If you want an easy way to transport decent quantities of cargo on a motorcycle, it’s hard to beat a top box. But what sort of qualities should you be on the lookout for?
We’ve put together a list of the main features to look out for, all of which are boxes ticked by the Givi Maxia 5.
Volume
For many, the top priority when considering a top box is how much you can fit in it. Pay attention to both the capacity figure, which will typically be listed in litres, plus the weight capacity, and the shape - if there’s something in particular you want to be carrying, it’s important to make sure it’s going to fit.
The Givi Maxia 5 can carry a whopping 58 litres of cargo, with its wide profile meaning it’s the right shape to carry two helmets side by side. It’s able to take loads up to 10kg.
Protection
Having enough room for your stuff is one thing, but you’ll also want to make sure your possessions get to the destination safely. To that end, the Maxia 5 guarantees water resistance even in heavy rain, with cases tested by a machine simulating rain flowing at a rate of 20 litres per minute.
To stop items moving around and getting damaged within the case, there's an elasticated strap, an inner net that attaches to the base with four hooks, and a soft internal mat at the bottom. There’s also an optionally available documents folder.
Weight
The heavier a top box is, the more it’ll alter a bike’s centre of gravity. Despite its size, the Givi Maxia 5 only weighs 5.4kg, helping to minimise its impact on your bike’s handling characteristics.
Aesthetics
There’s nothing wrong with wanting your motorcycle’s luggage to be aesthetically pleasing, and it’s possible to combine form with function when choosing a top box.
The Maxia 5 has sleek lines inspired by the automotive world and can be purchased with its four painted panels in various colour combinations, or if preferred, paintable panels are available should you want the box to match your bike’s body colour. The finishing touch is a wide, red reflector at the rear.
Convenience
Once you’re at your destination, you may wish to remove a top box and take it with you, so it’s worth finding out how easy that’ll be. With the Maxia 5, Givi’s Monokey system means it’s possible to remove the case from its mounting with the same key used to lock and unlock the lid. There’s also a pull-out carry handle and an optional folding trolley attachment with wheels.
Security
Taking the top box with you after parking up isn’t always going to be convenient, so it’s important to make sure the case is resistant to attacks from would-be thieves. The Maxia 5 has comb hinges with stops, giving a soft and controlled closure and also better adherence between the two shells, making it harder to break into. There’s also a double-hook lock for additional resistance.
Find out more about the Givi Maxi 5 here.
