I need a new top case for the Multistrada, and I've been thinking about a soft one. Motech says the inner liner is "waterproof". I'm skeptical. I like the idea of a bag because it's versatile and has multiple compartments, but don't like that it isn't lockable and I'm afraid it will leak. Who's got what? Ideas?
Buy either the Ducati or Givi hard case. No point in cheaping out on it. You can always get a removable liner bag for it that will do what the soft does for packing things.
Do you have the Ducati branded Givi one? My bike had the cheap Givi scooter style one on it when I got it, and it was okay, but always made me nervous so I gave it to a friend. Planning to cough up some cash, just want to spend it wisely. The more I think about it, the cons may outweigh the pros when it comes to soft bags...
I've got a Ducati one - shape is different than the Givis so not sure who made it. I believe it was some other company since it's the same styling as their side cases that had to be redone with additional latches. They kept coming open if you missed on the main latch just slightly which is something that Givi wouldn't have released to start with. Even the cheap Givis are great cases from what I've seen. I've heard nothing but good about Kriega too. Or you can go BMW style with a square heavy duty box
I put a Kappa on my FZ, which if you're not familiar is Givi's European (and slightly less expensive) brand. Sure it's a beast, but the only time I use a top case is when I need a beast.
Why a top case? Never could get used to all that extra top weight all the way at the back. Opted instead for removable side cases only when needed. Of course can't do the helmet thing but then most top cases can't either.
For me it's simple - the boss wants a backrest The rare times I run the Multi solo just running around I'll run just sides or none at all. It is funny tho, makes it handle weird...
Not sure about the top, but my stock side cases (with crappy latches) are made by Givi. I only know because the lock mechanism broke and when I took it apart to fix it, a bunch of stuff said Givi on the inside. You're right about it not being a great design. I'm trying to talk myself into the square aluminum style. It's mostly about utility, but I still don't want to look like I'm delivering pizzas.
I am in the market for a top case for my Versys as well. I have never had one before and was thinking about the Givi options. I didn't know about the rack, the Givi rack or a SW Motech or what? But I think Givi a pretty safe bet for the actual case. I also was looking at SHAD which people seem to like.
With you on the boxes. And I've delivered pizza on a bike... The box I built for it looks like RD's but a little shorter.
When I'm loaded for a 3-4 day trip it sure comes in handy. But you know that there's something on the ass end
I actually didn't plan to replace it when I gave it away, but I just got back from a trip and missed it. I put all my easy access items in there. Rain gear, extra visors, warmer gloves, drinking water, etc. It was really annoying having to open the side cases to get that stuff. I pack my camping gear in dry bags and secure them on top of the side cases, so they have to come off to get in. I don't really notice the weight, but the Multi seems to handle impossibly well no matter what you load on it.
These are the people I bought my gear from. Incredibly helpful and very fast shipping... https://tourandride.com/ I've also bought gear from here. They're in Italy but they ship quicker than most US places and their prices are very competitive...https://www.motostorm.it/en/?curren...vARftralzJwS7lEHakSbXekcBoLT16DxoCqlAQAvD_BwE
I actually liked this one, but it was pretty flimsy. I could go for something similar size but more robust.
I just realized this place needs an adventure photos thread. Maybe I'll start one during my AK trip this summer...
Yeah, that one is too small. Needs to be at least the size of the HD tour packs and carry a case of long necks