My Top Case Setup - Cheap and Easy DIY Luggage For Motorcycles
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ย. 2024
- Today I am answering questions about my top case setup. How it was installed and what I keep inside it. Hope this answers your questions, any more please leave them in the comments or reach out to me.
Here is a list and links to what you need:
Mounting Bracket (bike specific): bit.ly/2ylekhN
Apache 3800 Case: bit.ly/2yawX8d
Inside Bags: bit.ly/2YyRqyl
Fuel Can: bit.ly/2Ytq9NK
Rotopax Mount: bit.ly/2ylqnvy
You also need:
Silicone
(8) Fender washers for mounting the case (placed at head of bolt and under the nut)
(4) M8 or 5/16" Bolts with locknuts (this size worked for me, depends on mounting plate)
(1) Drill and drill bit
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🏍 WHO IS TIM COLLINS OF FTA ADVENTURES? (FORMERLY FORTY TIMES AROUND)
A lifelong adventure enthusiast and a long time motorcycle traveler, I have spent the last few years honing my craft as a motorcycle adventure specialist. I am currently living full time on my motorcycle, a 2015 BMW R1200GS named Lupe.
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I have the same case on my bike. Add a single piece of aluminum plate on the inside of the box for the bolts to go through. This will prevent it from warping and makes it a bit more secure. I think I used a 2" x 8" piece.
I bolted 1/4" aluminum plate to my Himmi and strengthened the tail rack. Now I have a choice of whatever box that at one time held a tool. Each uses the same bolt pattern. It's a good idea to use a plate on the inside like a giant washer especially riding rough roads. A larger top box that works well is the Craftsman versa tool box. It's waterproof and dust proof. I sprayed the red lid gravel grey so it looks less like a tool box. A man's got his pride ya know. 😆
I always watch this guy before hitting the road with two wheels and before making an accessory purchase. He's good and has cred.
I’ve been toying with the idea of doing this, I’ve even had that same box in my hands at harbor freight and then put it back, I’m pulling the trigger now, thanks for the video
I have that exact same case as a top case. Mine holds my camp kitchen (infamous Stanley), 3 days of food, and fire starting supplies. It's mounted reverse of Tim's so it opens from the front, that way it doesn't interfere with a loaded back seat when open. I also mounted aux flashing and brake lights on the rear.
I love how you always talk about crashing and going where you probably shouldn’t. Glad I’m not the only one.
This is an awesome idea for storage! The KTM bags on my super adventure are “super” expensive and don’t fit very much, given their large exterior dimensions. A while back, I bought a Milwaukee M18 kit that came with a packout case. Until now I had no real use for it but after seeing this video, I might just try to mount it sideways and scoot it forward over the passenger seat a little so that I can use it as a back rest too. Milwaukee makes a mounting plate and an assortment of different cases that fit and lock together in modules. They even make a cooler that connects to the system.You’re always full of great ideas Tim and such an inspiration to the motorcycle community, keep it up!
Hello friends! I ship expensive breakable stuff to customers and use quality cases for that. Pelican, Nanuk, Seahorse, and SKB all make great cases. Seahorse is probably my favorite because of the price/quality ratio, with Nanuk being second. Anyway, I tried going with the Harbor Freight cases (and even mounted one on the back of my DRZ400 because of the ridiculously low price, and while they are fine and don't leak and all, they are very cheaply made. The plastic is not comparable to any of the other cases I mentioned, and it will crack quite easily. In fact the one on my DRZ cracked at the base where I had it mounted just from the vibration of the bike over a year. It's not a fibrous plastic like the high quality competition--it's just a vacuum formed plastic that is made it look like it is a quality case. I'm not saying you shouldn't use them, but just be aware when it comes to durability the HF cases aren't even in the same league as the big boys. If you mounted them as side cases and drop your bike, they would be toast. You can run over a Pelican case with your bike and you will be the one hurting, not the case. My 2C.
Great idea Tim, thanks for sharing. One question: why did you put the bolts through the rack from underneath. Good engineering practice is to put heads ‘up’, so that should the nut come off (by vibration) the bolt will remain in the hole (it also means the bolt tails won’t stick up inside the box).
How fortuitous for me!
I was researching a top box to fit on my scramblered Thruxton, and was ready to send you a question about yours. This is perfect!
Thanks for this video!
Glad I could help!
@@FTAAdventures I put a storage crate on my top mount so my helmet doesn't fall off the saddle or move the mirrors out of adjustment. Tim, thanks for recommending a good upgrade!
Perfect Tim, thanks. I have a GS and the AltRider rack also and have been trying to figure something out that works for me for electronics, puncture kit, first aid kit, and such, giant pricey metal top boxes just don't do it for me, and now I've got a sweet solution...that also accommodates extra gas where I might need some. Thanks for all the great videos.
I use very similar system on my klr. Cheap princess auto case bolted to rack. But I put aluminum plates around bolt holes to distribute the clamping force to a bigger area of plastic.
Got it on my scrambler, i went one size up with the 4800 Apache Hard Case from Harbor Freight. Love it! Thanks
I like the way you mounted the Rotopax and the gopro ram mount!
If you don’t have a flat bracket and just a tubular rack to mount to, you can also use rubber insulated clamps to mount the box to the frame with no permanent mod to the bike-rack. Mine hasn’t moved and works great.
Incredible video my friend, thanks you! These best solution to safely riding on/off-road with my camera/lenses! Hard mount the case to the Perun case on my KTM 1090R, and the soft bags from Target with the gear, and enjoy the day! No more frustration trying to make the expensive Mosko Moto Reckless 40/80 soft bags work! I hope you are well and continuing to enjoy your life on and off the road!
Love these simple solutions. I imagine removing this without opening the case would be troublesome (a good thing for security purposes!). You're right though, It's all just to deter people. Someone really serious will take the whole bike if they want it so bad. Your idea of stacking fuel is great. I think stacking a second smaller case with some sort of wing nut inside would be good for the the small stuff. I'm only just getting started in setting up a DR650 and haven't pulled the trigger on anything yet. This and Nanuk cases is where I'm leaning
I put one on my DR650. Works great, thanks for the idea
Like your videos.
Yours was one of the first channels I subscribed to. Your presentations are informative and down to earth without much obnoxious music or boring continual views if you riding down the road. Others could take lessons from you on how to improve their videos.
You can use "wafer head machine screws" to eliminate the bolt heads inside the case.
Great idea! Thanks
I have a couple of those boxes, possibly the next size bigger, that I bought specifically for making a set of interchangeable panniers that I can switch between my different bikes. Using Tusk pannier brackets to make them quick release but they don't make pannier racks for any of the bikes I want to use them on so I bought a tubing bender and I'm about to start making the racks myself, just buttoning up a few other projects first. Seen a KTM with Pelican box panniers a year or so ago and fell in love with the idea. Great idea for some dry, secure storage.
That's really clever. I don't usually like the price or the look of top cases - both too high, but I really like yours.
Thanks, I agree!
I have a very similar top case on my DR 650. One size bigger. For normal riding this is all I use. For trips I lash a dry bag to the top of the case. No side bags as I tend to get into some fairly serious off road conditions with the DR. I have a lot of mods to my DR but if I were forced to pick the most important mod it would be the rear rack and top case.
I had bought this exact one at harbor freight and looking to see how folks mounted it. Thanks for sharing! Definitely an easy and cheap solution, all I need
Thanks for the video. I'm a big fan of repurposing, the lunch bags are especially inventive.
Thanks Neil, glad you enjoyed this video!
I put that same case my bonneville scrambler a couple years ago and LED strip on it for additional brake lights.
This will sound crazy, but I have a few spare Pelican cases and I've been searching for something for my maxi scooter. This fits the bill. And satisfies my diy proclivities.
Great diy Tim.
Here's a tip for the pluck and pull foam.
After you pullout out foam to the shape you need, spray some plasti dip on it. It will make it more rigid and hold items much firmer without falling apart.
I use it with a small pelican case for my drone.
Great job as usual.
Thanks Mike, that is an awesome tip! I will have to try that.
FTA Adventures anytime bud. Glad to help.
Wow great setup. I was wondering what to do for my bmw f650 for a top case but did not want to spend big money. This is awesome. Thanks for the idea.
Glad I could help!
I run the same one on my f800gs. Perfect for my laptop when I commute
I have the straight GS. Nearly identical to your. Only thing I don’t like is the 5 gallon tank and range. You putting that Jerry can on top of your back hardcase is brilliant. I have a similar case. You’ve inspired me to install an extra fuel can on top. Although I’m a little nervous about drilling the holes in the BMW hardcase. But anyways. Thank you.
Ya it very useful been using it since 2007 I even make a lock so I don't need a padlock. Document even my tools kit and tyre kit. Been using Pelican 1450 side it just nice fit well. From my FJR, GTR 14 , Tracer and Tracer GT now waiting for my CRF1100L4 to mount it.
Another great FTA idea. Thanks Tim. IMHO you deserve more like 300K subs for the quality of your content. Keep up the good work sir.
Great idea! However, I'd probably use a larger metal plate instead of the washers as it created a much larger surface area that will prevent the the washers from pulling through the plastic of the case - in the event of an off.
some dome head coach bolts might make the indide bolt heads less prominent
Very nice Tim. I’m looking at DIY solutions to mount a quick release camera case that I can switch off on my GoldWing or my Harley’s trunk luggage mount
Good ideas Tim. Thinking of mini top case for my large top cases. Touratech charges $$$ for stuff, but a trip to Harbor Freight is in order ha.
I put the KTM orange Apache 4800 on my 690. Simular to how you set yours up. Thanks for the lunch box tip.
Hi Tim. Man I really like that idea. It’s a whole lot cheaper than getting a new Pannier when the original one falls apart. I wonder if I could figure out a Mounting System for the Big Pelican Boxes for the side Panniers? Anyway, Thanks for another Great Video and a Great Idea. Be Safe Tim. I hope you carry some kind of protection for when you’re way off the Trail. I don’t think I have seen one of your Videos talking about Protection and Security when your Camping. One thing you can do is get a Solar or Battery Powered high Lumen motion activated Light. When a Animal comes into your Camp the Light coming on will usually scare them away. Plus it lets you know something or someone Is out there. I think I would rather have the something these Days. Thanks again Tim.👍
Check out Caribou Cases, they are exactly this solution.
wow...finaly a solution, you 're my hero
This is exactly what I needed to see!
Do great minds think alike or what? I just finished mine and saw your video. I used the smaller version to just carry essentials: trauma kit, tire kit and a few snacks. My bike has the Vario cases, but empty the top case weighs 15 lbs and puts a lot of weight up high. I'll use them for long trips, but for daily use my mini top case is great. I attached it with L brackets that fit into the Vario slots and a bungee on the back, so that I can remove it easily. Love the channel!
Hi when you say L brackets, don't don't need securing with a wing nut or something? Or do you just push them in and the fact that it's an L means the case doesn't move about too much?
@@user-ck6kq8zl2i The L brackets are bolted onto the back of the box. They are the same distance apart as the slots for the Vario top case. They sit about an inch below the bottom of the case and can slide into the Vario slots. A bungee holds the back down. I only used one bolt on each bracket, that way they can rotate up and out of the way. I can send photos if you have an e-mail.
Hey Tim... Great video. I’m a Harley boy, but I love to camp. ADV bikes are awesome, but I couldn’t justify it owning a Jeep Wrangler. Still I’ve subscribed and enjoy your adventures.
With a Harley, some of the same challenges are in play. Limited loads, and very limited off road mobility, my adventures are more hard surface campground stuff. Still, I see alot of ADV bikes out riding up here in Idaho. I know the limitations of my Softtail Deluxe. Your book applies to any bike, with a rider who loves the outdoors. I gain alot from your experience & insight.
Thanks again for the videos and book! One day I hope to meet... maybe the next time you’re in Idaho... Happy Trails.
Rand
Apache 3800 + 1 Gal RotoPax FOR THE WIN!!! (DR650 rider)
Thanx was looking into one of these for on the rear of a cruiser motorcycle I plan to do a few month long trips on.
This is an affordable, nifty solution! Thanks for sharing.
A friend just gave me a awesome case and now i know what to do with it. Thanks
Great idea! I have one of these for part of my knife collection and another bought for a pistol case originally. I think use it and I'll follow your lead with a few slight changes. Thanks for sharing. And BTW, it actually looks pretty good, especially for an inexpensive solution. Be careful out there.
I did the same thing. I love it, kinda wish I went with the bigger case, but works great
Great set up and pretty cost effective. Thanks for sharing! 👍🏻
I have one of those boxes on an Altrider plate on my Tiger. I used offset T-slot nuts on the underside as a sort of quick release. It mounts and comes off with a single allen wrench in about 30 seconds.
I am on this...……. great idea! Have a ride on Thursday, this will be a great improvement. Thank you sir!!
Glad that worked out for you!
Really cool. I’m not exactly really handy but that looks like something simple that I could deal with if I ever get a bike.
Thanks for the great info mounted that exact box on my 750GS today, it’s going to work out perfect and all for around 45 bucks with bolts and washers, thanks
Thanks for the great idea. Hadn’t thought of something like that.
YES!! Thank you, Tim! I was just looking at this as an option and wondering how well it would work.
Thanks Tim that's a great idea ,safe travels
Awesome job and works perfectly and so much more affordable. Thanks
Thanks for the video. I'm just getting back into motorcycle riding and am getting "sticker shock " regarding the expenses to get started. This is an inexpensive and functional option to the premiere versions of luggage! Subscribed...
Nice set up.....Please consider doing a review on your rear view mirrors. Thanks for sharing.
I had the 3800 size case on my Victory octane and then put the 4800 size on my Versys until I finally bought a nice Givi Maxia case that I can keep helmets in. They've got new colors of the Apache series now which are nice. I've got a fuel bottle in a water bottle holder on my crash bars in case I need it, but it's only 1L.
so that's what a pelican case is
@@rosemaryus-ct6151 pretty much. Pelican is the fancy brand name, and "Apache" is the Harbor Freight Chinese knock-off that's mostly the same
Hi Tim, still in lockdown in Northern Ontario Canada. Your top box solution is awesome. I have a small pelican box I got for Christmas one year and I agree they make great luggage for delicate things. Roto packs always leak on me so I use aluminum fuel jugs but I like your setup. Cheers!
Thanks Shawn! Mine haven't leaked yet but if they do I will check those out!
While most people are wearing masks and are paranoid about others and complying with Big Brothers dictates that are illegal and unconstitutional , you on the other hand are out in beautiful nature enjoying life .
As for your setup that's close to what I will eventually do with my Tenere when and if it comes in June . Something you could add would be an alarm to the lid in some fashion for the times when you are in places that are more likely to have someone mess with your stuff . Another thing that would be really good would be a small tracking device stuffed into each of those camera/lunch cases . Set that up on your phone and at least you have a chance at getting the person and your stuff back .
Thanks for great top tip... I was looking myself for something from Givi but this option is much and much cheaper.
Thanks for a great video Tim. Love the setup. Keep them coming. All the best.
Thanks, will do!
Great idea! Wondering if it’ll be good enough for my wife to use as a backrest since I ride with her a lot.
Nice hack Tim. Not real happy with my Yamaha top case on my Super Ten. May consider doing this. Thanks.
excellent setup! great job! I've been thinking about getting a small hard top case just for my camera gear
Glad I could help!
Aishhh... Benda senang dapat dan murah.. beli je la..
Nice ingenuity 👍. I have a question if you don't mind. I've thought about carrying a fuel container, but so far I'm skeptical. Do you ever worry about a spontaneous combustion due to extreme heat?
Great video. Gear tips are really helpful!
Love the set up and lunch box idea
Thank you!
Nice setup. I might go this route for my s1000xr instead of buying givi case.
Good idea and I love the new intro!
I'm glad you like it, thanks!
Great solution. I put 2 on the side of my ktm
Nice!
(except for the fuel can) that's amazingly similar to how I did my side cases on my last bike (I used Ridgid brand boxes). Awesome tips/setup and video, Tim! I enjoyed this one (well I enjoy ALL of em, LOL, you know what I mean though 😜) 😊✌
Very cool!
I welded up some brackets and mounted two Harbor Freight/Apache 3800s as side cases on my KTM 990. Looks factory.
I saw the case at Harbor Freight and visualized the set up the spot. That was 2 years before I saw the video
Done....works a treat....
Awesome thanks for sharing but where is the COAT HANGER from BISBEE????
Have you ever had any leaks yet with either the gas can or Apache Case? Has it felt pretty secure since you've installed? I'm probably going to do the same thing myself. Great Idea
Tim I hope you don't mind I installed a similar case. A Max430 on my Himalayan and I mentioned your channel and this video on my video with a link in the description. Wee Jaunt.
Does the fuel in your Jerry can get hot being flat and out in the sun, especially in AZ?
Great idea!
Really smart setup 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Later comer to your channel but have just subscribed, love it, great real world tips and coverage, that top box solution has won me, any chance of the dimensions of the top box your using, exactly what will suit my GS , can’t justify spending huge for aftermarket boxes now I’m retired. 👍
I don’t have it anymore but I think it’s the 3500 box from Harbor freight.
Amazing setup Tim! AltRider's rack for $187.97 seems quite expensive though
Nice rig bro! I like it
Great ,,,Ive learn new idea in this video ride safe ,.
Thanks Tim for answering that inquiry. Love it, simple and inexpensive (except for the AtlRider plate, lol). I see Bob is with you. Where are you camping, looks awesome? Just got back from Apache Junction and Lake Pleasant. Just too darn hot this time of year. Need to go North again.
You bet! We were off of 89a near Prescott. It was a quick trip, most places were packed and there wasn't much available for dispersed camping. It is getting super hot here, I am looking forward to getting back to the mountains again.
this is sooooo perfect! thanks for this!
Thanks for another great how-to video. These have been so valuable as I plan my first multi-week ride. Is cost the primary reason you decided on this vs. a top case from one of the many motorcycle luggage makers? Thanks again!
Good question! The cost was the main reason for the decision, but also I liked the dimensions and weight of this case. So far I am very happy with it!
Awesome video thanks for sharing. Very insightful
Glad you enjoyed it!
Nice and tight setup!
Thanks!
Cool! I have the exact setup, except that mine case is a Pelican
Ty tim
thank you tim; i've been wanting a jerry can for my bike but i worry somewhat about the risk of explosion if in an accident. hugs.
@@franko4416 thanks man i'll look it up
Those things are made of super think tuff plastic, even the Chinese knock offs. I have a China version and I can stand on it with zero deflection.
@@norsefalconer cool beans
Great Setup! Thanks for the tip!
You bet!
@@FTAAdventures I am always very inspired by your passion! You have given me the inspiration to start my own channel and go off on my adventures as I have always dreamed. Can't wait to see what you have in store next!
Looking to do the same, but quick question. Does fuel leak from the tank? Seem like it eventually seep through...just curious. Ty
Hi. I have a 650 Dakar and I would like to do the same. My question: Did you put the new Rack on the original one or you just changed it? Thanks for sharing.
Fantastic!
Hey Tim! Love your videos! I'm planning a motorcycle trip across the US next year and I'm just curious, how do you know where you can/cant ride your bike? From the research I've done (at least in California) you can't really ride anywhere in a national forest, but it looks like you have no problem finding roads that you can ride through. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
Sounds great! Any forest service road should allow travel, on a motorcycle or truck. As long as it is street legal you shouldn't have any problems. The trail systems might require a special OHV permit in some areas but I just stick to the dirt forest service and fire access roads.
@@FTAAdventures Thanks! Also, on that note, can you just camp near the side of any of those service roads? or do you need to find specific areas?