Hi @WrongLane - I think you might be confusing "most durable" with "indestructible". That said, while BUMOT mounts and top cases are built more robust than others, weight, speed, and riding terrain will all have an impact on longevity. The leverage and force applied to a top case are far different than side cases, and 20# up high, particularly off-road, will put a ton of stress on the mount, the case, and the subframe. It will also have a very negative effect on handling, which is why I leave my top case at home when heading off road.WrongLane said:Hi Jason, appreciate the response. However, if you or Bumot think that 20lb would overload the mount which is marketed as "BUMOT luggage is handcrafted in Bulgaria and is designed for the rider who demands the most durable and functional luggage for their adventure touring." then you should probably either not describe it as "the most durable" or specify a weight limit. Looking forward to resolving this.
Given the heavy duty construction of the BUMOT rack (the lower bracket itself is 3mm solid steel), I'm not surprised it didn't bend. What you're seeing isn't a design issue, but the end result of weight and leverage. I would NOT recommend reinforcing that bracket, as you will be moving the point of failure elsewhere....most likely to the subframe itself. Something's gotta give, and if nothing changes in carrying weight, riding style/terrain, etc., I'd rather it be the top case bracket again versus busting up the subframe.I never implied he wasn't being reasonable.
But 20lb is an insane amount of weight? Seriously? Guess we have vastly different definitions of that word.
Just to be clear the bike spends most of its life on pavement with the box empty. I live in NYC after all. And otherwise gravel fire roads and such. Also, 20lb is by far the most it ever had in it.
Now, to discuss the actual failure, there are no bends in the rack. Which is what I would expect to see from an excessive amount of weight. The cracks are caused by metal fatigue caused by vibration. Which to me indicates a design issue and so I will have the new rack reinforced locally.
Oh and that 11lb weight limit refers to the stock plastic rack and has nothing to do with the subframe.
All that said....while BUMOT agrees that this is a use-related issue, it's the holiday season and they're feeling generous. They've approved a replacement of the lower U-shaped bracket at no cost to you as a one-time goodwill gesture. With a revised packing strategy, the replacement should serve you well for many more miles. I'll reach out for shipping info shortly.
Best Regards,
Jason