Maxim X Luggage Rack, Saddlebag Guards

Hello everyone,

I've been lurking in these forums for a while, trying to get some ideas for my bike. I want to get some saddlebags and a tail bag so I can go on some trips this summer. In order to attach the luggage, I am going to need some saddlebag guards and a luggage rack. I've tried to find a luggage rack that would work, but have not had much luck. So I think I'm going to have one created for me of my own design. I'd like you feedback on how I can make the design better.

I want the luggage rack and saddlebag guards to be one single piece. The luggage rack will mount where the grab bars are mounted. I have designed a flat plate main portion, and have added small tabs that will allow some rods to be welded for the saddlebag guards. The deck of the luggage rack will probably be a mesh of rods, possibly in the shape of the cardboard as pictured.

I am currently looking at the Tour Master Nylon Cruiser II slant saddlebags and tail bags. The pictures show my mockup of the extra large sized saddlebags. I know they come close to the exhaust, but my thought was to use some stainless steel pipe elbows to redirect the exhaust air to a more horizontal direction (I saw a picture of someone else who did this). Does anyone have these saddlebags on their bike? How do you like them, and what size did you get?

 

I put a small trunk on mine that also provides the backrest.
http://s288.photobucket.com/albums/ll16 ... trunk1.jpg

I don't do any touring, but need a little (dry) space to haul all my misc work stuff.

I like the idea of going to the sides of the fender. I modified the back mount to handle the weight of the trunk otherwise those two bolts can't hold anything.

 

I agree completely. Fabbing up some brackets that use the fender strut mounts makes the most sense. Looks like you're on the right track Puff.

 

Thanks for your thoughts guys. It sounds like I'm on the right track. Now I just need to find someone who can help me build it!

Desinger_Mike, your trunk looks pretty sweet. I had been thinking about going with hard cases and a trunk, but decided it would be a little too difficult to mount (not to mention more expensive).

I'll be sure to post some more pictures when I have the luggage and the rack mounted.

 

Da..check out www.mutazu.com I think they have some very reasonably priced hard luggage....and from what Ive seen...fairly decent quality.