Top Case

StLScoot · Post by **StLScoot** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 4:35 am

I'm wondering about the benefit of having a top case vs. a rear rack/front rack combo. It's nice to have the enclosed space of the top case, but I wonder if the combo of racks would give you more options. And then there are the aesthetic considerations...

Anyone with an opinion?

ThisDude · Post by **ThisDude** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 6:34 am

I'd say get both, a locking topcase is useful, but if you buy a toaster you'd be hard pressed to carry it without having the front rack.

2wheelsgood · Post by **2wheelsgood** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:05 pm

> but if you buy a toaster you'd be hard pressed to carry it without having the front rack.

say I buy a toaster oven... how much does having cargo on the front affect steering?

I've always hated putting stuff on my bike's handlebars because of the way it affects handling.

weaseltamer · Post by **weaseltamer** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 2:25 pm

Personally i liked having a chrome rear rack and a chrome basket zip-tied and locked to it. (unfortunately i crashed before i got a picture of this set-up) I'd use my scooter to go to Mary Kay parties, my large facialing bag/briefcase fits on the front hook, with my feet under it for security, then i could still fit some inventory in the back basket with a handy little rubber/bungee net with hooks that i just hook to the rack and everything stays super well.

rob_fuel · Post by **rob_fuel** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 3:10 pm

I don't really like the way the front rack looks, and a top case sort of limits what you can put into it, so I got my hands on a black milk crate and strapped that to the rear rack. It's been working out great so far.

un_designer · Post by **un_designer** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 3:53 pm

my vote's for the milkcrate or a metal bicycle basket on the rear rack, too. it's much more practical, economical, and weighs nothing. if you tend to, or want the flexibility of being able to carry many things on the scooter, then i would strongly consider the milkcrate or a metal bicycle basket.

StLScoot · Post by **StLScoot** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 4:10 pm

This kind of confirms what I was thinking...

...any more opinions?

Keys · Post by **Keys** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 11:36 pm

After a couple months and two 400 mile weekends, I still think my S/X rear bag is just right...

--Keys

ThisDude · Post by **ThisDude** » Sat Jul 14, 2007 1:34 am

I've carried stuff on the front before, doesn't affect steering too much since it is fixed. Carrying stuff on the actual handlebars is tricky, with the wind and shifting weight and all. I wouldn't carry anything over 20 pounds on the front anyway, rack could break on a hard bump or pothole. If you wanna be a hauling maniac you could get the crash bars and mount milkcrates to those, one on each side, milk crate on the rear rack and milk crate on the front rack and tie a bag to the passenger seat area propped up against the rear rack, now that's hauling capability.

StLScoot · Post by **StLScoot** » Sat Jul 14, 2007 4:30 am

Decision made--ordering my Italia tomorrow, with rear rack only for now. Thanks for all the input!

Post by **ericalm** » Sat Jul 14, 2007 6:47 am

The reason for a top case is that you can lock it. For just carrying stuff, racks will do. But given that the Buddy had no glove box, if you plan on keeping your helmet in the pet carrier, everything else has to come with you. I like having both because I tend to travel "heavy." I've always got some extra thing—external hard drive, jacket, groceries, etc.—that goes well in a top case.

2wheelsgood · Post by **2wheelsgood** » Sat Jul 14, 2007 8:01 pm

> But given that the Buddy had no glove box,

does anyone make a lockable case for the front rack? I'm thinking something smallish to fit the things one might normally keep in the glovebox.

Or maybe that would just look stupid... (now imagining a little barrel like those they put on the collars of cartoon St. Bernards...)

Post by **ericalm** » Sun Jul 15, 2007 12:27 am

2wheelsgood wrote:> But given that the Buddy had no glove box,

does anyone make a lockable case for the front rack? I'm thinking something smallish to fit the things one might normally keep in the glovebox.

Or maybe that would just look stupid... (now imagining a little barrel like those they put on the collars of cartoon St. Bernards...)

To my knowledge, no one makes a bag specifically for that, but there are a number of cases you could probably adapt for this. But if you're going to do that, why not just get a top case?

2wheelsgood · Post by **2wheelsgood** » Sun Jul 15, 2007 1:05 am

> why not just get a top case?

I'm guessing that I'd probably mount a milk crate there. If I got saddlebags (for groceries) then I guess I could put a top case on.

I was reading a discussion on "things you keep in your scooter" (here or on stellaspeed, can't remember) and that got me to thinking where one might keep tools and small stuff, somewhat locked down, if the under-seat space is already dedicated to helmet storage, and one has no top case.

paige · Post by **paige** » Thu Jul 19, 2007 12:01 am

I have topcases on all my scooters. I go out for the day, so I must carry everything with me. The lockability of the topcase is paramount. It is not theftproof, but theft resistant. I live in an urban area where stuff strapped on the bike would disappear in a matter of moments. I am not interested in carrying my library books, groceries, mail, tire patch kit, tiny compressed air pump, gloves, armored jacket , sunglasses, water bottle and gym stuff with me everytime I stop the bike.

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Thu Jul 19, 2007 3:38 am

Get a top case that will be the size you need...not so small it can't contain what you need to put in there.

Some of them are so small that they don't hold much.

The GIVI's are different size dimensions...some are taller, some are wider, some are deeper.

I have a GIVI 370 on my Buddy 125. I use it just about every time I ride.
I like that it locks, it is has a cover (keep out rain, etc).

The Buddy Dealer I went to had too small top cases.

un_designer · Post by **un_designer** » Thu Jul 19, 2007 1:01 pm

Those of you with large topcases in the rear: How does the handling get affected when it's full and heavy? Do you notice any differences?

One of the things that's covered in the MSF course is the load triangle, and having a large topcase is definitely changing the weight distribution to outside of the load triangle.

corey · Post by **corey** » Mon Jul 23, 2007 9:25 pm

i have the Givi E30 and absolutely love it... the case pops off the included rack (that attaches to the buddy rack) in about two seconds with the push of a button if i want to ever take it off... i haven't yet though... it has a great locking system and fits everything i would need to put in it... highly recommended...

http://www.giviusa.com/caschi_borse_bau ... CO_ID=9498

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Mon Jul 23, 2007 11:42 pm

I have the GIVI 370 and I don't even notice it on there while riding.

I don't carry the kitchen sink in there and I do have a lightweight bag--probably nylon polyester so the bag weighs next to nothing. Then I have my pda, iPod, portable 3" tv, a couple of books, my Bible, small 4"x6" notebook, water bottle, insulated water glass. I put the heavy portable dvd player under the seat with 10 dvds and headset. Oh, yeah, sometimes my umbrella inside the GIVI case so if it rains I can pull over and watch TV. I haven't weighed the bag but I try not to overload it.

I do put my jacket, gloves, glasses inside the GIVI when I get to my destination and I was putting my helmet in there too, but started putting that under the seat upon arrival.

I'll weight it and see what the bag actually weighs once packed.

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Tue Jul 24, 2007 8:43 pm

The bag with contents weighs 13lbs.

You think that is too heavy for the GIVI?

That doesn't include my umbrella.

ScooterDave · Post by **ScooterDave** » Tue Jul 24, 2007 8:54 pm

ryder1 wrote:I put the heavy portable dvd player under the seat with 10 dvds and headset. Oh, yeah, sometimes my umbrella inside the GIVI case so if it rains I can pull over and watch TV.

Sorry, but I have to ask.. You really carry a DVD player & TV with you so that when it rains, you can pull over and watch TV under an umbrella?

Dave

DarbyWalters · Post by **DarbyWalters** » Tue Jul 24, 2007 9:13 pm

Messenger Bag...you can keep it in the Top Case and put it around your shoulder when you have extra stuff to carry...A Buddy Bag...someone needs to make and market a "Buddy Bag" in the Buddy 125 colors.

2wheelsgood · Post by **2wheelsgood** » Tue Jul 24, 2007 10:10 pm

> A Buddy Bag...someone needs to make and market a "Buddy Bag" in the Buddy 125 colors.

Timbuk2 lets you customize the color panels on its messenger bags, see

http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/retail/catalog.htm

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Tue Jul 24, 2007 11:10 pm

If you are seriously asking; YES, I have a mobile office when I leave. I carry a 3.5 portable TV handheld...I haven't used it for pulling over if it rains. I do carry it in my bag to use if I need to break at the coffee shop where I study. While riding if it did start to rain, I would pull over and open my umbrella and watch TV to pass the time until the rain stopped--unless it was lightening and thundering where the attenna would cause me harm.

Yes, I do carry the portable DVD player (in the carrying case) under my seat or pet carrier--whatever it is called. We have teaching videos that I use for our women's study and I watch the videos at the coffee shop where I study. Or sometimes I watch a movie for pleasure. Of course with my headphones on as not disturb anyone.

Now with all this info--I'm all set to be mugged like the elderly lady who hung onto her Metro for dear life when those two young men attacked her from the rear. How cowardly of them!

cowgirl helmet · Post by **cowgirl helmet** » Wed Jul 25, 2007 12:52 pm

Holy crap, Ryder.

That's quite a setup you have there.

paige · Post by **paige** » Wed Jul 25, 2007 4:20 pm

I have the Givi E 30. SX Appeal makes a pet carrier case for the Vespa LX150 that I call my scooter's "purse". Would probably work for the Buddy.

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Wed Jul 25, 2007 6:17 pm

There isn't too much difference in dimensions in the GIVI cases.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/pr ... w/607/562/
From Twisted Throttle
E30=12"L x 15"W x 15"D
E350=19"L x 16.5"W x 12"D (I think they have those matched wrong and s/be 19"Wx16.5"Dx12"tall)
E370=16"D x 18"W x 12.7" tall.

BuddyRaton · Post by **BuddyRaton** » Wed Jul 25, 2007 11:34 pm

ericalm wrote:I like having both because I tend to travel "heavy." I've always got some extra thing—external hard drive, jacket, groceries, etc.—that goes well in a top case.

I have a Givi E350 and love it! I can fit my laptop, cd-rom, several sets of specs, pens pencils etc etc. If its raining nothing has to get wet just unlock from the rack and carry the entire thing in. If its empty a ff helmet fits with no problem at all as well as gloves extra visor and a snack! Actually one time I fit 12 frozen burgers, rolls, an onion, a tomato, ketchup (catsup?) pickles lettuce and a large apple pie!

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Wed Jul 25, 2007 11:42 pm

BuddyB...do you notice a difference in the way it handles with the
GIVI 350 on the back?

un_designer....could you explain in more detail what this "load triangle" is?
Re: MSF course is the load triangle, and having a large topcase is definitely changing the weight distribution to outside of the load triangle.

Haven't taken MSF course yet...all filled up...waiting for next session.

BuddyRaton · Post by **BuddyRaton** » Thu Jul 26, 2007 12:38 am

ryder1 wrote:BuddyB...do you notice a difference in the way it handles with the
GIVI 350 on the back?

I never noticed any difference in handling. The Givi was a bit expensive but I have been very impressed with all the thought that went into designing and building what is pretty much just a box. I also installed the back rest and brake light kit

ThisDude · Post by **ThisDude** » Thu Jul 26, 2007 2:14 am

Hey BuddyRaton no fries to go with your order? your making me hungry

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Thu Jul 26, 2007 2:35 am

The GIVI is a little pricey but the use I get out of it is well worth it.

The plastic or whatever it is that it is made out of is quality.

Enough of GIVI....nice photo of your scooter; seatcover from who/where?

Thanks for posting

BuddyRaton · Post by **BuddyRaton** » Thu Jul 26, 2007 12:01 pm

Seat cover by Crystal, she rocks! http://www.scooterseatcovers.com/genuinebuddy.html

Where? Litteraly the end of the road! Key West Florida

un_designer · Post by **un_designer** » Thu Aug 02, 2007 2:43 am

ryder1 here is the definition that i took from the MSF material...

Location: Due to a motorcycle’s size and weight, and the fact that it has two wheels, where a load is carried is important. Keep the weight low and as close to the center of the motorcycle as possible, and keep it evenly distributed side to side. Place heavier items in the “load triangle,” the space formed within the top of your head and the two axles. If using a tank bag, be sure it doesn’t interfere with your comfort or ability to steer. Although luggage racks and top trunks appear to be ideal places to pack things, carrying weight high and to the rear of the motorcycle will lighten the front wheel and may cause a degree of handling instability. Never strap items to the handlebar, front forks, or front fender. Even if the handlebars and suspension travel are unaffected, the extra weight can cause steering instability.

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Thu Aug 02, 2007 2:59 pm

Thanks for the "triangle" info.

Eireann · Post by **Eireann** » Fri Aug 03, 2007 12:28 am

another thing to add to that information about the "load triangle" is that with the rear rack carrying things pretty far back as it does, you don't want to put too much weight into your rear box. I had my first rear rack crack on me not once, but *twice* and I think it had something to do with the fact that I carried too much weight in my top box (books are constant companions). I have since replaced the rear rack (covered by warranty), and so far so good--the new one seems considerably stronger and heftier than my previous rack. One mod. I made to the rack, however, was to saw off the top bar so that I could mount the box closer to the bike itself instead of way out on the end. Also, I got side bags for those time when I really do need to carry more weight (library due dates, etc.).

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Fri Aug 03, 2007 1:42 am

You mean you sawed off that top bar that rounds at the corners--for grabbing onto?

My GIVI box is right up against that bar and I don't think I could get it any closer because right now if I have my GIVI case open, the scooter seat hits it when I open it up. So I have to open the scooter seat up first and keep it flipped up, then open the GIVI.

You have your case on the back rack that came with the Buddy or do you have the extra order back rack?

I think the actual Buddy case can be mounted onto the rack that comes standard with the Buddy....maybe it's changed since I checked into it.