Just received a luggage system for the Blackbird and thought I'd share a few thoughts and pics. Here's a link to the Ventura site:
http://www.cycleventure.com/products/pack_system/index.htmI got the L-brackets mounting kit, the Pack-Rack, a 51 litre bag, a 35 litre bag, and a storm cover. Total cost with shipping (from Washington state) and taxes came to around $600 Cdn.
Installation is fairly simple ... the L-brackets attach to existing mounting points on the frame with no drilling or mods required. I had a bit of trouble with the fit between the L-brackets and the Pack-Rack which forced to me modify the method of installation slightly and slowed down the job. Took about 30 minutes ... without the fit problem would only have taken about 10 minutes. I was pleased with the results ... clean lines which match the bike, although some might think the "Sissy bar" of the pack rack sticks up a little high.
The packs can be mounted solo or zipped together, and with 86 L total, offer a huge amount of cargo capacity. They seem to attach snugly to the rack, and I'm hoping that by sitting behind the rider they'll be sheltered a bit from the wind blast as compared to saddlebags. The 51 L bag has built-in shoulder straps to double as a knap sack ... kinda neat feature. Straps for the smaller bag are an option.
I went for the optional storm cover to waterproof the system. It fits over the two bags and ties in place with a strap and D-ring arrangement. I had read on the web that although the bags are water-resistant, they will start to leak at the zippers.
Here's a summary:
Pros:
- Ordering was easy, delivery fast.
- Mounting hardware is custom-made for each make/model, so no cutting/drilling/mods necessary and installation is fairly quick and simple.
- In solo mode, the weight sits over the passenger seat, so I don't expect too much of an effect on handling/stability.
- Soft vs hard luggage? I went for the soft because I think it's easier to pack and carry around, especially if it can be converted to a knapsack.
- Huge capacity ... with 86 L you can pack all the stuff you need for you and your bike. With two of the 51 L packs you'd get almost another 20 L of space. And without the need for a tank bag, I can still tuck behind the windscreen.
- Versatility and lots of options - you can replace the Pack-Rack with a Sport-rack (for around town) or a grab rail. You can mix and match the pack combos to give a wide range of carrying capacity depending on the needs of your trip.
- History - this company's been around for a long time, so they must have something on the ball.
Cons:
- Like I said, the fit between the Pack-Rack and the L-brackets was a bit disappointing for a $600 custom-made system.
- It's a bit bigger than I had expected, but I guess that's the price you pay for so much capacity, and when you turn a sport-tourer into a touring bike.
- Zippers seem a bit cheap.
I'll post Part 2 of my review - Utility, Durability and Final Impressions - when I get back from Daytona Beach in October - stay tuned ... hope y'all find this useful.
cheers
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