Canvas Roof Bags

[4wd26]

Originally Posted by linc

Looks pretty good too!

Out of interest to those that have gone for custom local fabrication, roughly what sorts of costs have you experienced (and for what bag size)?

I think it was $350 for a 2.0x 1.3 x 0.4
lots of tie down eyelets and a huge zip.
My bag also had a full velco flap that came down over the zipper.

[geopaj]

I've been happy with my Rhino bag . It is 100% dust proof and almost 100% waterproof. I was also considering buying one fom MSA (Michelle's Sacks) but ended up going for the cheaper Rhino bag.
I bought the 'large' size (1200 x 1800) so that I could fit the bag and my 2nd spare on my roof rack.

[dean]

Originally Posted by linc

Looks pretty good too!

Out of interest to those that have gone for custom local fabrication, roughly what sorts of costs have you experienced (and for what bag size)?

I paid $230 for one to fit my basket, 1330x1020x400 with 8 tie down down points. No zip on the front and and 2 on the sides joining at the back. It also had marine carpet stitched to the bottom inside, you wont get that off the shelf, excellent value.
At the time the nearest comparison was around $260 and without the above extra's.

[Silverbeard]

I have been using a Rola Platypus bag for about 3 years. It is a great design and is well made. Because of the drought we have not had had much rain in SA. On the way back from the border track in 2007 we ran through a shower of rain. When we got home I was very surprised to find water inside the bag. Rola were supposed to be trying to develop a Water Proof Model & the local dealer was going to swap mine over for the new model. It never eventuated, so I was able to get a refund.
I am currently looking for a new bag and my research has ended up with two choices. Southern Cross Canvas at http://www.southerncrosscanvas.com.au/ or Michelle's Sac's at
http://www.msaproducts.com.au/.
I really liked the Rola bag as it had a zip around the middle so that it expanded like an expandable suitcase. The Southern Cross bag does the same, but they seem to have only 4 hold down straps. the Rola bag had 2 front and rear and 2 or 3 on each side. The Michelle's Sac's have a separate WATERPROOF COVER and more hold down straps.
I have yet to decide as it will also depend which one will fit my rack , leaving me enough room for a spare.
Condensation can also be a factor which will have to be investigated, as there were some comments made about problems with condensation with some bags.
I am not sure if a local canvas maker would have enough experience with the difficulties in making a roof bag waterproof & dustproof .
Do your research and don't be in a hurry. Talk to the local dealers & try & find some one who has one & find out as much as you can. It's too late on a cold wet night with wet sleeping gear and the missus and the kids at your throat ...................................@@##%%**

[linc]

I just got the latest prices from Southern Cross Canvas for their bags and also their Side & Rear Awning assemblies.
(note that I have included the shipping costs to WA)

Roof Top Bags
3' x 4' $330 + $30 shipping
4' x 4' $375 + $30 shipping
5' x 4' $410 + $30 shipping

Side Awning
$640 + $60 shipping

Rear Awning
$640 + $60 shipping

[apsilon]

Awning prices seem really high. Are they just roll up canvas into a bag with 2 poles and ropes? If so then I'd expect the price to be about half what they've listed.

[linc]

Finally decided on the Rhino large (1500 x 1100mm) bag for $329
Looks good, seems to be well made & designed ... easter trip in the soggy rain will tell the full story