Building the MotorBikePacking Scrambler | KPM200 Rear Rack Installation

A rear cargo rack is the FIRST useful modification to the touring motorcycle.

My motorcycles are not toys. My motorcycles are multi-purpose tools. I expect my motorcycle to be capable of commuting to a meeting, running to the store, taking a sightseeing trip, or carrying my gear for a camping trip. In every case, I might need to carry books, tools, groceries, camping gear – and more.

The first accessory that I install on every motorcycle that I own is a rear cargo rack.

Whether traveling across town or across the country, I try to minimize the need to use a backpack. Sometimes this is impossible to avoid, at least in the short term when carrying extra food and water on camping trips. But in most cases, I let the motorcycle carry the load and save my back!

In the past, I have NOT bought specific motorcycle models precisely because there was not a rear rack available. A rear rack can carry many loads on its own, or in combination with side panniers. (Although some panniers are designed to fit sport bikes and dual sports without racks. I still prefer the strength and stability that is possible only with a firmly mounted rear rack.)

When transforming the KPM200 “café racer” into a versatile scrambler, I sought out rear rack options. While the rack designed for the Lifan KPM200 was not available from U.S. dealers, I was able to find a compatible rack from a Chinese source.

Because the shipping cost MORE than the rack, I decided to buy THREE – and have two extras to help out fellow KPM200 owners! The written installation instructions can be found at the GreatOutThere.online blog.

The finished product is worth the hassles of the installation. It is rock solid. You can pick up the KPM200 with the rack! If you also add the optional center stand, this rack provides a solid handle.

The video shows the installed rack, and my KPM200 “Scrambler” with a soft tail bag and the soft panniers I use on overnight tours. These tours define “MotorBikePacking”. That is, my tours (especially on this 200cc motorcycle) parallel my experience with BICYCLE touring. In fact, I use virtually the same packing list for lightweight bicycle touring and MotorBikePacking. See the related articles at the GreatOutThere.online blog and YouTube channel.