I like the looks of this

http://a1276.g.akamai.net/7/1276/734/3d5cb4b00a0f66/resource.harley-davidson.com/media/images/productphotos/PNA/53655_04_L_1db02.jpg

But the bracket to put in on with the solo seat is $100, the tour pak is $650 and the backrest is another $90.

Are there any other similar after market options out there. I saw a cheaper tourpak that was made to hook on a luggage rack but I like how this one works as a backrest for a solo seat.

That is kind of catchy, Erica...by chance, do they have some pics of it from a different angle? I'd like to see it a little farther away or from behind...and they'll get you on the cost of brackets every time...they know they got you with those things...can't make it work without them! By the way, I saw the picture you posted with your new Mustang solo! That looks good with the yellow!

That picture is from the online catalog. I will look and see if I can find another picture somewhere.

Planning a 10 day trip next August. Up to Sturgis and then back down through Wyoming and Colorado. At this point I am thinking of not packing any socks or underwear and just buying new ones at Wal-Mart when I get up there. Not sure how I can carry everything.

why buy any at all

There's a t-bag manf. that for the life of me I can't remember that might fit your needs. Someone will know or you can google it. Totally different style though. They sell roll bags of different sizes. The medium and large get good reviews as back supports.

Grrr...found it in my favorites. Damn I have to organize them...

Anyway, not sure you're interested in these KC but it is an alternative:

http://www.bikersfriend.com/

Erica, that side pocket will hold a couple of pair of undies on that bag GOTWA recommended! Or you can do what us grungy guys do...turn them puppies inside out and get an extra day outta them! sorry...I read that somewhere! :D

I like the looks of this

http://a1276.g.akamai.net/7/1276/734/3d5cb4b00a0f66/resource.harley-davidson.com/media/images/productphotos/PNA/53655_04_L_1db02.jpg

But the bracket to put in on with the solo seat is $100, the tour pak is $650 and the backrest is another $90.

Are there any other similar after market options out there. I saw a cheaper tourpak that was made to hook on a luggage rack but I like how this one works as a backrest for a solo seat.

Dayum! You could just get a regular backrest for your seat and a detachable sissy bar set up and luggage rack and a T-Bag for less than that! LOL

I have made the trip to Sturgis and Biketober Feast from Detroit, Michigan on 2004 883C. I used a bag that mounts to my sissy bar. It is 22H X 16W and 11D. The name of the bag is the Nylon Cruiser II and it is made by www.tourmaster.com. It cost about 160.00 bucks. It has wheel and handle so it is easy to get in and out of hotel rooms. Just thought it might work for you. There will be laundry mats in Sturgis to clean your clothes. Be very careful on your way to Sturgis I ran in to storm on my way out that carried 60 MPH winds. Sorry if you already know the above information, I thought you might find it useful.

Did the 5 day K.C. run packed a tourmaster sissybar bag, saddlebags and a dowco rallypack. never did laundry, never ran out of clean clothes and packed WAY too much stuff, with carefull packing you would be amazed at what you can get in one of those. 5 days of clothes (5 pr. jeans, undies, socks t-shirts) raingear, tools, camping gear, air mattress, sleeping bag, tent, ground cloth ect...

and sportour.com has the best price on tourmaster gear.

Dayum! You could just get a regular backrest for your seat and a detachable sissy bar set up and luggage rack and a T-Bag for less than that! LOL

Kath, was it you who said you were looking at a T-Bag and posted a link to a website that sells them in a post a few weeks ago? I just ask because I found just about the same thing on Ebay for 1/2 the price, just bought one myself.

I habe a backrest and rack.
On the rack I have a rack bag. On a long trip if have an H-D "roller bag" which is a suitcase (soft) with wheels and an extending handle, like any airline case. It slips over the backrest and sits on the pasenger pillion and has 4 straps to hold it it place.

It is great. I didn't even thrown my saddlebags on

I'll try to get a photo some day, but you can see it on the H-D web site.

Another thing some folks hereabouts do is to ship a box to your destination ahead of time, then ship the dirtys (or clean- go to a laundromat) back before returning.

Also, get some of the quick-dry clothes. You can wash them in a sink and they'll dry in a few hours. (overnight)

This is what I just got, a t-bag for the sissy bar. Best part to me is that it's cheap, aparantly (hopefully) good quality leather, and has straps so it can be a backpack. Ideal for my weekend outings.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/New-Motorcycle-Leather-Sissy-T-Bar-Travel-Rucksack-Bag_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ35557QQitemZ4582043 141QQrdZ1

The Givi top boxes are a lot cheaper and hold more than the tour pak. And unlike a T-bag, they are waterproof and they lock. The disdavantage is that they don't make a specific-fit rack for the Sportster. However, to make a mount, you basically have to bolt a metal plate to a rack.

http://www.giviusa.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=show_page&page_id=3

For the king of badass top boxes, try Jesse Luggage Systems.

http://www.jesseluggage.com/topbox.html

Pricey, but my personal favorites.

I have the tour pak setup on my bike. I had to drill different holes cause the backrest pushed me toward the handlebars too much. I love it. It has a lot of room in it. By the way, I have the studded version to match my seat and also the backrest pad comes with it in most cases. I got mine off ebay for alot cheaper than the Moco and it was brand new too. I'll try to post some pics later if you like?

I would love to see some pictures.

I'll try to post some pics later if you like?

I'll see if I can figure it out when I get home this evening.

KCSG, you've already got lots of great advice.

My wife has saddlebags and the detachable luggage rack, to which she adds a Tourmaster tail bag and honestly, she had enough room to pack for a week of winter riding and STILL have space left for gifts, tools and other stuff.

Saddlebags, plus a p-pad, detachable backrest and luggage rack would give you the MOST room... cause you could do a T-bag AND a duffle bag on the p-pad... or dual duffle bags one on luggage rack, one on p-pad. That would probably be a pretty cheap option.

I've got a JC whitney top box that a bud sold me for $30... you could probably get something like that and rig it up to a detachable luggage rack... that could possibly be the cheapest option

The HD top boxes MIGHT be neat, but they're definitely pricey.

Here's Jenn's set up..I've posted this pic before...

http://www.gigabikes.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10081/SportyBagsmll.jpg

This is what I just got, a t-bag for the sissy bar. Best part to me is that it's cheap, aparantly (hopefully) good quality leather, and has straps so it can be a backpack. Ideal for my weekend outings.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/New-Motorcycle-Leather-Sissy-T-Bar-Travel-Rucksack-Bag_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ35557QQitemZ4582043 141QQrdZ1

That is the same T-bag that I was thinking of getting ($49.95 + $18.00 shipping)

http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/22001121/Images/sb1.jpg

I don't want a sissy bar on my bike when not traveling with this T-bag, so I thought about getting the following parts to mount the bag on ... and then just remove all of it when not traveling:

Detachable Chrome Sideplates for '04-Later XL Models
P/N 53913- 04
MSRP $129.95
$101.34 from Zanotti

Docking Hardware for Detachable Sideplates
P/N 53529- 04
MSRP $34.95
$27.25 from Zanotti

Chrome Tall Sissy Bar Upright for '04 XL models with Detachable Sideplates
(Chrome-plated for use with Detachable Sideplates P/N 53913-04)
P/N 53552- 81A
MSRP $89.95
$70.15 from Zanotti

hmm, I think relocating my rear turn signals will give me the most options. These are the bags I have on now:
http://home.swbell.net/tjstack/dsc00750.jpg

If I move the turn signals I can put on bigger saddle bags and if I throw on a luggage rack or p-pad I can strap a bag on the top of it like Kev showed in this pic http://www.gigabikes.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10081/SportyBagsmll.jpg

The person I am going with has an E-Glide so maybe I can stuff some things in his tourpak.

i got the detachable side plates with med/low sissy bar.

i used the same type of tour bag that breggie posted, and it worked nicely

That is the same T-bag that I was thinking of getting ($49.95 + $18.00 shipping)

http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/22001121/Images/sb1.jpg

I don't want a sissy bar on my bike when not traveling with this T-bag, so I thought about getting the following parts to mount the bag on ... and then just remove all of it when not traveling:

Detachable Chrome Sideplates for '04-Later XL Models
P/N 53913- 04
MSRP $129.95
$101.34 from Zanotti

Docking Hardware for Detachable Sideplates
P/N 53529- 04
MSRP $34.95
$27.25 from Zanotti

Chrome Tall Sissy Bar Upright for '04 XL models with Detachable Sideplates
(Chrome-plated for use with Detachable Sideplates P/N 53913-04)
P/N 53552- 81A
MSRP $89.95
$70.15 from Zanotti

That's pretty much exactly what I got except for a different sissy bar. When you put the docking hardware on note that the bolts/nuts with it are locking hardware. The nuts won't go on the bolts very far which is normal. I had trouble with this and kinda felt foolish when I returned to the parts counter at the dealer to inquire about why the nuts wouldn't fit!

KCSG... want to hear the embarrassing part about that trip...

I mean, we packed for a week on the road, plus all the tools I needed to do the break-in service on Jenn's bike, cause there was only about 500 miles on it when we left (and over 2k when we came back)...

and I've got these HUGE saddlebags, plus a big old waterproof duffel bag on my back seat.

And when we were packing, I had to ask Jenn to take some of MY CRAP in her bags...:doh


Anyway, yes, relocating the signals will give you a lot of options for BIG bags on the side...

We love the detachable rack... as a matter of fact the bags don't touch anything on her bike but the detachable rack and the saddlebags supports... they don't contact the fender anywhere.

Of course, we'll be replacing them soon enough with a set of Leatherlyke hard bags.. well, as soon as we can afford em... but we're keeping the luggage rack and she can always throw on the tail bag.

I think costs were around... uhhh let me check...

Luggage rack and detachable hardware - around $180
HD turnsignal relocation kit - around $55
HD saddlebag supports - around $90
Tourmaster bag - about $100 with shipping

of course, we didn't actually PAY for any of that since we had a $1k coupon...

and her saddlebags which were pricey ($200, cause they were imported from England) but they were off her BMW so they were already paid for anyway...

I'm sure you could go a little cheaper with a bolt-to-the fender luggage rack and aftermarket supports.

The HD turnsignal kit was a good one though, I like it even though you do have to cut and recrimp the wires.

All in all it only took an hour or two to install.

K

Here's a bolt-on rack in the classifieds... shipped for $60...

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/modules.php?name=Classified&file=viewarticle&id=608

Thanks for pointing this out Kev. I bought it. Good deal!


Here's a bolt-on rack in the classifieds... shipped for $60...

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/modules.php?name=Classified&file=viewarticle&id=608

KC gal, the bikersfreind bags work perfect with that rack.

Do I need to get a sissy bar to push the bag up against or will it work good if I just strap the bag down onto the rack?


KC gal, the bikersfreind bags work perfect with that rack.

If you look in my gallery there a few pics. I use the straps around the shock, and the bungees around the rear turn signals. Doesnt move much at all. Look at there web site to see how people strap them on. Alot of different ways. And with one of those small cable lock, I lock it to the rack. I have a XL, its great for taking alot of stuff, but I wish I got the med. So it would look better for everyday use.

What I like about the tourmaster stuff (like Jenn's bag) is that it full of features....

1. Multiple pockets for quick access items.
2. Subtle scotchlite reflective striping.
3. Rain cover for complete waterproofness.
4. Hidden, retractable, built-in bungee straps.
5. Protective rubber bottom to keep from scratching anything (some people CLAIM you can put it right on the tins, not that I would).

Kev,

Is this the bag your wife has?
http://www.sporttour.com/luggage/tour_master/deluxe_tail_bag.htm

Kev,

Is this the bag your wife has?
http://www.sporttour.com/luggage/tour_master/deluxe_tail_bag.htm


Nope... close though...

Jenn has this one cause she liked the look a little better... I think they're about the same size though... they're both claimed to be 30L capactiy. Might be a subtle difference in the pockets or something besides the slight difference in shape/style.

I'll say, we're VERY happy with the quality and attention to detail!

http://www.sporttour.com/luggage/cortech/tail-bag.htm

KC - here is my low budget tourer:

Nylon rack bag ($60 ??), nylon throwover saddlebags ($199) (requires no bracket), liberally sprayed with Scotchguard. H-D roller bag ($209) that slides over the backrest and has 4 straps with quick-release buckles.

Tons of room.

http://www.dustyjacket.com/mc/bagger_1.jpg


Without the baggage (old picture)
http://www.dustyjacket.com/mc/sporty_02.jpg

kuyakyn grantour bag. can't say enough about it. holds a TON of stuff, lots of pockets, enough straps and tiedown points for just about anyone's scoot, and makes a pretty comfy backrest to boot. $170 from the company, but check ebay.

I found this setup on JC Whitney's site and thought I would pass it along. I'm not sure what it would look like on a sporty, but for the price it's probably worth a try if your intersted. Besides, it probably would not be too hard to resell if it does not look right.

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-VehicleBrowse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2002500/showCustom-0/p-2002500/N-200730435+111+2003+600002992/c-10111

59.99 at J C Whitney.com

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/medium/Travel_trunk0121.jpg

Comes off with a key and a push of a button with a carry handle
I have a rack.
http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/showCustom-0/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2002510/c-10111/Nty-1/p-2002510/Ntx-mode+matchallpartial/N-10111/tf-Browse/s-10101/Ntk-AllTextSearchGroup?Ntt=trunk

:tour

Erica,

Where did you get the saddlebags you have on your sporty in the above pics?

thanks,
Eric

KC,

I bought the detachable bracket and hardware for the $140, then went to eBay and got a "tourpak" wannabe for another $140. It has the backrest padding and mounts over the passenger section of the seat. If you are interested I can dig up the guy who has the tourpak.
Whole setup cost me less than half the HD setup and looks like the real thing. The detachable unit works perfect!!! I can send you a JPG if you are interested as well. Would have posted one but I've used up my space for now..............

I found this setup on JC Whitney's site and thought I would pass it along. I'm not sure what it would look like on a sporty, but for the price it's probably worth a try if your intersted. Besides, it probably would not be too hard to resell if it does not look right.

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-VehicleBrowse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2002500/showCustom-0/p-2002500/N-200730435+111+2003+600002992/c-10111

I bought this one last spring. The inner dimensions are skewed due to a poor design, and I wasn't able to fit my briefcase. No need to resell it though, JCWhitney may sell crap, but they have an exellent 60-day return policy.

I found this setup on JC Whitney's site and thought I would pass it along. I'm not sure what it would look like on a sporty, but for the price it's probably worth a try if your intersted. Besides, it probably would not be too hard to resell if it does not look right.

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-VehicleBrowse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2002500/showCustom-0/p-2002500/N-200730435+111+2003+600002992/c-10111
Thank you so much for this link, this is the tour pack I have been looking for. Not to big but big enough to carry what I need. Hubby got it for me for xmas.

look here !http://www.customcyclegear.com/products.html# tour pack check with him for solo seat we got one off delphi fourms for 35 buckshttp://www.elvisplace.com/ parts check with these guys for tour pack rack http://www.zanottimotor.com/ hope this helps you find what you are looking for at a better price

This is the same company I used. Mine is the DMY series and it works great. Bolted it to the HD detachable solo seat rack and it's great......:banana

I like the looks of this

http://a1276.g.akamai.net/7/1276/734/3d5cb4b00a0f66/resource.harley-davidson.com/media/images/productphotos/PNA/53655_04_L_1db02.jpg

....

I have the J.C.Whitney trunk that I put on my sissy bar rack, but I'd like to put it on a solo rack at times. Does anyone know what the tour pack solo rack in the above picture looks like without the trunk attached? I am curious if it is flat and if I can attach my J.C.Whitney trunk. (J.C. trunk is shown in a post earlier in this thread and it is in my gallery).

Thanks.

I have the J.C.Whitney trunk that I put on my sissy bar rack, but I'd like to put it on a solo rack at times. Does anyone know what the tour pack solo rack in the above picture looks like without the trunk attached? I am curious if it is flat and if I can attach my J.C.Whitney trunk. (J.C. trunk is shown in a post earlier in this thread and it is in my gallery).

Thanks.
That is the rack that I need for my trunk. I also have a J. C. Whitney trunk and need this rack. Right now I have it attached to just a fender rack, works but not what I need. I have it on a solo seat. This rack in the pic is flat across the top. Good luck with your conversion. You can see a pic of my bike with trunk in my gallery.