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Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
#388536 05/12/2010 5:18 PM
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OK, I know this isn't for everyone, but a few months ago I set up two Pelican cases as hard bags on my Speedmaster. Occasionally I need to carry a notebook computer and accessories with me, which is what prompted me to do this.



The above photo shows a full-sized desktop computer securely mounted to the rack and the Pelican cases. I transported it nearly 200 miles exactly as you see it.




I used Easy Brackets to mount the cases, and made sure they were keyed the same as the Easy Brackets I use on my leather saddlebags. The Pelican case, with a 15" notebook computer and padding inside is just under the 15 pound load limit of the Easy Brackets.

I know they don't look that great, but they are very functional on the rare occasion that I need them. I positioned the Pelican cases so their tops would be even with the top of my solo luggage rack, which gives a nice wide area for securing larger cargo.

If anyone wants more details, let me know.

Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
cci #388537 05/12/2010 6:28 PM
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Looks great in my book. And purposeful in a Euro-sort of way. I have to strap my big soft briefcase w/laptop to the top of my fender rack a few times per week. It works, but I'd sure love the security of the Pelicans. To be honest, I'm surprised someone at work doesn't question if this a good way to transport a company laptop....

We had a guy in our DC Rat group that put ona set of fatter Pelicans on his Speedtriple for computer carrying. That looked cool too.

What does a set of those cases run?


Al
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
ssjones #388538 05/12/2010 6:33 PM
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Al
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
ssjones #388539 05/12/2010 9:26 PM
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This is the case I used: http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail.php?Case=1495

I've seen them anywhere between $130 and $175.

As I mentioned, I only put these on when they're needed. I think they look goofy, but when I need them I usually don't care.

Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
cci #388540 05/13/2010 2:57 AM
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Stickman Yogi
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Those cases are TOUGH by the sound of it!! Those cases mounted up as hard bags are so practical it only makes sense. And they look... well, in a 'BMW' sort of way... functionally proper.


Live to love, love to live.
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
Keith #388541 05/14/2010 12:15 AM
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Been thinking about something like that for commuting, when I don't want to run my gigantic hardbags. Just one side, though. Aerostich had a polycarbonate briefcase I was eyeballing but it appears they don't carry it anymore.


BA.com Caretaker | Friarsride | jb.com
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
FriarJohn #388542 05/14/2010 11:17 AM
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I've been thinking about doing something like this too. On my old Beemer for a while I was using an old ammo can as a top box.


-Joe Merlino Boston, MA USA 1982 BMW R100 (decomissioned), 2003 America Triumph: Cool enough for The Fonz, cool enough for me.
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
cci #388543 05/14/2010 12:00 PM
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Since there's a little bit of interest, I'll give you a few more details.



In order to clear the shocks, I had to put a spacer between each Easy Bracket and case.



I ordered a 12" square sheet of 1/2" black Polyethylene from Mc-Master-Carr. I then cut a piece for each case, and fastened it using stainless button-head bolts, stainless fender washers, and thin stainless Nylok nuts. All of this was sealed using black silicone. I could have replaced the nuts and washers by cutting, drilling, and tapping a small metal plate to place inside each case - but I decided to try the easy way first. This method has worked just fine.



The computer fits nice and snug, and the cases have not leaked in the rain. Just to be safe, I usually place the computer in a plastic trash bag before locking it inside the case.

Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
cci #388544 05/17/2010 11:24 AM
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Awesome.


-Joe Merlino Boston, MA USA 1982 BMW R100 (decomissioned), 2003 America Triumph: Cool enough for The Fonz, cool enough for me.
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
cci #388545 05/17/2010 12:01 PM
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Here's my America with 'em...


-- bikergeo
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
bikergeo #388546 05/17/2010 12:13 PM
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It's not speeding till you get pulled over.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqa1s4jhkQ8
Re: Pelican cases as hard bags on Speedmaster
bikergeo #388547 05/21/2010 10:15 AM
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Goofy looking or not, for commuting they are practicality +, especially if there's a laptop involved. fwiw, I'll give em a tick for those reasons and anyway, there's also the less wind resistance factor which is another plus.


Staintune Pipes, K&N Pods, 45 pilots, TBS needles and 145 mains.

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