Cheap luggage option for the 4G

In the interests of adding to the sum of VFR knowledge, I figured I'd write a post about my most recent VFR mod.

I wanted a topcase on my VFR, to give it some storage capacity. Ever since I got my V-Strom with its full 3-piece luggage setup, the lack of storage capacity on the VFR has been a real downer. But, I didn't want to go with the Givi Wingrack, because it looks like complete and total crap. And, I don't ever see myself needing side cases on this bike. Plus, I didn't want to spend a lot of money.

My solution: I installed a Renntec luggage rack from here: Motorcycle Luggage Racks, Sports Racks, Carriers - REVsPerformance.com



Its about the beefiest looking rack I could find for the 4th Gen VFR. Installation was very easy. It's a single piece, and it bolts into the subframe in 4 places. Took about 5 minutes to install.

Then I bought a second base plate for the top case that I use on my V-Strom, and bolted it up to the luggage rack. I set the plate on top of the whole rack, so that is weight was being distributed to the strongest parts of the rack and not stressing the welds. I used pieces of rubber from an old mouse pad to sandwich between the metal parts to keep them from vibrating. Now, I can just detach the top case from my V-Strom, and snap it onto my VFR. Pretty sweet, IMO. Two bikes, one top case.

To go this route, it would cost $130 for the luggage rack, and $60 for the Givi-clone topcase (available on eBay.) Plus a few bucks for nuts, bolts, washers, etc.

I've been riding around with it for the past week over bumpy Baltimore streets without a problem. It seems that this luggage rack is plenty sturdy enough to support a top case. That said, I'm NOT going to put 30lb bags of dog food in it like I do on my V-Strom. This is a "light duty" solution... helmets, briefcases, stuff like that.














Later,

Rob

 

HEY SWEET ROB im in montgomery county MD... gotta 4th gen at our house..

 

nice luggage rack thanks

 

Luggage Rack

And with just a little work, they can be made to work on a 3rd gen also.

I also went so far and adapted the BMW racks from the 80's from the Krauser luggage so I can run the luggage as well. works, at least for me.

Larry

 

I guess you can call it what you want, but if your going to be doing any REAL touring the GIVI is the only way to go....But then again I wanted a quality versatile setup.

 

My wife's bike has plenty of luggage room,



me on my BMW GS HA HA

 

Yeah, this solution isn't intended for long distances. I have a V-Strom with a luggage setup similar to your VFR. That's my distance bike. My VFR fulfills a sport role than a touring role for me.