Do I need a hard topcase?

[JonnyCinco]

We will be doing the CO and (hopefully)UTBDR this summer. I rock a Gigi E55 but fear it will break off with certain bounces due tot the polymer attachments. Any other thoughts on top cases or just rock a soft bag...

 

[pteppic]

Depends on what you already have bashing about in your gear closet. I would strap on my MotoFizz medium bag and go for it. If you have a waterproof bag, that would do. Either way is cheaper than a rigid top box, and IMHO more versatile.

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[oilfield_trash]

I've got this deal as a holdover before I bought luggage.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/twisted-throttle-dryspectm-d66-waterproof-motorcycle-dry-bag-modular-packing-system

I use the small bag to pack my compressor, tools, tire plug kit, pinlock insert, first aid kit, etc. I use the larger bag for storing 2-3 days worth of clothes. I've found it to be a surprisingly versatile setup. I can use both together or either separately. They will mount inline or transversely. The quality is also excellent. These will last for years, and the price was right. I'd give it a serious look as an alternative to a top case.

 

[snakebitten]

Depends on what you already have bashing about in your gear closet. I would strap on my MotoFizz medium bag and go for it. If you have a waterproof bag, that would do. Either way is cheaper than a rigid top box, and IMHO more versatile.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk 2

Motofizz bags are the bomb! Can't remember who turned me on to them, but I am forever grateful.

 

[kenbike]

Use a soft bag, I have a Wolfman medium and can hold a weeks wroth of gear and clothing no issues. The best trips are the ones you pack very light!

 

[coastie]

Is that motofizz waterproof?

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[Ironhand]

I run either Wolfman or Ortlieb dry bags on longer trips. I like being able to pack my clothes, toiletries, etc. in a duffel that I can easily throw over my shoulder vs being restricted to what can be packed into my cases.

 

[offcamber]

Wolfman Expedition Duffle bag....waterproof and durable..

 

[JonnyCinco]

I've got this deal as a holdover before I bought luggage.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/twisted-throttle-dryspectm-d66-waterproof-motorcycle-dry-bag-modular-packing-system

I use the small bag to pack my compressor, tools, tire plug kit, pinlock insert, first aid kit, etc. I use the larger bag for storing 2-3 days worth of clothes. I've found it to be a surprisingly versatile setup. I can use both together or either separately. They will mount inline or transversely. The quality is also excellent. These will last for years, and the price was right. I'd give it a serious look as an alternative to a top case.

I have the D66. I initially liked them...but then after actually using them...I have some dislikes.

1: plastic attachments break on the lower bags when strapping down tight.

2: the upper dual entry needs a larger circumference IMO. I tried stashing my tent and sleeping bag in there and the dry bags I keep them in did not agree with the lining of the TT bag.

 

[snakebitten]

Motofizz not waterproof. And the rain cover is a pain. (for me)

But I pack all the clothes in a rafters waterproof bag and insert it into the motofizz.
Basically, I treat the motofizz like a hard bag. Even leave it on the bike at night. I simply open one end or the other and pull the waterproof "liner" bag out and take it in the tent or hotel. If I have valuables stored in the external storage compartments of the motofizz, they all come off with a click of the attachment buckle. The motofizz is simply a soft tail box with motorcyclists features. Hooks, loops, tie-downs, attachment points......etc.

It's a do-it-all carcass. Even has a dirty clothes hamper.

 

[merchant]

I bought an Ortleib 89L bag from an inmate and like it. It's big enough to stuff dead bodies in there, but they also come in 31L and 49L sizes.

Not a lot of plactic attachments to break. Only the end buckles and the buckles that go over the opening when rolled up.

To tie down, just loop some bungies over the bag and off you go. ::008::

http://www.ortliebusa.com/prod-347.htm

 

[Kevy 511]

I really like the lightweight and versatility of the soft bags. The only reason I have hard luggage is that when out traveling I like the to be able to secure my stuff on the bike while at rest stops and dining. I ride into NYC a lot and the hard luggage is nice because I can strip down to just jeans and a T–shirt while walking around a checking the sights on a nice summer’s day. I like and have the Twistedthrottle D38 and have the option to use this setup as well.

K

 

[EricV]

Since it sounds like you have the E55 already, you could either opt to strengthen the mounting with something inside, if possible, or just go get some cheap dry bags and Rok Straps and you're good. After all, even an aluminum top box is going to be mounted to what? The plastic oem rear rack?

 

[keeponriding]

I personally like the Caribou hard top box; Stays on the bike year round and is handy for when the side bags are off.

When packing for long trips, it's where I stow phone, gloves, camera and down sleeping bag.