniers

got some of them for sale.. in the for sale forum.. nick

 

[rocks]

Nice..

Hi Nick, cheers but at the moment i can only afford a top box.. as it will be used more often than, the panniers, and the BMW ones will suffice for the UK travel.. for now..

Does anyone have a Zega top box, from TT? How easy is it to fit and remove? How secure in your opiniontoo??

Does any one have a piccy of one fitted on its own.. and with panniuers..?

( yeh i am being fussy.. but like piccies..) cheers rocks..

 

[sparkplug]

Howdy,

I have a full set of TT on including the top box.

I'll try to answer a few of your questions..

Metal vs plastic:
plastic=better aerodynamics (more noticeable on side panniers)
metal=better security, better crash survivability, better lashing points

Yes, you do need a special bracket for the TT Zega top.

It is VERY secure (overfilled it at the bmf, then lashed 2 chairs, 1 bag of clothes, an empty rucksack and 2 sleeping bags to it - no problem at all!)

The top box has a simple mechanism for taking it on and off but it does need a bit of force. I have used other systems that come off a lot easier but I tend to always have the top box on. The panniers are a lot easier to remove than the top box.

The top box is secured by a key operated locking bracket and you should consider buying the "integral locks" at the same time so one key fits all. It should be pointed out that you need to drill out the old mechanism and widen the hole (template supplied) to fit the "integral locks" - a bit of a pain but I did all 6 in an afternoon.

Otherwise the hinges can be locked with a standard small padlock, but get a rubber coated one or the constant tapping will drive you mad.

Of course it doesn't have to be TTech
I had a look at the Metal Mule boxes at the BMF show and they are really good. If you are going to be constantly taking the boxes on and off these are probably better for you as the mechanism (QuickAttach) used is really easy. I think their website is www.metalmule.com

If you want pictures of my touratechs let me know your email address and I'll forward some on.

 

[rocks]

wicked...

Cheers schiannini, You answered about every question i ever wanted to know on em.

Its now firmly on my shopping list, and hope to put the order in shortly..

If you up this way ever, let me know.. wll gladly buy your a pint..

 

[sparkplug]

A pint!

I'm on my way

Which ones are you going for?

 

[steve1074]

Alas Metal Mule do not make a rack for a GSA as yet!

 

[Commuter]

Errrr

Alas Metal Mule do not make a rack for a GSA as yet!

Yes they do my friend as there was one at BMF with the rack on it and the cardboard lookalike mules on it.

Motorworks stand!

 

[steve1074]

Lol - well Metal Mules need to sort there marketing out then as they sent me an email today saying no plate available but if I loan them my bike they'll make a fitment I can have for free!!

 

[rocks]

Going for..

My mind is on the TT Zega case with integral locks.. but not had a reply from TT yet on if they will pre-fit the locks..