Rookie wanna-be weldor starting to make some cool things!

Thanks, David!

More progress on the F800GS...



I change the lower, outer bevel from a 3" cutaway to a 2". I'm still tweaking things as I go trying to improve the quality and overall look of things.



I bend a 45 for the exhaust cut-out and check for fit...





That should look quite decent. Me likey!

...and I try to make little improvements each and every time. This time around I upgrade what I have been using for mounts...



...and I ordered a "puck" mounting kit for 5/8" tube from Happy Trails. It's a quality set up for a decent price. Until I have the ability to machine my own, this is what I will use. This is a nice upgrade.

I should be able to fire up the TIG tomorrow. Working 6) 12 hours days this week is kicking my butt! I've been trying to slip into the garage for at least two hours each evening, but I'm regretting it when the alarm clock goes off!

I've been considering my upper mount. I was spoiled with the Jesse mounts. This is similar to what I am making for the bags, just one per bag on the top of the hoop.



I think you will like these better as they will simplify alignment, and allow the operator to move the bags forward and back a couple inches!

Jim

I think so, too. You came 2 jobs too early to get them. Sorry about that.

I'm just trying to do the best quality I can for the money involved. I'm big on "bang for the buck" (re - KLR ) so I keep trying to "up" my game so to speak.

No worries at all! I got a great deal on my bags, and being a beta tester is the bane of the BMW owner!

Seriously, when I come to a final solution I will share it with you. Might be useful!

Jim

Can you use that enamel on bags too? I suppose it doesn't chip like powder coating, right?


Those bags look incredible!

THAT looks Awesome!

Don't kill yourself on my account! (Although I'm not gonna lie, I was certainly not disappointed to see the updates )

Thanks! I don't know how durable the paint would be on the bags. Nowhere near a durable as powder, that's for sure. Personally, I'd leave 'em raw or powdercoat them. I don't think I'd paint the bags if it were me. Of course, that's just my opinion.

We're getting there! Glad U like it!

I'm trying to get you knocked out so you can enjoy some of this pretty weather we've been having.

I bought a set of those from HT as well for the bags I bought in the FM and mounted on my KLR. They do a nice job and are very secure.

Agree on powder coating the bags themselves. I've never had a problem with chipping due to normal road debris. It's very durable.

Good looking PIAAs!

My lovely assistant helps model the left pannier. I have such a good wife!

If you can find a female to put up with your nonsense, you should do your best to hang onto her.



Flanges purposely bent long to trim out the radius for the gasket.



Gettin' closer to the finish line. Maybe more to see tomorrow...

You really can't beat a custom set like this! Looks great Kirk! Your polish is getting very glossy!

Jim

Thanks, Jim!

Looking forward to spending time in that shop! I estimate about 15-30 days until it will happen. You've heard it a thousand times, good work!

How does this stuff keep getting better and better?

Amazing.

I cannot wait to see these in person! What is it looking like the total width is going to be?

Thanks, I was worried that they were going to be way too big. I am happy with how they turned out and the amount of light they give off. I used the "Autoswitch" which lets you control them by holding down the turn signal button which I think is really cool. It confuses me as to why they would put the solid PIAA logo on the cover in the direct path of the light beam though Might end up buying some generic mesh covers.

Now back to your regularly scheduled welding program.

wow! this is something I have been thinking of doing, though I would be starting from ground zero. Kirk, you are an inspiration. I just read the first page of this thread, and then skipped to the last page. What a difference! Your stuff looked good to start with, but those aluminum panniers are gorgeous!

Good work!

Got some of the basic ones in yesterday and was blown away.....
With the black finish they almost look to purty to put on my well used KLR

Thanks Kirk!

WOW! Thanks, guys! I appreciate all the nice comments!

I feel like Steve Martin in the Jerk - I think I found my special purpose. Heheheh!!!