7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

Posted on by admin

Table of contents

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

24 pictures

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

1/24
Conclusion BMW Vario case and Vario top case: If you don’t feel like screwing and loves a clean rear, you will find a very good and well thought-out solution.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

2/24
Clean rear thanks to inconspicuous case holder.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

3/24
The three BMW cases nestle tightly, but their volume can be expanded.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

4/24
Conclusion Touratech Zega Evo side case and Zega Pro top case: fully suitable for long-distance travel. Unfortunately, a plastic part broke during the pinch test (cardboard box between the box and the lid). Repair would be possible.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

5/24
Due to the light tube construction, the rear looks very tidy.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

6/24
The Touratech cases are available in many sizes and colors.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

7/24
Conclusion Hepco & Becker Xceed side case and Xceed top case: Very good 3rd place, close to the verdict in terms of points “very good” past. Look great, but not made for tough adventure use.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

8/24
The pannier racks are easy to remove thanks to the quick release fastener.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

9/24
The two equally large Hepco & Becker cases make the rear asymmetrical.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

10/24
Conclusion Wunderlich Extreme case set and Extreme top case: “Extremes” fits well – you can take a lot. Although they are not comfortable, they are a good choice for very tough use.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

11/24
Very sturdy made, but the assembly of the Wunderlich case requires strength.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

12/24
The rear looks like adventure – the Wunderlich cases are ready for it.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

13/24
Conclusion Givi Trekker 33 side case and TRK52N top case: The aluminum cover is more vulnerable than the robust plastic. The side cases offer little storage space, but the top case offers a lot of volume.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

14/24
The pannier racks can be removed very easily.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

15/24
The Givi topcase is huge, the side cases make the motorcycle wider on the right.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

16/24
Conclusion SW-MotechTrax ADV side case and Trax ADV topcase: SW-Motech should improve the rubber seal. Otherwise, the Trax ADV case system shows no weaknesses, shines with volume, operation and robustness. Deserved test winner.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

17/24
The carrier system can be easily removed.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

18/24
The rear of the motorcycle is the same width on both sides thanks to the different sized cases.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

19/24
Conclusion Shad SH36 side case and SH58X top case: The intended use is the classic tour. The set offers a lot of storage space and comfort, is robust and, above all, very cheap.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

20/24
The Shad case system fits many motorcycles.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

21/24
What the Shad side cases have too little in volume, the top case compensates for.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
Tobias Beyl

22/24
A short shower after all the other exertions rounds off our test procedure.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
Jorg Kunstle

23/24
Aluminum cases have a bold image, but plastic cases often offer more convenience – at a significantly lower price.

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
mps photo studio

24/24
Position of the center of gravity: 1. motorcycle; 2. with driver; 3. With driver, pillion passenger and luggage.

accesories

Luggage

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test

7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test
Luggage solutions from BMW and the accessories trade

Whether as a table, chair, stepladder or assembly stand – motorcycle pannier systems shouldn’t be too good for anything on a real adventure. We tested seven suitcase sets made of aluminum and plastic.


Tobias Beyl

02/18/2021

In this article:

  • Permitted speed with loaded suitcases
  • 1. SW MotechTrax ADV side case and Trax ADV top case
  • 2. BMW Vario case and Vario top case
  • 3. Hepco & Becker Xceed side case and Xceed top case
  • 4. Touratech Zega Evo side case and Zega Pro top case
  • 5. Wunderlich Extreme case set and Extreme top case
  • 6. Givi Trekker 33 side case and TRK52N top case
  • 7. Shad SH36 side case and SH58X top case
  • Width of the luggage sets
  • Aluminum case or plastic case?
  • Tips for driving with luggage
  • Conclusion

Pressure is the keyword, aluminum and plastic solutions have to be able to deal with it. Overpressure, underpressure, wind pressure, water pressure or simply mechanical force. But in addition to protection against wind, dust, moisture and falling over, these suitcases must have other virtues that we haven’t even talked about yet: One of them would be to offer plenty of storage space. At the same time, but not unnecessarily wide, is another one. In addition, the center of gravity should not be too high with the side cases and top case fully loaded. And since we are already on the subject of storage space and maximum load: What use is it if all the luggage fits in the suitcase, but it can only be loaded with five kilograms? Or the other way around: If the manufacturer allows 15 kilos, but a volume that is too small prevents this?

Permitted speed with loaded suitcases

And there is another manufacturer’s information that is not entirely unimportant for hobby adventurers: the travel speed permitted with luggage mounted. BMW dares the most here, lets the adventure traveler off the leash at speeds of up to 180 km / h. Others are more restrictive, limiting the top speed to 130 or even 120 km / h. In the best case, this is done out of sheer caution, in the worst case it becomes dangerous beyond these tempos. As a rule, the large GS is thankfully quite unimpressed by the load condition. Annoying commuting or other restrictions in driving characteristics are largely alien to it. Nevertheless, some tips should be heeded when fully loaded (see below).

1. SW-MotechTrax ADV side case and Trax ADV top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

SW-Motech: Thanks to the different sized cases, the rear of the motorcycle is the same width on both sides.

Topcase:

Volume: 38 liters
Weight: 4.95 kg
Dimensions: 42 x 37 x 33
Price: 350.00 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 45 liters
Weight: 5.58 kg
Dimensions: 54 x 30 x 38
Price in the set: 980.00 euros

Case right:

Volume: 37 liters
Weight: 5.29 kg
Dimensions: 54 x 26 x 38
Price: see case on the left

Material case: aluminum; Material support system: steel

Payload: 10/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 130 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 103 cm; Total price: 1560 euros

Huge storage space; Attaching and removing all cases is very easy; one-handed operation; Side case folds forward and can be completely removed; Suitcases are easy to stack; very stable and robust; Case and top case are easy to carry; Adventure helmet fits in top case; Test baggage can be easily stowed away; Pannier racks can be easily removed thanks to the Quicklock system

No luggage net provided; slightly high center of gravity; all three suitcases minimally leaking

Conclusion: SW-Motech should touch up the rubber seal. Otherwise, the Trax ADV case system shows no weaknesses, shines with volume, operation and robustness. And is a deserved test winner.

2. BMW Vario case and Vario top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

BMW: The three cases nestle tightly, but their volume can be expanded.

Topcase:

Volume: 25-35 liters
Weight: 6.95 kg
Dimensions: 47 x 38 x 29–35
Price: from 457.50 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 30-39 liters
Weight: 6.80 kg
Dimensions: 48 x 31–37 x 37
Price: 355.00 euros

Case right:

Volume: 20-29 liters
Dimensions: 48 x 31–37 x 37
Weight: 6.88 kg
Price: 355.00 euros

Material case: plastic; Material support system: stainless steel

Payload: 5/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 180 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 84–95 cm; Total price: 1,528 euros

Carrier system placed very inconspicuously on the vehicle; Case very stable; very small vehicle width with suitcases thanks to the narrow and symmetrical design; The volume of suitcases and top cases can be expanded by around nine liters by simply turning a lever; Handles; color coding of the controls; low center of gravity on motorcycle; Adventure helmet fits in top case

Test baggage already strongly exhausts the available volume; high weight; right suitcase tips over on the floor; Loading a bit awkward

Conclusion: Anyone who does not feel like screwing, loves a clean rear end or simply wants to stay true to the white and blue brand on the whole motorcycle will find a very good and well thought-out solution in the Vario cases.

3. Hepco & Becker Xceed side case and Xceed top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

Hepco & Becker: The pannier racks are easy to remove thanks to the quick release.

Topcase:

Volume: 45 liters
Weight: 5.43 kg
Dimensions: 50 x 40 x 35
Price: 389.00 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 38 liters
Weight: 4.99 kg
Dimensions: 52 x 30 x 39
Price: 389.00 euros

Case right:

Volume: 38 liters
Dimensions: 52 x 30 x 39
Weight: 4.96 kg
Price: 389.00 euros

Material case: aluminum; Material support system: steel

Payload: 5/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 130 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 102 cm; Total price: 1632 euros

Luggage nets in all suitcase lids; Lid can be folded back and forth and is completely removable; Adventure helmet fits in top case; Test baggage can be easily stowed away; Suitcases are relatively light; very firm connections between suitcases and luggage carriers; practical handles on all suitcases; Case carrier with quick release system

The rear of the motorcycle is wider on the right side; The side walls and lids of the cases could be more stable; Case can only be stacked moderately; The shape of the suitcase takes away some storage space

Conclusion: A very good third place, but very close to the verdict in terms of points “very good” past. The Xceed cases look great, but they are not made for very tough adventure use.

4. Touratech Zega Evo side case and Zega Pro top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

The Touratech cases are available in many sizes and colors.

Topcase:

Volume: 38 liters
Weight: 5.43 kg
Dimensions: 41 x 35 x 34
Price: 379.00 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 38 liters
Weight: 4.80 kg
Dimensions: 52 x 29 x 41
Price: 399.00 euros

Case right:

Volume: 31 liters
Dimensions: 52 x 25 x 41
Weight: 4.51 kg
Price: 399.00 euros

Material case: aluminum; Material support system: stainless steel

Payload: 5/15/15 kg; permitted maximum speed: 130 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 98 cm; Total price: 1,578 euros

Very light carrier system; extremely stable case made of 1.5 mm thick aluminum sheet; very high quality workmanship; comfortable handles on the side cases; One-handed operation for removing; Side case can be used on both sides; Adventure helmet fits in top case; Test baggage can be stowed away easily; anodized surfaces; waterproof

Due to the design, a plastic part on the closure broke during our endurance test; Top case is a bit wobbly; no luggage net included in the lid

Conclusion: The Zega boxes from Touratech are fully suitable for long-distance travel. Unfortunately, a plastic part broke during a simple pinch test (cardboard box between box and lid). The repair would be possible.

5. Wunderlich Extreme case set and Extreme top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

Wunderlich: Made very sturdy, but the assembly of the cases requires strength.

Topcase:

Volume: 40 liters
Weight: 5.14 kg
Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 36
Price: 279.90 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 45 liters
Weight: 6.80 kg
Dimensions: 50 x 32 x 41
Price as a pair: 729.00 euros

Case right:

Volume: 40 liters
Dimensions: 50 x 30 x 41
Weight: 6.90 kg
Price: see case on the left

Material case: aluminum; Material support system: steel

Payload: 5/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 130 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 101 cm; Total price: 1451 euros

Luggage nets in all suitcase lids; Lid on side cases can be folded back and forth and is completely removable; sturdy wire rope keeps the lid tilted; Adventure helmet fits in top case; Test baggage can be stowed away easily; Lashing eyes; extremely resistant

Case attached via knurled wheel; The topcase is uneven on the floor due to the fastening mechanism; The lock on the topcase is not correctly aligned; difficult to carry as there are no handles; relatively difficult; (Dis) assembly of the top case takes a lot of effort; Sharp-edged topcase holder

Conclusion: The name “Extremes” goes well with the cases from Wunderlich: you can put a lot in your pocket. Although they are not comfortable, they are still a good choice for very tough use.

6. Givi Trekker 33 side case and TRK52N top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

Givi: The top case is huge, the side cases make the motorcycle wider on the right.

Topcase:

Volume: 52 liters
Weight: 5.33 kg
Dimensions: 59 x 46 x 31
Price: 319.99 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 33 liters
Weight: 5.40 kg
Dimensions: 53 x 24 x 42
Price as a pair: 595.99 euros

Case right:

Volume: 33 liters
Weight: 5.40 kg
Dimensions: 53 x 24 x 42
Price: see case on the left

Material case: plastic; Material support system: steel

Payload: 10/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 120 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 92 cm; Total price: 1304 euros

Stable plastic construction; The side case can be opened completely or only in the upper third; integrated elastic bands; Top case holds two helmets; practical handle; The top case can be easily removed

Turn signals must be moved to mount the carrier system; Sealing rubber in side cases slips out of the holder, making the case slightly leaky; protruding handles make it difficult to attach additional luggage; lack of resilience; Dents in the aluminum panels; asymmetrical stern; Case triple-locked

Conclusion: Ironically, the aluminum bezel is more vulnerable than the sturdy plastic from which the cases are made. The side cases offer little storage space, but the top case offers a lot of volume.

7. Shad SH36 side case and SH58X top case


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

The Shad case system fits many motorcycles.

Topcase:

Volume: 46–58 liters
Weight: 5.53 kg
Dimensions: 61 x 48 x 28–33
Price: 299.00 euros

Case on the left:

Volume: 40 liters
Weight: 3.76 kg
Dimensions: 51 x 33 x 39
Price as a pair: 356.90 euros

Case right:

Volume: 40 liters
Weight: 3.79 kg
Dimensions: 51 x 33 x 39
Price: see case on the left

Material case: plastic; Material support system: steel

Payload: 10/10/10 kg; permitted maximum speed: 120 km / h; Vehicle width with two suitcases: 114 cm; Total price: 901 euros

Three-stage volume adjustment in the top case (46, 52, 58 liters); an adventure helmet fits in the middle position, two helmets fit in the top case in the largest volume extension; very stable despite plastic construction; Topcase very easy to (dis) assemble; Suitcases hold very stably on the pannier racks; Full face helmet fits in side case

Side case minimally leaking; Suitcases are difficult to open with gloves; the volume in the side cases is insufficient for the test baggage; Loading of the side case is cumbersome due to uneven sides; Side case assembly laborious; asymmetrical stern

Conclusion: The purpose of the Shad suitcase is not the adventure trip, but the classic tour. It offers a lot of storage space and comfort, is robust despite its plastic construction and, above all, very cheap.

Width of the luggage sets

Let’s come back to the subject of width: A boxer engine like this is already comparatively wide at around 75 centimeters. At 95 centimeters, the widest point on the 1250 GS is the handlebar. It is precisely these 95 centimeters that the case set offered by BMW requires in terms of overall width – at least if you want to use the entire volume of the Vario case. Adjustable inside with a handle, they can be reduced by around nine liters and five centimeters. Then the width at the rear of the BMW shrinks to a manageable 84 centimeters. Other test candidates place much less value on such a slim line: With a wingspan of 114 centimeters, the cases from Shad hold back the least. On the other hand, with 138 liters, they also offer the largest storage volume in the test and are also the cheapest at just over 900 euros for the complete set.

Of course, compromises have to be accepted here. Not in terms of comfort. However, as far as the bold image is concerned – the cuboid aluminum boxes score here, even if this is ultimately a superficial, purely external assessment; because in terms of robustness, the plastic cases can take a lot, in some situations they are even the better choice overall. Incidentally, we did not consider soft luggage bags at all for this test, as these cannot protect the luggage inside if it falls over. With all boxer boxes tested here, however, you can be sure: They can take a lot away and take a lot.

Aluminum case or plastic case?


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


Jorg Kunstle

Aluminum cases have a bold image, but plastic cases often offer more convenience – at a significantly lower price.

Motorcycle adventurers who could fall in remote areas are better served with aluminum cases. “Relevant” The experiences of world travelers prove this when, for example, in the middle of the desert, the battered boxes had to be straightened out again. But the bold image and appearance of the aluminum case also plays a role for normal travelers. Plastic cases are more likely to be conservative and less solid. The latter is not true. Smaller falls on sand or grass can also cope with plastic boxes. However, if it falls on stone or asphalt, plastic is prone to breakage and is difficult to repair. Often, however, an improvisational solution is sufficient. At first, aluminum only bends, but tears if too much force is applied. And aluminum welding is not possible everywhere. So buyers do not only pay attention to the appearance, but also to comfort and price / performance.

Tips for driving with luggage

The lavish luggage system in our test offers a volume of 138 liters. Even if you don’t exhaust it and stick to the load limits specified by the manufacturer, you can quickly add a lot of extra weight. This mainly affects the rear wheel and has an impact on driving behavior. You have to take this into account when driving. It is best to take countermeasures beforehand.


7 case systems for the BMW R 1250 GS put to the test


mps photo studio

Position of the center of gravity: 1. motorcycle; 2. with driver; 3. With driver, pillion passenger and luggage.

Recommended measures: Increase the spring preload (the rear is raised as a result) and – if the shock absorber allows it – also set the compression and rebound stages tighter. In addition, if possible, adjust the tire pressure (values ​​should be listed in the driver’s manual of the respective motorcycle). A plus of 0.2 to 0.3 bar is usually sufficient at the front, around 3 bar is appropriate at the rear. Then check the slack of the drive chain and adjust if necessary. A chain that is too tight will stress the transmission output. Finally, make a test drive before the tour is fully loaded.

Conclusion

SW-Motech leaves the ring as the winner. Significantly responsible for this: the stability, weight and storage space of the robust aluminum case. With a less adventurous attitude, the plastic cases from the BMW original accessories secure second place and also the grade “very good”. They appeal with their slim design, variable volumes and inconspicuous carrier system.

Hepco follow closely behind & Becker and Touratech at first “good” Places. But even their performance is still very impressive at the end of the day. The sheer size of the shad top case is also impressive. Measured against the low set price, well below 1000 euros, the pack-happy GS rider gets real added value, which is worth a purchase tip for us.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *