[WillH]

Here is a photo of my B showing the 2 forward screws that hold the small seat clips - The other 2 screws are farther back hidden under the fender. From what I can tell, it looks like the only issue with fitting the H bracket would be the cutting of the tupperware (fender) for the H frame; That is unless one purchases the GA tupperware too.

Then if a factory luggage rack (complete rack or just the top plate section) can somehow be fitted to the H frame, you would be all set to use the OEM top case from BMW.

Just my opinion, but I don't see BMW offering a luggage rack/topcase for the B because it would cannibalize GA sales - basically the only difference between the 2 bikes.

 

[sfoster]

Just my opinion, but I don't see BMW offering a luggage rack/topcase for the B because it would cannibalize GA sales - basically the only difference between the 2 bikes.

Probably true. Now that the cat is out of the bag as it were, even if an H frame is not available for purchase from the BMW parts bin, someone should be able to pretty easily produce one. Could see the development of a kit to include a template to drill two holes in the B rear cover (item 1 p/n 46 62 8 358 769 ) through which the rails would extend. On top of those rails one would bolt the top case carrier plate. If the 'new' H frame is removed, two inserts (grommets/plugs) could be inserted into the rear cover to disguise the holes.

 

[jkriner]

Can someone check to see what part number is stamped on the H frame? Can't find the parts fiche anywhere for the GA, so don't know that part number. Worst case, someone can make their own H frame to mount the top case carrier.

I just removed the H-frame and there are NO part numbers stamped on it anywhere. It would not be too difficult for an H-frame to be made. Especially if the rear frame of the B already has been threaded to accept it.

And by the way, I disconnected the two wiring harnesses, unbolted the top case, unbolted the H-frame, bolted on the rear panel I had fabbed and plugged in my light harness in exactly 6 mins.

 

[dobervol]

I just removed the H-frame and there are NO part numbers stamped on it anywhere. It would not be too difficult for an H-frame to be made. Especially if the rear frame of the B already has been threaded to accept it.

And by the way, I disconnected the two wiring harnesses, unbolted the top case, unbolted the H-frame, bolted on the rear panel I had fabbed and plugged in my light harness in exactly 6 mins.

Resurrected thread, now that it's been several months, to ask how much you find you ride with the top case, versus without.

 

[jkriner]

I’ve taken a couple mini vacations with the top case on. A three day and a four day.

The top case has been off for the majority of the time.

I did put it back on this past weekend for a couple of day trips with my wife on board. She has to have a backrest and plenty of storage for extra pants, jacket, gloves, helmet, etc. ?

I must confess, either with the top case on or off, this machine gets far more compliments than my GTL ever did. Every time I stop, seems like someone comes over to ask about it.

 

[dobervol]

Thanks so much for the quick response, Jesse. I'm glad you're enjoying her. Sounds like you've come up with the perfect solution!

I've about decided the GA is where I'm headed, and just do what you did. I want to ride more to and for work, and that's more of where the top case would be used for me, especially in the early Spring and late Fall, when you have to wear more gear, plus laptop and files, etc. My wife would very rarely occupy the pillion, if ever, as she has her own bike. But it would be nice to have the option to go sans top case.

For now,I'm not selling my K12S or FZ-09, though, so it's not like I won't have something to tear up the twisties if need be.

 

[WillH]

There is an H bracket for sale on eBay for $74 including the mounting screws.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2018-BMW-K...age-Box-Brace/143273285450?fits=Make:BMW&hash=item215bc0d74a:g:ZecAAOSwIilc7q-6

If anyone is considering adding the GA topcase to their B, this is probably a good option. Might require some mods to your rear fender and rear seat but this part is the main support frame that is required.

I would buy it myself but I have gone a different route.

 

[wizard1325]

Always wondered how my GA would look without the top case

 

[jkriner]

Always wondered how my GA would look without the top case

Three pics of without the top case and the H-bracket removed. One of the panel I made to cover the hole. One with the panel on.

 

[soberbiker]

Nice work...very clean!

 

[Wunhotttuna]

Very nice. How did you make the roundel trim?

 

[jkriner]

Very nice. How did you make the roundel trim?

I went to my local BMW Auto Dealership. He gave me a couple adhesive Roundels. I believe that they are for the centercaps on the wheels. Free of charge!!!! ?

 

[wizard1325]

Three pics of without the top case and the H-bracket removed. One of the panel I made to cover the hole. One with the panel on.

Can you make me one? PLEASE!


My bike looks so ugly

 

[smillerv2]

Can you make me one? PLEASE!


My bike looks so ugly

Seriously, if someone could make these covers they could sell a lot of them to us GA owners who want the option to run "topless".

 

[redbikerat]

I went to my local BMW Auto Dealership. He gave me a couple adhesive Roundels. I believe that they are for the centercaps on the wheels. Free of charge!!!! ?

This must be a global first. You got something free out of a BMW dealer!:surprise:

 

[mkr1966]

Why didn't they just make it like the GTL? Problem solved

 

[ryren]

Three pics of without the top case and the H-bracket removed. One of the panel I made to cover the hole. One with the panel on.

How much for a template of the panel you made? I would like to make my own but I don't think it would turn out as clean as yours.

 

[spm0912]

Hi, I'd like to remove the top case on my GA for solo riding. Looks simple enough and I'll just get a plate bolted onto the H Bar. But no ones mentioned brake lights. Might be a UK thing but on my bike there are no brake lights on the panniers, just red running lights. Anyone else with this issue and has solved it?

Thanks

 

[gbjbany]

US bikes , the top of the lights on pannier is brake too

You could try a clearwater billie light or similar

 

[spm0912]

US bikes , the top of the lights on pannier is brake too

You could try a clearwater billie light or similar

Thanks, fitting another brake light makes sense as it will fool the canbus into thinking top box is still fitted