To pack rack or not to pack rack?

[mangell6]

I thought I'd rather use that than my tank bag so my tank doesn't get scratched and I wouldn't use it if I was going on a big trip.
...snip...

You will notice a difference with no tank bag as they deflect the wind. It is a bit cooler.

[vifferman]

Now that I have both a packrack/backpack (well, two of them) and a tankbag, I'd have to say that while the tankbag is better for the bike's handling, the backpack is much less hassle - much easier to get on and off the bike. So, I'll probably use the tankbag only when I need extra luggage space.

[Biff]

Pack racks = fugly
Pack racks = practical

Therefore:

Packrack= decision (fugly, paractical)

Basic maffs innit.

[Sniper]

Basic maffs innit.

But maff's innit needed today. Keep it Real

[ManDownUnder]

I say try the thing out. Put it on and see how it suits, take it off if it doesn't...

It'd be a bit different if you didn't already have one.
MDU

[pritch]

I just tried a new packrack on a trip to Auckland and back and have to report the bike was more effected by sidewinds than previously. Not dangerously so, but definitely noticeable.

Much more comfortable than a backpack though.

[SPman]

What make is that pack SP??.....

Standard Ventura zip together Aero pack.Looks a bit off, but, really practical and no worse than a pillion on the back.

[Holy Roller]

I'd go for a set of saddle bags.
Carry more than a pack and weight is kept low.
They don't have to be flash - Borrow some kids paper delivery sacks if you cant find any thing else.
Above all enjoy your trip

[scumdog]

I thought I'd rather use that than my tank bag so my tank doesn't get scratched and I wouldn't use it if I was going on a big trip. I won't be carrying great amounts but, a change of clothes and some books.

I was just curious as to what others opinions were.

A big point is to have the pack facing forwards (over the back seat) so that wind resistance and centre of gravity is not changed too much.

[Matt Bleck]

I had a pack rack on me ZXR 750 and loved it.

But always had mates saying "pack rack, death trap!".

They reckon that if I came off, I'd get caught up in it and be dragged along with the bike etc.

I still used it, cause I didn't plan on coming off.

Sorry to be a negative nelly, but it's food for thought.

[Bonez]

I'd go for a set of saddle bags.
Carry more than a pack and weight is kept low.
They don't have to be flash - Borrow some kids paper delivery sacks if you cant find any thing else.
Above all enjoy your trip

Tis an idea but soft saddle bags really need a bracket fitted each side to stop them rubbing on the shocks or rear wheel.

[johnsf1980]

Does anyone know if I can fix soft luggage like a pack onto a Givi Monorack? My Bandit has a Givi rack but I dont like the look of topboxes and am wondering if I can use a pack without having to get rid of the Givi rack?

[inlinefour]

I have a pack rack for my bike and I've never used it but, I was wondering what the merits of attaching it would be.

I ride a 250 and do sometimes do day rides but at the moment I do a 50km round trip 4 days a week, most of it is ridden on the MW and I wonder how much wind resistance the pack rack would/could create, the wind really knocks my little bike around.

Personally I'd stick one on my runnabout (TT), but never consider putting it on the CBR as it'll upset the handling of the bike. I'm unsure if I can actually put one on the TT as it is rather narrow, but I'd like to get my mits on one if they fit. I usually wear a backpack and it'd be nice to have the frame to put it on instead as I use a pack all the time. Really depends on the pros & cons. I'd say it'll be noticeable with the wind and maybe a pack on our backs is a bit safer?

[kels]

I have a pack rack for my bike and I've never used it .

Hey Celtic...would you like to sell it? As I am looking for one for my CBR.

[Lou Girardin]

Does anyone know if I can fix soft luggage like a pack onto a Givi Monorack? My Bandit has a Givi rack but I dont like the look of topboxes and am wondering if I can use a pack without having to get rid of the Givi rack?

You could fit a tail pack to that rack, there's various types; Oxford, Ventura, Givi, Pacsafe.

CSL should also consider a Givi top box. They're little, if any, more expensive than a Ventura set-up, but they have the advantage of being waterproof and reasonably theft proof.
Rubber matting will protect your paint from tankbags too.