[Scooter_Maniac]

I wanted 1) a tunnel bag and 2) a cup holder. I have read that issues with commercial tunnel bags include: concerns that they fit too snugly in the space available and block the air vents below the front edge of the seat and they do not allow the glove box to be opened. I just happened to have an old, unused camera bag in the closet, and came up with this mod. I've had in use for a year now, and it has been very satisfactory. It is essentially just the bag mounted crosswise onto the tunnel, with one of the movable interior dividers (common in camera bags) positioned so it divides the bag into two sections. One is large enough to hold my Frog Togs rain suit, and the other acts as a drink holder. What I particularly like is that this bag has a double zipper on top, is padded (read, "insulated"), has outside pockets I can stash various goodies in and carrying handles and, when in place I can get my glove box open all the way. The double zippers allow the top to be unzipped back to the mentioned divider and tucked in, leaving an exposed, open area for the cup holder. I used webbing and attached it to the bottom (it could be sewn but, I used t-nuts and machine screws 'cause that's what I had) and also installed plastic squeeze buckles. The actual attachment to the bike was with screw-on snaps. I could have used these for where I normally attach and remove the bag but, as they only screw into plastic I was concerned that with repeated use, it would eventually tear out. That is why I added the buckles. I only take the bag off if it looks like rain and I am having to park the bike a ways from where I will be, so I'll have my rain suit with me, and to fuel up. In the latter case, I just unsnap one side and sling the bag to the other side so I can get to the fuel door. The fabric started do discolor after a while, so I have since touched it up with automotive fabric dye and it looks great. I have to say, it is not a bad looking install. Here's some pics:

[attachment=4:w7jgg5v6]Bag with drink.JPG[/attachment:w7jgg5v6]

[attachment=3:w7jgg5v6]Bag bottom details.JPG[/attachment:w7jgg5v6]

[attachment=2:w7jgg5v6]Bag bottom clipped.JPG[/attachment:w7jgg5v6]

[attachment=1:w7jgg5v6]Tunnel Bag Profile 2.JPG[/attachment:w7jgg5v6]

[attachment=0:w7jgg5v6]soda.JPG[/attachment:w7jgg5v6]

 

[Houndguy]

That's actually pretty brilliant!

 

[Hammer]

I would think that once installed that the bag would have to stay on so as not to have the buckles bouncing around or interfering with feet or ankles. I would use some velcro to keep the buckle lashed to the tupperware when not in use as I probably would not want to ride with the bag all time. Good idea.

 

[Scooter_Maniac]

I would think that once installed that the bag would have to stay on so as not to have the buckles bouncing around or interfering with feet or ankles. I would use some velcro to keep the buckle lashed to the tupperware when not in use as I probably would not want to ride with the bag all time. Good idea.

I seldom ride without the bag but, when I have I just took it off at the buckles. They really didn't flop around or get in the way, for me. Also, for the occasional removal, it could be released at the snaps. I just didn't think the plastic would hold up using them day in and day out.

 

[Scooter_Maniac]

Since my original post, I've picked up a 650 and use this same bag on it. However, I have also found some heavy-duty Velcro that has an adhesive made for plastic so, it works real well. I don't have to use any straps...just slap it on.

 

[jedd]

Can you link us up w/ the Velcro that's got the adhesive backing for plastic?

 

[mike D]

Can you link us up w/ the Velcro that's got the adhesive backing for plastic?

They stock it at any Ace Hardware but here is the link to Home Depot http://www.homedepot.com/p/Velcro-3...Strips-for-Plastic-2-Pack-90850ACS6/202261938

 

[Scooter_Maniac]

As Mike said...I got mine at an ACE.

 

[fernando]

@Scooter_Maniac: well thought and executed. kudos!