Quote Originally Posted by bikerdoc View Post
Instead of mounting the topbox permanently to the base, why not use a stretchy bungy or two. This has worked 100% for me which allows the box to be removed using the quick release which I consider one of the advantages of the topbox, and it minimises the small vibration sounds that cannot seem to be damped out even with the use of the rubber grommet/plugs.
Although I really like the convenience of popping the box and walking into a hotel, I got sick of the rattling, bungy-ing, and breaking of the quick release mechanisms. Two things I notice about this. #1 The smaller Adlo boxes usually last a lot longer, because you tend to carry less weight in them. #2 Most of the latch failures happened when my wife and I were riding together. I think she would doze off and then hit it with full force from a bump, which would weaken the latch until it eventually broke.

I think if you're riding solo, without a lot of weight in the trunk, the convenience of quick release is worth a go. As bikerdoc points out, a couple of bungee straps only take a minute and give you piece of mind. But two up riding for an extended period of time, with lots of weight in the trunk, is probably going to be a problem, eventually.

One other point about mounting directly to the rack without the plate, it saves another 3-4 cm in height. Top boxes put the weight up high and far back on the bike which is not a good thing. Lower and directly over the rear axle is much better than high and hanging off the back. I usually pack rainsuits and other bulky, light weight, items in mine rather than heavy stuff.

Cheers!
ChinaV