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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: Jorg on May 20, 2017, 03:28:49 AM

Title: Choosing side cases
Post by: Jorg on May 20, 2017, 03:28:49 AM
About to pull the trigger on ordering a 17 DS (first bike -- excited? yes!), I realise I need some space to put groceries, slippers and various stuff in. The dealer suggested the Givi side cases. Looking at the Zero Aftermarket / Unofficial Manual, I see the TRAX EVO looks very good, and has the option to remove the mounts as well. And they come in larger sizes.

Does anyone have good pros/cons on the two solutions, and do you know if the OEM Top Box interferes with the TRAX EVO aluminium case system?

Also, I see SW-Motech's site lists the stuff compatible with the DSR, but I assume the mounting options are the same on the DS?

(Sorry for the beginner questions -- I'm completely new to the world of motorcycles, and yeah. There is a TON of gear and stuff out there to get to know:)
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: gyrocyclist on May 20, 2017, 09:47:46 PM
I have the givi top box and side cases:
http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=161 (http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=161)
http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=15_7&products_id=232 (http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=15_7&products_id=232)
on my 2016 SR.
The top box is 34 liters, but is only rated for 3kg (which is ridiculous)
The side case rack are a nightmare to install. If you get them, plan on having your dealer do the
install. My dealer charged an hour of shop time -- and I'm pretty sure it took them longer than that.
Three different mechanics commented on how difficult they were to install.

Also see this thread: http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5965.msg44723#msg44723 (http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5965.msg44723#msg44723)
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: Shadow on May 21, 2017, 12:10:52 AM
I do not have side rack. I get all my groceries fine with only a Givi 47L top case. There is a 55L "Maxia" top case which can fit even more groceries. I like the Hi-Viz color of my Givi top case and they only have that for the 47L size.  I was concerned that the 55L would be too big, but I have seen it a few times on Zero motorbikes and it looks good.
(http://i.imgur.com/9mWn0YD.jpg)
The OEM top rack bracket is rigid but it should have more support from the frame.

The most supported side rack bracket I have seen (and easy install) is the Happy Trails SU.
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: Jorg on May 21, 2017, 12:45:43 AM
Thanks for the input! Very much appreciated.
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: Aikirob on May 21, 2017, 02:28:33 PM
I made my own for super cheap, very sturdy, check out the link to the youtube video on this page, very easy to make and will save you heaps of $
http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=6766.msg55213#msg55213 (http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=6766.msg55213#msg55213)
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: 42Cliffside on May 22, 2017, 08:24:37 AM
I got the Coyote Saddlebag Roll Top (http://www.giantloopmoto.com/product/coyote-saddlebag-roll-top/) for my 2017 DSR, just got it and it seems to mount solid on my bike with no extra racking, I still have to load it up and go for a ride to really see how solid I can get it, but just from the test fit it looks good, although the larger one might fit a touch better as the U is a bit wider according to the revzilla review. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHCgA3IQ2-U)


here is the review I first saw it on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiEI3ur8AQ4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiEI3ur8AQ4)
and how he packs it now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6SH65GwcH4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6SH65GwcH4) with another soft saddlebag shown as well..
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: Jorg on May 23, 2017, 12:46:25 AM
Thanks 42Cliffside. I would love a report when you have gotten a chance to test them!
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: cep55 on May 23, 2017, 02:01:27 AM
Jorg, congratulations on the upcoming addition—very exciting! I got my SR earlier this month and just love it.

I don't know if you're looking only for a hard case, but for a relatively simple/inexpensive solution that can be easily removed or moved to other bikes, I like the DrySpec D20. They aren't huge, but collectively can hold a fair amount of groceries, tools, shoes, etc. They're waterproof, and they seem quite durable and high quality.


Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: BrianTRice@gmail.com on May 23, 2017, 02:34:42 AM
The DSR mount should work identically for 2015+ models in the S/DS/SR/DSR range. 2013-2014 models may work but might be just enough different to be a fitment problem.

Here are a set of Motech-compatible Aero cases which I had joined to my Zero / Givi rack via adapter plates. This is before a car knocked the bike over and scratched up the cases too much. I think they suit the look of the Zero nicely and are quite streamlined and lightweight (I wouldn't put a charger in them but a laptop case or clothing would be fine).

http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5453
 (http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5453)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/9926946d5072c06a0867d74dcb7aeff6.jpg)
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: 42Cliffside on May 23, 2017, 03:31:11 AM
Well, went to get dog food, and even though it didn't fit inside, it tied down tight with the compression straps, and I'm pretty sure I can fit a rolling rock 18 pack into the sides,  I'll test that tonight =)

It was stable and tight with the 27+pound bag tied on. To mount I go thru the tube in the frame and loop thru/around the left passenger footpeg hole so it can't pull side to side. It will need some clear vinyl or something to protect the paint on the tail though.
Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: 42Cliffside on May 23, 2017, 04:52:51 AM
I can confirm, the coyote will swallow 2 18packs and have room for more =)


Title: Re: Choosing side cases
Post by: 42Cliffside on May 23, 2017, 12:11:25 PM
Ultimate BBQ run bag LoL you can fit a bunch of cans (beans!) into the space where the bag starts to taper below the square ends of the 18pack, and a bunch more hotdogs and burgers between the sides. Also, you can still have the stock rear bag and side rack I suppose to hold all the buns.... ;D