XJ650H - luggage rack install tips

Obscure Tips: if by chance you ever want to install a factory luggage rack on an 81 XJ650, w/o instructions, you should know:

apparently many other Yamaha luggage racks attach to the shock mount. This model does not; trying to make that work is a path to madness. Instead, the front rack bolt goes to an unused frame mount bracket near the top shock bolt.

In the rear the rack, using longer bolts and wide spacers, replaces the normal turn light installation. The turn lights are relocated to a square hole on the rack itself.

There may be, probably are, other ways to mount the rack as well. But this method should enable you to install the factory rack easily and solidly.

 

Good info and accurate from what I remember when I took off my rack

 

I just bought a 1982 650 Maxim for travelling to work, but need a rack for all my stuff. Does anyone know where I can find a rack for my bike?

Thanks

 

I've had my '81 Xj650H for about four years now and I've been wondering about whether Yamaha offered side boxes or a storage rack for this bike. I've searched all over the internet and grew disappointed.
I'm entertaining making some custom side storage boxes out of fiberglass.

 

Was wondering if anyone has tried any of the "universal" bags from VikingBags.com
I spoke with them and they give measurements to go bu. But at clsoe to $300.00 was hoping for some advise first. :?:

 

Was wondering if anyone has tried any of the "universal" bags from VikingBags.com
I spoke with them and they give measurements to go bu. But at clsoe to $300.00 was hoping for some advise first. :?:

 

I've had the same frustration with my 1981 XJ650H. I searched the web six ways to Sunday and have come up empty on side boxes and trunks for my bike. Even the so-called "Universal" mount trunks won't work as I inquired about their adaptability to my bike. I've been considering making custom side boxes out of sheet metal or Fiberglass. The real challenge is in establishing mounting points on the frame. Gcrick mentioned the unused frame mount bracket. I noticed these too. They have an unused threaded hole which might be useful. If I ever come up with a good plan I'll be happy to share it. for now I've been using velcro tape to strap my black shoulder bad to the seat behind me.

 

Good luck there "bunglejyme" . I finally used some cheap leather throw over bags which I was able to get under the seat. Gives me a little storage anyway. Let us know hoe you make out.

Oh, almost forgot. I am thinking of selling My XJ and parts bike too. If anybody is interested; drop a post. I'm just west of Roanoke, VA.

 

I was lucky enough to find a set of saddlebags(intended for horses and NOT motorcycles) the center strap is waaaaaaaaaay too long. so I just kinda bunched it up under my seat for now. Just until I can make me a custom set out of fiberglass.

 

Hey, whatever works! )

 

Could cut out the excess leather and stich it together with laces like a pair of shoes...