This entry replaces a more venomous one I wrote last night. My Givi E41 panniers have arrived and are now installed on the bike. This brings an end to a long saga of misinformation and lost orders.

Suzuki, unfortunately for me, offered these cases as a special free deal on a new bike purchase, just as I placed my order. Australia had run out of stock, so I had to wait 6 months for more to arrive in the country.

I chose these cases because of the size and ability to get into the case without the need for taking it off the bike. A key is used to lock the case to the bike and access to the top can be made through a combination locked compartment lid. These cases are 41L each and can store 2 full-face helmets in each one. I’m think this will be plenty of storage for my proposed tripping.

The lids are available in a number of different colours but I chose to go with the stock silver, and I’m glad I did. I think they look rather good on the bike.

Fitting was rather easy and took just over an hour. It would have been nice to have a pet octopus but I managed easily enough. I also took the chance while the top box was off, to do some modifying to it’s mounting plate. Something I should have done when I put the top box on.

The bike still looks good without the side boxes fitted. I’m thinking the mounting brackets will provide a little more protection should the bike hit the pavement (God forbid). I might also be able to use them as hitch points for other luggage.

I am now ready for my Longreach trip. I have put in my leave application and will be sorting accommodation in the next week or so. I can’t wait. Eight days of solitude.

Tags: motorcycles