You are quite right, I have put a bunch a little scratches on the side boxes trying to squeeze through "obstacles". My problem is that when I leave the city (usually to go north to Collingwood) I hit cross winds that really like to use the top box as a sail. it is very disconcerting! I had thought originally that I would leave the rack on and then just take the top box off and on as needed, but the rack is a much too complex looking piece of equipment to leave on. Taking the rack off means there is very little spontaneity in my use of the top box!! John
I'll have to try it out & see for myself. The VFR will be used primarily as a commuter with the occasional weekend jaunt. If I have to take more than the usual to work I'll pop on the box. I can't see myself uninstalling & reinstalling brackets on any sort of basis, irregular or otherwise.