My (cheap) solution to luggage
 

I don't like spending a lot, and I think my Ten is already to heavy. So I am trying my damnest to avoid pannier frames and those expensive hard cases. Going soft means cheaper and lighter, a double gain in my book. So I got a wolf man softbag which easily goes on and off the bike. Its storing all my goods (tent, sleeping bag, pillow, camping cot! and cooking bits) I still have to add some clothes, but one of the pictures will show the space left on the sides. Just took it out for a ride, and she seem to handles as normal. I keep as little as possible in the top box, which is handy for a helmet. Wales will show wether it works or if it was folly going this route. The only possible problem that I can see is the distance from the front straps on the footpeg bracket which is about 2 inches from the exhaust pipe (the only part which gets really hot. The cans keep pretty cool and the bag clears it anyway.
http://i1311.photobucket.com/albums/...psbjqiqaha.jpg

Seen from the back, this shows how well it clears the cans, which don't get hot anyway. The stock ones (these are Leo Vince) are even better as they are encased in black plastic.
http://i1311.photobucket.com/albums/...psauvoxizc.jpg

This is the area which could (hopefully not) cause problems. That pipe does get hot, but the straps are pretty far away. Time will tell, but I will keep my eye on it. These straps anchor the bag going backwards, so pretty important.
http://i1311.photobucket.com/albums/...psj8oml0q4.jpg

The Wolfman bag was �135 off Ebay, the top box and carrier wouldn't sell on Ebay for �35 so I kept it. Now its handy. Compare those prices with hard luggage!
In this picture you can see the sides of the bag which can still be filled. The only down is its not fully waterproof like an Ortlieb.
http://i1311.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1wwqpzyp.jpg

:023: Big thumbs up from me too for Wolfman soft luggage - top quality, attractive and practical designs and modestly priced compared to a lot of other stuff on offer.

At least one hard/secure storage solution on the bike, such as your top case, is always handy.

If you're worried about the link pipe (which I don't think you have any reason be), then fit one of the small heat-shields that are available, such as the giant loop one...

http://www.adventurebikeshop.co.uk/hot_springs

But I really don't foresee any trouble on the horizon with the setup you've got.

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I always pack some spare rope just in case. Amazing what can be fixed with a few navy knots

Hi Jacque, I have used the same Wolfman luggage for the last 3 yrs, it's worked well. As you say the only downside is the lack of waterproofing, I just pack everything in a mixture of drybags and binliners! Enjoy the Welsh trip and post some photos please! Steve

Hi Steve I will definitely do some pictures. Hopefully not driving the others crazy wanting to stop at every nice lookout. When's your Ireland adventure?

Half the enjoyment is taking in the scenery, so click away I say !!!

For fully waterproof bags, don't pay Ortleib prices look at the Lomo gear.

http://www.ewetsuits.com/acatalog/Dr...y-bags-uk.html