Introduction: Motorcycle Luggage Side-carrier

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Moment when you are travelling far or even have to carry your luggage a short distance away and all you have is a motorcycle, this comes in handy.

Considering the cost of the panniers in the market, I found out how exorbitant their prices are as compared to my purpose.

So I decided to make my own.

Step 1: Acquire Materials & Design

I have been experimenting with uPVC pipes for a while, so considered that to be the best option here.

Also, it makes this unit modular, so incase I need to change anything in the future, I can make the changes. I sketched out a preliminary design as per my requirement.

The materials required are as follows:

  • uPVC pipes: 5m
  • Elbow Joints: 16
  • T- Joints: 18
  • Saw: 1
  • Round Head Slotted Screw : 70pc
  • Zip Tags
  • Spray paint: Black
  • Drill
  • Adhesive

Cut the pipe into the following sizes:

  • 360mm X4
  • 230mm X8
  • 120mm X4
  • 80mm X4
  • 40mm X16
  • 300mm X1

Step 2: Cut and Fit the Pipes

The 40mm cut pieces are to be used as spacers between 2 joints (where-ever it is not visible in the picture). Fix the rest of the pipes in the manner shown. I used a hammer to tighten the joints, which I was unable to do by hand.

NOTE: While cutting, unless a machine is used, there is certain amount of variations in the dimensions acquired while cutting. My suggestion would be to check the dimensions as per fitting.

Step 3: Fixing the Pipes

Drill holes into the pipe/joints and fix them with an adhesive. I used Araldite, but you are free to choose any of your own.

Reinforce the joints with screws.

The last thing you want is your luggage scratching the road on a bumpy terrain where the frame falls out after becoming loose

Step 4: Check for Balance

Before finishing, place the rack and check for the weigh balance distribution. You do not want to lose out on the balance on tight turns which your motorcycle can make right now.

Step 5: Finishing Up

Once you are satisfied with everything, finish it with the black spray. Carefully spray it to get an even finish.

I could not find hooks or clips to attach it with the bike, so I fixed it with zip tags.

Step 6: Done

Feel free to load the bike with your luggage. You may use a para-chord to secure your bags to the frame.

Now go break some eggs...

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