Case systems for BMW F 800 GS

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Case systems for BMW F 800 GS
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Case systems for BMW F 800 GS

Practical test: case systems for BMW F 800 GS
Luggage systems for the travel enduro

Buying a suitcase – a difficult case. Because every rider has different priorities, different standards apply to every motorcycle. This test clarifies which system the BMW F 800 GS drives best.

Thorsten Dentges

08/30/2012


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Luggage systems for the travel enduro.

You could send these things to Mars. Or let a storm sweep over them in the wind tunnel or snuck under them at a depth of 40 meters. Spill corrosive chemicals on in the laboratory, differentiate wall thicknesses to the nearest nanometer. You could. But what matters is on the pitch, and the pitch is the street, and the game is called touring. So a practical test: city, country (street) and freeway with free flow, to test the driving behavior with suitcases at higher speeds, because some manufacturer information is just as unrealistic as a Mars mission. Five kilos payload? Not faster than 110 km / h? Ridiculous. Nobody adheres to that anyway, but the provider is fine with product liability. And because the BMW F 800 GS with 21-inch front wheel, correct studded tires and a bearable 220 kilos live weight can mill quite well over winding paths, a pinch of off-road garnishes the suitcase sample. At this point, a bit of adulation for the GS is allowed: 86 PS allow over 200 km / h, more than enough for fast stages, on country roads and mountain routes, the economical two-cylinder machine dances with a stable track, but still agile around the corner, an almost perfect all-rounder.

Naturally, this also calls for many different types of drivers. The majority can call themselves “tourists” with a clear conscience; Because whether it’s a short trip to the Alps or a long-distance trip to the desert, the 800 is hardly ever used only for after-work hours. The suitcases should also be designed to be accordingly versatile and fully suitable for travel – they should be able to hold a lot of luggage, but not restrict the formidable driving characteristics too much. The suitcase providers were therefore asked to select what they thought were the best systems (a topcase that had a rather unfavorable effect on the driving dynamics of this machine was therefore dispensed with). But one thing is clear: if you want to go around the world with your machine, storage space is more important than anything and you remove the largest boxes from the range. So the difficulty was to find the best compromise for this bike, to choose the right strategy when choosing the boxes. Pleasing: none of the tested case systems restricted the handling characteristics of the GS, the agility on the country road remained at an estimated 80 to 90 percent despite the load, and annoying commuting did not occur until a speed of 150, depending on the system. The differences in the drive-through width were greater: from 95 centimeters (BMW Vario reduced) to almost 117 centimeters for the Louis suitcases. More than 20 centimeters wider, that can be quite annoying in traffic jams or when driving through parked cars.

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Except for BMW and Touratech suitcase providers rely on quick-release systems for the carriers (Lock-it at Hepco & Becker and Krauser, PLR5103 at Givi and Quicklock at SW-Motech, Moto-Detail and Shad). Advantages: The sometimes quite bulky straps can be dismantled in a few seconds, then no longer bother the eye, and at least you lose between three and five kilos in no time at all. Except for the Givi system (4.5 kilos), however, the complete high-speed systems weigh a lot, sometimes over six kilos. The tightly screwed-on brackets for the BMW Vario cases weigh only three kilos and fit so inconspicuously to the machine that the question of regular dismantling does not even arise. The question of “aluminum or plastic” is more likely to present suitcase buyers with decision-making difficulties. And it is also difficult to estimate which packing volume you actually need for everyday touring. For the test, MOTORRAD selected standard equipment for a multi-day trip: casual shoes, clothes, spare gloves, thermal lining, as well as sleeping bags, tools, chain spray, electronic devices, books, maps and other small items. Everything fits in a 65 liter bag. But not in each of the tested case systems, although none undercuts the 65 liters. If, as with the BMW Varios, the suitcases are tailored to the motorcycle and less for optimal use of space, that explains itself. Then perhaps it is better to rely on systems that offer enough space for your own luggage. One last tip for all strategic considerations: Even if a test drive is not possible at the dealer – sample packing is always possible.

BMW Vario


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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BMW Vario.

Provider: BMW Motorrad, phone 0 89/1 25 01 62 00, www.bmw-motorrad.de; System price: 890 euros; Weight (carrier): 3.2 kg; Weight (case): left 5.9 kg, right 6.2 kg; Packing volume: left up to 29 l, right up to 38 l; Country of manufacture: Spain

plus
Carrier system placed very inconspicuously on the vehicle, remarkably light and stable; variable drive-through width (105 cm, can be reduced by approx. 11 cm) is an advantage for regular city trips; Control elements are color-coded and arranged in an understandable way, good carrying handles; optional: universal ignition and luggage system key; robust plastic construction, very torsion-resistant

minus
Insufficient space for test standard packaging; slight water leaks; Plastic surfaces very sensitive to scratches, rubber bottom stoppers loosened several times during the test, resulting in additional leaks; From 160 km / h noticeable tendency to swing

Conclusion
In practice, the original cases fall slightly short of (high) expectations: the usable packing volume is too small, too restless at high speeds, and there are also slight leaks. But externally, the Varios harmonize best with the motorcycle, so it is worth considering a purchase.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

BMW aluminum


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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BMW aluminum.

Provider: BMW Motorrad, phone 0 89/1 25 01 62 00, www.bmw-motorrad.de; System price: 1170 euros; Weight (carrier): 4.4 kg; Weight (case): left 5.7 kg, right 6.1 kg; Packing volume: left 38 l, right 44 l; Country of manufacture: Germany

plus
Loosely accommodates a full-face helmet in the right case, as a top loader with a completely detachable lid, overall great comfort and space utilization when filling, swallowed test baggage easily; fixed floor stand, sensibly placed lashing eyes; robust, high-quality cases, locks designed for durability; Stainless steel carrier finely processed; Drive-through width (109 cm) comparatively good

minus
Right case leaking in the wetness test; without handles, loss of comfort in hotel / guesthouse tourism; Handling when attaching and removing the cases is moderate; high system weight; slight tendency to swing from 160 km / h, medium power around 180 km / h; expensive purchase

Conclusion
The expensive aluminum version from the BMW accessories program leaves a very solid and well thought-out impression – ready for great adventures. However, one suitcase failed in the wetness test, and the somewhat complicated handling of the suitcase (locks instead of hinges, no handles) did not please every tester.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

GIVI E36NJ


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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GIVI E36NJ.

Provider: Givi Germany, phone 09 11/95 51 00, www.givi.de; System price: 502 euros; Weight (carrier): 4.5 kg (of which 3.3 kg can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left and right 3.1 kg each; Packing volume: left and right 36 l each; Country of manufacture: Italy

plus
Comparatively light straps with a well-functioning quick release system (PLR5103); good usable packing volume, test baggage fit easily, normal full-face helmet (size M / L) can be included; easy handling of closures; absolutely waterproof; very little tendency to swing even over 180 km / h; tough, high-quality plastic; Drive-through width (110 cm) okay

minus
Relatively complex mounting, the screws supplied from the upper bracket do not fit (but the original screws can be used); shaky stand on the ground; Lids close more often when packing – annoying; Stability carrier system only mediocre

Conclusion
Almost unchanged on the market for what feels like an eternity and still (or perhaps because of it) a great, proven system: light, comfortable, solid. And above all: inexpensive. Without a lot of frills, the very practical plastic givis score points on the test podium. The “golf” among suitcases.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

GIVI Trekker 33


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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GIVI Trekker 33.

Provider: Givi Germany, phone 09 11/95 51 00, www.givi.de; System price: 788 euros; Weight (carrier): 4.5 kg (of which 3.3 kg can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left and right 5.1 kg each; Packing volume: left and right 33 l each; Country of manufacture: Italy

plus
Quick release carrier system (PLR5103) fully practical; robust and very rigid construction of the case, scratch-resistant, tough plastics; waterproof; good stand when parking; Split lid allows quick and easy access to luggage when on tour, if suitcases are attached to the motorcycle; good passage width (104 cm); solid key

minus
Stability carrier system only mediocre; Test baggage did not fit and loading of the suitcase was a bit tricky because, for example, textile items easily get caught in the grip area, full-face helmet cannot be accommodated; noticeable tendency to swing from 160 km / h

Conclusion
Don’t be fooled: the eye-catching aluminum bezels only serve as make-up. Nevertheless, the plastic cases are recommended as very robust and stable. However, they lack a little storage space for long tours, and a full-face helmet does not fit either. Smart boxes for short trips.

MOTRAD verdict: good

Hepco & Becker XPlorer


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Hepco & Becker XPlorer.

Provider: Hepco & Becker, phone 0 63 31/1 45 31 00, www.hepco-becker.de; Price: 820 euros; Weight (carrier): 5.6 kg (4.1 kg of which can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left 4.8 kg, right 5.4 kg; Packing volume: left 30 l, right 40 l; Country of manufacture: Germany

plus
Locks and catches snap in well and are easy to use, practical carrying handles; very usable storage volume, test loading with test baggage without complaints, full-face helmet fits easily into the right box, well positioned lashing eyes for extra packing rolls; up to top speed (200 km / h) hardly noticeable tendency to pendulum; absolutely waterproof; very decent workmanship and quality

minus
Too high (breakable) plastic content for off-road adventures; dainty keys inspire little confidence; Drive-through width (approx. 112 cm) in city traffic and in traffic jams marginal

Conclusion
The high-quality aluminum boxes with plastic fittings from Germany offer a great compromise between everyday life, adventure and excursion. As an all-rounder without major weaknesses, the Xplorer therefore won the test. No specials, but the price is fair compared to the competition.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Krauser Alu Basic


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Krauser Alu Basic.

Provider: Krauser, phone 0 63 31/15 32 50, www. krauser.de; Price: 873 euros; Weight (carrier): 6.3 kg (4.8 kg of which can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left 5.8 kg, right 6.4 kg; Packing volume: left 35 l, right 40 l; Country of manufacture: Germany

plus
Full metal case built to be extremely stable, repairs are also possible without a specialist workshop, making it suitable for long-distance travel; very good standing on the ground, easily accessible lashing eyes, stable, rubberized carrying handles; good space, convenient packing because top loader and cuboid volume without edges, full-face helmet (size M / L) fits tightly; neatly processed

minus
Handling awkward when loosening the case on the right (small distance to motorcycle fairing); not waterproof in the wetness test; heaviest suitcase in the test, build wide (113 cm), from 160 km / h tendency to swing, cumbersome in comparison on handling routes and off-road

Conclusion
Should you send into the desert – but not because the Krauser boxes are useless, on the contrary: The rustic, but also somewhat heavy aluminum boxes can take a lot, and falls off-road do not have to mean the end of the trip. Weak in the wet test, otherwise a tip for globetrotters.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Moto-Detail case 42 L


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Moto-Detail case 42 L.

Provider: Louis, Telephone 0 40/73 41 93 60, www.louis.de; Price: 419.80 euros; Weight (carrier): 6.7 kg (3.1 kg of which can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left and right 3.0 kg; Packing volume: left and right 42 l; Country of manufacture: China

plus
Locks and keys work perfectly, the cases can be clicked into place quickly and easily on the carriers, practical and large handles; adequately usable packing volume, full-face helmet can be stowed away stress-free; lightest suitcase set in the test field

minus
Sharp-edged, jamming case locks are a nuisance in everyday life and when traveling; thin-walled plastic very soft, unstable construction with slack plastic hinges; Low leakage in the wetness test, sling cords quickly get stuck in the lid (capillary effect, risk of additional water ingress); sometimes sudden heavy swinging from 150 km / h; enormous drive-through width (117 cm)

Conclusion
Last in the test equal to loser? No, not really, because the Louis house-brand suitcases manufactured by the specialist Shad cost only 80 euros each. This makes minor annoyances easier to digest. With the recommended Quicklock straps, they definitely fulfill their purpose for occasional tourists.

MOTORRAD verdict: Satisfactory

Shad SH43


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Shad SH43.

Provider: Niemann + Frey, Telephone 0 21 51/55 54 20, www.niemann-frey.de; Price: 599.80 euros; Weight (carrier): 6.7 kg (3.7 kg of which can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left and right 3.7 kg; Packing volume: left and right 43 l; Country of manufacture: China

plus
Locks and keys flawless, easy handling when attaching the suitcase to the carrier; Sufficiently large storage space, standard test luggage or a full-face helmet can be conveniently stowed away; light weight of the suitcase; Reflectors; Practical straps with click fasteners in suitcases

minus
Minor leaks in the wetness test; sometimes sudden moderate pendulum swing from 150 km / h, on the handling route and off-road, in comparison, greater losses in driving dynamics; Suitcase stability is still acceptable, but at a low level; build very wide (116 cm)

Conclusion
The bottom line is that the Shad suitcases win the duel against the almost identical Moto Detail boxes because they are designed to be a little more stable. But 600 euros is too much money for the only very mediocre plastic parts, which you cannot fully rely on in wind and weather. But suitable for short trips.

MOTRAD verdict: Satisfactory

SW-Motech Trax Evo


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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SW-Motech Trax Evo.

Provider: SW-Motech, phone 0 64 25/81 68 00, www.sw- motech.de; Price: 854.95 euros; Weight (carrier): 6.1 kg (3.1 kg of which can be removed quickly); Weight (case): left 4.8 kg, right 5.2 kg; Packing volume: left 37 l, right 45 l; Country of manufacture: Germany

plus
Pleasant packing due to top loader, enough space even for larger equipment, normal full-face helmet (size M / L) just fits in the 45 liter box on the right, good lashing options for additional packing rolls; solid construction; even above 180 km / h hardly noticeable tendency to pendulum; Drive-through width (110 cm) okay; Quicklock carrier system stable and proven

minus
Locks and keys miserable (hooked, fiddly, key broken off even with little force), bend locking plates; Processing sometimes very home-made, sometimes sharp-edged areas; Case without handles, handling only moderate, slightly leaking

Conclusion
The sexy, but relatively expensive aluminum boxes leave a mixed impression. On the one hand with a good packing volume apparently designed for long adventure tours, on the other hand cheap locks, poor keys and minor processing defects do not fit into the picture of an otherwise great system.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Touratech Zega Pro And-S


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Touratech Zega Pro And-S.

Provider: Touratech, phone 0 77 28/92 79 06, www.toura tech.de; Price: 909 euros; Weight (carrier): 4.0 kg; Weight (case): left 4.8 kg, right 5.1 kg; Packing volume: left 31 l, right 38 l; Country of manufacture: Germany

plus
Very stable, well-made, relatively light carrier system, cases can be attached without play, overall the most robust unit in the test comparison; very high-quality aluminum sheets, well thought-out, robust construction, fully suitable for long-distance travel; There is space for test baggage, can be packed well as a top loader, and has a firm stand on the floor

minus
Full-face helmet cannot be accommodated; slight tendency to swing from 160 km / h; no carrying handles, connection of suitcases to carriers via knurled wheel inside the suitcase, attaching fully loaded suitcases annoying, especially when the suitcases are to be brought to the room; a suitcase leaks slightly in the wetness test; expensive

Conclusion
In order not to impair the driving dynamics too much, Touratech recommends rather narrow cases (passage width 107 cm). Unfortunately, this eliminates the need for a locker for a full-face helmet. The noble boxes are less suitable for everyday life and hotel trips than for long-distance trips to the farthest corners of the world.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

The final score


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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The final scoring table: * 100 to 80 points = very good; 79 to 66 points = good; 65 to 50 points = satisfactory; 49 to 35 points = sufficient; 34 to 0 points = unsatisfactory ** for a tested complete system with carriers and cases.

All carriers in the test are sufficiently stable, easy to assemble (for hobby screwdrivers, depending on the system, can be done in one to two hours) and function perfectly. Also gratifying: none of the tested cases weakened seriously, only the Shad and almost identical Moto-Detail boxes are qualitatively inferior to the competition. But they do their job properly when they are driving. However, it is incomprehensible why such cheap toy keys and sometimes hooked locks are used in comparatively expensive systems (Hepco, Krauser, SW-Motech). You use them regularly in practice, right? Dear manufacturers, do not save money at the wrong end! In the end, the top-loading aluminum boxes are ahead – square (well, almost), practical (undisputed), good (because they are consistently very stable). The inexpensive evergreen plastic box from Givi does surprisingly well – second place, and therefore certainly the first choice for bargain hunters.

Driving with luggage


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Attention: With suitcases and the like, the behavior of the motorcycle changes.

On the daily commute to work everything was still okay – now the load behaves bitchy on tour. No wonder, because the case system plus spartan holiday equipment can easily weigh over 30 kilos. Will there still be a pillion passenger? Oha. The rear suspension and tires are particularly challenged, after all, the geometrical data of the motorcycle change considerably. When loaded, the center of gravity is higher up and to the rear (see graphic: 1 motorcycle only, 2 with driver, 3 with driver and luggage). Up to two thirds of the total weight then rests on the rear wheel.

This changes the balance considerably, and braking stability and steering precision suffer. Recommended countermeasures: 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, adjust tire pressure as far as possible (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 in the drive chain and adjust if necessary; a chain that is too tight will stress the gearbox output. Finally, make a test drive before the tour is fully loaded. Let’s go – then certainly safer.

This is how motorcycle tests


Case systems for BMW F 800 GS


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Assembly of the carrier systems: consistently also feasible for laypeople. But it got stuck during dismantling – some screws could only be tackled with heavy equipment.

Carrier system (20 points): The main emphasis of this rating is on stability, fit and workmanship. Long assembly times (over an hour) or incomprehensible installation instructions led to point deductions. In addition, the total weight, the handling of any quick-release fasteners and the weight savings due to quickly removable parts were evaluated.

Suitcase (50 points): Quality, workmanship and stability (material, construction) also played a major role here. However, the overall handling and weight of the suitcases as well as their usable packing volume were proportionally a bit more important. An identical test pack (15 kilograms, complete equipment for a weekend trip) served as a benchmark, and at least one full-face helmet should be able to be securely locked in an empty box. In the wetness test, each suitcase was exposed to a jet of steam (comparable to heavy rain at a moderate motorway speed) for two minutes each; there were minus points for leaks.

Driving test (30 points): In city traffic, the focus was on the smallest possible drive-through width, on the motorway at speeds over 150 km / h on the lowest possible tendency to commute. The approximately 100-kilometer test lap provided information about the driving behavior with a load, including on a mountain route with many tight alternating curves and a short off-road section (testing of handling when the rear end erupts, vibration resistance, overall agility, etc.).

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