I've hooked up with a steel fabricator/manufacturer that will make me up some sets of the Top box brackets that I have on my 02.
For now - there is a "prototype" set made that I have yet to look at, but I'm sure the quality is excellent. These brackets fit on top of the grab handles on a 6th Gen, and allow you to mount a GIVI type base plate to it - and then the topbox that mounts to the base.
The brackets allow the seat and cowl to be removed without having to take the brackets off - access to tool kit, battery - etc - is unaffected.
The benefit of this set up is that the weight of the topbox and contents is now repositioned above the pillion seat - versus hanging out back with the standard rack setup. The downside to this bracket set up is that you lose the pillion seat. For me it isn't an issue.
Here's a couple shots of the raw brackets from my mod of last year. These brackets were not yet cleaned up and painted. The ones I'm having made will be painted gloss black, or will be powder coated - not sure of the cost on powder coating.
I'm trying to gauge interest so I can plan on how many sets to build. The brackets will not have drill holes for the base plates - as I do not want to "commit" that every user will have a GIVI system. This shouldn't be a problem, as it is simply a matter of attaching the brackets, laying the base plate on the brackets, marking the holes and then drilling them.
Price is $98.00 USD including shipping in Canada or the USA. Other countries I'll be happy to get you actual shipping prices.
IF you are interested in a set, please let me know. I have heard from two members in the last two days that want a set, so I thought I'd post this up for any others.
dude, Mar 4 2007, 12:09 PMIve seen these in operation and they work great. Top box/bracket has been field tested in excess of 220 kmh fing02.gif
I forgot about the speed rating on the GIVI OEM Rack - I think its 120 km/hr or about 72 MPH. I might have done some higher speed track testing - yeah - thats the ticket - and the brackets and topbox held up perfectly at 220 plus km/h. When I had the GIVI Rack installed - it felt like the topbox was a huge sail. Now I hardly notice that its there.
dude, Mar 4 2007, 12:09 PMIve seen these in operation and they work great. Top box/bracket has been field tested in excess of 220 kmh fing02.gif
I forgot about the speed rating on the GIVI OEM Rack - I think its 120 km/hr or about 72 MPH. I might have done some higher speed track testing - yeah - thats the ticket - and the brackets and topbox held up perfectly at 220 plus km/h. When I had the GIVI Rack installed - it felt like the topbox was a huge sail. Now I hardly notice that its there.
Thanks for the reminder Dude! fing02.gif
Np Problem Ken. This really is a great mod, the weight distribution makes total sense and works well in this application. Does this qualify me for a discount? goofy.gif
dude, Mar 4 2007, 12:09 PMIve seen these in operation and they work great. Top box/bracket has been field tested in excess of 220 kmh fing02.gif
I forgot about the speed rating on the GIVI OEM Rack - I think its 120 km/hr or about 72 MPH. I might have done some higher speed track testing - yeah - thats the ticket - and the brackets and topbox held up perfectly at 220 plus km/h. When I had the GIVI Rack installed - it felt like the topbox was a huge sail. Now I hardly notice that its there.
Thanks for the reminder Dude! fing02.gif
Np Problem Ken. This really is a great mod, the weight distribution makes total sense and works well in this application. Does this qualify me for a discount? goofy.gif
Well - you get the seniors discount, don't be greedy!!!! smile.gif
That is a pretty reasonable price. The last quote I had from my machine shop in Calgary for the original brackets priced out about the same as what you are selling them for this time around.
For those that want don't need the seating for a S.O., this rig is sure the answer. I prefer the lower profile of the originals, but sure can see the advantage of not having to remove anything to get under the seat.
Will this mod only work on the Givi topcase? I have the OEM Honda topcase and like this setup, do you have any thoughts about making a bracket for the OEM box?
Will this mod only work on the Givi topcase? I have the OEM Honda topcase and like this setup, do you have any thoughts about making a bracket for the OEM box?
Thanks, RingO
I don't know why this wouldn't work for the OEM Topcase. IF you are able to take a photo or two of the base plate, and provide me some measurements - I can compare it to my GIVI - and let you know. fing02.gif
Stu, Mar 4 2007, 10:06 PMif you could make this quick-detatch, I'd buy one... I need my pillion often enought that I'd never be able to commit to wrenching it every time.
I love the look!
Stu - Had thought about the quick detach option last year - but these brackets only take about 5 minutes to remove and replace - so for now they will stay as they are. THey are highly theft resistant - not sure how theft resistant a quick detach system would be?
Ok - there are 12 sets being cut and bent. They will be powdercoated black. The mounting holes will have slots cut out for ease of adjustment on installation. The top part of the brackets will not be drilled out - to accommodate various base plates. These brackets are made of steel - and are easily drilled to mount your base plate.
The hardware that came with your base plates to mount to the rack system will work with these brackets. The original grab handle bolts will also work to secure the brackets to the grab handles.
I should have these ready to ship by about March 19 at latest. I will receive the first bracket to test fit this Saturday, and if all is well - then the rest will get cut, bent and powdercoated. Only colour I can offer is black at this time.
If you do not want them Powdercoated - I can leave them in raw steel form.
Thanks !
So far I think there are 3 sets "claimed". Chime in if you want me to earmark a set for you. Not accepting any funds until I can post a picture of at least the raw un-powdercoated brackets.
Just a suggestion, Ken. Perhaps you could get more sales if you had available, a basic plate, to bridge them. For those that don't have Givi, but a tail or tank bag, (or even a backpack). Just a suggestion.
Rivcyko, Mar 5 2007, 09:57 PMJust a suggestion, Ken. Perhaps you could get more sales if you had available, a basic plate, to bridge them. For those that don't have Givi, but a tail or tank bag, (or even a backpack). Just a suggestion.
Cool Idea Trav! I'll have to see if I can come up with something. Might be a simple piece of extra steel that sits on top - and bolts to the two brackets. Maybe some of that Mesh steel - to reduce weight - and give some mounting holes for bungee straps?
Will this mod only work on the Givi topcase? I have the OEM Honda topcase and like this setup, do you have any thoughts about making a bracket for the OEM box?
Thanks, RingO
Ken,
I also have an OEM box. I'll brave the cold weather and go out and take some pictures tonight.
Rivcyko, Mar 5 2007, 09:57 PMJust a suggestion, Ken. Perhaps you could get more sales if you had available, a basic plate, to bridge them. For those that don't have Givi, but a tail or tank bag, (or even a backpack). Just a suggestion.
Cool Idea Trav! I'll have to see if I can come up with something. Might be a simple piece of extra steel that sits on top - and bolts to the two brackets. Maybe some of that Mesh steel - to reduce weight - and give some mounting holes for bungee straps?
Thanks for the idea!! fing02.gif
If you come up with something like that, I think I'd be in. I have the Honda OEM hard bags, but no top case. I think these would give me a safer place to bungee on. Let me know if you come up with a version of it.
The OEM bracket mounts on to the OEM rack with 4 bolts. The center-to-center spacing is approximately 18 mm left to right and approximately 10.2 mm front to back. (I took a picture, but it won't let me upload an image to this message, so I put it in the gallery.)
Looks like someone beat me to the pictures. The bolt size used to assemble the carrier bracket to the carrier rack are 8mm flange bolts. If you need more info let us know.
It would also double as a platform bracket to mount things like an iron butters extra gas tank, a case of cold beer, and I bet it would even work as a twelve oclock bar for the stuntas amongst us..... fing02.gif
If there is some interest in this one - lemme know..... Perhaps another option might be to make this bracket without any base plate mounting holes done. THat way it would be modifiable for any base plate ? THoughts?
It would also double as a platform bracket to mount things like an iron butters extra gas tank, a case of cold beer, and I bet it would even work as a twelve oclock bar for the stuntas amongst us..... fing02.gif
If there is some interest in this one - lemme know..... Perhaps another option might be to make this bracket without any base plate mounting holes done. THat way it would be modifiable for any base plate ? THoughts?
Ken,
I am by no means a metal fabricator, but this looks like it would work. If you have this bracket to hold the top box on you would no longer need to use the top case rack, the OEM side case brakcets and this bracket would be the only items mounted. My only questions/comments looking at your picture are:
1. What is the height of your model bracket? Looks to add more height than the one you use with the 5th gen, I would like it as low to the pillion cover as feasible.
2. Not really a questions, but the OEM trunk empty weight is 5kg (11lbs) and the installation guide sets the maximum weight capacity of the bracket at 9kg (19.8 lbs). How much weight do you think your bracket could hold, I would think at least 9-10kg, similar to the OEM bracket.
3. I like the idea of the pre-drilled mounting holes, I do not trust myself cutting my own. I can get you a trace of the carrier bracket for sizing if you need.
Anyway my two cents, hope I did not go to overboard. fing02.gif
It would also double as a platform bracket to mount things like an iron butters extra gas tank, a case of cold beer, and I bet it would even work as a twelve oclock bar for the stuntas amongst us..... fing02.gif
If there is some interest in this one - lemme know..... Perhaps another option might be to make this bracket without any base plate mounting holes done. THat way it would be modifiable for any base plate ? THoughts?
Ken,
I am by no means a metal fabricator, but this looks like it would work. If you have this bracket to hold the top box on you would no longer need to use the top case rack, the OEM side case brakcets and this bracket would be the only items mounted. My only questions/comments looking at your picture are:
1. What is the height of your model bracket? Looks to add more height than the one you use with the 5th gen, I would like it as low to the pillion cover as feasible.
2. Not really a questions, but the OEM trunk empty weight is 5kg (11lbs) and the installation guide sets the maximum weight capacity of the bracket at 9kg (19.8 lbs). How much weight do you think your bracket could hold, I would think at least 9-10kg, similar to the OEM bracket.
3. I like the idea of the pre-drilled mounting holes, I do not trust myself cutting my own. I can get you a trace of the carrier bracket for sizing if you need.
Anyway my two cents, hope I did not go to overboard. fing02.gif
RingO
Ringo - great comments/questions....
First - I do not have a 5th Gen designed bracket. ONLY 6 th Gens will this work on.
Height is exactly the same as the individual brackets. Just over 5 inches at the front, and tapers down to about 3 1/2 inches at the back. It is tapered due to the angle it is installed on the bike. THis height allows the seat to be removed without removing the topbox base or brackets. A lowered version could be made - but most people want the ability to remove the seat if needed without removing the brackets.
As to the weight it'll handle - my guesstimate is a lot more than the rack - likely double or even more. I've had a lot of weight in my E52 topbox. I have to think that the one piece designed bracket might hold 40 - 50 lbs. Not sure what the topbox itself is rated at however.
Pre drilling the holes is something that will be done. Multi bolt patterns can be "built in".
The other change I'd consider making is to not have anything cut out of the center of the one piece design. Allows even more strength.
I like the idea of having pre-drilled holes, but the only patterns I can think of are for the Givi baseplate you show in your photos, plus mounting holes for the OEM topcase. And I'm not sure that eliminating the center cutout area will make much difference in strength though, since in it's present design I would imagine that it offers way more strength than a Givi plate or topcase is even rated. The only reason I can think of to not have the center cutout is for mounting other items like you mentioned (such as a fuel cell), plus not cutting it out makes it easier to manufacture.
Kanadian Ken, Mar 8 2007, 03:22 PM6TH Gen OEM Honda Topbox users - will something like this work?
If there is some interest in this one - lemme know..... Perhaps another option might be to make this bracket without any base plate mounting holes done. THat way it would be modifiable for any base plate ? THoughts?
fing02.gif
Actually, I don't own a top box yet; and given the choice I think I'd prefer Honda OEM box. So if your OEM bracket becomes a reality, I'd rather wait for that one. +1.gif for the pre-drilled holes.
It would also double as a platform bracket to mount things like an iron butters extra gas tank, a case of cold beer, and I bet it would even work as a twelve oclock bar for the stuntas amongst us..... fing02.gif
If there is some interest in this one - lemme know..... Perhaps another option might be to make this bracket without any base plate mounting holes done. THat way it would be modifiable for any base plate ? THoughts?
Ken,
I am by no means a metal fabricator, but this looks like it would work. If you have this bracket to hold the top box on you would no longer need to use the top case rack, the OEM side case brakcets and this bracket would be the only items mounted. My only questions/comments looking at your picture are:
1. What is the height of your model bracket? Looks to add more height than the one you use with the 5th gen, I would like it as low to the pillion cover as feasible.
2. Not really a questions, but the OEM trunk empty weight is 5kg (11lbs) and the installation guide sets the maximum weight capacity of the bracket at 9kg (19.8 lbs). How much weight do you think your bracket could hold, I would think at least 9-10kg, similar to the OEM bracket.
3. I like the idea of the pre-drilled mounting holes, I do not trust myself cutting my own. I can get you a trace of the carrier bracket for sizing if you need.
Anyway my two cents, hope I did not go to overboard. fing02.gif
RingO
Ringo - great comments/questions....
First - I do not have a 5th Gen designed bracket. ONLY 6 th Gens will this work on.
Height is exactly the same as the individual brackets. Just over 5 inches at the front, and tapers down to about 3 1/2 inches at the back. It is tapered due to the angle it is installed on the bike. THis height allows the seat to be removed without removing the topbox base or brackets. A lowered version could be made - but most people want the ability to remove the seat if needed without removing the brackets.
As to the weight it'll handle - my guesstimate is a lot more than the rack - likely double or even more. I've had a lot of weight in my E52 topbox. I have to think that the one piece designed bracket might hold 40 - 50 lbs. Not sure what the topbox itself is rated at however.
Pre drilling the holes is something that will be done. Multi bolt patterns can be "built in".
The other change I'd consider making is to not have anything cut out of the center of the one piece design. Allows even more strength.
Keep the suggestions coming....
Ken,
Questions answered, can you have one available by June.... rolleyes.gif Let me know if I can help you out at all. As for the hole in the top of the mounting bracket, to me it really does not matter either way, it would make the bracket a little lighter, but the overall strength is most important I think. More important would be the bolt patterns for the bracket. This is a great project on your part, two thumbs way up. fing02.gif
I also forgot to mention, the top box sitting over the seat looks better to me than it sticking out over the rear....
Met with my "designer" today. We are going to attempt to make a one piece bracket that has the hole patterns pre-drilled for both the GIVI base plate, and the OEM Plate.
That way one piece works for all 6th Gens. Additionally, it can be used as a "Rack" for other purposes as well.
Hope to have some updated CAD drawings to share early this coming week, as well as pricing (shouldn't change much - might even go down). This design will be a lot more ridgid, and multi functional.
Hope this suits all that are waiting. The end net effect is actually an improvement. fing02.gif
For those who currently have a request for the two piece rack, are you going to forget the two piece rack, and substitute the new one piece rack? I requested to be put on the list for the original two piece, but I'd prefer the new one piece.
For those who currently have a request for the two piece rack, are you going to forget the two piece rack, and substitute the new one piece rack? I requested to be put on the list for the original two piece, but I'd prefer the new one piece.
Thanks, robar
Robar - thanks - I wasn't clear in my last post. Sorry.
I am moving the production of the Top Box Brackets completely to the ONE PIECE design, but it will have multi hole patterns for both the GIVI base plate rack, and the OEM topcase mounting system.
I don't plan to have the steel fabricators make the two separate brackets that I had originally offered. I will personally be switching my two piece brackets over to the one piece design - it is the way to go!!!
It will have holes drilled to fit the GIVI base plate, AND the Honda OEM base plate.
I will be measuring a friends OEM plate and topbox positioning in the next couple days - then I can get the measurements properly incorporated into the design.
I believe it will be made from 10 Gauge steel and powder coated black.
Kanadian Ken, Mar 12 2007, 08:01 PMHere is a draft version of the one piece bracket.
It will have holes drilled to fit the GIVI base plate, AND the Honda OEM base plate.
I will be measuring a friends OEM plate and topbox positioning in the next couple days - then I can get the measurements properly incorporated into the design.
I believe it will be made from 10 Gauge steel and powder coated black.
Fixer can have his diamond plate redneck version. Perhaps you could put a loop on it so he can hang a set of those plastic bull's balls.
I'm in for the one piece. However, since this thing is growing a bit and getting heavier, would it be as easy to fab it out of aluminum plate? It would certainly be lighter and given the shape, almost as strong. ????
Kanadian Ken, Mar 12 2007, 08:01 PMHere is a draft version of the one piece bracket.
It will have holes drilled to fit the GIVI base plate, AND the Honda OEM base plate.
I will be measuring a friends OEM plate and topbox positioning in the next couple days - then I can get the measurements properly incorporated into the design.
I believe it will be made from 10 Gauge steel and powder coated black.
Fixer can have his diamond plate redneck version. Perhaps you could put a loop on it so he can hang a set of those plastic bull's balls.
I'm in for the one piece. However, since this thing is growing a bit and getting heavier, would it be as easy to fab it out of aluminun plate? It would certainly be lighter and given the shape, almost as strong. ????
Another thought is to cut a section out of the sides of the bracket (lotta flat steel there that is probably not adding much support). Cutting the sections out would adds to cost, but lowers weight, and provides a "hook point" for bungee cords, bungee net, etc. that might be of value if you're going to provide a generic top plate (I like that option).
Was hoping to get a message from teh steel bender - I'll check tomorrow am and post up what the update is.
THe intent I have is to get one prototype built - then determine the absolute bolt locations for the top plate, then have mass of steel removed to lower weight, and also to add strap locations.
Sorry for the delay, but the steel guy is fitting in my stuff between big production runs. I'll try to motivate a faster response.
Asphalt_Pilot, Mar 20 2007, 05:12 PMAnother thought is to cut a section out of the sides of the bracket (lotta flat steel there that is probably not adding much support). Cutting the sections out would adds to cost, but lowers weight, and provides a "hook point" for bungee cords, bungee net, etc. that might be of value if you're going to provide a generic top plate (I like that option).
Good point, BUT,...prolly not a good idea. (Especially if Ken goes with almimum). Picture the bends at the grab rails giving way, with a heavy load on top. Bad, bad, bad. Think you got it hooked-up really well, Ken, with what you got.
Asphalt_Pilot, Mar 20 2007, 05:12 PMAnother thought is to cut a section out of the sides of the bracket (lotta flat steel there that is probably not adding much support). Cutting the sections out would adds to cost, but lowers weight, and provides a "hook point" for bungee cords, bungee net, etc. that might be of value if you're going to provide a generic top plate (I like that option).
Good point, BUT,...prolly not a good idea. (Especially if Ken goes with almimum). Picture the bends at the grab rails giving way, with a heavy load on top. Bad, bad, bad. Think you got it hooked-up really well, Ken, with what you got.
Not going Aluminum. It'll be steel.
THe rack as it is without being "perfed" is calculated at around 2.5 lbs. Might be able to shave a half pound in extra holes. BUT - the holes won't be made unless it stays very strong. I have ridden with the topbox on, fully stuffed with gear, at well over posted speed limits - and I forgot most of the time that the topbox was there.
Steel is cool with me, Ken. As to weight reduction, at 2.5 lbs don't sweat it. I'll lay off DQ Blizzards for a couple of weeks and lose more than that. Looking forward to seeing the real deal (but don't PO your fab guy by pushing too hard on my account).
I have the prototype one piece bracket in my hot little hands and have set it up for both the OEM mount, and the GIVI. I'm just uploading some pics, and I don't mind saying - this is a slick piece. There will be some steel taken out in the middle on the top, and on the side to accommodate bungee straps. I haven't weighed it - but its not an overly heavy piece.
Some minor "tweaking" to do with regard to how it fits on the grab handles and spacing for the rear cowl, so don't worry about it rubbing anywhere - this thing will fit perfectly.
Ok - here's the great news - this one piece design fits both the Honda OEM and GIVI top plates. The OEM Honda plate requires the use of 4 spacers - about 9/16 tall - on each mounting bolt to properly space it off the top plate. The GIVI is a direct bolt on.
The not so great news - is that I do not have a definitive "ready" to ship date. The steel place that is fabbing these up is slotting these in between larger runs. (Same thing for the license brackets). My hope is that I can get these cut, bent, and powder coated or black zinc coated within the next 2 weeks. If I were to put the "squeeze" on them to do it faster the price will go up as they will dedicate a "Slot" to run these. I'm trying to keep our costs down.
I have about 7 or 8 people that want one of these, and if there are any others, please send me a note to:
kenvfr AT gmail.com as I'm compiling the list of people to contact once the parts are ready to go.
I would hate to make only a run of 10 - and then not have enough for others. I do not require any payment until the brackets are ready to ship - I'd only ask for your word of interest in getting one - so I can plan the run accordingly.
THe red topbox is my GIVI E52. THe Silver OEM unit is my buddy Mike's (Hammer) thanks for the loaner MIKE!!!.
![[image: IMG_0271.jpg]](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e114/kenirwin/IMG_0271.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_0466.jpg]](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e114/kenirwin/IMG_0466.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_0465.jpg]](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e114/kenirwin/IMG_0465.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_0464.jpg]](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e114/kenirwin/IMG_0464.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_0463.jpg]](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e114/kenirwin/IMG_0463.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: KEN-OEM.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/KEN-OEM.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: KEN-OEM-1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/KEN-OEM-1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4428_6_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4428_6_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4431_8_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4431_8_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4434_11_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4434_11_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4438_15_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4438_15_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4423_1_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4423_1_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4424_2_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4424_2_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4442_19_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4442_19_1.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: IMG_4443_20_1.jpg]](http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/vfrken02/IMG_4443_20_1.jpg){kind=link}