Bags vs Key

[Potential]

Yeah I was on vacation in Scottsdale (I live in San Diego) when I bent the key trying to open the side bag. Luckily I was able to bend it back enough to get it working enough to use the bags and ignition but it's definitely bad engineering that the latch you pull is the same one you insert the key into. Also it's shocking how weak that key is -- it seems it's made out of aluminum instead of steel like it ought to be (or aluminum over a steel core).

 

[user 213]

Also it's shocking how weak that key is -- it seems it's made out of aluminum instead of steel like it ought to be (or aluminum over a steel core).

Most keys are nickel plated brass, including the FJR's OEM keys. You can get steel, aluminum and even plastic key blanks from a lock smith, but steel is pretty rare and not every shop will carry it. It's a lot more work to grind a key blank from steel, nearly all are brass.

The bags simply require a little mechanical empathy. Press down on the latch when turning the key. Pay attention to what's going on and lube/clean the lock now and then. It's really not that big a deal. It's also a good idea to examine your keys now and then to see if cracks are starting. This goes for all of your keys, not just the FJRs. Sucks if you don't notice until it breaks!

 

[RadioHowie]

but it's definitely bad engineering that the latch you pull is the same one you insert the key into.

How is that bad engineering? That's like saying it's bad engineering that the door handle you pull on your car is the same one you insert your key into, or it's bad engineering that the trunk lid you open is the same one you unlock with the key. Makes no sense.

The only thing bad, is the bad procedure of using the key to force the latch closed while turning the key, instead of pushing down the latch fully with one hand, then turning the key to lock the latch.

Sounds like someone who blames the sidestand for letting the bike fall over when the person deploying the sidestand didn't lower it all the way.

 

[CAJW]

but it's definitely bad engineering that the latch you pull is the same one you insert the key into.

How is that bad engineering? That's like saying it's bad engineering that the door handle you pull on your car is the same one you insert your key into, or it's bad engineering that the trunk lid you open is the same one you unlock with the key. Makes no sense.

The only thing bad, is the bad procedure of using the key to force the latch closed while turning the key, instead of pushing down the latch fully with one hand, then turning the key to lock the latch.

Sounds like someone who blames the sidestand for letting the bike fall over when the person deploying the sidestand didn't lower it all the way.

Hurump to that! [i didn't get a hurump from that guy (what movie is that line from?, Google inquiries don't count.)] Well put Howie.

 

[rfespinosa]

I like one key for everything. My Honda Interceptor has OEM bags and they have a different key from the ignition, I want to key them alike. If I am going to carry two keys, I'd prefer it be one and a spare.

I have never had a key problem. Knock on wood.

Ron

 

[Dangerous Dave]

Personally, I wouldn't own an FJR if it didn't have the factory LOCKING hard bags. Being able to secure my shit is the main attraction for me. And a separate key is still a key, so what's the big deal? When the wife and I are on a long trip together, I give her my spare key so she can get in the bags without taking mine. If I had to add my own locking luggage, I'd add it to something lighter and sportier, but that's just me. As-is, the FJR is a good overall package deal. Without the luggage, it might as well be an 1100 Kan-a-Tuna. :dribble:

Two FJRs in 4.5 years putting about 12k miles on each. Never had a problem with any keys or locks.

 

[midlifeuturn]

Hurump to that! [i didn't get a hurump from that guy (what movie is that line from?, Google inquiries don't count.)] Well put Howie.

That would be Blazing Saddles!

I watch it every so often - Classic!

 

[lazbm]

Design engineers just can't win!!

Provide a glove box that is electrically locked ... unhappy.

Provide hard bags that are mechanically locked ... unhappy.

If someone doesn't like switching off the bike when wanting to open the hard bags, and doesn't like the cheap two-key solution, then convert those bags to be electrically locked like the glove box.

I would prefer a fob in my pocket and electrical push-buttons for everything ... push-button starter, push-button hard bag locks, push-button glove box. That way engine/ignition could be on or off - as long as the fob (rider) was in the vicinity of the bike, everything could be operated. No mechanical keys.

 

[Fred W]

I would prefer a fob in my pocket and electrical push-buttons for everything ... push-button starter, push-button hard bag locks, push-button glove box. That way engine/ignition could be on or off - as long as the fob (rider) was in the vicinity of the bike, everything could be operated. No mechanical keys.

That would be awesome. Until it breaks. Then you wouldn't be able to do anything.