Aerodynamic Hard Shell "saddle Bags?

[Folks]

I've not seen any mention of or any pictures of a car top rack as another alternative. The rear satchels pictured here are very much in keeping with the low profile and aerodynamics of the Elio. Looks great too. But what if their were a critical need for even more carrying space on board the Elio. Suppose there are any roof racks that might minimize any added drag - handling characteristics and yet increase the capacity satisfactorily? Maybe a torpedo shape or something?

what do you think of finding and rigging something like this on top for a luggage rack. A little smaller for sure but the narrow tube shape is an attempt maintaining the low wind resistance some what.

 

[Ty]

Ya that works for me. Just might be an option.
View attachment 2033
MK

Okay. I just ran into this post again and I really like the saddlebags you have here. Nice Photoshop work there.

 

[DScott]

Ya that works for me. Just might be an option.
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MK

looks alot like mine!

 

[CheeseheadEarl]

I like that idea for cross country touring........similar to the Matching Suitcase option on the V13R:
View attachment 2031
Also, note the front fender lights.

Rick, you call em suitcases. Are they remove able for use as luggage; I.E. carry them to the hotel room?

If so, I really like that idea.

 

[Rickb]

Rick, you call em suitcases. Are they remove able for use as luggage; I.E. carry them to the hotel room?

If so, I really like that idea.

Yes........a quick release latch/handle suitcase option would allow for the most functional portable storage to use on that Elio road trip or for around town shopping trips.

 

[wheaters]

The front wheels would throw dirt and water straight at this location.

 

[Malthorn]

I would be worried about mounting anything to the roof with those composite body panels. A better idea would be a hitch mounted platform. A 2'x3' platform would give you plenty of space. Go old school and mount a trunk on it. Stop for the night and you could just haul the whole trunk in.

 

[wheaters]

Or, if you routinely want to carry lots of luggage, buy a bigger car!

 

[outsydthebox]

I would be worried about mounting anything to the roof with those composite body panels. A better idea would be a hitch mounted platform. A 2'x3' platform would give you plenty of space. Go old school and mount a trunk on it. Stop for the night and you could just haul the whole trunk in.

I have used a hitch carrier "platform" (on our Chevy venture) with a waterproof, rectangular, canvas bag. Worked great and had NO negative impact on mileage. So I plan to modify a Platform by narrowing it to the width of the Elio. Ruffly 2' wide by 20" deep. Then make the Box just short of the tail lights and move the license plate onto the box. Or might make it full height and add tail lights to the box, too. Make it like an extension of the body.

 

[Rickb]

Or, if you routinely want to carry lots of luggage, buy a bigger car!

Elio isn't a car it's a motorcycle! Frankly, the vehicle someone buys and how they make it function with the available after market options........is their personal choice. There are current after market options for MC's........Saddle Bags........both soft and hard case, trailers, and even camper trailers making a motorcycle more functional on longer trips. The Elio can certainly be as or even more functional than your typical MC. The majority of Elio owners will already own a car, van, or pickup to use at their discretion.