Topbox & Panniers

[JohnP]

I posted this message in another thread in the hope that I get plenty of replies.
I used the Givi E52 Topbox on my old 1150 without problems. I have decided against using it on th 1200 since I have read reports that the leading edge at the hinge point overhangs the back of the pillion seat thereby reducing room. My wife would not be happy with that! I am currently using the BMW top box and panniers, but find that the topbox is way too small and restrictive, even in it's expanded state. I can't even close the lid shut with my Shoei full face lid in it, let alone stach 2 lids away safely when we leave the bike. BMW I believe have'nt done a very good job in designing this box, although I feel the panniers are much better than the ones for the 1150. This leaves me with a dilemma of which topbox I should use. I've recently been looking at the H&B luggage, especially the Gobi and more interestingly the Aluminium Exclusive range. The Alu. Excl. TC45 looks as if it will hold two lids at a push. Does anyone out there have any experience of the TC45 and will it take two lids. Also how good is the mounting and will it take a full 10 Kg. which I believe is the max load the rear rack can take. Answers please.

 

[peten]

Hepco & Becker

Hi John

I had a Hepco & Becker 'Journey' TC 50 (plastic top box) on my R1150R which I had added the passenger backrest to. The capacity of the case is 48 litres, and I can confirm that two full face lids will fit. I was told that the TC 45 would not accept two lids....

I'm beginning to wish I hadn't sold it as in silver and black it would have gone well with my soon to be delivered 1200GS and I am now concerned that perhaps the BWM top case may not have been such a good buy.

The H&B rack is rated for 5KG as are the boxes when used as a top case. The cases are rated at 10KG for side case use.

I have to say that the rack looks good without the top box on (more of a sports rack kind of look) and has a very positive locking mechanism.

I generally left the top box fairly empty and then stashed helmet and jacket / gloves etc when I arrived anywhere.

Hope this helps.

Cheers

Pete

 

[dave92029]

Jesse bags

I have the jesse bags and a Top Box is on order.

Jesse bags are awesome IMHO.

Dave

 

[JohnP]

Thanks guys!

 

[Dolphin]

RHS BMW side pannier has decided to try to pass me down the road a few times, but at the 1st service, adjustments were made, and a new lid to replace the old one, which now has speed stripes thanks to the road, is on order under warranty.
Other then this hiccup, they seem to be doing well.

 

[snave1]

I'm using a givi plate fitted directly on to existing rack with no probs.

 

[Gonzo]

John

Echo your views on the BM topbox. Nice clever piece of kit but not quite the right shape compared to the old E46 I had on my 650GS.

I went for the Givi V46 in standard silver (don't pay for the extra colours) on the standard Givi mouting plate pretty much where the stock one goes. Looks very good, I have to say, especially as the red reflector/silver/black colour scheme matches my red/black bike. The reflector bit is the only red bit so I can see it going with other schemes too.

Haven't tried a pillion but it looks as if it lines up with the back of the pillion seat pretty well.

Cheaper overall than the BM kit and I can again get my laptop/briefcase/work threads on the back! Slight negative - not quite as robust as the BM box or the old Givi stuff - not bad though.