One of the first things I will be doing to my new bike is saddle bags. These will be used for everyday commuting, clothes, groceries and the like.

I have read about the sub frames issues so I want to avoid that to the extent possible.

Will a set of Dirt Bagz that go over the rearward seat area be less stressful to the week rear sub frame?

I thought about a pannier specific rack like happy trails sl but the mounts make me think this may make the problem worse. I can really load up the groceries.

I would do a cyclerack if that is the best solution even thought I don't love the added pannier attachment vs a single welded unit like the Happy trails SL.

Thoughts?

 

Less stress than this? probably. LOL

 

I lift my '09 by the subframe all the time. That has to be lifting about 1/2 the weight of the bike, at least. I'm wondering if the "weak subframe" was; A) Fixed by '09, or B) The result of someone RIDING on the rear fender. I can't imagine it not holding 100+ pounds. Seems plenty sturdy to me for most legitimate uses.

 

There are only a few reports of subframe problems that I recall, usually from a floppy load on lots of fast hard bumps and stuff. I've loaded the heck out of mine, not quite like Deej, and its done fine. The cycle rack does a good job of transferring load down lower, which seems to make a lot of sense.

 

I guess the search function has me skewed a bit

 

At least one member here as suggested the 2009+ subframe may be a little weaker in spots than the 2006/2007. Skim through my Owyhee and River of no Return ride reports below to see some pics of my loaded 2006 and the terrain.

 

I have the Wolfman E-10 Enduro Bags on mine. They hold quite a bit of stuff, without being overly bulky. There's a duffle that you can strap to the top for additional storage.

Wolfman Motorcycle Luggage

They are expensive (IMO) but the build quality is top notch. I suppose you could throw a lock on the zippers if you felt you needed to. The way they attach makes them NOT very friendly to frequently removing them when you stop.

 

Frame thickness is about the same from 09 to earlier years.

Check out

http://klxforum.suncup.net/viewtopic...636e8772696021

I wouldn't be jumping or slamming any whoops loaded down on any year klx without doing some extra gusseting

 

Thanks everyone. I am 99% certain I am going to get a Cycleracks rack. It distributes the load and will give me peace of mind in exchange for a bit of ugly...

I might weld on some side rails like the happy trails sl rack for panniers.

 

It's not difficult to make the subframe stronger, then you have piece of mind