Pannier options: bags versus boxes?

[LBD]

Hard luggage when touring two up on the GS1150 in Europe....felt bulky as does the bike, but was good and convenient

Soft throw over on the Monster when single touring, fits snugger to the bike, feels and looks less bulky and has the ability to expand from 11 to 17 litres per side and is flexable and to a point easier to stuff with gear.

[Snails pace]

I have SW-Motech Quick Lock Siderack pannier carriers with givi 41's and 52liter top box on my vstrom. All quick release leaving small lugs on the bike. Great for long distance touring as being hard plastic they can not be opened easily by light fingered types. They handled a 80kph slide landing on the left, rolling onto the top box and ending on the right hand side no problem. Only damage, besides to my pride, were a few scratches and a slightly bent pannier frame. They are wide though, so forget filtering Auckland rush hour. Since then I have added a set of Andy Strapz which fit on well. So best of both worlds. The racks i shipped in from Twisted Throttle in the USA. Was a couple of years ago and can't think of the dollars.