Luggage for my 550T

[cowboyup3371]

One of the issues I had while transporting the eldest on the bike last year was an inability to carry my lunch box in my backpack since she needed the room for her and her backpack. Since I can't afford a better two up bike with luggage right now, I'm thinking of other ideas I can try.

With that in mind, would putting something like this on my bike after manufacturing some sort of a rack be okay?

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/5/18/175/41528/ITEM/Givi-Monolock-E26-Tour-Top-Case.aspx?SiteID=CSE_Gbase_369734&WT.mc_ID=80003&zmam=88421133&zmas=1&zmac=45&zmap=369734

If so, what should I consider before I start to build/find a rack? Especially since I haven't seen a rack for the 550T nor do I have the grab bar most T's have on them.

[cowboyup3371]

Bump, any thoughts?

[bccap]

I recently purchased the Moto Centric roll bag for my 750. I'm very pleased with it. It is padded and retains its shape when empty. I plan to purchase their saddle bags for touring.I currently use it on a very short rack, with the one additional bungee as it hangs a bit. Have even used it for a Costco run. It is, however designed to go over the seat or tail cowl, with both built in bungees and clips. I'm pretty sure you could get matching clips from your local outdoor sports shop. Link below. There is also a short video if you google Moto Centric. I will take some photos later today.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/4/71/28901/ITEM/MotoCentric-Mototrek-Roll-Tail-Bag.aspx?green=86308B0E-8532-544E-0987-A6AAE3EF360E

[FiremanBob]

That's a good price. The current model, E30, is $90 from Twisted Throttle (the Givi distributor) . You might call and ask either MS or TT if that "universal mounting kit" will work on your bike.

I have Givi side and top cases on my Blackbird and they are excellent luggage.

[cowboyup3371]

Thank you for the information, that is pretty comparable in price. Is there anything about the rack I need to consider when making it? Should the rack be steel or can I try to make it out of aluminum?

[salty_monk]

I would go steel for fatigue strength. Probably 5/8" to 3/4" tube.
There are some cheap copies of these Givi's on EBay for about 30 bucks. One came on my KLR and I have to say it's pretty good for the money.

[cowboyup3371]

Thanks Dan. I finally had a chance to log into ebay last night (can't from work) and saw that. I'll start budgeting for it as it wasn't bad (shipping hurts though) for price and looked nice.