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DIY Luggage Rack idea

7 posts Started 28 Feb 2010 Last recovered post 3 Mar 2010 Wayback Machine snapshot 12 Apr 2010

#1
Ok, I have about $150 burning a hole in my pocket and I think the next thing I want / need is a luggage rack. I really like the SW Motech but it's so freakin expensive for a hunk of metal. I really want a sissy bar also for my wife. I'd prefer to make this myself because the idea I have is perfect for what I want. I just wanted to get your ideas on if this is worth it. I'll try to explain as clearly as possible and I'll try to attach a poorly done (very poorly done) picture I did on paint of the idea.

So I figured I'd get 1/2 in square metal, easy to cut and weld. Bend it in a V, so it'd end up as a backwards V on the bike to attach onto elongated bolts for the passenger handles. I'd also make another upside down V shaped sissy bar backing to weld onto this original V for the sissy bar mount.

Then, I'd weld cross bars behind the sissy bar mount so the luggage rack is wider, wide enough to put a small tent and sleeping bag on. My idea was to just weld the same 1/2" square bars in 1" or so intervals, but also have them kind of taper off in a V shape again. I like the lines of the VFR how it seems to come to a point in the back and I want to keep this theme to make the rack a little more eye appealing.

I'd then make a triangle shaped, with a hole in it (corbin style) sissy bar pad.

Here is my cheap picture, I may not be able to get it on here so if anyone else can help me I would greatly appreciate it.

I'd like to know if this is worth it or if there is a nice luggage rack for a cheap enough price already available.

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#2
Sounds like it would work as long as you make the V fit around the perimeter of the seat. If you have the tools and materials then I'd say go for it. ...and make sure to post up your results!
#3
User Kanadian Ken makes a good luggage rack, but no one--as far as I know-- makes one with a backrest/sissy bar. There was talk of one user making a batch (Sebspeed maybe??) but I don't think there was enough interest.

I also must say, I love the drawing of your VFR...
#4
I made my own, but it goes over the pillion seat. It isn't pretty, but it works well:

http://wiremybike.com/Slideshows/Tailbag/images/tailbag_rack_for_vfr_002.jpg

http://wiremybike.com/Slideshows/Tailbag/images/tailbag_rack_for_vfr_003.jpg

http://wiremybike.com/Slideshows/Tailbag/images/tailbag_rack_for_vfr_013.jpg

http://wiremybike.com/Slideshows/Tennessee-Trip/images/sl740011.jpg

Loaded with full soft bags...didn't use this much luggage ever:
http://wiremybike.com/Slideshows/mods/images/do_these_bags_make_my_butt_look_big.jpg


Here I installed a hard trunk on there...this is me loaded for an 8 day trip
http://i637.photobucket.com/albums/uu93/tightwad/Rightsideloaded.jpg
#6
Love the removable pin for easy installation and removal. Nice.
#7
Nicely done! http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/public/style_emoticons/default/fing02.gif
End of thread · 7 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 12 Apr 2010