[davidjgoodman]

I've noticed the mechanism that holds the panniers onto the frame (not the key lock) has been getting more and more difficult to engage each season. I have to put a lot of force into pushing down the handle. To the point where I'm worried I'm going to break it or the little arm that comes out to press against the frame, since many of the parts are just plastic.
All the contact parts are properly aligned and there's nothing in the way.
Do these things need lubrication over time? If so, where exactly? Can it be disassembled for inspection and cleaning?

 

[fireman]

I've noticed the mechanism that holds the panniers onto the frame (not the key lock) has been getting more and more difficult to engage each season. I have to put a lot of force into pushing down the handle. To the point where I'm worried I'm going to break it or the little arm that comes out to press against the frame, since many of the parts are just plastic.
All the contact parts are properly aligned and there's nothing in the way.
Do these things need lubrication over time? If so, where exactly? Can it be disassembled for inspection and cleaning?

I would definetely take it all apart, clean it and lubricate. Also would give you an opportunity to check for any wear and damage. I’m sure somebody will come along showing the schematic, or point to a thread where it was discussed.

I have a Givi top box, and locking mechanism needs to be lubricated once in a while, to keep everything smooth.

 

[davidjgoodman]

I would definitely take it all apart, clean it and lubricate.

I don't see any obvious screws or clips on the hard cases that can be opened. Maybe I can get the tip of a spray silicone nozzle inside the hinges and hope it finds its way to where it's needed.

 

[r0ckrat]

Check the inside of the top box, I think all access is from removing internal panels. But I could be wrong.

 

[Pklch]

Here You can find the instructions to take apart the mechanism and do some cleaning/lubricating:

R1200RT Side Case Latch Assembly

 

[davidjgoodman]

Here You can find the instructions to take apart the mechanism and do some cleaning/lubricating:

R1200RT Side Case Latch Assembly

Wow. Thanks for this. It's like a Swiss watch in there!

 

[Pklch]

Hope you can use it. Not very difficult but demands some time and a lot of patience