Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums Accessories Bag O' Questions

I am considering a set of throw-overs, specifically for the GA rally and trips like such. Because I'm not a bag person, and that they will unlikely remain on the bike for any length of time, the initial criteria is only "inexpensive" and reasonably portable (as in "I ain't gettin' easy brackets", and "Cheap bags will work just fine". I have a set of brackets. That's the background. The questions are;

1. What size does NOT look too big? (as in, "Do these bags make my bikes a$$ look big?")
2. Does anyone know the required bolt length when installing w/ the backrest and rack?
3. Am I correct that the brackets mount on the center and rear-most strut bolts?
4. Is there a torque setting?

Thanks in advance for any help.

3. Am I correct that the brackets mount on the center and rear-most strut bolts? Maybe, depends on the bracket. You can just hold it up to the fender and it'll be pretty obvious.
4. Is there a torque setting? 26Nm

I used a pair of generic mounts/guards. All I did was take the stock bolts, figure the extra depth where it goes goes through the mounts plus a couple or three extra threads and it worked out fine.

As for the bags, I got the Willy and Max slants. If your going to throw them over the seat im assumeing you will have luggage strapped on top of them. you should be fine. the willy and maxes were around 80 / 125 something like that and came w/ the zip off center and handles. you may want to to buy a supply of small zip ties, (not the super thin ones) to latch them to you guards from the provided loops.or you will look like a bird flying down the road.

hope this helps

Freon, ol' buddy...

If you wish, you can borrow my prototype sissybar bag mounting system. You can also borrow any of my Nelson Riggs bags as well.

I also have a set of Easy Brackets and the mounting hardware for a Speedy if you want to borrow those.
Actually, you can have the Speedy hardware.. I got the proper set for my America from Brent...

Let me know, buddy.

And if you decline - the offer is open to Neon as well.

Edit:
That hardware is not for a Speedy, per se.. it is for use without the sissybar sidebrackets on the fender, the pieces that overlap the rear fender supports.
I need a ride to clear out the cobwebs... c'mon spring!

I'm still counting on you changing your mind so hang on to that stuff. Anyway, Whatever I stick on will be in addition to the rack and backrest. That was the reason for the bolt length question. I have the Triumph bag brackets and I THINK (you know how dangerous that is)the bolts that came with that 'might be' long enough. As for the Riggs bag - No sure but may take you up un that. It seems much less high than mine. Keep buying those PB tickets. Terry and I will be struggling without our trusted guide.

1. What size does NOT look too big? (as in, "Do these bags make my bikes a$$ look big?")

---------All bags give you the groundhog look.

2. Does anyone know the required bolt length when installing w/ the backrest and rack?
---------Long enough to have no more than one or two threads showing on the inside of the fender. Generally add the width of the support bracket attachment point to the length of the existing bolts. Grade 8.

3. Am I correct that the brackets mount on the center and rear-most strut bolts?
---------Yes. Due to the shocks being where they are.

4. Is there a torque setting?
---------See oldroadies post above. NOTE: The Jesus bolts have higher torque values. (Rear mudguard bracket to frame screws) 64Nm.

Thanks much!

I had home made bag brackets on over my sissybar luggage rack with 5/8 " spacer in the front hole and a 7/8" spacer for the rear holes and used bolts 2 1/4 " long for both sets of holes without too much protrusion towards the tire. Hope this helps and have fun.

mike

Thanks Mike, but it seems I'm set. I checked my bolts with the Triumph brackets and backrest/rack and all seems good to go. Now shopping for some bags. If I find what I want, I'll go that route. If not, I'll stick with the bags on the back like before. If I can't pack enough clean underwear and socks I'll just rob some clothes lines on my way down the Blue Ridge (HA!)