Topbox question

[Luke]

Hey there :)

Up until now I've been riding a CBF125 and it came with a topbox when I bought it, which has proved itself very useful as I carry an almax chain (quite chunky) and a lot of other stuff. It's quite a small box, only fits one helmet and it can be a tight fit for my other stuff sometimes (and I'm not sure what literage it actually is).

I should be changing soon to an ER5 and I'm wanting to order the rack/plate/topbox or whatever is needed but I'm slightly confused by all the different things I need, and just wanted to make sure I actually order the things I need and ones that do match :) - which is why I thought I'd ask you guys for help.

I've been thinking of getting a larger topbox as well (45/47l maybe?), but I've never actually ridden with a bigger one. Do they affect balance much or cause any other problems, whether when filtering or travelling on the motorway or so? Any wisdom is welcome :)

Now the thing I've been confused about...

http://www.motorbikesandparts.co.uk/giv ... 16654.html
This rack is meant to fit the bike... and as you can see there's an option to also order a plate.

But then, you've got this http://www.motorbikesandparts.co.uk/giv ... 10476.html which says it's got an universal plate... so I'm just slightly confused on whether I'd still need to order that monolock plate when buying the rack or whether it comes supplied with the topbox itself?

Could someone explain how it works or what it actually is I need to get it sorted?

P.S. Is there realistically much difference between 45 and a 47l top box? Unnoticeable or just enough to make the difference when trying to fit two helmets in for an example?

Much appreciated!

[missile]

I would go for 47L. You will hardly notice it is there when riding the bike.

What make do you intend to buy?

All boxes come with a fitting plate which will enable fitting to a universal luggage rack. Some more expensive models e.g. Givi have their own rack system which you can (but do not have to) buy separately. See here http://www.giviusa.com/ and click on video links.

I had a 48 litre box on my old Tuono

[missile]

[Luke]

I had a look around and it seems to me as there's really only Givi that makes the arms for a topbox for this particular bike.

The plate thing still confuses me, so when ordering the rack (from that site), would I pick the monolock plate or no plate at all? And then would I need a topbox that's without a monolock plate or one that has got an universal monolock plate?

^ that's the bitty I'm mostly confused about... as there's the option to pick a monolock plate on both, the rack system as well as the topbox itself... So I just don't understand O_O

We all have our blonde moments

Thanks again!

[missile]

Hi,
Arguably Givi make the best quality hard luggage, but they are expensive.
Your cheapest option would be to fit a sports rack, like this>
http://www.renntec.co.uk/kawasaki_er5_c ... ck_carrier

Then you may fit a box or soft luggage from any manufacturer you choose.

This site shows a SHAD box fitted to an ER5/6.
http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle- ... d-luggage/

I would suggest you pop into Shirlaws and speak to John. He is very helpful/knowledgeable, but please do not tell him I said that ! You may save a pound buying online, but I would suggest it is better to build a relationship with a local dealer. They will be there for you, if and when you need assistance. If you are thinking of buying an ER5/6 you should speak with Donald. Ask him nicely and he may even include the top box as part of the deal.