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**Dan 23** · #1 16 Feb 2008

Ola

Maybe this is a stupid question, but how exactly do you fix Peli cases (to a bike - not to a cat)? I like the top-boxes as laptop holders, but I'm kinda bewildered by the bolts - are there proper mounting systems or do you just drill holes in one side and bolt it down to any old rack? Details appreciated...

Ta, Dan

**Dodger** · #2 16 Feb 2008

You might get some ideas from here ;
www.cariboucases.com - World's Toughest Motorcycle Luggage

However there's nothing stopping you from mounting them onto any frame with those hockey puck type thingummybobs.Or you could just bolt directly but quick release would be better IMHO .

If you reinforce the inside of the case with very broad washers or a thin piece of plate to spread the load , this will help prevent the bolt heads from ripping through the case walls when the bike goes down .

There is a bunch of info on advrider , search mode should bring it up .

**Jeffr726** · #3 18 Feb 2008

Dan,
I attached a Pelican case, size 1450, to my DR650 tail rack. I drilled four 5/16 holes through the rack itself, then four matching holes in the bottom of the pelicase. I took some unidirectional bolts, (they have a slot for a flat head screwdriver but can only be tightened), and pushed those up through the rack and into the box. I threw a couple fender washers on the bolts inside the box, and cinched it down with a lock washer and some cap nuts. It's a semi-permanent setup, but I don't plan on taking that box off like I will my side panniers. I'm using mine for things I want to pack easily and get to often. (Waterproof liners and hiking boots) Hope this helps.
Jeff

Note: I would recommend going a size up on the box; a 1550 maybe. I mail ordered mine and didn't visualize how much room my hiking boots were going to take up. There's not much room left for anything else.

**Matt Cartney** · #4 18 Feb 2008

I've done something similar to Jeff by using a peli case as a top box. I chose one of the smaller ones on purpose as all I wanted it to carry was a small tool roll, a compact extra layer for cold days and a pastrami and mustard sandwich (albiet with extra watercress).

I made a 'custom' rack for mine out of 20mm steel flat which attaches to the rear bolts of my passenger handles and the attachment points for my indicators on my XT. I welded the rack together and because I kept it as 'low profile' as possible the steel flat is stiff enough to be quite strong so no need for tubing. I then drilled four holes in the box (through the 'feet') and matching holes in the steel flat. I then tapped the holes in the steel with an M6 tap. The box is bolted to the rack from the inside using domed head bolts which aren't too intrusive and because the rack is threaded (rather than using nuts) it is well nigh impossible to detach the box from the outside. (The box is intended to remain on the bike semi-permanently) The result is an uber strong, waterproof box which would be very difficult for a theif to get into. I am dead chuffed with it and my sandwiches remain dry and safe.

I expect if you wanted to use one as a side box, mounting those 'quick release' style pucks and hangers on a peli case would present no difficulties.

Matt

**Dan 23** · #5 18 Feb 2008

Thanks, fellas - typically useful replies - gotta love this site.

Looks like a good solution to the 'what the hell do i do with my laptop?' question. Now I just need to answer the 'Do I really want an incongruous briefcase permanently bolted to the back of my dirt bike?' problem...

Suerte, Dan

PS Matt - what are you riding these days? And where are you taking it next?

**Lone Rider** · #6 18 Feb 2008

Pack your laptop in with your dirty and/or clean clothes, seriously.

**Matt Cartney** · #7 29 Feb 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dan 23

PS Matt - what are you riding these days? And where are you taking it next?

Still got the XT (I've got a sneaking suspicion I'm never going to sell a bike, still got the Enfield which was my first bike, waiting for the summer and cafe racer glory!)

Taking the XT on what was originally a straight 'there and back again' trip to the Alps for spring skiing but thinking Poland is kind of on the way...

What about you?

Matt

**Spaghettiworld** · #8 29 Feb 2008

Look here & type peli case by the search button

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**Markbuttrose** · #9 20 Feb 2023

Dan
Not a stupid question
Below are the details of brackets I used to lock a Pelican 1520 case to standard B&B rack on a DR650 with Giant Loop Great Basin saddlebags.
Check size of pelican case first with thumnails below as there are many sizes.
Give drawings of attached brackets to metal fabricator
I used 3mm galv plate
Cost was $200AUD at Jackson and Jackson Metal Fabrications, Cairns
The pelican case contained an editing laptop, camera, sound equipment and drone gear and enabled me to remove the case when required. The locks ended up being hidden by the upper portion of the saddlebags.

You are free to use drawings for personal use but not manufacture for monetary gain.
If anyone would like additional information or would like to manufacture for sale please contact Mark Buttrose on the email below

Contact markbuttrose@gmail.com