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HowTo: Shad top box install on 2021 RT base

I was thinking of getting the LinQ rack to mount a RotopaX 2gal gas container for my Yellowstone trip. Wasn't sure how the mount would attach and not be in the way of the LinQ latch. Monk's 3in hole thru the topcase mount will likely be the answer. Just need to come up with a removable secondary 'plate' between the RotopaX mount and the rack to access the latch.
 
Pics of the Shad mount plate on the LinQ adapter and maybe some pics from a distance with the top case on the bike (back and sides)?

I don't have an immediate need for a top case now but based on your play by play, it sounds like a fairly easy install and inexpensive option vs the OEM - I might consider doing something like this when spring arrives.

Here's the Shad mount on the LinQ mount. The cosmetic cover is on (this is what it looks like if you take the box off) but as you can see, I still need to cut out part of the circle so I can unlock the LinQ plate. I forgot to do that and I was tired.
View attachment 187066

Here's the set up from the rear and side at it's smallest capacity.
View attachment 187067View attachment 187068

And the same fully extended. (There's a middle position but I didn't take any pics of that.)
expanded rear.jpgView attachment 187069

I think it looks kinda sporty in the smallest configuration and has about the same footprint as the OEM top box fully extended.

I rode about 2 hours this afternoon with the box in both the smallest and fully extended positions just to see if it would affect the wind. I couldn't tell it was back there unless I was looking in the mirrors. I'd say it's a success.

NOTE: It appears the SH59X (with the aluminum top cover) replaces the chrome reflectors with black parts. I think I'll buy those instead of trying to paint the chrome ones.
 
I was thinking of getting the LinQ rack to mount a RotopaX 2gal gas container for my Yellowstone trip. Wasn't sure how the mount would attach and not be in the way of the LinQ latch. Monk's 3in hole thru the topcase mount will likely be the answer. Just need to come up with a removable secondary 'plate' between the RotopaX mount and the rack to access the latch.

There's a sticker on the LinQ rack that states not to carry gas. Not sure why but it's there. Just an FYI.
 
Here's the Shad mount on the LinQ mount. The cosmetic cover is on (this is what it looks like if you take the box off) but as you can see, I still need to cut out part of the circle so I can unlock the LinQ plate. I forgot to do that and I was tired.
View attachment 187066

Here's the set up from the rear and side at it's smallest capacity.
View attachment 187067View attachment 187068

And the same fully extended. (There's a middle position but I didn't take any pics of that.)
View attachment 187070View attachment 187069

I think it looks kinda sporty in the smallest configuration and has about the same footprint as the OEM top box fully extended.

I rode about 2 hours this afternoon with the box in both the smallest and fully extended positions just to see if it would affect the wind. I couldn't tell it was back there unless I was looking in the mirrors. I'd say it's a success.

NOTE: It appears the SH59X (with the aluminum top cover) replaces the chrome reflectors with black parts. I think I'll buy those instead of trying to paint the chrome ones.

Looks like the pics didn't come through - it says invalid attachment when I click on the link.
 
Looks great Monk. I think I like the look better than the factory box.:2thumbs:

Did you have some pics of how it mounts to the LinQ base?

Thanks.

There are (3) tabs on the front (bottom) of the box that slip into those (3) holes in the mount. The rear just clips into that raised piece, rear center. There are (3) key positions, Lock, Unlock and Release. The 1st (2) are obvious. You can choose Lock or Unlock and remove the key. (Unlike Givi bags were you HAVE to unlock w/the key every time you want to open the box. Dumb idea, if you ask me, which you didn't.) If you turn the key to Release, the key stays in the box but then allows you to pull a lever at the rear of the case that releases the rear latch holding the box to the mount. Easier than it sounds. The only time I plan to remove the box will be if I want to remove the LinQ rack and reinstall the stock color matched cover.

If I didn't explain it well enough (and I might not have), let me know and I'll take a quick video of the process sometime this week.
 

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Wow! That looks great. This is making it harder and harder for me to resist taking the leap onto a newer RT model. I have prewarned the wife that the temptation is strong, so who knows what will happen next.

Thanks. It doesn't have the same get up and go as your F3 but a flash would take care of that. I love this thing. I'm not usually one to keep any vehicle very long but barring a lottery win, I'll probably keep this until the next generation comes out. There are still a few things I want/need to do (more rear lighting, real tires, paint trunk, foot pegs, maybe floorboard lights?).

I think I'm addicted. Every time I install one thing, I think "Now, I need THIS other thing". :) I got the Pedal Commander (which is awesome, by the way). Now, I want the ECM reflashed although I'll wait on that until after the 3k mile service. I've long since run out of money but my addiction still runs wild. It's a sickness.
 
FWIW, You could save close to the cost of the ECU flash by doing the 3k yourself. It's just an oil change and inspection. $50-70 for oil/filter.
 
I have this Shad 53X box on my Kawasaki. Sweet case and I love how easy it is to remove and bring into the hotel.

The built in handle is handy, eh? I don't see a Shad 53X top case. Maybe that's a discontinued model? What Kawasaki do you have? I've had a couple of Nomads.
 
FWIW, You could save close to the cost of the ECU flash by doing the 3k yourself. It's just an oil change and inspection. $50-70 for oil/filter.

I don't change my own oil. I'm supposed to get the 1st service for free. We'll see if they stand behind that. Even if they make me pay, I think having a dealer do the 1st service makes sense. They're supposed to know the bikes inside and out so they can check the torque settings on the bolts, etc. They should also know what to check for and they'll have the right tools to do so. Not sure what I'll do for any further oil changes.
 
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