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Happy Trail 58L top box... too big?

6K views 19 replies 11 participants last post by  Sgt Schultz 
#1 ·
I'm about to pull the trigger on this, but wanted to hear from those that have had it. Right now I just have soft luggage, but would eventually get large panniers.

I'm a big guy, so the bigger top box appeals to me as it will make the bike look bigger, and reduce the monkey mating w/ a football effect.

Thoughts?
 
#2 ·
Hey,
did you ever go ahead and get the 58 liter box? I'm considering this box also, but am a bit worried mostly about the mounting. Most mounting racks/plates mount only with two bolts on the 650 and I don't know if the big box is a bit too heavy and blky?
Love the volume, build quality (in pictures) and value of the box!
 
#4 ·
The box eliminates the factory rack and uses a Happy Trail rack that is designed to support the 58l box. I had one on my Strom and loved it.
 
#5 ·
I don't really want all that weight up there, but the reality is this bike is a utility and commuter bike and didn't see any trail yet. Putting hard panniers will cost precious inches. I spend most of my time between lanes and feel better if the handlebars are the widest point. I used to have a Givi 52l top box and really appreciated the space. Most top boxs might fit a helmet, but if you either want to get stuff at the store or leave the bike with a helmet, jacket, and maybe small backpack, those 30-40 liter boxes seem too small? And while plastic saves a pound or so, I 'lost my Givi because some ass-hat destroyed it overnight - hoping aluminum will do better.

The box eliminates the factory rack and uses a Happy Trail rack that is designed to support the 58l box. I had one on my Strom and loved it.
Unfortunately I already have a moose racing expedition side rack. Those are to hold soft luggage and mount a bow case (not too many options that fit...). I think you are referring to the HT SU rack system (looks like a cage)? I'd really hate to ditch the side racks, call me cheap if you want : )

Thank you both for the feedback! I think I'll spend a few more days online and 'research' this ; ) Way better than actually riding the bike after all...
 
#6 ·
It's a different rack than their HT mounts. You completely remove your factory luggage rack and the HT sits in its place. It has 2 arms that the go towards the front of the bike and sit behind racks for your sides cases.
 
#9 ·
Thanks for the feedback! I just had a look at the HT tail plate and it does look like it might be more sturdy. With mounting the box just on the tail mounting points I'm worried about the box rocking back and forth and exerting torque on the bolts, the tail plate mounts should remedy that.
The HT system looks very similar to the Moose racing racks, so it just might fit. More time browsing the interwebs...
 
#17 ·
Sure looks bulky, but not horribly so - better than a similarly sized Pelican case : )
But it does look like everyone is using the HT top plate for mounting. Since I can't use the HR side racks to mount the plate on, maybe using the generic top plate and using the unused mounting points at the tail, close to where the seat lock is, might work.
Thanks for the feedback, this is really a great and active forum.
 
#20 ·
Get a Goldwing. If you need that much storage you have the wrong bike. :)
 
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