My cheap trick for a rear rack top box!

[Lord Popgun]

You could mount a pad in the indented area and have a nice backrest for your passenger. I think it would look good too. Maybe get one at a marine store. A bolster or something.

[ChipBeck_imp]

Ghis,

I think your concept and execution are both excellent. To me it looks better than the Honda top box as it's utilitarian and does not look perminant. Like strapping a bed roll into your back seat says you are on a trip, your utility box says you are doing something. Easy on and off as well. If I ever wanted to actually use my CB11 for something other than occasional recreation I would duplicate your set up.

This makes a lot more sense to me than the hard boxy cases I see on ADV bikes. Perhaps "it's hip to be square" but I think they are double ugly.

In any event, I've got that Honda rear rack (though I haven't mounted it) and if I ever have need of a top box I like your solution the best.

Chip

[dave]

Hi Ghis, this looks great, I really like it! Thanks for the great pictures and instructions. Two questions:
1. Is it strong enough to use as a back rest for a passenger?
2. Does REI sell a slightly smaller, but similar trunk?

Thanks!

[Ghis_imp]

Hi Ghis, this looks great, I really like it! Thanks for the great pictures and instructions. Two questions:
1. Is it strong enough to use as a back rest for a passenger?
2. Does REI sell a slightly smaller, but similar trunk?

Thanks!

I don't think it is strong enough to use as a back rest. It it sturdy as all the weight really rests on the rack underneath, and the box merely contains the load, but not sturdy enough enough for a person's full weight pressing against it. I wish there was a smaller box, but that's as small as Rubbermaid makes the ActionPacker. BTW Rubbermaid sales it directly off its website for $22!

[flynrider]

I really like this idea. I'm not a big fan of top boxes. I don't like the way they alter the lines of the bike. But occasionally I need to carry something that won't conveniently go in my backpack or strap to the rack. This is a great solution. Just pop it on when you need it. I think I like that functional look even better than the typical egg shaped $200 top box. Nice job!

[geosar_imp]

I am a fan.

Such good innovation on this excellent forum.

George