HF - Apache Case for v85tt

[guzziart]

Hi All,
I'm giving some thought to installing a Harbor Freight - Apache Hard Case to the tail rack of my '23 Travel.  I like the idea of adding 24L - 38L of low profile weather proof storage for $40-$60.  A friend of mine installed one on his CT125.  I was wondering if anyone here has installed one on their v85. 
Thanks,
Art

[someguy]

I did a Pelican hard case on my KTM 625smc. I fabricated some slide retainers and used a cabinet lock to hold it in place rather than fully bolting down. It worked well and wasn't terribly hard to do if you are handy.
Sorry I don't have any pics. It was years ago. I really did like the feature of being able to quick and easy remove the case even though it wasn't so secure it could not be stolen. I figured if they wanted it that bad I couldn't keep them from just using a sawzall and cutting the case open anyways.

[izzuG]

I did what you are thinking of, it worked fine.  I just found that I wanted more depth so I added a top box instead. I bolted mine down for piece of mind.

[LuftGansa]

I did also.  That sort of box can take a hit better than the official ones. 

[rocker59]

Years ago, I bolted a small Storm Case on the rear rack of my Ducati E900. 

If you don't need quick disconnect, using a Pelican-type case is an affordable and secure way to add a top case.

[guzziart]

Hi,

Thanks for the quick responses! 

Hey izzuG....Do you recall what size case you installed?  HF has a large (3800) and extra large (4800), idk if the model number refers to size but the large is about 24 liters and the extra large is about 38 liters.  Also, I like your Eldo!  I've got one of those chrome rear fender protectors too but never installed it due to interference with the rear rack,

Art

[MGrego]

I have a pelican case on my V11.  It's great, tough and watertight.  I just used U-bolts to secure it to the rack.  I found a bag made to fit the interior and I just put all my overnight stuff in there and carry it in like a suitcase.

[Brand X]

I have been doing it for years. Latest is the Vault Boxes from Pelican,and C-bow mounts .. I have used the Givi rings,Alumimum style for quick release on certain boxes.You can get just the bow side/female for mounting any bow
you like..Rotopax is nice on the rear box top..

[TOMB]

I have the 2800 model on my Convert.
I felt that this size was the best choice for my needs.
I also  find the size and scale works as I don't get any bufiting or side push when large Trucks pass.
TOMB

[Moparnut72]

There are side cases on Ebay that are quite inexpensive. I bought a pair 2 or 3 years ago, they are $72.50 a pair. They are light yet pretty tough and are like Givi cases. I used the CBow mounts and the female bracket to mount them. I am very happy with them especially at the price.  I have a stupid Chrome Book, even though I finally figured out how to save a link I still haven't figured out how to insert it.  The easiest way to find them is to search for Segway Hard Cases being sold by InterstateBlue.
kk

[izzuG]

I had the 3800 on mine.

My Eldo had the tabs for the rear rack removed by the previous owner, so no interference issues for me.

[guzziart]

I had the 3800 on mine.

My Eldo had the tabs for the rear rack removed by the previous owner, so no interference issues for me.

Thanks All!

[guzziart]

So, I bought the HF Apache 3800 and installed it on my v85.  I mounted the case on a 10" x 15" x 1/8" aluminum plate I bought for $20 at the Metal Superstore, then mounted that assembly on to the rear rack after removing the plastic foo-foo Xplate.  Mounting to the rack required shimming up about 0.410" at the four L-tabs to slightly clear the tubular portion of the rack.  I'm in hopes that those four tabs are strong enough to handle no more than the 10-12lbs of crap that I may carry in the case.  The whole thing cost me less that $100 and about 4 hours of my time, if I was 30 years younger I coulda done it in an hour!  Also, I removed the case carry handle and two side latches, their hinge pins are easily driven out from the opposite end of the pin having knurling. The $60 HF Appache case is better engineered & constructed than the hard cases that came on the Travel, imho.
Art