Easy brackets with harbor freight panniers (photos)

[1olbull]

So I wanted aluminum panniers for my bike, but they are way too expensive, so I saw these in harbor freight for $39 bucks a piece. Mounted with easy brackets, and a little sheet aluminum reinforcement on the inside.
What do you guys think?[/QUOTE

I think you are a Fireman!
They look OK to me. Especially considering the cost!!!
I think turned around for outside opening and paint black would improve them some.

 

[cardinal93]

The pelican looks like a 1400 series; I'm guessing 1490? Being a normally function over form guy, I think they're very suitable for your needs! Harbor Freight didn't have the ez brackets too, did they?

 

[Robm422]

No, i ordered the easy brackets online. I think the pelican case was a 1490.
Yeah, I'm a function over fashion guy myself, so they work for me. If I want the bike to look cool again, i can just take off the boxes.

 

[RiggerMark]

I am for sure function over form and love your idea, especially if they are easy to remove when not needed. I already have a similar pelican case mounted on the rear and have thought about using them on the side as well, I just don't really like them opening from the side. I cantt tell from the picture, do these boxes get in the way of the passenger pegs? Do they look like the will keep the water out? My leather Triumph bags are way worn out and I need a more durable replacement for the budget minded.

 

[Robm422]

They are behind the passenger pegs, so they do not get in the way. As for keeping water out, I seriously doubt it, they aren't sealed it all. I would stick with pelican cases if you need water tightness. I was going to go with pelican 1430's for the sides, they are top loading too, but also kind of expensive.

 

[ElAyRocket]

when i owned a HD, i could find both form and function options for my bike and first thing i learned as owning a R3R, the bike has been the same style for 10 years and because of the very limited aftermarket options, it's near impossible to dial in a look beyond stock.

this is a great example of the owners pushing forward on new ideas and looks. The first pancake is never pretty, but tastes just as good

 

[IdahoRenegade]

As an ADV rider I like the solution. I actually considered those on my Tiger, but wasn't sure how they would hold up with off-road use; ended up using Seahorse cases (Pelican knockoffs). For road use, I think the HFs would (and based on your install, obviously do) work fine.

 

[FR56]

I like your practicality.

25 years ago I needed an inexpensive, waterproof, easily adaptable "boot" to keep documents dry and un-wrinkled while transporting. I bought this Samsonite brief case I then modified by side mounting soft 'hooks' for securing it with bungee cords while still allowing for egress. It served me well on a half dozen different motorcycles and survived two minor get-offs.

 

[Scott Hall]

I love this. If/when I get my R3 I plan to use ADV styled panniers and custom welded frames to give the bike a post apocalyptic look. Great job!

 

[Robm422]

I love it! The post apocalyptic look, I'm making the beast into a zombie hunter! I just need to add a shotgun mount