Packs for your pack rack

[KiwiPhoenix]

As a new rider I have been doing research into accessories like tank bags, saddlebags etc but I have noticed that they are quite pricey. As I'm familiar with sewing I thought I might tackle making a pack for my packrack myself.

What I would like to know from you what are the good and bad points of the packs you have, what features so you wish you had on it and do you use a pack??

[Pixie]

I use an Oxford tank bag.Usually held on the pillion seat by bungeys through the strap eyes.
It's real useful feature is that it can expand by releasing a zip that goes around the base which allows a pleat to unfold.Internally it has four folding sides that normally sit in the base and can be pulled up to support the sides when the bag is fully expanded.These are made of stiff plastic sheet.

[Ratti]

I'd suggest using reinforced pvc. add flaps inside the zip area to help keep water out. double the base of it and add tiny hard feet to the underneath corners to keep it off th e ground when you put it down. make it big enough to fit ALL your wet weather gear into Plus a bit more room for whatever you intend to carry. small pockets on inside of main compartment to fit cell phone and charger and wallet.
Even if you go for a tank bag, add a carry strap with D rings and a really really long strap to sling it over your shoulder.

[neels]

Anything you make, keep it sort and fat to keep the weight low.

I've got panniers for my bike that were only $130 from budget motorcycles, just strap over the seat and carry 2 sleeping bags and as much booze as we can drink at a bike rally, might be worth a look before you spend a heap of time making something.

[KiwiPhoenix]

Thanks for the advice guys! I have bought myself a small tank bag, pack and saddlebags, all for the grand total of $150, not bad eh!!?? Just waiting on them arriving and then I can get them on the bike!

[neels]

So you're all geared up for a ride to the march hare then?

[KiwiPhoenix]

Yep! I'm looking forward to it.

[helenoftroy]

Anything you make, keep it sort and fat to keep the weight low.

I've got panniers for my bike that were only $130 from budget motorcycles, just strap over the seat and carry 2 sleeping bags and as much booze as we can drink at a bike rally, might be worth a look before you spend a heap of time making something.

..and room for Mrs neels make-up!!
I know cause she shares!!

Thanks for the advice guys! I have bought myself a small tank bag, pack and saddlebags, all for the grand total of $150, not bad eh!!?? Just waiting on them arriving and then I can get them on the bike!

Excellent!Bring on the Hare!

[Spuds1234]

Excellent!Bring on the Hare!

I cant find the thread anymore, but I thought you and Dangerous were bucket racing that weekend.

[helenoftroy]

I cant find the thread anymore, but I thought you and Dangerous were bucket racing that weekend.

It was a very hard choice,Its last rally till Summer for me

....but we are both going to the Hare & will go to the track for practise on the Friday,then to the rally Saturday!

[KiwiPhoenix]

It was a very hard choice,Its last rally till Summer for me

....but we are both going to the Hare & will go to the track for practise on the Friday,then to the rally Saturday!

good for you mrs!

[davebullet]

I picked up a full ventura kit (brackets and both sport and pack racks) for $90 off tardme... plus this guy sells Ventura compatible 50L packs. It fits well and seems to be sturdy enough:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...-271557057.htm

[Big Dave]

You should only ever use VENTURA products.

The only reason you need is that my picture is on the page.

http://www.dold.co.nz/Products/Ventu...ck_System.aspx

Nuff said. :-)

[KiwiPhoenix]

Cheers for that guys!