Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 3,418 Threads: 107
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Location: Darkest Bedfordshire
Just my tuppence ha'penny but I always felt a side-mounted spare wheel must put a massive stress on the bodywork; a spare plus a packed haversack all the more so. Do make sure there is adequate structure to support it.
Plus of course it will get filthy and most likely soaked on any long journey! But if that's the only way you can fit stuff in then go for it.
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 1,987 Threads: 90
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Location: Ripon
At most French "ballades" for pre-war cars the open ones seem to go in for the ubiquitous Bergens style pack. Not quite sure why or how it's become "de rigeur". Keeping the champagne cool or the sandwiches warm? Tools and cognac for the mechanic?
I agree that without support a loaded pack will strain the mount of your spare although some of the mounts seem to be three-point strap affairs hanging from a piece of bodywork. I think I'd want a substantial shoe for support underneath.
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 923 Threads: 18
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Location: North Yorkshire
In my part of the world such a spare mounted haversack would get plothered in horse sh*t.
I was amazed how much luggage I could get in the tail of my Ulster when I took it to the Isle of Man. I prefer my luggage, tools etc to be stowed away under-cover. Water has a way of getting into the most waterproof of things.
I think in some countries these spare wheel mounted satchels are useful for the spare pair of lederhosen?
Joined: Aug 2017 Posts: 3,418 Threads: 107
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Location: Darkest Bedfordshire
Agree Malcolm, an astonishing amount (e.g. full camping gear) can be squeezed into the tail of an Ulster BUT likewise I would suggest to make some reinforcements if it is to be used for load carrying. I had to rebuild mine after it tried to part company from the rest of the body, it now has a very sturdy floor structure.