Can someone advise me of the hazards/fool-hardiness/dangers of drilling a couple of holes in the passenger grab-rails, please?

Thanks in advance.

Mike from my own perspective!!! I don't see any dangers as such. I wouldn't envisage it has any structural properties, I'm thinking of weakening the bike. Perhaps if intended pax were build like brick outhouses then there may be problems but doubtful.

As for the drilling, apart from the size of the hole you are contemplating, maybe a pilot hole first followed by the final drill bit. Afterwards finish off by ensuring all rough metal is removed by file and or paper abrasive. (Or abrasive paper).

The more experienced will offer more information no doubt based on their years of 'Wing' knowledge.

Now, what are you up to?

Mike,
I think it depends where you drill the holes, how many holes and the size
of the holes. I mounted two hard sidebags on my Swing about 5 years ago.
I had to drill one hole on each side, between the two mounting bolts. I thought
if i drill the hole to far back and after the rear mounting bolt it might weaken the
pasenger grab rail. Below is a pictrure of where i drill the hole.

http://members.webs.com/MembersB/editAppPage.jsp?app=photos&pageID=102108419&token=null#photos/photo?photoid=10042364

What are you doing that needs a hole to be drilled?
Paul

Thanks, Paul.

I want to drill one hole each side on the inner face near the front mounting-bolt.

When I'm away for the weekend I like to have a holdall strapped on the pillion seat.
I have custom-made webbing straps ( made by me!) which go over and under but for the front one I'd rather have short bits with buckles on bolted to the rails instead of having the strap over the seat and under the rails (clear as mud!)

The bolts need not be very big - M8 max.

Thanks, Doug.
I missed your reply!

I'll certainly follow the 'pilot hole' advice.
The bolts won't take a great load, more for restraining the holdall in position.

To bolt a couple of webbing straps on, Bill.

Passenger might lose fingers

If the bag is on the seat, there's no room for a passenger.

Hi Mike,

This is what I came up with over a year ago.

http://www.silverwing600.com/silver-wing-links-for-parts-and-accessories-f6/cargo-fastening-system-for-the-silverwing-t85.htm?highlight=cargo

Thanks, Dennis.

The thing is, I have a large topbox in which I put waterproofs, thermos, disc-lock and such like - not wanting to overload it.

Under the seat I have tools and the usual bits and pieces.

The holdall goes on the seat with my weekend clothes, wash-bag and such like so that when I arrive at my destination, all I have to do is undo two buckles and lift off the bag.

I have admired your device but it's not quite what I need at present.