Need rack advice for my daily rider Versys 650

[Jay Maxx]

Just started ridin' a 2011 Versys 650 to work and want a top box for gear. Factory panniers are in the way of every rack I look at. Does anyone know what'll stick without fuss? My cousin had the same issue and ended up moddin' a universal one. Wonder if there's a better route.

 

[Schmosby]

Just started ridin' a 2011 Versys 650 to work and want a top box for gear. Factory panniers are in the way of every rack I look at. Does anyone know what'll stick without fuss? My cousin had the same issue and ended up moddin' a universal one. Wonder if there's a better route.

Check out the SW-Motech or Givi racks but you should make sure to get the right adapter. I ended up using a Givi with some spacers before. No cutting needed.

 

[Jay Maxx]

Check out the SW-Motech or Givi racks but you should make sure to get the right adapter. I ended up using a Givi with some spacers before. No cutting needed.

I was hopin' to hear that you did it without cuttin'. Did the Givi rack kit include spacers to fit around the panniers or was that somethin' you added?

 

[versysexpl0rerteam]

Typically, you won't need to do any cutting if you choose SW-Motech or Givi, those racks are made to fit stock panniers perfectly. If you're adjusting a universal plate, you might have to trim some spacers or drill new holes, but you won't have to cut into the bike or the panniers.

 

[Jay Maxx]

Typically, you won't need to do any cutting if you choose SW-Motech or Givi, those racks are made to fit stock panniers perfectly. If you're adjusting a universal plate, you might have to trim some spacers or drill new holes, but you won't have to cut into the bike or the panniers.

Thanks for addin' more info to my earlier post. It's great to hear you also recommend SW-Motech and Givi. Since both you and the first commenter suggested these brands, I feel pretty confident about them. I haven't bought anythin' yet because I'm still checkin' a few details. For anyone who has installed the Givi rack, did your mountin' kit include the spacers needed to clear the factory side bags or did you need to purchase them separately?

 

[Alan]

Hah @Jay Maxx, I ran into the same question a while back. The Givi kit I got actually included the spacers, so I didn’t have to hunt for anything extra. Definitely makes life easier if you’re trying to avoid cutting or drilling.