Luggage

(last update: 2004)

a. Top Case

No doubt, it's a necessity for both city moving and trips because it can contain everything from tools to clothes an helmets. It is durable and waterproof. Fortunately, TA is really made to easily accept this accessory, even the biggest ones (50-52lt). HONDA doesn't recommend loading the back of the motorcycle more than 9 Kg. However, this very conservative limit is related to bike stability only, not to the mechanical strength of the support system. Of course, you have to drive much more carefully when exceeding this limit.
Do not count too much on top case security. They are easily forced open, even without using special tools.
Some manufacturers: GIVI, NONFANGO, KAPPA, SHAD (NADSA), HEPCO & BECKER, KRAUSER et al. Be careful to see the adapter plate included in the total cost. Painted models are the more expensive ones. Some of the widely used top cases are the following (see images below):

• NONFANGO 848 and 852. The latter is the largest in the market (52 Lt net volume) and, according to me, the nicest one. Aerodynamically designed, it easily accepts two full face helmets placed in upright or sideways. It has a disadvantage over the GIVI 50 Lt model: when overfilled, it tends to bend slightly on the two sides (a temporary effect). Additionally, it often doesn't fit absolutely firmly on the adapter plate, so you can hear the result of this "loose" connection when driving on potholes or on dirt. However, you don't have to fear of this. The much cheaper 848 has a net capacity of 48 Lt, it accepts two full face helmets placed sideways and it's more "stable" than the 852.
• GIVI Maxia (50 Lt). I don't have direct experience from this model, however I suspect it exhibits the same "steadiness" problem. You better check before buying.

         

If you often carry a passenger, it would be nice - and safer - to obtain the special cushion for the top-case. In this way, you will also have a happy  and relaxed passenger even at the longest trips. You don't need it if she/he uses a kidney belt - back protector or a similar device incorporated in the jacket.

b. Side hard cases or soft bags?

Soft bags are cheaper and they have larger capacity due to their flexible nature. They don't tend to detach if accidentally get in touch with other vehicles or obstacles. They do not need an expensive mounting plate (only some sort of space to keep them away from the side plastic covers and exhaust).
On the other side, they can be more easily opened. Mounting and dismounting of the motorcycle can't be so easy due to the belts and cords needed for securing them on the vehicle.

      
Mounting plates for GIVI and side/top luggage (image on the left), for NONFANGO side/top luggage (right image). Right picture doesn't show the new turning lights that is necessary to be installed. NONFANGO also needs two additional support rods not shown in the picture.

Hard cases are somewhat more secure and they are loaded / unloaded easily. On the other side, their support plates (see images above) increase total cost and they don't fit easily to this motorcycle. The original turning light must be replaced with new ones in a different location. In NONFANGO system, toolbox is not accessible anymore, the same applies to helmet lock. Similar problem exists with the GIVI WingRack, at least with the helmet lock.
If you choose the triplex WingRack on the last (Italian made) TA, you have to say goodbye to the D-lock (shackle) socket of this motorcycle. If you decide to install the NONFANGO system, their turning light support need to be trimmed in order to leave shackle socket operating as before.
All those accessories are really durable and crash resistant when the bike hits the ground. However their lock on mounting plate tends to break when crashing on obstacles above ground. You need a lot of practice in traffic before attempting a trip at the first time. I feel like driving a car when I use them and this is the worst impact on me, as I hate cars !