I’ve just fitted a rear rack onto my 1972 commando 750 roadster and will be riding with a pillion plus around 5kg (11lb) on the rack. Rider and pillion combined weight around 150kg (330lb). I’ve heard that the rear frame loop is a bit weak and can bend but I’m uncertain whether this would be a risk for my use. I’m sure there’s plenty of actual load experience on here, please can someone advise me on this? If needed I will fabricate a pair of stays and fit them between the rear foot peg bolts and clamps on the loop, but would prefer not to!
Dreaded droop
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The rear loop is known for…
The rear loop is known for sagging under heavy loads. Later frames extended the gussets to reduce the problem.
I'd think it unlikely that you'll have much of a problem - rider and pillion sit further forward on a Roadster. And you can always bend the rear loop back if it does sag. More of a concern would be hanging a lot of weight high and off the back of a Commando can really screw up the handling. Best just to try it.
It was quite common for stays to be fitted in conjuntion with Craven rack and panniers.
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Supporting rods down to Z…
Supporting rods down to Z plates is an absolute must imo
It's not just the all up weight to think about,it's the weight times several times with each bump you hit
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I’ve seen several Commandos with a drooping rear loop, so yes they do bend under load.
Back in the day, rear racks for the Commando had a brace from the foot peg to the rack on both sides. I would suggest that this would be better than clamping to the loop