H-B Gobi vs. Vario

[danimal]

Does anyone have any experience with the Hepco-Becker Gobi cases? Would they be preferable vs. the standard OEM vario cases. Looking to pull the plug on a new '09 here shortly. Apparently BMW has a deal on the side cases but the dealer has been a bit elusive as to what the deal is. I've had H-B bags on other bikes and always had good luck. They seem to be at least on the surface a bit sturdier than the Vario. Thanks

[rogerb]

I can only say that the Vario have served me well. I particularly like the telescopic aspect which is fairly unique, yes? They look the part and are easy to remove. If at any time you go over, they all get a bit crappy regardless of the brand. Cheers Roger

[Jethro]

I have the Varios (left and right only) and had considered the Gobis. I am an urban traveller, so the part about filling the hollow walls with drinking water wasn't a plus. The price seemed steep to me for what amounted to a set of injection molded, hollow igloo coolers. That and the cost of buying/fitting the brackets helped me decide to get the Varios (my bike came with the Vario brackets as part of the package). One of the coolest benefits of the Varios (besides the expansion, keyed locks, and fitment) is that when you take the passenger seat and top luggage rack off, there is a flat surface accross the rear of the bike and luggage.