OEM Top Box

[Tenerester]

I have the OEM panniers and now thinking of adding the OEM top box as well (merely to match the side boxes). This is in preparation for my cross-country trip. I would like to avoid using a tank bag if possible and thought this would be a good addition to carry the frequently needed essentials. I will be carrying a big duffel bag as well.
Any feedback from current OEM top box users of its convenience, strength and durability would be helpful.

 

[klunsford]

My recommendation is toss the top box and stick with a good waterproof duffle. works great for me on long rides and doesn't limit the space behind you.

 

[toadady]

big rollie duffle bag

 

[kingfisher]

The top box works fine for me. Two three thousand mile trips last year with the oem panniers and top box. There is still room for a dry bag on the seat in front of the box if needed, if riding solo. I think that the stock luggage is well designed and easy to use. Even in heavy rain they stay dry inside. I like the easy removal and installation and the lack of an unsightly frame when removed. Just be sure to lock tight the small lock screws during installation.

 

[Lutsie]

I got the oem panniers but decided against the top box so I have more options for packing, especially camping.

 

[Tenerester]

The top box works fine for me. Two three thousand mile trips last year with the oem panniers and top box. There is still room for a dry bag on the seat in front of the box if needed, if riding solo. I think that the stock luggage is well designed and easy to use. Even in heavy rain they stay dry inside. I like the easy removal and installation and the lack of an unsightly frame when removed. Just be sure to lock tight the small lock screws during installation.

Thanks. Did your bike come with 3 pre-keyed lock cylinders from the factory? I seem to have got only two locks or it got lost in transit.

 

[kingfisher]

Mine came with two locks only, so I have to have another key for the top box. I ordered the extra lock cylinder with it.

 

[cb0802]

I have and love the OEM top box. Easy on, easy off. Best part... you don't have to open it to remove it from the bike (a feature that gets overlooked in any discussion about the OEM cases). My dealer lost the locks before the sale, so replaced them for free and had a locksmith match them to my key for about $50.
When I travel, I keep the things that I need while on the road in the top case;extra shirt, rain gear, extra gloves, warming layer, hygiene kit, wallet, etc. Everything else goes in the side cases until I stop for the night, or get where I'm heading.

 

[jwhuls]

I agree with Cb. It is great to remove and haul around. Plus it makes a good side table at the fire pit. I have used mine tons and have never had a problem. Also on two up, she uses as a back rest.


Enjoy.

 

[Tenerester]

Thanks all for the feedback. I ordered the top box. Need to check with my dealer about the lock cylinder. Meanwhile, If anyone has an extra unused lock cylinder lying around that you are willing to part with, please send me a message. Thank you.

 

[Salmon Sam]

It's my standard "trunk". Love it.

 

[BarkSlayer]

Okay...guess it's up to me to represent the other side of this question. I'm not fond of the Yamaha top box. Compared to other choices, it's just not in the same league quality-wise, and the capacity of the box is underwhelming as well. If you want the luggage to match, it may be your only option, but "matching" is the best thing I can say about it.

 

[davev333]

Top box is good to have on day to day riding in case you buy bits when your out kind of thing ;-). For big trips or carrying camping gear a good roll bag will do you a better service ;-)

 

[Lutsie]

Top box is good to have on day to day riding in case you buy bits when your out kind of thing ;-). For big trips or carrying camping gear a good roll bag will do you a better service ;-)

Do you feel the weight of the top case empty or full? Or does it throw off riding, noticeably?

 

[davev333]

The oem box is not very big so will be hardly noticeable not really affected by wind and unless you fill it with bricks lol it going to be fine loaded. A couple of friends have ARD huge top boxes these make the bike very unstable at speed, but having said that touring speeds there ok

 

[Lutsie]

Thanks davev.