Motorcycle Top Box Design, How to Make It Better? 

Looks good. One of my frustrations is digging through my boxes in the dark. What if you added a light that would turn on when you open the lid?

Very nice it would be a nice adder if there was a document type sleeve in the lid

Please take into consideration helmets with comms, Cardo and etc, while sizing. If you have 2 helmets, you probably have a comm in them.

I'm really excited! So glad to see two helmets fitting in the top box. The first thing I would drop into the box is a apple air tag! I don't see myself using the front handle on the box - I'll end up using the top handles. Without the front handle, you could almost reduce the tooling needed by making the side mounting plate two separate pieces - then those could mount to either side of the front instead of having one full piece. It would mean additional mounting hardware for each plate, but I guess that's the tradeoff.

So glad you are developing the hard top case.I just got my Lonerider side bags but there is nothing on the market I like for the top. Some thoughts: Like the back rest for a passenger Moving the top handles to the angled part of the top could allow a flat surface for adding a bag at the top while keeping those fantastic handles on the case. Those handles will certainly make it easier to put the top case on and to carry it. No need for a front handle with the top handles. Don’t care for the extra Molle panel on the back, maybe make it an option.I don’t know that I would ever use the side ones either but I like the idea they are there in case I want to. Like the locking mechanism. Seems easy to get the case on and off your bike. Also, the lined / modular compartment works well. I like the idea of being able to put an insert and put my helmet on one side and other things on the other side. Also adding a net or something to the top to stow lighter items in the lid (like a jacket) would be great.

Looks great and sure the final product will be yet another great success. A couple suggestions, drop the handle, these things aren't used as brief cases. I only remove my topbox when I want to clean it or replace the foam tape I use to stop chaffing and vibration. As for the molle panels, I would drop the ones on the back of the topbox. A couple reasons, why would you want to mount more off the back of the bike and possibly obscuring your brake light and indicators. Then the rear of the bike and topbox generates a good suction, dirt gathers quickly on the back. Having molle panels will be a pain to keep the back of the top box clean. Also consider this suction effect when designing the lid and plate mount locks and mechanisms. Like the aim of allowing coding to exiting bike key, this will be a serious draw card. I personally like a 42-45L topbox, anything more and you become the target for pizza delivery jokes.

Looking really good. A net in the lid just to keep docs, etc. readily accessible - don't want too much weight on the lid when it's open. Need to consider protecting your locking mechanism if it's going to be under the box especially if it doesn't get used very often. I don't take my box or panniers off, I have inner bags

add an elastic cargomesh to the innerside of the lid, make it, that you can also attach it to the bottom of the box to hold things down, so things dont bounce arround

I like the idea of a lower - wider profile. Both are solid designs. LOVE the exterior molle panels.

A molle panel inside the lid would be useful. I think I would use that more than the outside. I use a molle panel inside a Pelican for non-bike use and it works great.

Please make the backrest either detachable or an optional item. I don't ride with a passenger and so I have no need for a backrest. However, I know that many people do ride with a passenger. Detachable or optional would be a good compromise. Thanks!

Looking great Andrew, i especially like the quick release panels.... 2 sizes would be good (35L or 42L for the small and 52L for large).... BMW pannier lock barrels would be a great help, so they could be Keyed alike to the bikes key, as i guess a majority of these will be fitted to GS's. Keep up the good work 👍🏻

If the rear handle adds complexity, I vote for dropping it. I like the idea of size options. I don’t need the ability for 2 helmets. Keying to the bike would ideal if practical. I like the suggestion of a lid web organizer. I like the idea of a bag, as well as a non-marking interior liner of some sort. With the BMW top box, contents can be discolored because of the oxidation. Simple is fine with the hinges.

Thank you for the detailed video. A few things to think about: 1. I would suggest NOT having the box lock “automatically” when the lid closes as I believe accidentally locking your keys inside the box will be a frustrating issue for users. This could potentially strand a rider if the motorcycle ignition key is inaccessible inside the locked box. 2. I believe a rear facing carrying handle will be a seldom used feature. Most people will want to carry the box upright with any handle(s) anyway. 3. In my opinion - I believe doing away all of the molle attachment areas and simply offering two (or more) hard cases sizes may make for a better option. If a rider is purchasing a hard case then they are likely less interested in attaching additional storage in the form of soft-sided storage. Simply offer a wider (larger) hard case as an option - this would be the most convenient and most secure option. Plus, riders seem to love placing stickers all the ver their hard cases - the molle panels prevent this. Bottom line - lose the rear carry handle and all of the molle attachment points. This would instantly reduce parts count and simplify manufacturing assembly. Thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback. Keep up the great work.

2 Things spring to mind. 1. Provide as an accessory a rigid bottle cage for drinks bottle/fuel bottle. 2. Provide a way of inserting a powerbank for charging stuff whilst in the top box (Be even more awesome if that could be solar panelled 🙂

I like the size that holds two helmets as it looks like it's wider and not as tall. I don't see a need for a handle or the molle panel on the back. To keep cost down I also don't think you need to do a soft closing hinge. I like the the idea of the removable molle panels on the ends because you can take it off and attach a bag to them. I assume it would make it easier to thread the molle straps onto it. I'd suggest you make the organizer bits inside something to purchase separately.

Hi Andrew. Excellent so far, however I would say to keep those cost you speak of down, that making everything all inclusive would certainly add to that substantially. Add on sales is huge in marketing and not everyone wants it all. Also, a bag made exclusively for placing on the top could also be attractive and another add on sale. Thanks!

Would love to see these injection moulded panels being able to link together as an emergency sand mat as the 4x4s have, I rode across Australia and know it would have been useful, very useful in parts.

Some kind of slider in front of the key hole (like the steering lock) to prevent dirt to get into the lock. It’s a common problem to keep them clean from dirt. Also a pocket to keep maps or iPad inside the top of the box.

Don’t forget to either add something reflective or leave space for reflective decals.

Hi Andrew, I don't see the need to add the rear mollie pannels, as this would be adding mor weight rearward. Also to combat keeping the lid closed, would magnets be of use? This would lead to a slight push when opening but keep the lid closed in the event of forgetting to lock it, this could possibly be incorporated in to the seal system. Overall a nice looking peice of kit, with the possibility of having the LR logo included in the moulding of the rear pannel. Or even recessed and the logo made reflective.

Hi, nice development so far, looking forward on the next steps. I don't care for the front handle as others said too. Please include dust caps on all the key holes to keep any dirt out.

Hey Andrew, I like this new top case concept not only the security, but also for who travels with companion. The top case has an attractive structure and catches attention with the molded panels, however I’m not sure if would be advantageous have the molded panels under the handles. The key lock system it’s simple and seems practical. Who uses the hard bags rarely takes them off the bike, so this independent system just elevates the security of the bag. I also question if it would possibly have some kind of groove inside of the bag to put USB charger for cameras and lanterns for those who do camping. The top case isolation system is so well thought and it seems practical for replacement . Inside the top case it would be great if it had some kind of partitions. For example the molded panels could be removed from the outside and putted in the inside of the bag to make 3 partitions. Or also the option to put them in the top of the top case. Congrats for the project I’m looking forward to the final project!

looking great . no need for the handle . thank for all the great work!!!!!

No need for the front handle but sure molle panel is needed !! :p

A smaller size 30lt that is a bit flatter and wider that the square type tops boxes on the market would be great. I don’t use my top box for a helmet but for camera gear and other valuables. I try to keep my top box light and use my side bags for other gear for camping and clothing. Looks great by the way.

I like it very much. A waterproof cable routing on the bottom would also be practical.

I have several pieces of Lonerider gear including the semi-rigid panniers and 2 each of the 3 and 6L bags, as well as the duffle. However, the one non-Lonerider piece I still have on my bike is the Shad SH58X top case. It doesnt match the bike or the other hear that well, but it allows me to have a backrest for my wife who rides with me and we can stow two helmets which is important to us so we arent carrying them into restaurants, etc. Lastly, its incredibly quick and easy to take on and off which I do often since I dont want to go on ADV or any off-road ride with the top case unless I have to but during the week I need to reattach it quickly to ride to work. This proto appears to meet the first two requirements for me. If its easy to attach and reattach to the bike then Ill be the first in line to order when its ready.

Love this concept and getting rider input make sure it has a base plate for every brand of bike capable of using this box . Keep up the great work

Love the fact that it fits two adv helmets. When we travel two up, and we are outside a city on a campsite and visit that city its nice to have the possibility to store the helmets. I also like that therefor the case is wider then the average topcases. as you mentioned padding would be great, also maybe something is the lid to store electronics. like a laptop / ipad etc.

Looking great so far. I personally don’t see the need for an additional handle on the rear MOLLE panel as it has two grab handles at the top. I also really like the manner that the MOLLE panels on the side can be easily inserted and removed. I concur with how abrasive the inside can be on long journeys. I’d like to see if a removable tray (in red) could be possible to protect the contents. I have an overlander bag that I remove daily when I arrive at work/home that I find extremely helpful. I have had top boxes in the past and never contemplated removing it as I do my overlander bag, I doubt if I would I guess it would depend on how easy it is to remove. Not very helpful I know. Look forward to your next video.

1mm or 3mm self adhesive Neoprene closed cell foam on the inside of the box, does the trick for abrasion and damage limitation on the contents of the box 👍🏻

Would like to see a internal carrying capacity of ~58 litres. Also the ability to attach Rotopax fuel and water containers. Like the backrest for the passenger.

A back rest for the passenger in the other side of the box should be considered .. also you can try thinking of opening mechanism to be easy ( place for the fingers and grip and automatic movement ) .. velcro in the inside and out side should be possible for customization .. the overlander should fit inside and outside to be ..can the latch curve take all the wight of this box ? I mean the pressure point in the latch .. if possible electricity point would be amazing for charging.. awaiting the box to buy it

I would not use the front handle and think that it should be removed. I would want to install this top box and probably never remove it, although would of course need the option. I like the idea of still being able to use my overlander bag in conjunction with the top box and still being able to secure it to the bike using my steel core lock. Hard molle panels definitely provide a unique look.

This looks great I would not need the Handle or the MOLLE on the front. I would take it off the bike if at a hotel.Very excited about another great product!! Thank you

The wider one . This keeps the weight low as well as looks good 👍

Looks good. Bigger is better I'm always traveling with a passenger and you never have enough storage area. I never take mine off it's a permanent fixture. I wouldn't even mind bolting it to the luggage rack for more security

The Bumot mount for their top box works well. I will be removing the top box at hotels because that is where all my camera gear is carried. I install foam and cut it to house my cameras, batteries, chargers, and drone. Also an attachment for the inside of the lid to store cables and small things would be great. On a long trip the helmet would be the last thing I would store in a top box.

It would be nice if the divider could be placed flat on the bottom or on the side when not used so as to maximize internal storage but be with you for use at some later point in a trip if desired. I love the locking system for affixing it to the bike and the detachable panels on the sides. Brilliant!

Great top box. Net in the lid. Locking is good about time someone designs gear that actually uses it. Well done Andrew

Como Siempre.. "Sencillamente Perfecto"..

My wife and I travel together on our '22 GSA. I currently have the BMW top box. I would love to have the ability to secure two helmets in the top box, that way I don't have to carry one or lock it to the bike (especially in the rain). I love the side molle panels (I don't think I would use the back or the handle as the box will stay on the bike) and the ability to quickly remove them. I have found a bag to be extremely helpful for placing and removing the helmet from the box without scratching it. One request, please make sure that two full face helmets will fit with external intercoms attached. Would this box be sturdy enough to attach a Rotopax to the lid to carry water and/or fuel, or would that stress it too much? Thanks for all that thought you put into this. I hope the real world testing goes well. I look forward to seeing this box.

It's a massive box! Hope you develop different sizes!

I agree with other comments about the front folding handle, I doubt I'd ever use it. The hard molle, as much as it looks cool and "tough" it also looks like it adds unnecessary complexity. I took some super tough webbing from an old army belt and pop riveted strips of it on my bmw factory case with molle spacing, it sits close enough to the case to not be obtrusive when not in use and is solid enough for what I use it for, I only have my first aid kit on it and the sheet aluminium the case is made from might need some bracing if it needs to carry more weight.

Look awesome...looking forward to the production ...

I would like to see the molle panels to be an option. It is something that would have no interest from me to have the molle panels on the top box. I agree that I rarely take my top box off. So if its a bit of a pain it isn't a big deal. Love how you include the public in your designs!!

Excited about what’s to come, firstly don’t think I would use handle at back as previous experience was to just leave on bike. one thing to consider is ability to adjust or set the box back for pillion room and or additional language on rear seat..looking forward to next viewing cheers.

Looks great so far. I would suggest losing the handle, add a net/storage in lid and agree with dust caps on both locks.

I like to use my top box as a table in the LR moto tent to cook on etc keep the top flat for that purpose

Two top handles and one side handle, both would be my preference. Sometimes I only have the one hand to carry so the balance of the one handle would serve better during those times. Agree with a flush top for bag tie down. Side molle panels and their attachment is nice. I would normally like to leave the top box attached with helmet and other items not needed in room inside. I would prefer inside divider system vs a bag but the versatility would be nice as well.

This looks awesome! Can't wait to get my hands on on the final product. I would love the side molle panels to be continuous across without the break in the middle. This would allow a bag to be centered on the sides. My OCD and addiction to symmetry at play here. Lol!

Fixed point on the top, reduce the width good enough to slide in the strap (roxstrap or overlander bag). Make it two each side to accommodate different bag width.

Love the molle system. For me. the case won't come off very often (unless the attachment is very quick & easy) so the handle seems unnecessary (unless the handle was removable.) Dust/mud covers for the locks essential.

Would be awesome if they attached with the stock bmw top box attachment points like the rackless bags

Hi, great concept and really like the video. My thoughts: 1. I don’t see the need to carry anything on the rear ( eg what cars following see). Deleting that panel will reduce cost. 2. I don’t compartmentalise my top box as I use either one large bag or several removable bags. If I leave helmets in overnight I tend to place them in helmet bags to reduce the chance of damage. Again my view is simplicity is the best option and again reduces costs. 3. I love the coded key idea. Finally, you’ll never please us all, so my overriding goal would be simplicity of construction and thus minimal tooling. Good luck and thanks

I would be interested in a semi rigid top case like the side bags you sell. I have fallen on my bike having my Bmw top case vario pannier… luckily it hasn’t broken off but I do have a few dings and scratches. I have a few buddies that the top case has snapped off. Additionally, when I go on trips I usually leave the top case on and just take the inner bag out to my camp site or hotel. Having the key lock codeable to my Bmw key would be great.

Right on track. First renders looks great. One very important factor for me is that the lock can be keyed to my original BMW-key. That's the one reason I haven't bought the Rackless MotoBags...

What a good idea. Finally a real top case designed for travel. It's the only thing missing from your range. I have almost all of your catalog ;-) . As others have already said here, you have to think about the passenger, a comfortable backrest, like on the GIVI seems essential to me. Thanks.

I love the internal divider idea, my keys/phone torch always slide around in my topbox. Not sure the handle on the back is needed with the two big ones on top.

Hello there. This is the Absolute what we are looking for, good job and keep going 👏 👍

The internal bag idea sound great. Thanks for the update! Looking forward for the next vodeo

Love the idea. Would love a smaller option, however.

Looks good. I don't see the need for the rear handle as I always leave it on my bike. To combat the box being stolen, you could place the lock inside the box to secure it to the bike(?). That way, it can't be drilled without first gaining access.

G'day Andrew... watching with anticipation. Your designs are looking awesome! Really like the molle panels great idea. I've mounted small Pelican cases to my previous top box on both sides so this idea is great. Especially the ease of removing them, that is brilliant. I don't know about putting weight on the back panel. Could be a lot of leverage hanging further out the back of the box. Sides are ok as you can put similar weight on both sides. It would be awesome if you can make the rack mounting system with the ability to utilise the existing BMW original racks. That way I could use my small one for commuting/small trips and swap over to your large top box for bigger trips. I would personally drop the single handle under the lock. Just not required when you have the nice big handles on the top. Overall looking really good. Keep up the good work guys. Loving the gear, I've already got. Cheers.

Looks great, love the divider system inside, perhaps a storage net or pocket system inside the top of the box would also be useful to utilize all of its space but without everything falling out when opened. I think you've covered most of our needs. Anyway good luck

Looks fantastic great job

Great stuff, To keep it simple would a ratchet hinge so it could just hold at whatever level you open it to. I’ve love my bags and did the upgrade to the quick release system. You do fantastic work!

Love the mollie panels.!

Locking mechanism at the bottom of the box would be challenging to reach especially trying to slide in the key for locking and unlocking.

it would be nice to have something like a clear zippered pocket on the bottom of the lid that i can keep some docs like insurance papers, emergency info or extra maps for when im out adventuring. thanks

Great idea making a top box. 1 thing I would ask for is to make a 46ltr version.

Love the Molle panels! Maybe some type of removable insulating/padding material for drinks/camera gear. Color options would be great. Reflective accents on sides and back. Love the box so far!

I just want an easy way to carry a laptop bag to work. This looks really cool though!

Love the idea of the panels, very handy

2 helmets, yes! I also am not sure about the top handles, flat might be nice though I like the idea of having them. For cost/manufacturing simplicity perhaps either top or back handle. Love the Molle panels! Perhaps just a 'spray on' lining? For me, only because of the discoloration from aluminum. Looking good!

Product well thought out with lateral supports and interior separations. An adapter system for other support plate on the motorcycle would be interesting so as not to need to change the basic plate already installed. For two full helmets the capacity should be at least 58LT

Would be nice to have space for the Cardo or Sena... bluetooth headset to fit in the case when it on the helmet or having a nice pocket to put it in and recharge it if need be.

I think you need the Molly in the back and have the back rest as an option to attach the back rest to the Molly if you ride two up.

Any chance you could offer compatibility with BMW OEM lock cylinders? Being able to key that lock to your ignition key and other bags would be great.

Davvero molto interessante!!! Curioso di vedere il prodotto definitivo !

This looks great, I was looking for a top box but I think I will hold off until this comes out, I have the lone rider bags for my tiger 900 so I think this will look good with the side bags. Can't wait.

That looks really good. I would say make the pannier lock barrels to be able to use a BMW key to people that uses the standars GS pannier should be big like 52 or even 58L, the molipanels are great so we can attach other lone rider bags and use that space. Regarding removing the top box, i personally never remove mine, usually in top box i have the things i need for the day and clothes goes into the panniers on bags, i suggest maybe do a back molipanel without handle (default) and other with handle to sell has extra if worth in term of costs. Also the inside bag make it in way we can attach externally in the top of the pannier has the original bags, so if we need on a emergency the extra space we can just take the bag and attach on the top. Also i would try to have a basic model with important stuff then sell the rest has extras, like the molipanels, so you can reach a wider number of buyers.

Consider to make the locker adjustable to your current motorbike key like Wunderlich made for their tool boxes.

Really liking the early designs, great work.

Looks great, I love the idea of the molle panels, maybe to attach extra fuel or water. For real off-the-beaten-path stuff maybe solar panels to keep the battery charged or as EV bikes are coming online maybe expand down the road. Always wished I had a led light inside when fishing around for something in pitch darkness. having some clip-on pieces for various attachments to the molle adaptors.

If I understand correctly the soft panels are rigid, which is not bad in the idea of making them removable very easily. Nevertheless, they should not be sharp for the straps of the equipment that would pass in. Would there be a maximum weight not to be exceeded? Upgrading the two large handles at the top of the top case would be a plus, thus facilitating the overlay of business. The presence of a waterproof internal bag would be very appreciated. Integrated on the inner walls of the top case a shockproof coating (as for the bottom). In the inner part of the lid provide a compartmentalized bag.

Maybe add beneath the top door a place where you can save the bikes paperwork, registration or so.

Add some reflective and it is perfect, black ones hehe. I wonder if the top of the box shall have a sleeve pocket? Excellent job. Would love to test it in uk. The aesthetic is fantastic.

Looks fantastic, obviously it won’t suit everyone but I think your going in the right direction. If it turns out as good as the moto bags it will be a great product. Can’t wait to see the next video

no need for Molle panel on the rear i just think it will also encourage overloading also how secure will the pins be in the hinges just thinking about theft good luck ian whitley

I think this will be a buy for me day 1. I really hope it will be available for spring/summer. Some of the points I want to bring up is the handle, I do think its a great idea since I can see me taking it off at camp and using it like a seat, so it makes sense for me to have a handle. With that said, I am ok with it being a bit of a PITA to remove if it means it is more secure when I am in somewhere not as safe as a campsite. I was also wondering how wide it will be? I have your larger overlander bag and love it, but it is a bit too wide when it is on my bike, and I am not able to open my third party hard cases with it on, at least not easily. So it would be awesome to make sure you can access a good amount of side cases. Just something to figure out, if I cant open them, well I guess I better upgrade my side bags!

Topbox looks great. Please keep enough room so that if the helmets have comms units (Cardo or Sena) that they still fit in the box and the lid can close and two helmets can still fit. Handles on top may not be necessary. Rear molle panels my not be needed. I like the removable side molle panels. A net in the top of the lid is a good idea. Back rest pads for passenger are essential for taking a pillion. If the molle panels clip into plastic, have parts available to replace the plastic when it breaks in a tip over. Tether on the lid to keep it from flopping completely over when open would work. an Internal removable bag would be great.

Would be interested if lighter than my current BMW vario case, and used BMW mount-like your panniers use the vario side mounts. Smaller size option, BMW lock cylnders and make side and rear(with handle) molle optional to save weight and reduce cost.

IMO the biggest issue with motorcycle luggage, particularly top boxes are their inflexability and the temptation to overload the bike behind the rear wheel. One box doesn't cut it for me, though the Jesse system comes close. Having a flatter lower c-o-gravity option on a sliding mount means that when riding solo I can move the case over the pillion seat. Their smaller ' 35 litre challenger case is perfect for cameras and laptops when I'm filming, plus I don't need a large top box for helmet when touring. Good luck with your project.

Are you looking to use the Vario locking system for the R1250GS? For the helmets, are you allowing enough width for a Cardo (or similar) which is often hanging off the side of the unit? The divider panel in the middle is a great idea.

I love the look of the box, and I really like the side panels to attach bags. Will you be making a smaller box, maybe 35L ? I think 2 size options will be great, not everyone want to store 2 helmets in their top box. Great work

This is awesome to see, look forward to get my hands on one! Is it possible to create a bag/backpack that fits nicely in there? That would be awesome when you want to lock in the helmets when going for lunch or something.

I have applied some adhesive filt inside my original bmw alu panniers to protect what I put in - good for removing any scratches

Could you use double glazing bead for the seal? This is fairly common and simply super glue ends together. U grouve e in the box moulding to slot the seal in.