Top Case

Anybody have suggestions for a mid size top case for my 2011 R1200RT? The bike came with a LARGE case(49liter?) that holds two helmets which weighs 18 lbs! I'm looking for a lighter/midsize case. Thanks

My Hepco & Becker has worked well for my 1150 rt. Bought at Moto Machines.

Have you seen the BMW 28 liter top case?
https://www.bobsbmw.com/store/product/bmw-28-liter-top-case



Shad and Givi also also make good top cases.
I think you need a adapter plate if you use Shad or Givi.

$500 for a case that's smaller than the 39L Shad case AND $150 more. Just because it's got the roundel on it doesn't make it better.

pappy35 said:

$500 for a case that's smaller than the 39L Shad case AND $150 more. Just because it's got the roundel on it doesn't make it better.

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.........but, but, but, the Roundel matches the bike.

Shad or Givi is the way to go. Givi is more popular, and so there is wider availability and more accessories (such as lighting).

azgman said:

Shad or Givi is the way to go. Givi is more popular, and so there is wider availability and more accessories (such as lighting).

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Many models of Givi cases will happily allow you to close and lock the top case without a key, locking said key inside the case in the pocket of the riding gear you just tucked away safely. DAMHIKT.
Shad cases require a key in order to lock, so the key is in your hand. That right there is why I went with Shad over Givi on my K1300GT. Quality-wise, I’d rate the two brands as equal.

Best,
DG

WWeldin said:

.........but, but, but, the Roundel matches the bike.

Click to expand...

GTRider said:

Many models of Givi cases will happily allow you to close and lock the top case without a key, locking said key inside the case in the pocket of the riding gear you just tucked away safely.

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^^^ This is why I would never buy a Givi! I just know me and that would happen the day after I installed it.

I believe Admore makes lighting products for most Shad cases.

My solution to a top case is a real attention getter.







Not necessarily in a good way.

I'd vote for BMW's 28L case - excellent design and fit, and often available used instead of new. When you're finished with it, it's easily resold here in the Marketplace.

I've had both the Givi Case ('02 K1200RS) and the 28L BMW Top Box ('04 R1150RT) . GIVI is a great company and the Top Case worked just fine. But did required an adaptor plate, which makes the box sit higher than a BMW case and there is the key issue. The BMW top case fit the bike better, no adaptor plate and in my opinion is better quality top box. Having used both, I prefer the stock BMW top box.

sailorlite said:

I'd vote for BMW's 28L case - excellent design and fit, and often available used instead of new. When you're finished with it, it's easily resold here in the Marketplace.

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I got mine from local dealer with lock for $400 new
Check eBay
Previously I had a tailgunner case, required adaptor plate

Jim

GTRider said:

Many models of Givi cases will happily allow you to close and lock the top case without a key, locking said key inside the case in the pocket of the riding gear you just tucked away safely. DAMHIKT.
Shad cases require a key in order to lock, so the key is in your hand. That right there is why I went with Shad over Givi on my K1300GT. Quality-wise, I’d rate the two brands as equal.

Best,
DG

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The tumblers in the oilhead system cases can be modified (filed) in such a way that you can open the case, remove the key AND close it again without the key. I always found the red flag tab and the "key must be in the lock" setup of these cases to be a royal PIA that constantly had me looking for my keys just to get a jacket or whatever out of my cases. There is a thread on ADVRider that shows how to modify the tumblers that basically involve filing one down to match the height of the others and presto, problem solved. You do need to remember to lock them before you ride though so some sort of reminder is a good idea! It left unlocked while riding they can and will fall off.

The BMW system cases and top boxes are designed really well and fit the bike perfectly with no adaptor plates or other compromises. Yeah, they are expensive but quality costs money. As stated above, you can sell them easily when it's time to move on to another bike if the new owner won't pay the premium for system cases.

Pelican makes cases of all kinds, different sizes, light weight and affordable.

https://www.pelican.com/us/en/products/cases