Axio Hard-Shell Backpack?

[DebK]

Anyone seen the Axio HardShell Backpacks selling anywhere in NZ?

I really like the look of the attached image of the Swift...

From www.axio-usa.com:
"Designed specifically for the sport and touring motorcycle rider, the Swift Hardpack's unique and aerodynamic shape combines aggressive design aesthetics with modern functionality. The sleek aerodynamic shape provides improved airflow over the rider while still providing over 1200 cubic inches of interior storage space. Accommodates PowerBook and PC laptop computers, PDA's, iPod and other electronic devices. Additional features include numerous compartments, zippered pockets, straps for securing personal objects and a keyring clip."

[GSVR]

I saw someone selling a hardshelled CF backpack on Trademe a few weeks back. Is the idea for it to be a back protector or what?

Go Ninja Turtles.

[bungbung]

I had a close up look at something like this in Korea. The shell is quite flimsy, it is for aerodynamics only, not for protection of you or the contents of the bag.

[bear]

Looks like it would hurt a bit if you landed on it.

[T.I.E]

i'm sorry, had to laugh at the 1200 cubic inches. wow that is massive. :killingme
it looks good but hope it is strong.
i'll stick with my givi gear.
got enough pockets in my jacket and i keep losing stuff in it.
trying to find the wallet is like doing a haka of sorts.

[DebK]

As I thought, a novelty item. My sneakers wouldn't fit in anyways. A different look, albeit a little wanky though.

What kind of rear/tail bag carriage design should I use on my new bike then? It's a Supersport style bike so I don't want to take that look away but need a pack or bag large enough to carry my gym gear and work clothes in...

[bungbung]

Without spoiling the look, a backpack is the only way really. You could fit a Ventura rack system, as the rack is easy to remove when not in use.

There are some pix at http://www.ventura-bike.com/english/products/pack_system/index.html

I have one fitted to my VTR, and normally keep the grab handle installed unless I need the rack.

[walk'n]

These or one that looked just like it were on display at the motorshow at Mystery Creek. IMO they looked small inside and (IIRC) at around $200 I thought a pack rack was a better way to go.

[bear]

As I thought, a novelty item. My sneakers wouldn't fit in anyways. A different look, albeit a little wanky though.

What kind of rear/tail bag carriage design should I use on my new bike then? It's a Supersport style bike so I don't want to take that look away but need a pack or bag large enough to carry my gym gear and work clothes in...

Ventura is the main player (only one I know of), I have one on my bike, and like takiniteasy have a grab handle to put on when not using the pack rack. Depending on the bike you get will determine how much it would alter the look of the bike - could be a practically vs. style discussion.

When going to purchase my pack rack Wgn M/C quoted me $240, but TSS was only $190 so went with TSS (that was without the grab handle $30, and exclusive of installation but it's easy enough), and TSS had some good prices on bags as well - the one I brought for $110 was $150 at Sawyers.

Pays to shop around!

[T.I.E]

givi is not cheap, pros for it were size durability weather and you can lock them. i feel safer walking away from the bike with all my gear locked into the packs.
how ever the side panniers were huge. and made the bike a bit difficult for lane splitting.
so i went with the smaller panniers and seemed to work real well. and price was even better.
as the cbr is my only real vechile weekly shopping is fun. and some passer bys have had great amusement watching me as the luggage soaked up the grocieries. to their new found amazement.
but i want to know what people think of the soft luaggage?
anyone?

[F5 Dave]

Tankbag & small tail bag or backpack if needed. Get as much weight off your person as possible, it’ll be safer & more comfortable, the weight in a backpack doubles every 25km I’m sure.

I bought some Givi soft luggage for the tourer. I looked at hard luggage but the weight that far back has to have an affect on handling. Even the mounting hardware was QE2 mass. The Givi soft is fairly good quality & expandable. I have tape permanently on the side-panels so they don’t get scratched (RF900 stick out a mile) & mount the straps under the seat & have some push clips on the pillion pegs & bags to click on.