gv550
Well-Known Member
Canadian S10s are supplied with the Yamaha panniers so I've been using them for almost 3 years. Definitely not the most rugged compared to aftermarket or other OEMs but they do integrate well with the bike. I bought the Yamaha top case just to have lockable storage for my expensive helmet. With the panniers and immobilizer ignition the bike is still $2000 less than it is in USA so not much room for complaining.
A few things bugged me about the panniers, the obvious cheezy locks, the need to use the key every time to open and close them, the lids won't stay open when cold, and reports of the panniers breaking.
The first thing I did was remove the straps so the lids open all the way forward.
Then I removed the latch springs so there is no tension on the J hook. Much easier to turn the key.
I drilled a 1/16 hole in the top rib in line with the J hook and fastened a wire to the hook, through the hole and formed a ring so I can open the lid without using the key. .
I made the noose around the j hook long enough so I can slide the wire in so the ring is not accessible for times that I really want the panniers locked. .
I added a 1 gallon Rotopax to the right pannier.
I adjusted the bottom pannier support so the rubber stopper fits tight against the bottom of the pannier. I think this helps to carry the load and hopefully prevent the top plastic mount from breaking.
A few things bugged me about the panniers, the obvious cheezy locks, the need to use the key every time to open and close them, the lids won't stay open when cold, and reports of the panniers breaking.
The first thing I did was remove the straps so the lids open all the way forward.
Then I removed the latch springs so there is no tension on the J hook. Much easier to turn the key.
I drilled a 1/16 hole in the top rib in line with the J hook and fastened a wire to the hook, through the hole and formed a ring so I can open the lid without using the key. .
I made the noose around the j hook long enough so I can slide the wire in so the ring is not accessible for times that I really want the panniers locked. .
I added a 1 gallon Rotopax to the right pannier.
I adjusted the bottom pannier support so the rubber stopper fits tight against the bottom of the pannier. I think this helps to carry the load and hopefully prevent the top plastic mount from breaking.