custom mini "saddlebags" for V7 II

[SportsterDoc]

Started a Mini saddle bags project this evening

Goal
1.   Easy off, including brackets
2.   Compact, not wider than mufflers, retain naked bike appearance, as much as practical
3.   Low cost
4.   Carry small items:  Seal N Air, compact foot pump, plug kit, water bottles, night (clear) goggles, etc.

Prepare frame - done
A hole to clear an 8 mm bolt already exits adjacent to the 8mm bolt which secures fender to rear frame.
Tap hole 10mm-1.5mm to add 10 mm button head stainless steel bolt (uses same 6 mm Allen as 8 millimeter cap bolt).
Mock max size with cardboard to establish maximum size of 11 in horizontal, 8 in vertical and 6 in deep (528 cu or 8.6 liters)

When I go to shop (CA), next week:
Fab bracket of 2-3 in wide strap
Drill mounting holes on 7/8 center, to clear 8mm and 10mm bolts
Drill and tap strap for 2-3 6mm holes to secure case

Purchase case
Drill matching holes to strap
Mount with stainless steel fender washers inside case with 6mm button head stainless steel screws, long enough for lock nuts behind strap, in additon to threaded strap.

Case selection
Like this one (no handle), but would prefer slightly larger
http://www.casesbysource.com/product/versacase-408-ultrabox-waterproof-case-v408

Case suggestions welcome

[tris]

Until I got the B11 which came with luggage I ran Kappa K21 (cheaper badge engineered version of Givi E21) top loading panniers

Designed for Givi Wingracks but maybe modifiable to mount as per your sketch

[SportsterDoc]

If my shop has suitable flat strap, it will only take a few minutes to fab the brackets.
I need to stop calling it my shop, since I officially retired the end of February, but I have one more trip, next week, for acceptance of a dual robot sorting project which has been in the works a long time.

If no stock on hand, then McMaster.com part 8975K68 is 6061 aluminum 2 1/2 wide, 1/4 thick and 24 inches long...more than enough for 2 for $11.37.

To maximize the space, I am focusing on a Pelican 1170 for each side.   Can be ordered fro $36.28 each from Home Depot, with no shipping for store pickup.
Dimensional comparison attached.

Total investment, exuding fasteners, which I already have, is < $90





http://www.pelicancases.com/Pelican-1170-P74.aspx

[Lannis]

Sounds like a good and useful project.   Bikes are always more "usable" and therefore more fun when you have the stuff along you need to get going (or get comfortable).

The old 30's roadburners (Matchless X, Brough-Superior) had small leather cases in the pannier position on each side, for just such reasons.

Lannis

[SportsterDoc]

Bracket template is complete and fasteners assembled.