reenforcing the rear subframe on xtz660.

**futronix** · #1 10 Apr 2003

hello people, im prepping an xtz 660 for trip through the deserts of australia and was wondering if anyone has had experience with the rear sub frame failing when heavily loaded, i will be using alu boxes and 10 litres of liquid either side...petrol and water...
is the frame "up for it" or should i be smart...i think i know the answer but i would like to hear what youve got to say.
thanks very much ...phil.

**Tony Robson** · #2 10 Apr 2003

XTZ660 - Back Ends!!!

I've had a rack made to take my luggage (touratechs 35 and 42l). The rack is made from the Touratech hoops you can buy. I think this adds strengh to the rear frame as it.

As you can see, this forms a kind of triangle with the rear rack points and the rear pillion foot peg mount.

I guess that to really strenthen it you could add a brace directly between the 2 points...

A word of warning though....

The mounting points that the rear rack use have captive nuts on the back of them.... they are rubbish!!!!

The rear 2 and the front left side have enough room for you to use much longer bolts and to put Nylock nuts on the back of them.

the front right goes into the main subframe and does not have this option to get to the back of it... I have my rack made to this point now so no choices, on reflection I might have used the eaxhaust point just infront of it had I known this at the time..

hope this help.

Tony.

[This message has been edited by Tony Robson (edited 10 April 2003).]

**FredXTZ** · #3 10 Apr 2003

Hee Tony, what exhaust is that ?

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

**Tony Robson** · #4 10 Apr 2003

Quote:

Originally posted by FredXTZ:
Hee Tony, what exhaust is that ?

It's by a company called Gazelle - http://www.gazbike.demon.co.uk/

Very nice people, a little pricey but the product is exceptional espescially when compared to the Laser exhausts etc...

**FredXTZ** · #5 10 Apr 2003

I can't find any info on the can. Can you tell us how much it costs and what about the power characteristics ?

**Tony Robson** · #6 10 Apr 2003

Quote:

Originally posted by FredXTZ:
I can't find any info on the can. Can you tell us how much it costs and what about the power characteristics ?

Affriad that's where it get a bit tricky - The cost was about £360 GBP including delivery... The built it based on a jig they have.

As for specifics about the system I would contact them direct.. all I know is it fits, it very well made, it road legal (just!) and that the rear section is based on their diagram...

As for what's in the front box - no idea...

Power figures - never tested it other than it goes better than before - a bit anyway...

Sorry can't be of more use.

Tony.

**futronix** · #7 15 Apr 2003

tony robinson...thanks for putting up that image of your bike, its certainly given me some encouragement. i think i will follow your lead and concentrate on the design of my rack. has anyone done much two up touring on a fully loaded xtz, are they too small for a serious overland journey with my girlfriend on the back...i guess she will have to leave the hair dryer at home.....

**FredXTZ** · #8 15 Apr 2003

I took my 660 and girlfriend to Spain years ago. Riding is ok but the problem is that there's only space for 2 butts on the saddle and you cannot change position. Probably the good old sheepskin will help.

------------------
Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

**Tony Robson** · #9 28 Apr 2003

Only done a couple of long journeys two-up on my XTZ660.. Round Ireland @ 1500 miles over 2 weeks and mainland britain for a few bits here and there...

I can get full luggage on (2 Zega boxes) and a top box, and tank bag.... and still be comfy for long rides.... okay so the power is a bit limiting above 65mph - but I like to take my time doing these things....

Don't find comfort a problem at all..

Go and enjoy.

Tony.