Finally got my Happy Trails rack and Tetons on the XC last week. Looks like I could carry any number of items in the open space behind the left pannier. Rotopax, tool tube, fuel canisters, suitcase nuclear device.... What have you been able to tuck in there that you found most useful? I'll also give bonus points for creative ideas - thinking out of the box.
I have a similar setup on my Roadie, and was thinking of mounting my rotopax in that space. Haven't figured out a mounting solution as yet though.
Tool tube made of 4" ABS pipe. Cap on one end, door from US Tube Doors on the other. Mine's about 20 inches long and holds about a ton of tools and spares.
Ok, that's a pretty good idea. I see a similar product out there as well. I think I like the lock feature if this one better, but have no experience with these... http://www.gemplers.com/product/WEB165594/Tube-Doors
That does look like a better lock. Also I like those saddle clamps. Mine are home-made from 1/4" threaded rod. I used pieces of 1/8 X 1-1/4" flat bar which bolt to the frame (there are two unused 6 MM threaded bosses on the bottom of the frame) and then span the distance to the rack. They are welded to the rack in two places; the tool tube is mounted from them. This way the tool tube closely follows the angle of the frame and pretty much matches the angle of the muffler on the opposite side. It's easier than it sounds.
Rather than attach more stuff in there I don't need, I cut and rewelded my attachment arms to bring the racks in. I think I slimmed down about three inches between the two sides (using smaller aftermarket exhaust).
Who makes the tightest fitting 800 Tiger racks ? I don't care if the exhaust side sticks out more. I hate that dead space. Thanks.
I used the Happy Trails SU rack inner utility/tool carrier system. I got a Wolfman medium size rollie and can put in all of tire/tube tools in the bag and it keeps them dry and dust free. And keeps the weight low. http://www.happy-trail.com/Happy-Trails-SU-Inner-Tool-Utility-Shelf.aspx
How securely is that attached? I like the setup, but really don't want anything that can walk away. Maybe it would be easier for them to steal from or the entire tankbag and that would keep them occupied?
quadzillabill: If you are asking how secure the tool carrier is, it is attached to the rack with three screws. As for the Rolie bag, it sits in the frame and I attach the bag with a Rok strap to keep it place. In Idaho we don't worry to much about theft! We are usually armed. Out in the mountains or in the deserts we are generally alone. Besides, the bag is not easily seen behind the pannier or the soft bags I use.
Same here. The Rotopax 3.8 Litre container would be nice to carry if nothing else to use in my wifes Ducati so we were not always thinking about fuel range.
I just ordered a pair of these for my 800XC. I was thinking that a small rolltop water proof bag could somehow get strapped in there. I like the idea of the 4" plumbers pipe, but the secure lids at 64 bucks, no thanks.
