Motorcycles have been around for much longer than cars have and although the very first motorcycles were nothing alike today's two-wheelers they provided the same benefits. Old or new, motorcycles are a fun way to commute as the wind hits your face and the sun charges you up with vitamin D.
Also, riding on two wheels instead of four helps engage all your muscles especially when going in and out of bends. With a motorcycle, you can even enjoy going on long-distance journeys across the country if you equip yourself and your bike with the right equipment. Part of that equipment is motorcycle top boxes which are essential for every road trip.
Factors to Consider With Top Boxes
Size
One of the most important factors to keep in mind with top boxes is their size. Not every motorbike is made the same and thus not every box is. Larger moto top boxes are usually able to accommodate more items but a compact moto top box is smaller and doesn't impede your riding experience as much.
Material
There are usually two types of materials motorcycle top boxes for sale come made of and those are plastic and aluminium. Boxes made of plastic are light and affordable while those made of aluminium are stronger and more durable if maintained properly. Aluminium does cost more and is susceptible to corrosion while plastic is more malleable and not as secure.
Mounting
The mounting system of a top box affects installation difficulty which can be a deal breaker if you make a lot of stops along your route. You can't just leave the top box on your motorbike overnight in this case, which is why you should go for one that is easy to mount and take off without compromising security.
Waterproofing
Like yourself and your bike, a moto top box is going to be exposed to the elements and it needs to keep what's in it safe from those factors. Waterproof top boxes come with hard-wearing rubber seals where the opening is and where any crevice is present as that's where water will usually come in.
Capacity
The capacity of a top box is affected by its size but that's not always the case since smaller boxes come with a clever storage space. Different manufacturers do this differently however if you really want the largest storage capacity don't expect any clever storage space to be implemented in the top boxes that offer it.
Compatibility
A box that fits on your motorcycle is everything no matter what size is it and the materials it comes made of, if it isn't made for your make and model motorbike, you won't be able to make use of it. Make sure you find a compatible top box first and then everything else.
How a Top Box is Fitted
- The manufacturer of the top box usually supplies it with the necessary hardware in the h form of a base plate and/ or brackets. Especially if you go for a top box kit you will get even the bolts and tools needed to install the top box.
- The process usually involves bolting the base plate first or the brackets, depending on the top box, and then the box itself to the said plate or bracket(s). Before you go for a test drive make sure to double-check every fastener and take your motorbike for a spin with the stuff you would put into the top box and see if anything is loose.
Benefits of Top Boxes
Versatility
A top box makes your motorcycle a more versatile mode of commute since you get to pack more than intended without sacrificing anything. You can go for as big or as small of a box as you want so that you can pack as much or as little additional gear and supplies on your trips.
Practicality
Top boxes are one of the most practical types of motorcycle luggage since they go on the back of your motorcycle. They don't impede tour view while increasing storage space. While there are other practical pieces of motorcycle storage equipment, they are not able to make your motorbike safer.
Safety
Yes, motorcycle top boxes make your motorcycle much safer on the road than when riding without one. Why? Because the added weight at the back helps balance out your motorbike meaning it's more stable and easier to ride on uneven terrain and through sharp bends.
Access
With motorcycle top boxes for sale, you also get easy access to all the items you store in them. Top boxes can make it easy to get to those items as only the press of a button is what separates you from them and the box can be locked.
Conclusion
A motorcycle is as versatile as it gets which is why a top box is one of the most popular aftermarket accessories when it comes to increasing storage space. No matter the type of motorbike you have you can make use of one as long as it's made for it and not for a different model.
