I am definitely spoiled for a backrest and it's killing me now. I've had one on my 3 or 4 bikes, but now I'm riding a 95 Dyna and I can't find anyone who makes one for my bike except for one company and they're asking stupid money for it.
I may have to bite the bullet.

 

I have a backrest on 2 of 3 bikes and surprisingly, when I ride the springer with no backrest it doesn't bother me at all. Plus, I like the way it looks without one.

 

I was told that is one finds handlebars and foot position that are truly comfortable, a backrest is not needed. I never have liked apes, or taller bars above the ElectraGlide fairings. But I may go to 2 inch taller bars on my 2019 FLHTP because I ride with the police seat.

 

That is hard to say since everyone is so different. Obviously on a motorcycle, by nature with most seats, your lower back is partially exposed. Personally I would think the more comfortable your setup is (bars, seat, foot position etc), your overall comfort would just "fall into place" If your posture is correct you should be fine right? But again, yeah, there are many variables. Let's face it, I am not sure everyone is thinking proper posture when they purchase a bike.

That said, personally when we are going on a long weekend trip with the full luggage sitting on my passenger seat, it is nice to lean back and relax for a minute every 40 or 50 miles. In fact I just purchased one of these to to attach to the face of the luggage for a little padding since the luggage is usually a little lumpy. It is actually a $9 console pad for cars.

So would I like a backrest if had one? I am positive I would. Just not into the look. But that's just me. Like anything on bikes, to each his/her own.

 

Everytime I see a RDL it makes me giggle. Did you get a BBL to fit that RDL?

Does your booty cheeks fill those sides?

I'm sure it's comfortable, but dang that's a wide seat.

 

Mean City does backrests.

 

I put 12” KST Straightjackets on my ‘24 FLHP and it still wasn’t enough. Rather than put 14”s on it I put stock seat off a Road Glide on it. Pretty much same seat as a Road King Special ( or Street Glide)

 

I get that. But are you 6'7" with 36 inch inseam? I do like the police saddle because of the angle for my knees and hips.

 

I understand. I just don’t know if anything short of 14” bars will do anything for you. The only real difference of the stock bars on the FLHP is grip angle compared to the 12” KSTs.

 

Anyone make a riders backrest at home?