Replacing Latch On Bags Help..

[RadicalR1150R]

So I lost my right side bag.. Not a bit of damage except for the two "hooks" on top ground down slightly.
But the big thing is... the clamp that works in the center of the bag when the handles are closed has broken.. Is this part replaceable ? like the lock & cylinder?
Has anyone removed the rivets and rebuilt? I see they are a replaceable item..
Or has anyone a Inner Right Side Bag for sale?
Thanks all. Steve

[towerworker]

Yes I have twice drilled out rivets and replaced the latch assembly. It's not difficult, I think there are 8 rivets to drill out if memory serves. You need a small punch or drift to drive out the pin that holds the rubber cover over the two latches that pull the bag lid closed.

[wvwoof]

In 120,000 miles I've replaced that latching mechanism at least 5 times. My assistant's husband is a machinist and he was surprised at the poor quality of the casting for the latching mechanism. After all of those replacements I got tired of shelling out hundreds of dollars and drilled a couple of small holes - one on each upper "keeper" on the case and wire tied the cases to the frame. Cutting the ties and replacing them to remove the bags takes less than 5 minutes. i replace the ties monthly to ensure that stress doesn't weaken them but so far, after 20,000 additional miles on the bike I've had no problems.