Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers and Zega Pro Top Case Review

Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers and Zega Pro Top Case
Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers and Zega Pro Top Case

Big adventure bikes like our 2015 Yamaha Super Ténéré ES long-termer are incomplete without hard luggage. We tested Yamaha’s 61-liter accessory panniers during our last adventure comparo (August 2014) and found them wanting. We had to press down on the top-loading lids and carefully turn the key to lock or unlock them, and they couldn’t be left unlocked. And at $1,182.95, they’re pricey.

Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers and Zega Pro Top Case
Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers and Zega Pro Top Case

This go-round we ordered a set of Touratech’s new Zega Mundo panniers, which are cheaper, larger and more rugged. The full system (two panniers, mounting kit and hardware) costs $1,099, they’re available in 31/38-liter (69 liters total, 38-inch overall width) or 38/45-liter (83 liters total, 41-inch overall width) sizes for the same price, and they’re made of 1.5mm aluminum with stainless steel rivet construction. The panniers have a bare aluminum finish, but the stainless steel mounting rack is available in silver or black (the latter costs an extra $40). Installation was straightforward thanks to the well-illustrated instructions, high-quality hardware and excellent fit. The cross-braced rack bolts directly to the subframe for strength and rigidity, and the panniers attach securely with a puck-and-clamp system that allows easy removal.

The panniers’ rectangular shape makes them easy to load and unpack. Their dual-function latches allow the lids to open or hinge from front or back, and the lids can be removed entirely. Under each latch is a hidden, spring-loaded release tab that helps the lid stay closed and adds a measure of security (optional Integral Locks are $24.95 per pair, which can be keyed alike). Around each lid is an extruded aluminum edge with a deep groove and silicone gasket that mates securely with the lip around each pannier to create a waterproof, dustproof seal. Additional gear can be attached to the four anchor loops atop each lid, which are flush with the top to create a flat surface.

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Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers
Touratech Zega Mundo Panniers

A matching Zega Mundo top case isn’t offered, so we ordered a Zega Pro Top Case, which is made of aluminum and is available in bare aluminum ($679) or with an anodized silver or anodized black finish ($749), in either 25- or 38-liter capacity for the same price. (Zega Pro panniers and top cases, in addition to the anodized finish options, also have replaceable, hard-plastic crash protectors on all corners.) We chose the 25-liter size but found it too small to be practical (the 38-liter box holds full-face helmet). The top case comes with a stainless steel mounting rack and all the necessary hardware, and installation was easy. The Rapid Trap quick-release mounting system allows the case to be removed simply by pulling a lever inside. For maximum security, order optional locks for the latch and quick-release lever with matching keys ($13.95 each).

Our testers have logged thousands of on- and off-road miles on the Zega-equipped Super T without complaint (just be careful with the spring-loaded latches; it’s easy to pinch a finger). The luggage looks and works great, and the materials and build quality are first-rate. Zega Mundo and Zega Pro luggage systems are also available for many BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, KTM, Suzuki and Triumph adventure/dual-sport models.

For more information, Call (800) 491-2926 or visit touratech-usa.com

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