I found a 2nd hand Hepco & Becker rack online for cheap, and added a new set of Alu Standard boxes of the same brand. I use the slightly narrower 38 liter on the exhaust side, 45 liter on the other side, and am now perfectly symmetrical  . Yes, the boxes definitely are heavy, but it's good for something. I haven't crashed hard, but I have laid the bike on its side a few times (Patagonian crosswinds); the setup doesn't give an inch and actually ends up protecting the bike. I have compensated the weight by installing a heavy duty shock/spring combo. Quick lock system is very convenient, but I have no illusions about safety when the wrong person with a flathead screwdriver and bad intentions walks by. Waterproof has held up through torrential rains and then some.
So far the bike and I have done 36,000 km 80/20 through the Americas. As a bonus, the boxes serve as a good surface to put those cool trophy stickers on.
Good luck choosing your kit,
Vincent
__________________
www.vincentkemp.nl 2009-2010 Prudhoe Bay to Ushuaia on a red '00 Honda Transalp
|