Triumphrat

mecscc · 01-13-2006

I'm not sure I am able to express this well, but I am getting a new Bonnie Black and I want to continue to use my small Nelson Rigg magnetic tank bag with it. On the Tbird no matter how careful I was there was some scuffing of the clear coat from dust and grit. Over time it dulled the finish a bit at each of the 6 points where the 1" magnets sat.

I know that they make graphics (flames, etc.) that stick to gas tanks by static and can be peeled off. What I am wondering is whether there is something similar that is clear and could be used to protect the finish on my new bike?

If not, are there other possible solutions short of not using the tank bag? I really need the tank bag as a kind of briefcase between here and work, and I don't want to add saddlebags or put on a sissy bar/luggage rack - I want to keep this new bike absolutely plain.

Suggestions?

Monte

BassNote · 01-14-2006

I've been thinking about the same problem. When I finally get around to addressing it, I will probably try the Scotchcal paint protection film made by 3M. There is an article about it here. Good Luck!!!

Speed3 · 01-14-2006

Try contacting this guy. He makes pattern cut plastic for Speed Triples, and he may for Bonnies.Tankslapper

mecscc · 01-14-2006

Those are two quick and perfect replies! I'm going to email the Tankslapper folks to see just what their Bonneville kit covers. If it covers the places the bag sits and the magnets attach down the side I'll order the kit to save having to cut my own templates.

But, if not, the article on the Scotchcal film is great and I will buy some and try to cut it to fit accordingly.

THANKS!

Monte

PS: I bought the Bonnie today! It was still in the crate but I looked at it and sprinkled some holy water (not) on it and took the plunge. Got a great deal on an '05 and saved some megabucks compared to an '06. There was about a $1300 difference "out the door."

DickBender · 01-15-2006

I use black duct tape on mine, a mate uses a piece of non slip rubber stuff, but it can fall of if and get lost you need to take the tank bag on and off.

darcy

Gohm · 01-15-2006

I use a thin synthetic chamois towel underneath. As the prior post states, you'll need to lay it down unless you were to sew or attach it to the bag. terrycloth or similar soft material that's thin would also work.

Billybob · 01-19-2006

Have you considered a backpack?

01-30-2006

Go to a local sign/decal shop and get a sheet of clear static cling material. You know,the stuff they make window cling/decals out of. It has no adhesive on it so you can peel it off,let it cling to a smooth clean surface and then slap it on when you are ready to use it again. I use it under my soft bags (Triumph line of course) on my speed triple. No scratches and the whole 3ft x 3ft sheet cost me like $5.

Mojoinco · 01-31-2006

You could always get a non-magnetic bag; I use a Chase-Harper multi-mount (has both straps and magnets). I used to use a Bagman bag, which uses straps and has a fake sheepskin backing with a sissy bar mount (sleeve) built into it. That worked very well, but after 20 odd years the rubber finally got too hard and it went with the old Yamaha-ha.

Enjoy!

PaloAlto · 02-03-2006

Monte,

You may have already applied the Scotchcal by now but here are a few comments.

Making your own templates isn't that difficult. I've noted the places where my knees and boots rub and have cut plastic specifically for those spots.

When you install the plastic, it's nearly impossible to avoid small air spots. As long as they're small enough, they will disappear in a few weeks.

Good luck.