Hard case solution for a Commando

Has anyone found a simple solution for hard panniers for Commandos. I bought hard panniers for the Norton I bought in England that mounted without any mods, I forget the brand, but they were popular and had solutions for Triumph and BSA as well. They were very large (had suitcase handles) and to avoid the up swept pipes they made the bike very wide, but you could still carry a passenger. I am sure someone has found a Givi setup that works. Any suggestions?

Back in the 70's I had a pair but I just can't recall the name at the moment. They were stock on BMW's and came in 2 sizes. They were quick to de-tach and looked like luggage when they were off. Kauffman I think was the name. They had universal kits to mount on different bikes. I've seen some on ebay but I'm not sure what they have available today.

Perhaps they were Craven bags?

I seem to recall Bruce Chessell was making a rack to mount Givi bags, but I don't seem to be able to find his website any more.

Craven bags, yes that was the brand.

http://motos.home.att.net/craven.htm
http://www.cravens.org.uk/
http://www.w6rec.com/duane/bmw/bags/craven/index.htm

Craven and Krauser are the only hardbags that look right on a Commando, IMHO. The modern bags look like a couple of tumors. These would require using Interstate pipes and mufflers.

I had a pair of krausers fitted to my commando in the early '80s along with a vetter windjammer fairing, I have some pics, I'm not at home just now but can post them when I get back if you want. I still have the panniers and I have a universal fitting kit, also Krauser but heavy duty plastic, I may or may not fit them on my bike when i go visiting.
When I used them first time round I used stock BMW rails with a support welded on and I had to cut a bit out the pannier to clear the rear caliper on the Mk3. They are good cases and you can still get the hardware, locks etc for them from BMW dealers.

I certainly don't want to us Interstate pipes/mufflers. I remember the panniers I had on the 1970 installed by the dealer (Elite Motors) were compatible with roadster pipes/mufflers.

montelatici said:

I certainly don't want to us Interstate pipes/mufflers. I remember the panniers I had on the 1970 installed by the dealer (Elite Motors) were compatible with roadster pipes/mufflers.

Click to expand...

My krausers were fitted with peashooters fitted to the bike.

There was a thread a short while back where I posted a couple of pictures of my Mk111 fitted with Cravens. They're not helmet-sized big like Krausers but still handy. The true 1970s Commando accessory (in the UK at least) was the 'top box' preferably decorated with as many stickers as possible.

This thread :- post45069.html#p45069

Hi Guys:
I have the carriers and racks to support givi hard bags which are removable like the bmw hard bags. I made the racks to mount to my existing carriers.I sold well over 100 carriers and the guys were wondering about bags. The rack supports a top box . The side racks are mounted with 2 bolts and can be removed in a minute. You can service your chain as well as remove your rear tire with them on. The bags can be bought from any dealer in Canada or the US and snapped on.I supply the hardware mounted on the racks. I can send pics if you like.They follow the peashooter lines.
I have taken my website down for awhile because my wifes cancer has reaccured.I am only taking requests at this time. Carriers and racks are in stock.Everything is powdercaoted in gloss black.
Thought I would let you guys know about my situation.
Cheers
Bruce

I am interested. Send me an email (personal message?) with info. Sorry about your situation.

My e mail is bchessell@odyssey.on.ca
Was not trying to advertise on this post.Thought I would just let the guys know.
Bruce

Bruce, best of all possible wishes and luck to you and your wife. - BrianK