What luggage actually looks good on a 5th gen???

Am I the only one that thinks 5th gens generally look goofy with luggage on them?  It's too bad that at least in the states it doesn't seem to be a very well supported bike by luggage manufactures anymore.  I'd like something with semi quickly removable plumbing.  Givi makes a quick release set for 6th gen I see.  What do you guys have, got any pictures to share.

I've never seen anything look good on it. Givi or otherwise. The closest you're going to get is something reasonably curvy and colour-coded. What that would be, however? No idea.

I tend to use a large backpack adjusted to sit low on my back so that the weight is taken by the seat, and not my back. If i still need more storage: Tank bag, and then maybe something small-ish bungee-tied to the back using the grabs. Or you could forego the backpack, and get a waterproof carry, Something like the oxford Aqua T70/T50/T30.

1 minute ago, hellindustries

I've never seen anything look good on it. Givi or otherwise. The closest you're going to get is something reasonably curvy and colour-coded. What that would be, however? No idea.

Curvy and colour coded... That sounds like Corbin's Beetle Bags.

They're hard to find, aren't quick mount, won't fit a helmet, and some members here turn their noses up at them (not naming any names, ZEERO) lol

They're all I've ever had and work just fine for a week on the road.

Not my bike in the pic.

Not mine.  It's hard to tell if this could be accomplished with the exhaust in the stock position.  If not, besides the Unobtainium Wolf Exhaust, the only 5th gen owner I'm aware of that's created the dual under-seat exhaust from scratch is Veefer800Canuk.   The mounts look to be standard 6th gen with some added bracketry for 5th gen fitment.   I'd give the 6th gen bags on a 5th gen a passing grade for looks.  The more I look at it, at first glance I'd probably mistake it for a 6th gen, so all in all I think they blend well. 

4 hours ago, Epyon007

Am I the only one that thinks 5th gens generally look goofy with luggage on them?  It's too bad that at least in the states it doesn't seem to be a very well supported bike by luggage manufactures anymore.  I'd like something with semi quickly removable plumbing.  Givi makes a quick release set for 6th gen I see.  What do you guys have, got any pictures to share.

I agree the 5th gen aftermarket luggage situation is not the best for looks. 

There are a couple of threads on 5th gen luggage out there.  I may have started at least one. 

Anyways here is my solution after going with soft bags for years.  Hepco Becker bags with SW Motech quick disconnect racks.

I've seen the Quick Lock stuff but no one in the states sells it that I can find.  I sent Motech a message to see if they ship to the states.  That would likely be the best choice.  Now that bike looks pretty good.  Having everything packed tight like that and not too high in the back looks good.  I have Givi throw over soft luggage which actually doesn't look to bad.  A tail bag with that would be alright.

I'm trying to get myself excited about touring on this thing.  I took a trip from Minneapolis to Chicago on a Concours 1400 and I enjoyed myself.  It was nice to have a nice big super tourer but I have seen so many people do lots of miles on VFR's that part of me doesn't think I really need anything more.   

I think these look fabu on a fifth gen.  Alas, they dont make them any more

You might try Twistedthrottle for the SW Motech mounts.  They don't show the Quick Lock EVO mounts for the 5th gen, but they do have them for other Honda models and may be able to get them for the 5th gen for you.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/shop-by-bike/honda/vfr800-interceptor-98-01?brand=742&limit=all

they even look good when you go full tour

9 minutes ago, Cogswell

You might try Twistedthrottle for the SW Motech mounts.  They don't show the Quick Lock EVO mounts for the 5th gen, but they do have them for other Honda models and may be able to get them for the 5th gen for you.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/shop-by-bike/honda/vfr800-interceptor-98-01?brand=742&limit=all

I contacted them about getting the Quick Lock Evo stuff and they can no longer get it.....

Timmy what rear sets are those??

49 minutes ago, Epyon007

Timmy what rear sets are those??

Harris.

I talked to the Givi guys at a motorcycle show last year.  Told them I wanted the V35 bags with 5g VFR mounts.

They said no problem.  I think the V35 bags would look as good or better than the 6g bags on a 5g,

in case anyone wants to search for these bags, they are Givi E28

2 hours ago, Epyon007

I've seen the Quick Lock stuff but no one in the states sells it that I can find.  I sent Motech a message to see if they ship to the states.  That would likely be the best choice.  Now that bike looks pretty good.  Having everything packed tight like that and not too high in the back looks good.  I have Givi throw over soft luggage which actually doesn't look to bad.  A tail bag with that would be alright.

I'm trying to get myself excited about touring on this thing.  I took a trip from Minneapolis to Chicago on a Concours 1400 and I enjoyed myself.  It was nice to have a nice big super tourer but I have seen so many people do lots of miles on VFR's that part of me doesn't think I really need anything more.   

My VFRD touring thread about V4s to Utah has lost most of the pictures (many are in my gallery though) with VFRD software changes over the years so here is what my 99 looked like heading out. 

Too much crap here plus I have now added a cot to my camping burden.  Subtract the camping factor and you can get by with lots less stuff. That is a good way to start VFR touring ie no camping. I actually tried to find Timmy's bags when I finally pulled the trigger upgrading to hard bags but no such animal by then.  The V35 bags would be ideal but how to mount...never found a solution for that on a 5th gen.  One factor to consider is that junk expands to the room available so big bags means more well "junk".

The really clean and lighter look about 10 years ago. This is with camping gear too but no chair, cooler and much much smaller pad & tent then and few amenities and electronics.

Twenty five years ago the only hard luggage you could get in the USA (that wasn't on a BMW) was the Krauser K2 panniers sold by Suzuki for the Katana (IIRC).  But having experienced a 4-month tour using soft luggage and having seen so many sport bikes in Europe with hard luggage I imported a set for my new VFR750FL, but had to weld my own brackets because the bike was too new.  Needless to say, riding that bike around California I was well "before my time", and some of the comments I got were not vey kind!  The one that sticks in my mind was "the dumpster look"...

Hard luggage is never going to be "attractive", and if anything the Beetle Bag proves that attempting to do so isn't always appreciated by other riders (and that is probably to nicest thing I have ever said about them!).  Above all, hard luggage is designed to be practical, so as long as it doesn't cause people to reach for the barf bag all that matters, IMHO, is that it works. 

Ciao,

8 hours ago, BonusVFR

That really does look about as good as its going to get.  Maybe I'll just stay with soft luggage.  I don't know that I can even afford time or money to get to crazy with touring anyway.  But seeing this make excited to get on the road! :)

In that case, you might as well go the whole hog.....  :goofy:

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Yeah no thanks.  I don't want to ride that on any entertaining road and I'm sure I can't afford to buy one!  hahaha.  I mean your only one wheel off, may as well get a car then. 

Or as in the case above just wing it !

I would like to ST1300 it or FJR1300 it.

Problem solved, oh yeah nevermind the US doesn't get this......

1 hour ago, Epyon007

Problem solved, oh yeah nevermind the US doesn't get this......

Not sure we could use it either IF it dropped the same % in HP as the VFR1200X compared to the standard VFR1200F.  The reviews I read said 107 for the 1200X  :wacko:

Givi 55l trunk and 44l panniers 

41 minutes ago, CornerCarver

Not sure we could use it either IF it dropped the same % in HP as the VFR1200X compared to the standard VFR1200F.  The reviews I read said 107 for the 1200X  :wacko:

I'd be fine if they dropped the 1200X in favor of the 800X.  I want standard 17 inch wheels.  Do people really need 18 and 19 inch front wheels on these bikes?  Are they REALLY using them for any kind of serious off roading?  I know the best I would do is maybe some fire trails or something.  I have seen guys do serious off roading with stock Ducati Hyperstrada's.  So why do you NEED a big wheel on a bike that will likely never see dirt, besides road grime?

14 minutes ago, jerritt

Givi 55l trunk and 44l panniers 

Was the added spoiler on the windscreen with the money?

Yes the mra spoiler is worth it in slower traffic you can lower it to be level with the windscreen and it will still deflect are overhead as well as in hot weather you can aim the wind down towards your torso 

4 hours ago, gmtech94

Or as in the case above just wing it !

Sometimes my Wing is the only way to go.  More storage is just one factor it seems.  The perfect bike is .......it depends.

Speaking of soft luggage, does anyone use soft luggage with a high mount?

I had Givi kit on my 800FiY and took record pix of it in various combinations on the WingRack (a Mk1). The set of five is in my gallery: -

Here's a couple more giving three-quarter views of the E21s. Slightly larger and more rectilinear E22s are now available.

If you do not know, Kappa stuff is the same as Givi, to the extent they share the same rack installation instructions, which can be found on the 'net.

HTH

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2 minutes ago, Auspanglish

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Are these 6th gen bags?

Yes

It would appear so, though the emblem and reflector have been removed.  Too bad the bag and exhaust are covering up that 8 spoke! 

This would appear to answer the question of using 6th gen bags with the stock exhaust.  They're mounted higher on the red bike - the top of the case is nearly flush with the seat - but also further back.    My personal preference is for the the height on the red bike and fore to aft position of the silver one.    It's just a matter of figuring out how to attach it all to the bike.

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I agree Cog's but if had a passenger with the silver configuration they would be none to happy.

No doubt about that!   The good news is that it's doable either way without relocating the stock exhaust.   

All you need is a metallurgist/welder w decent creative solutions abilities... Take the original mounts and have him adapt them. If you lived in New York, Sebspeed would surely be the guy to contract. There's no reason the bags couldn't end up higher and the passenger pegs be kept in situ.

I wasn't a huge fan of riding with just the top case on my bike as it lowoked like something was missing.  Found a guy locally who was selling his Givi Wingrack, 2 bag setup (side cases only) for his bike since it was cheap, I jumped at it.  When I saw the mounts they were in great shape except for a crack on one of the plates the side case attached too.  Guy said he had never had an issue, but it was one of the reasons it was soooo cheap.  Found a Wingrack 2, new and in original packing for sale on Canada's Motorcycle that was being advertised for liquidation as the mounting brackets were no longer available and voila, I had a full Wingrack.  Overall I think the bike looks pretty decent with all three bags and there's LOTS of storage.  

Here's a photo with the Givi 257FZ mounting arms and the E55 Maxia top case only. 

And here's a photo with the Wingrack 2 and all three bags.  Top case is a Givi E55 Maxia and side bags are Givi E360.  

Thanks guys for this thread and replies. I have been running dualsports for decades where the job of fitting panniers (I use a Motofizz top bag) has been a cakewalk compared to figuring out what to do with my new to me Gen 5 VFR. I have looked at just about everything without solution. Have hard shell FRP ideas for a "U" case that would give the impression of a U bag. So far for me the soft looks the best, but the hard offers so much more as we know, it's just that eyewash factor.  

Do not want to jinx us but does anyone know how well the plastic cases hold up when the bike is put down at 35 mph.  

Steve 

After seeing everything I really feel that soft is the way to go.  There are some semi rigid solutions out there that could look good as they are roundish.  I'll be looking more into them.  Of course the brackets for them aren't made for 5th gens.  It would be great to have hard everything!  IMO this bike doesn't lend itself well to scaffolding and design has moved on so the current crop of luggage isn't exactly optimal. 

Right now it's fricken freezing and snow everywhere so this is just farkle torture for me hahaha.

So, knowing that it's all ugly going into it makes the decision easier I think.  I have a Rigid Tool Chest as a top case (I like that it's very tough and unique.  I think if it flew off the bike it'd be fine.).  I use soft luggage for the side bags when traveling and a 46L dry bag over the passenger seat.  It works and is very cheap.  

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Having a rack and top case to add when going long would be nice.  It doesn't look like it's that difficult to add one.  Having that solid water proof box would be a great addition for sure.

Givi E22s on one, mounted on PL257 tubular racks. 

Here is the way to go  :wink:

After two decades riding 2-wheels.. I've moved away from hard cases for luggage.. just for less (non-removable) weight on the bike. 

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Shad 42l bags with sw tech quick release brackets

Imho the bags look better in the flesh. I Have been very happy with the bags 

2016 at 9:26 PM, OntarioHawk, December 24

Givi E22s on one, mounted on PL257 tubular racks. 

I believe I've seen those cases before and they look pretty good actually!

Thats groovy.  Givi took the E21 (that all agree is pretty fugly) and made those E22s.

I love em.

maxredline, 12/25/2016 at 11:39 AM

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20 hours ago, timmythecop

Thats groovy.  Givi took the E21 (that all agree is pretty fugly) and made those E22s.

I love em.

Thanks. I think the look pretty good. 22 litres per side, which is just big enough to stuff a size 40L aerostich roadcrafter jacket with the aerostich back protector in it. 

They're top loaders too, which is a bit more functional for me and my daily commuting routine. I have to park in a parking garage and walk through downtown to get to my office. The ability to lock my gear on the bike so I don't have to carry it with me is the big selling feature for me. 

Ok not really the best looking but in my opinion Ok since the bag's been painted in pretty much #the same" blue as the bike,

Ps the photo is of the former owners bike with now my bags

Ok, this is my setup when i need my luggage, plus one tank bag....

I think it looks quite good!

13 minutes ago, nik68

What pipe is that???

It is Scorpion my friend!

Ohh I have never see it from the back before.  That is Purdy!!!!  It really looks like it fits really well too!!  I assume those aren't being made anymore either...

Well I have discovered that these quick release SW-Motech brackets are actually still available.  I guess Twisted Throttle had some kind of computer SNAFU and can still get them, though they are in very limited quantities.  I need to get my ass in gear ASAP and get some.  Get the adaptors for them and you can put most any brand of luggage on there.

Sw-Motech Quick release luggage brackets for 5th gen VFR800

Loaded down Givi Wingrack w my bike rack w enough gear for a 4-day mountain biking trip in the Shenandoah Nat'l Forest.  Skyline Drive, VA.

1 hour ago, Epyon007

Well I have discovered that these quick release SW-Motech brackets are actually still available.  I guess Twisted Throttle had some kind of computer SNAFU and can still get them, though they are in very limited quantities.  I need to get my ass in gear ASAP and get some.  Get the adaptors for them and you can put most any brand of luggage on there.

Sw-Motech Quick release luggage brackets for 5th gen VFR800

One thing to keep in mind about hard bags for the 5th gen is how fat your ass is!  You know the bags!  If you have been used to tucking that slim behind through tight spots you have to be more careful now... a lot more!.  Unlike proper touring bikes with wider handlebars and mirrors our 5th gen "whiskers" are relatively narrow.  This is what you use naturally to gauge how much room you have to fit in.  I have nearly ripped my VFR bags off on occasion because I failed to take the bigger beam into account. Never had that problem with close fitting soft bags so did not think about that.

On that front I have the original SW quick release mountings.  Here you can see a picture of the Hepco Becker EVO bag adapter on the seat next to the mounting plate/bracket.  I found that I did not need the plate adapter which saved my about two inches of beam.  So make sure you check which version of the SW mounts you are getting EVO or original?

Regardless, my recommendation for bag size is go small at first. This also forces packing discipline which is good! 

My Hepco Becker bags are 30 liters but I could go to 40 if I really wanted to carry even more crap than I already do. 

1 hour ago, jaydj

Loaded down Givi Wingrack w my bike rack w enough gear for a 4-day mountain biking trip in the Shenandoah Nat'l Forest.  Skyline Drive, VA.

You are not the only one.  I saw this rig a couple of years ago when I was coming back from a tour.  Probably too much stuff for me if I was camping as well.

I am thinking about getting the semi rigid Givi bags actually.  I had something just like that on my Ducati Hyperstrada and they were great.  The Givi bags are cheaper then the SW-Motech ones and Givi sponsors a MotoGP team (LCR Honda) so I would like to buy their product.  I also believe that Givi has a pretty good product based on what I've seen and my current soft waterproof throw overs.

Givi easylock semi rigid bags 25 ltr

12 minutes ago, BonusVFR

One thing to keep in mind about hard bags for the 5th gen is how fat your ass is!  You know the bags!  . 

I hear you, talk about wide ;)

That is a sexy "bottom"!

I was stunned about how much girth my hard bags added even with only relatively smaller bags.  I think I put the actual numbers in a post on VFRD somewhere.  I believe my Wing is actually narrower at the "Hips" than my VFR, but that is part of the design criteria for that GW.  Just another one more factor to consider when upgrading to hard bags.

more Beetles in another color

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And in action! 

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I think they look great, and don't stick out too far.   The small lid openings make it more difficult to pack.   You basically have to pack into them and remove items one at a time.  

While not removable in the traditional sense, there are only three bolts holding them on, and after a few times, it only takes about 5 minutes to remove or install.   

Someone asked how the hard bags hold up in a crash at speed. I can testify that they can take it and survive. I hit a deer on I74 near Urbana IL at ~65mph. Although they looked like they had been sanded with 10 grit sandpaper they did not open up or break up. And I believe they remained attached to the bike. (I'd have to consult my fabulous wing man, MotorMike; I was out for about 24hrs.)

When I go on a long ride (2,000 to 7500 mi) I do a lot of camping. Two Givi 41 L side bags and a Givi 36 L top bag has allowed my to be gone for 4+ weeks. That combo has room for tire repair kit, mini air compressor, electrical meter, spare levers and a spare left riders peg plus the usual clothing and camping gear. And I can keep it all locked up for the night or for a walk or meal with little to worry about.

And they make great frame sliders. :ph34r:

Yeah, the cases were scuffed and could be sold on no problemo.............

the frame spars did not though.....

Earlier, the left case got a bit of "patina" as well...

a truck reversing is not funny......

:goofy:

Those pics make me sad Dutchy. Hope it can be restored to like-new condition.

My god Dutchy.  You got touched down both sides on the same trip?

Oh no Dutchy! When did this happen? Is she OK?

The RedSlut is dead....Long live the RedSlut!

Check out the Ace of Spades thread for the details on her final tour.

7 hours ago, Epyon007

My god Dutchy.  You got touched down both sides on the same trip?

The latter picture was ~2 months prior to my Ace of Spades tour.

That van stopped on a one lane road (with passing places), stopped and reversed w/o checking his mirrors. He stopped 1 feet too late. Just enough to bump me....

Really like those mirrors.  I remember a thread about those a long time ago.  I really want a set.  Anyone have that information handy?

seth89, 12/29/2016 at 11:39 AM

I hear you, talk about wide ;)

My riding buddy, Lon, who is married to a real farmer's daughter so he ought to know, says that, from the rear, my fifth gen with Givi 41L hardbags mounted looks like the view, from the rear, of a pregnant cow. Luckily, when I'm riding I don't have to look at it. :ph34r:

15 hours ago, Jon28

Really like those mirrors.  I remember a thread about those a long time ago.  I really want a set.  Anyone have that information handy?

The RC36 and 1998-99 5th gen came with "condom mirros". It is the 2000-01 (aka Y2K) mirrors you want. EMGO make cheaper replicas.

Dutchy, ‎4‎/‎29‎/‎2017 at 1:06 PM

The RC36 and 1998-99 5th gen came with "condom mirros". It is the 2000-01 (aka Y2K) mirrors you want. EMGO make cheaper replicas.

I have the 00 mirrors which are great.  I should have been more specific.  I remember a thread about GSXR mirrors w turn signals being made to fit the 5th gens.  Hard to believe my bike is so old now LOL

I don't recall if there was a specific build thread but I can give you a quick overview. First off, buy the Suzuki mirrors, aftermarket SUCK! '00,'01 mirrors are needed. Remove (or break) glass and take apart, you only need the base and stalk. On the Gixxer mirror, take the lens off and take the housing off the stalk. Make the best use of all the hardware to mount the Gixxer mirror on the VFR stalk. If you de-dumbo, you can make the turn signal bulb housing fit into the Gixxer mirror. It won't go naturally, you have to make it work. Run the wires outside the VFR stalk and into the upper fairing, then cover with heat shrink tubing and run it to the regular connector. 

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Takes a bit of creativity....

My daily set up. Givi wingrack + e21 cases.

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