Bandit luggage.

[HWal]

I have recently bought a Bandit 1200 K4 2004 model, naked version. The bike will be used quite a bit for touring, and I am considering fitting the GIVI PL523 sidecase rack on it. The reason for choosing this one is that I would like a rack that does not influence the looks of the bike more than necessary. I would even like to have it removed during the commuting periods.

What I don't like on the PL523 is the protrusions for the turning lights.

Any ideas for a better arrangement for the lights with this rack on? Is it necessary to remove the existing turning lights to get the rack on?

Thanks,
Helge.

[ridenclimb]

Hi Helge,

I have a 2001 Bandit 1200S and have the PL523 rack on my bike.  I purchased it used a couple years ago along with a set of E41 cases.  The previous owner did not like the look of the protruding turn signals either and cut off the mounting brackets for the turn signals.  He instead mounted shorter signals in the original location.  

When I put the rack on the OEM turn signals interfered with mounting the hard bags.  I went out and puchased some shorter ones and they work fine.  Be aware though that this solution does sacrifice a little in the way of visibiliity.

The rack can be attached or removed in about ten minutes  but I pretty much leave it on all the time except for a few track days here and there.

I also purchased a set of E21 cases since they are more practical for everyday use.  The E41's are good for long trips when you need to pack a lot of stuff.  They are also great when you are going someplace and want to change clothes and lock up your leathers.  I can fit my jacket, riding pants and boots into the E41's and walk away in normal street attire which is great.

Being able to lock the bags and being waterproof are big pluses when you are touring.

My bike has over 50k miles on it.  Tours taken include one cross country trip 11k miles, three trips to GA/NC/TN from CT which were around 3k each.  Trip to Nova Scotia.  A few weekenders to NH/VT.  And the most recent one was a trip to VA for 2 track days at VIR and then 4 days of riding around WV afterwards.

Anything specific or if you want some pics of the bags on my bike let me know.

David

[HWal]

Thanks for the good advice David,

I will order a PL523 this weekend. Also I will cut off the turn signal protrusions right away when i get it. I am a bit in the dark as to where I can get a couple of shorter signal lights, so a suggestion of a good dealer would be welcome. I live in Norway so I will depend on a dealer with an internet shop.

Helge.

[Red01]

There's a lot of options in aftermarket turn signals. Emgo, Lockhart-Phillips, MoTrax, etc.