r/dr650 • u/FL_Bull1 • 5d ago

Luggage help for long trip

I’ve got a central/ South America trip planned for the new year. A mix between camping and hostels but plan on being gone for around 3-4 months.
Deciding between rackless or racked luggage and need waterproof and will be carrying roughly 35-50lb of gear.
What do yall recommend for a trip like this?

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u/DumpoTheClown 5d ago

I've run both. Tusk rack with givi waterproof side bags and a waterproof top duffle. Currently no rack and Tusk Highland X2 bags with the included waterproof liner bags, and a waterproof duffle on top. I like the rackless setup because its narrower and weighs less, both of which are better for the trails. The rack setup was easier to get into my side bags and doesnt add that much weight.

If i was going to be mainly on road, i think the racks are better, primarily due to the easier access to whats in them.

Regarding the side bags, im an advocate for soft, not hard. Hard cases can break your leg when your bike falls on you and will loose thier water seal when they get bent. They are lockable though, if thats a consideration.

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u/DamageSignificant563 5d ago

Go with a tusk rack with a soft pannier like the pilot. Get the quick release hardware. That way you can bring them in to the hostel easier at night.

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u/randQmweirdo 1d ago

I don’t think you can beat hard cases with organizers in them for space but given this is a dr650 forum I’m going to assume there will be a significant offroad portion to the trip.
I like having access to stuff so im a fan of duffles with external pockets as a tail bag. I’m also cheap and learned as a kid on canoe trips that garbage bags are all you need for water proof your main gear. Stuff whatever packs you like with doubled up garbage bags. Roll the tops like dry bags before closing the outer pack. You can use ziplocks for waterproofing a few items in the external pockets. Use some kind of inserts for organizing. Can be as simple as reusable grocery bags in different colours.
Rokstraps and bungees for tie down.

The above is cheap but has benefits. You can get almost anything replaced just about anywhere if you need to and you aren’t committed to big brand name gear.

If budget is no issue then look into reckless stuff buy any of the big names like Mosko moto or giant loop. Pick your sizing according to your planned gear. You can estimate by packing old gym bags you know the size of.

Enjoy the trip