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Equipping the Bike - what's the best gear? Anything to do with the bikes equipment, saddlebags, etc. Questions on repairs and maintenance of the bike itself belong in the Brand Specific Tech Forums.
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



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  #1  
Old 11 Jan 2017
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Hard side cases on a Honda xr150 : too much weight?

I'm in Medellin Colombia right now and just bought a honda xr 150 to ride to Bolivia. It's less bike then I wanted but I was able to get it new within my budget range which I saw as a big advantage because I'm not handy and don't know the local language well so I wanted to avoid repairs.

My plan is to put 30l aluminum side cases on to carry my gear. I really want the ability to lock stuff up without taking off the bike so I can walk away for short periods. I also like the waterproof aspect.

I am wondering if people would generally advise against the weight of hard cases on a bike this small. I honestly do know how I'm going to be able to fit everything without them but if it straight up isnt going to work then I'll forego them.

Interested to hear everyone's thoughts!
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Old 11 Jan 2017
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Here is my XR125 fitted with BMW R80G/S panniers and they worked well without being too big. It did require some modification of the BMW frames with the panniers being reversed, the narrow left hand pannier fitted on the right. I am not sure if you will find these panniers and frames but does show hard luggage can work on a small XR, which is an excellent choice by the way.

Hard side cases on a Honda xr150 : too much weight?-034.jpg
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Old 11 Jan 2017
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yes go for it

I've travelled for a month in SE Asia with 125cc, 2up with two 60ltr roll bags both 3/4 full with our stuff ( 80% My wife ) No problems we got from A>B every time. It is surprising just how well these little bikes cope. Honestly, I wouldn't be to worried about fitting panniers, just do the best you can to reduce their weight. But obviously if you are going to be hard core off road you might encounter issues, most likely damage to boxes.... but just deal with that when and if you have to. I love my Aluminium boxes and miss them when I don't have them and miss feeling slightly less concerned about leaving bike parked up while exploring on foot. In truth if someone wants your stuff they will get it no matter what you pack it in. I just keep anything I don't want to loose with me, this makes you think hard about what you carry in the first place.

In Answer to your question ? Yeah! fit them you will be fine
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