Topcase rack

[vintura]

I just changed my 2003 K1200LT for a R1200RT.
I'd love to have a topcase rack just like I had on the K1200LT
I asked the dealer but apperently they don't exist for the 1200RT.

Has anyone any idea if I could put a rack on the top case and if so which one.
I don't need one with a breaking light.

[Tom_K]

Seems to me that the double wall construction, the backrest design, and the removability of the top case will preclude adding a rack. Perhaps you should investigate the BMW tank bag for if you need more storage.

[fltclark]

I'm running a Givi V46 on mine with the Givi rack. It's really a nice setup. If I had it to do over I would get the Givi E52 case w/rack.

fletcher clark

[vintura]

Seems to me that the double wall construction, the backrest design, and the removability of the top case will preclude adding a rack. Perhaps you should investigate the BMW tank bag for if you need more storage.

Thanks for your reply

I didn't know there was a double wall construction, so that might be a problem.
Before the K1200LT I rode the 1100RT with a topcase and I never toke it off the bike, so I imagine I don't have that urge with the R1200RT.

[vintura]

I'm running a Givi V46 on mine with the Givi rack. It's really a nice setup. If I had it to do over I would get the Givi E52 case w/rack.

fletcher clark

I already own the large BMW topcase and I never would ride a BMW with a non-BMW case :)
But thanks anyway for your reply

[Tom_K]

Thanks for your reply.

You're welcome.

I got used to a rack & bag on my previous bike, a 1500 GoldWing; but the Wing and the LT are really in a different class than the RT, with non-removable luggage and an additional 250+ pounds of weight - much better for extended two-up touring, but unwieldy at low speeds.

I've taken a few short trips with the RT trunk removed and the handling (vs. trunk but no bags) is a bit better, however the convenience of the large trunk is not to be denied!

[ben1364]

I already own the large BMW topcase and I never would ride a BMW with a non-BMW case :)
But thanks anyway for your reply

Just curious. Is your aversion to aftermarket top cases based on a potential problem that we should be aware of?

[vintura]

Just curious. Is your aversion to aftermarket top cases based on a potential problem that we should be aware of?

Nothing to do with any potential problem that I know about, I just like the BMW gear better on a BMW :)

[ben1364]

Nothing to do with any potential problem that I know about, I just like the BMW gear better on a BMW :)

As I said in a private message, I am glad there is no safety issue involved with aftermarket top cases. BMW brand accessories are usually of high quality but by no means are the only high quality accessories, in my opinion. I elected to go with a 46L Givi top case for three reasons, (1) I thought the small BMW case too small and the large one too large for my use, (2) The Givi Monokey case provides better visibility (especially with the available reflectors and lights installed) and (3) I already had a Givi when I bought the RT. <g>

[brianbeemer]

Nothing to do with any potential problem that I know about, I just like the BMW gear better on a BMW :)

Last year when the wife and I went through the tunnel to France we rode onto the train behind a couple who'd just bought their GS... and the complete riding gear (head to toe BMW), and the BMW panniers and boxes, and the BMW t-shirts, and they even had a BMW keyring... What was strange was that the wife was complaining that the boots hurt, the helmet was uncomfortable, and that she couldn't find anything in the panniers! Chavs?

[wwille]

I just changed my 2003 K1200LT for a R1200RT.
I'd love to have a topcase rack just like I had on the K1200LT
I asked the dealer but apperently they don't exist for the 1200RT.

Has anyone any idea if I could put a rack on the top case and if so which one.
I don't need one with a breaking light.



They are now sold on the BMW site under accessories, luggage.

[grifscoots]

They are now sold on the BMW site under accessories, luggage.Well, ok???? John Palamaro grafted a Harley rack that he eventually had powder coated black onto his GT (which is the same topbox as the RT). It looks really great!

Go to www.k-bikes.com (http://www.k-bikes.com)

The pix in this thread show it before he powder coated http://www.k-bikes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8146&highlight=top+rack

[Tom_K]

They are now sold on the BMW site under accessories, luggage.
I tried the BMWUSA site

http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/index.jsp

and couldn't find the rack listed, even for the LT. Do you have the URL?
Tom