Saddlebag Key Knob mod

mikebike · Jul 17, 2013

I saw this someplace but wanted to share my pics on it to make it clear and hopefully helpful. Total cost $8.00

Now I can easily get into my bags without having to turn off the bike

Parts 2 keys (get the metal ones as they are cheaper ($5.00 for 2)

2 knobs with set screws from radio shack

Two 1.5 inch knobs -- $3.00

They come with set screws.... so no gluing necessary

Metal key (with no Rubber top) ----Key cut off and ground down to fit the knob

Finished Product

Side view in place on saddle bag

Top view with key/knob in place

majicmaker · Jul 17, 2013

That's Awesome! Damn good idea.

RaYzerman19 · Jul 17, 2013

It worked great on my ST1300 a few years ago, but I should warn you your bags have no real detents to keep the locks locked unless the key is removed. Beware vibration could leave you bagless........

majicmaker · Jul 17, 2013

I was thinking the same thing. Then I thought of a rubber washer that'll hold it in position and withstand plenty of vibrations. Just put the thing in your pocket before checking into the hotel room and carry the originals somewhere handy.

wfooshee · Jul 17, 2013

Damn. All this time I've just been leaving them locked, and using the key to unlock them when I wanted in.

At least I knew all my stuff was still there.

OTOH, my ignition doesn't hold the key; I can remove it with the bike running, so I can get into the bags without shutting off and then having to restart.

mikebike · Jul 17, 2013

Yeah its funny like that... we each get to make our own choices as to how to mod.... they may be helpful to some.... and then there will be the wise ***, sarcasm laden comments that endear us all to each other. Even those from the Redneck Rivera like the comrade above

Seems to me with this set up they are locked until I turn the knob--- and they stay locked. If I want them secure I simply remove the knob.

With this setup ........I have NO chance of braking my normal ignition key due to the sub-par locking system on the FJR saddlebag. Also since the knob/key is short it will not function as the ignition key

not perfect-- not for everyone -- yet I am sure some may find it helpful.

FJRRider08 · Jul 17, 2013

I made one of these about a year ago with an old automotive A/C knob, filled it with epoxy and works great, I like this set-up as well, good idea. If I may offer one little hint when doing this. When closing and locking the case lift up on the key one click, this way the vibration will not let it unlock and your stuff fly's out all over the interstate

don't ask how I know... Since doing that it's never happened again.

Greg 03 · Jul 17, 2013

My bags are keyed different than my bike so I just use a key chain with a quick disconnect.

escapefjrtist · Jul 18, 2013

Nice idea, thanks for the reminder. Be nice to have a "saddlebag" special key stashed in the tank bag...

--G

Harald · Jul 25, 2013

Nice idea. Wouldn't work for me though because it would be one more thing to remember when parking the bike if I want my stuff secure. And the potential for bags to unlock while riding also gives me pause.

I have made extra copies of the key and keep them in my primary riding gear sleeve pocket. Due to scumbag mail thieves, I had to purchase a locking mailbox to ensure that my mail is still there when I check it daily after work. So the mailbox key and motorcycle key are together in the sleeve pocket so that I can stop, retrieve mail and store it in the sidecase without turning the bike off.

There's more than one way to skin a cat, but in all cases the end result is good chinese food and a nice fur coat.

majicmaker · Jul 25, 2013

Harald said:
There's more than one way to skin a cat, but in all cases the end result is good chinese food and a nice fur coat.

If you run one over and let it sit for a while, They make Excellent Cricket Bats too!

Harald · Jul 25, 2013

majicmaker said:
Harald said:

There's more than one way to skin a cat, but in all cases the end result is good chinese food and a nice fur coat.

Click to expand...

If you run one over and let it sit for a while, They make Excellent Cricket Bats too!

576x417xfreecat.jpg.pagespeed.ic.HrH_T8l1Iz.jpg

majicmaker · Jul 25, 2013

Harald said:
majicmaker said:

Harald said:

There's more than one way to skin a cat, but in all cases the end result is good chinese food and a nice fur coat.

Click to expand...

If you run one over and let it sit for a while, They make Excellent Cricket Bats too!

Click to expand...

[img=[URL="https://cdn.randomfunnypicture.com/pictures/576x417xfreecat.jpg.pagespeed.ic.HrH_T8l1Iz.jpg%5D"]https://cdn.randomfunnypicture.com/pictures/576x417xfreecat.jpg.pagespeed.ic.HrH_T8l1Iz.jpg][/URL]

Lmfao!!!

)

flatlandor · Jul 26, 2013

Harald said:
majicmaker said:

Harald said:

There's more than one way to skin a cat, but in all cases the end result is good chinese food and a nice fur coat.

Click to expand...

If you run one over and let it sit for a while, They make Excellent Cricket Bats too!

Click to expand...

Ok, that was great for a Friday chuckle!

Saddlebag Key Knob mod

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Saddlebag Key Knob mod

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