Top case question

[AtLarge]

I have an LT rear rack over my RS rear rack.  I really like it because I can strap my lunch/tool box down to it M-F.  However, I am thinking I need a top box (or at least the bottom half) for the times I need to make a grocery run / miscellaneous.  In other words, I need a bucket that can hold my stuff without crushing everything with the straps.

Rather than go the tactical milk crate route, I have been researching top cases and because the quick release would be the way to go but, I think I found a problem.  Looking at an OE top case, the front catch drops down below the rack and I think that would hit the RS rack below it.  I might be able to notch or grind that some to fit it but, without having one I have to go with pictures.  Here's a couple I stole off the net.

Any thoughts on this?  Is there an aftermarket top case that fit's the LT carrier that might be better suited for my purpose without me taking off the RS rack?  (kinda wanted to keep it on for the future since I have the 22L box)

[Scott_]

Well, I have a couple of cases, if you are nearby you're welcome to drop in and check fit. I might could even part with one as I only have 1 K bike now, and it won't fit the RT. PM me if your interested and I can give you my location.

[frankenduck]

If your tail cowl is already drilled for the OEM tail rack and you want a quick release top case then get a Givi E181. That fits in the factory holes and will give you a horizontal mount that you can add a Givi Monokey or any generic top case to. Swapping between the OEM rack and the Givi E181 is only four bolts if you ever want to use the 22L top case again.

[AtLarge]

Well, I have a couple of cases, if you are nearby you're welcome to drop in and check fit. I might could even part with one as I only have 1 K bike now, and it won't fit the RT. PM me if your interested and I can give you my location.

Well, that is right neighborly of you Scott_.  Incoming PM!

[AtLarge]

If your tail cowl is already drilled for the OEM tail rack and you want a quick release top case then get a Givi E181. That fits in the factory holes and will give you a horizontal mount that you can add a Givi Monokey or any generic top case to. Swapping between the OEM rack and the Givi E181 is only four bolts if you ever want to use the 22L top case again.

Thanks Frankenduck.  I will look into that as well.

[AtLarge]

Thank you Scott_.  Looks and works great!

[frankenduck]

Did you have to remove the 22L tail rack so that the front lip of the LT case will fit?

[Scott_]

Did you have to remove the 22L tail rack so that the front lip of the LT case will fit?

I can't say if the case would have fit with the 22L bracket still mounted, as he had already removed it before we fit the 35L case.
I'm thinking there would not have been enough space to fit without trimming the the lip of the case, which would have compromised the holding strength of the lip.

[AtLarge]

Hard to beat OE accessories.  Nice thing about that top box too is I can leave my bungee straps attached with it on.  Just take the box off and strap down my tool / lunch box and I'm rolling again.   

I fixed the strap on the inside for the lid and plugged the back rest pad holes with rubber bungs from the hardware store.  Found a neoprene disc with self adhesive to cover the wire access hole.  Washed it down and cleaned it out.  When I get bored I might try to get the duct tape residue off.  Fortunately, it's mostly hardened and not tacky or gooey.  Has just the right amount of patina to match the bike too.     Thanks again Scott_!

[frankenduck]

Be careful not to put too much weight in it. That plastic rack is known to break if you overload the 35L top case.

[AtLarge]

Be careful not to put too much weight in it. That plastic rack is known to break if you overload the 35L top case.

Good point.  Googling around I can't find what that weight limit is for that LT rack.  Anyone know?

[Laitch]

From the K1100LT/RS Riders Manual—US Models.

[AtLarge]

Thank you Laitch!