Luggage System/ Panniers advice please?

[Roadrunner]

So I've just ordered a R1200 GS (my first adventure bike) and I'll be taking delivery in three weeks. I'm very happy with my spec choices so far but I'm wrestling over which Luggage System/ Panniers to choose.

It's between BMW Vario Cases (and top box) and Metal Mule Panniers (and top box) both sets have their merits but I'd really love to hear experienced opinions.

A little about me: I'm very much still a rookie, I've have my licence three years now and I ride every day (I've covered about 24,000 miles) and in all weather. I currently ride a sports bike (that I'm keeping mainly for track) and my GS is going to be my daily commuter as well as my tourer (My partner may ride pillion on day trips sometimes).

I plan to keep a top box on most of the time to carry my bag and store my helmet etc when shopping (also for small supermarket stops) and 'visiting'. I plan on doing my first tours also and I'll mostly be camping, trying to learn to pack light and well in the luggage system as well as carry a tent and sleeping bag. I'll be going away (solo) for long weekends and up to 10 days.

The BMW Vairo cases seem an attractive option as they're made to fit the bike perfectly, share the same keys as the bike ignition and when removed leave the bike without the added bulk and weight of the 'scaffold' type frame a Metal mule (or similar) system adds. The 'expanding' feature on the vario cases appear really
useful too! The downside is that I'm unsure whether I like the idea of side loading panniers (are they harder to pack and close when full, does everything come spilling out easily when they're opened?)and they don't have any extra tie down lops on the top. Also they seem a bit unbalanced and useless to sit on or use as a table when camping.

The Metal Mule cases seems very well built (and popular for a reason), I like the sturdiness and the apparent tested reliability the offer. They's probably make good, sturdy seats and table whilst camping and They make well be better and easier to pack than the BMW cases. Although the mounting frames add unnecessary weight to the bike when they're not carrying panniers, they'll no doubt offer great extra protection. Also, they have very handy top ties.

As for top boxes, perhaps a metal mule (or similar) would be too 'boxy' and clunky for every day use compared to an expanding vario box?

I suppose another option would be to go with a Vario top box for every day use and add Metal Mule panniers for touring..

I've love to hear any view on (or experiences of) the above. What solutions are you using?

Thanks Folks

[Philiptigerrice]

(Sorry - tangent question: How long is it taking from ordering to delivery for your new GS?)

[Emf#53]

I've got an 800GS with Vario panniers and top box. The top box lives on the bike for everyday use - I like the fact it expands or contracts depending on how much 'stuff' you need to put in it. The panniers are only used if I'm going away somewhere and again, depending on how much 'stuff' I've got they can be either 'large' or 'small'.

I've never tried the metal style panniers where everything sits on top of everything else but I find the way the Vario panniers open are great because you can almost split your packing in two as mine has straps to hold stuff in each side of the case.

If you decide to go down the metal panniers route then have a look at Ard cases - good price and the bloke will make them to your spec if you want extra tie down points etc - I've heard lots of good things about them on here.

http://ardcases.co.uk

[Ourdavid]

Have a look at the Baumot kit from Adventure Bike Warehouse, I've got it on my GS and it looks and is quality.

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M

[Roadrunner]

About four weeks

[nevsey]

I can certainly recommend Ard cases, Roger has just made me a pair. Lovely piece of kit. He will make whatever size you want.

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[misterlaffer]

I use the varios, they came free with the bike on a deal at the time. If I had the money I would buy Jesse panniers. That said I have been pleased with the Varios, they are sturdy enough and work well. I like the fact you have a single key all around the bike. The expandable nature of the Varios make them attractive as they fit well with the bike without stupid gaps either side that folks go on and fill up with tule tubes etc. However, the exhaust side is limited in size when not expanded so I end up with that side expanded all of the time. I've also built a flat compartment section to seal off the wrap around the exhaust, and pack items I hope not to use in there e.g spare bulbs, gloves and first aid kit, keeps them isolated and tucked away from every day use.

A lot depends on how often you use panniers. Mine only ever get used once or twice a year on a trip away, so they are stored away most of the year, this is why I can't justify spending a grand plus on another system. Take a look at the Jesses. I like them coz they fit around the bike, and close to the frame. Also, when off the bike the fixings are discreet and don't ruin the look of the bike.

As for top box, I think the LC GS Vario top box is bigger than mine, but check you can get a helmet in cos it's a tight squeeze on mine. Personally I cable lock my helmet to the outside of the bike when off the bike. I've never seen the point in carrying an empty top box for the purpose of storing a helmet.

Other downsides of the Varios are their weight. They are heavy, you should compare the weight with other systems, and they have a habit of going out of shape and sticking or getting dirt inside the mechanism and jamming on expansion.

Good luck with the new bike !!

[AndyB]

If I was looking to buy a new set of panniers the last thing I'd do would be buy something from the manufacturer of the bike. Go for one of the aftermarket options then you can either fit them to a different bike very easily or just sell them and the more bikes they fit the higher the resale value.

There's a massive choice out there and the only thing I'd insist on would be welded seams if I was buying aluminium ones.

It still bugs me that when I bought my 1190 part of the deal was the bike came with KTM luggage because I didn't want it then and I still don't want it now but the dealer said the price was the same whether I had the luggage or not :pinch:

[johnnyboxer]

I'd have the Vario's over everything else, for the reasons stated

Just use pannier inner bags and all your stuff will stay clean, dry and not fall out when you open the lid

[misterlaffer]

If I was looking to buy a new set of panniers the last thing I'd do would be buy something from the manufacturer of the bike. Go for one of the aftermarket options then you can either fit them to a different bike very easily or just sell them and the more bikes they fit the higher the resale value.

On the whole I would agree with this, but there is a limit to what you can buy e.g. do they make mounts for your bike. With a GS I think you are sorted as there are most mount systems available. Also if you are riding off road where the chance to drop the bike is greater I think it would be easier to break the plastic mounts on the Varios.

In balance the benefit for buying an OEM pannier system like the Vario is the single key aspect e.g. the ignition key works all around the bike (not an issue if you have ordered the keyless ignition system though), and an OEM pannier system fits the bike well e.g. the Vario's leave little behind when taken off the bike. Personally, I would struggle with putting those ugly tin-can metal mule jobs on a shiny new GS unless I was doing a RTW. Parked outside the local bike cafe or the local Spar you'll have folks ask - "how was Africa then mate" But for quality and robustness there is no doubt they would be better.

Have a look at the Givi Outback - aluminium jobs - my mate has on his V-Strom. Great quality, loads of extras e.g. inner bags, outer bags and linings. I was quite impressed.