Replacement topbox query

[Ais4Andy]

Hi all, apologies if this has already been asked but if it has I've not found it... My 2015 CR has the smaller 31L genuine Honda topbox which is really only big enough to get my lunch in. I am trying to establish whether or not the larger 45L genuine Honda topbox will go straight on or if I have to replace the mounting plate as well. I have spoken to 2 Honda dealers & have received 2 different answers! Strangely enough Honda list the larger topbox at a lower price than their smaller option?! It seems that they don't actually come with the locking catch or cylinder barrel either. They are available for additional cost! Seems it might be cheaper to go down the Givi route.

Any input is appreciated.
Many thanks.

[tiggy]

Hi, not sure any help, but mine came with the 45 litre box after I negotiated the upgrade at purchase, my box takes two Arai Quantum's and some space for our lunch!
I think the base plate was different but call Farnham Honda on 01252 891800, the guys there know all about them. As regards the locks, they did all that too as I believe the bikes originally come with 3 box locks, hence the one key fits all. I would assume the lock and catch could be transferred to the new box, should you go with the Honda box. Good luck.

[Skids]

Originally Posted by Ais4Andy

Hi all, apologies if this has already been asked but if it has I've not found it... My 2015 CR has the smaller 31L genuine Honda topbox which is really only big enough to get my lunch in. I am trying to establish whether or not the larger 45L genuine Honda topbox will go straight on or if I have to replace the mounting plate as well. I have spoken to 2 Honda dealers & have received 2 different answers! Strangely enough Honda list the larger topbox at a lower price than their smaller option?! It seems that they don't actually come with the locking catch or cylinder barrel either. They are available for additional cost! Seems it might be cheaper to go down the Givi route.

Any input is appreciated.
Many thanks.

I have both boxes, the small one on my Crossrunner, the large one on my 1200F. They are not interchangeable without a swapping the mounting plate at the same time.

Sorry.

[Greenie]

Originally Posted by Ais4Andy

My 2015 CR has the smaller 31L genuine Honda topbox which is really only big enough to get my lunch in.

Wow sounds like you have a healthy appetite just like me!

 

I agree the small top box isn't great for commuting I just use mine for putting my helmet in at fuel stops and have fitted Givi V35 panniers to carry my gear to work.

It is a bit more stable than a heavily laden top box too.

 

[Ais4Andy]

That's interesting Greenie. So you've got the Honda 31L top box but with Givi Panniers? Can I ask, how do the panniers fit with the original Honda rails then? Im assuming you need some kind of mounting kit. Have you got any pics?

[Greenie]

You need the Givi rack which cost me around £190 from an eBay dealer called nativeviking and the V35 cases which cost me around £240 from the same dealer.

The rails fitted easily apart from moving the indicators back using the supplied brackets.

Don't ask exactly how I did it, but it took me a couple of hours as I had to dismantle the rear fender to get at the backs of the indicators.

The rails are great as they can be removed in seconds with the supplied tool so don't spoil the looks of the bike when the cases are not on.

It was much cheaper than the Honda cases and I believe they carry more too. The only downsides I can see are that they are not colour matched and you have to carry a separate key for them.

 

[JohnG]

Have to agree with you Greenie regarding moving the Indicators as part of fitting Givi Pannier Frames. I had the same job for the Givi Outback Trekker Frames that I have, though mine aren't easily removable. Moving the indicators took far longer than the whole of the rest of the job if you want to keep things neat.

[Skids]

Originally Posted by Greenie

The rails are great as they can be removed in seconds with the supplied tool so don't spoil the looks of the bike when the cases are not on.

Those rails look like they're bolted on (3rd photo) so how do they come off in seconds?

Whilst the 31l box is small, I can fit my work clothes and lunch in there plus a spare pair of gloves which is all I usually need. Anything else gets strapped to the rear seat. I wouldn't contemplate fitting panniers for my commute as there is usually a lot of filtering involved and whilst the bars are wide enough, at least I can see those and whether they are likely to hit something whereas the panniers are out of sight. If I was touring on the 800X, it would be a different matter.

[Greenie]

Originally Posted by Skids

Those rails look like they're bolted on (3rd photo) so how do they come off in seconds?

Whilst the 31l box is small, I can fit my work clothes and lunch in there plus a spare pair of gloves which is all I usually need. Anything else gets strapped to the rear seat. I wouldn't contemplate fitting panniers for my commute as there is usually a lot of filtering involved and whilst the bars are wide enough, at least I can see those and whether they are likely to hit something whereas the panniers are out of sight. If I was touring on the 800X, it would be a different matter.

You remove the panniers with the key then on the rails use the Givi tool supplied to turn the four quick lock attachments each side and lift the rails off. The attachment points (modified bolts really) remain on the bike but are pretty unobtrusive. A tool is provided with the rails for this.

I don't have a problem filtering as the panniers are no wider than the handlebars and below the height of most wing mirrors etc. and as I have to carry quite a lot some times they work well for me.

I tried strapping gear to the seat but as I am short in the leg I found it hard to get my leg over the bag.

I also considered a larger top box but experience has shown me it is a lot more stable to mount heavier loads lower and equally on each side.

If the top box is large enough for your needs, cool, saves you £450 and the faff of fitting panniers.

 

[Ais4Andy]

Thanks for that Greenie. Got something to think about now...

Cheers Andy