Panniers frames - noob query
 

I know this will seem a stupid question to some, but help me out ...

When I had the Bonnie, I had H&B pannier frames, the ones with the 'square loop' on each side that the pannier locks into. I had assumed that this design was unique to H&B, as all the other pannier/box systems I had seen (probably not many) had had their own dedicated racks. This is the frame I had:

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zLVT316DsJ...nd+b+rack7.jpg

However, I have since seen a lot of bikes with a similar (or identical) rack design, and some were definitely not with H&B boxes. Is this square loop design a kind of universal fitting (other than designs such as the Givi Wingrack, of course), or have I got this wrong?

I haven't got the new bike yet (got to sell the Sprint first) but when I do I plan to have a 3-box system. If the frame I have described can be used with more than one make of box, that would be ideal, as I could use it to keep my soft bags out of the rear wheel for the time being, and add hard boxes or roll-top bags later, and I wouldn't be restricted to one make. Does that make sense?

Any advice welcomed.

Without actually trying your panniers on different frames it is difficult to say, your frames look like they would take airhead BMW panniers but only have to be a slightly different size for them not to fit.

Trial and error is the only way to find out.

+1 Trial and Error.

I can tell you that Metal Mule and Touratech are the same 18mm set up and Hepco and Becker frames can take TT boxes if you buy the 15mm fittings.

These are all "Hockey Puck" type fittings, so you line up when you drill and move the pucks to allow for the minor differences as well as where the mounting tubes come off.

Anyone want to buy a pair of Touratech boxes ready drilled for BMW F650, Yamaha XT, Triumph Bonneville and use as a colander :oops2:

Andy

Right, chaps, thanks for that - it's what I needed to know. The loop frames are similar, but not identical.

I'll hold back on any purchase until I am clearer on what I need.

(Mark - the Bonnie was sold a year ago, that was just an example.)

Advice appreciated.

Ardcases also fit the Touratech frame loops, many others will also fit, its just a matter of moving the fittings to suit.

Thanks for the input.

I have Touratech boxes made to fit there frame from my F650 on my DL650 with Happy trail frame. Had to move and cut the pucks to fit then make an aluminum bracket and patch and seal the other holes. Used some thin Aluminum to patch and adhesive silicone to seal it all up. Not as clean as you may like but they work.

Racks for Hepco & Becker
 

According to Bykebtz SW-Motech racks are compatible with H&B luggage.

Has anyone compare the two?