Top Box (hard case) v. Tail Bag (soft case)

Subject: Top Box (hard case) v. Tail Bag (soft case) Sat May 11, 2013 10:57 pm

Other than the obvious hard v soft, what are the pros and cons to consider in making a choice?
Weather?
Cost?
Size?
Portability?
Waterproof?
etc.?

I just got a new 2012 SW and am looking at getting something.

Thanks for the input.

If you intend to carry a passenger, I'd recommend you go with the top box. If you are strictly a solo rider, then it's up to you. Top boxes will generally be a lot more waterproof and weather resistant than the average bag, plus most boxes accept some sort of accessory tail/brake/turn signal lighting kit to boost your visibility..

When I paid asking the seller was so happy he threw in a bunch of stuff, including a Coretech Sport Tail Bag. Part 82-417. 8.5 H X 15" W X 13" L.

I love it. It has bungy cords built into the back so it goes on and off really easy and fast. A shoulder strap and handle let me carry it like a regular computer case. It is is big enough to hold my work laptop, some papers, lunch and some extra stuff. Medical kit lives in one zippered side pocket and extra computer gear in the other. When I need to add gym gear the sides have a zipper that lets the bag expand another 3 inches on each side. It goes on the passenger seat since I don't ride double yet.

Both have their advantages. I put on a top box because it was on my KLR650 when I traded it in so I kept it. My son has the Cortech bag on his KLR; very nice, expandable and came with a rain cover you can put on as needed. Only drawback is that in Sunny California; it is fading ( the color) fast, it is not black anymore but kind of a reddish black.

My Emgo has a handle and release system so it can be removed and taken into a hotel et al very much like a suitcase. The top box is heavier and can rattle some depending what is in it BUT it is a great place to put stickers and reflective tape Rolling Eyes

As you can see by checking out my avatar!

Last edited by MikeO on Sun May 12, 2013 5:29 pm; edited 1 time in total

AFAIC security is the chief reason I favour topbox over tail pack.

Without reviving the 'Givi vs The Rest' topbox discussion one of the features of the Givi box is that the hinge-pins are encased in hard plastic thus preventing them from being drifted out.
That is not so with some other boxes.

+1 for hard luggage for security. When carrying waterproof kayak bag it is encased within a Pacsafe steel wire mesh and padlocked onto the scoot.

Cheers,

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