This is quality construction.  Zoom in on the framework and you can see attention to detail, with very sturdy design using an X'd frame and good sized bolts.  And the Savage wasn't butchered to do this. Step by step instructions should go into the Tech Section.  This design is strong and practical, and I myself would like to build one and store it, for the day I might go on a long trip.

Wow.....  Thanks !!!!  I just remembered I have a Pelican case in the basement.    

Hmmmm.... mount my AUX brake light  with hook up to the connector used for my Lapa-top backpack and I'll be good to go.  Looks like AUto-Zone is going to get more of my money.

Arthur wrote on 07/08/08 at 16:30:51:


The technical section will have to wait until this winter when I rebuild this thing. Everything on this version was bent into shape with a hammer and vise, then cut to fit, with a tape measure, a carpenters square, and a good bit of the old Mk I eyeball. I'll disassemble it this winter, make some engineering drawings and have the parts made by someone with the proper tools to make the bends square and all matching, and I will incorparate a few things that I already wish that I'd done.

My big hope this winter is to make the case easy to take on and off using an adaptation of a system worked out by another biker on one of the adventure forums.

I got the new turn signals mounted this morning, and hope to get the side cases on this weekend. If so, I'll have another set of pictures next week.

So far, the most traumatic part has been drilling the first hole in that rather expensive case. Each of the next two only cost half as much. Hopefully, it will less than half as traumatic.  

I finally got the two side cases mounted. I used Pelican 1500 cases. I probably could have gotten away with using the slightly larger 1550 cases.

You've got to admit, with this set-up you could tour for many days, stopping only for gas.  There is enough room for a tent, sleeping bag, supplies and even a gas can.  How about step by step instructions placed in the Tech Section?  I'd build this 'just in case', and store it in the garage.

I just got back from my 1200 round trip. The rack and cases handled the rather large load very well, but had a tendency to shimmy left and right when I hit a bump.



When I rework the rack this winter, I will have to work in some cross bracing to handle this. I was never too concerned about the wobble, because most of the time I was leaning back against the case and my body served as a damper. However, I suspect that the fasteners will all loosen up over the long term.

here's something to add to the stack...



Kolpin 1.5 gallon gas cans