Potential sad realization...
Road Master
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,180
Likes: 3
From: utah
Prior to my Sporty I most recently rode a Maxi-scooter (Honda Helix); and had no physical issues with riding, yet after 30 miles or more on the Sporty I have noticed that the next day my lower back routinely is junked and requires chiropractic care- see old high school wrestling injury. The shocks are good and I am fearing it has more to do with the straddling position of the bike causing a problem whereas the step through of the scooter did not...I am feeling bummed and saddened.
I'd start with bars and seat like many have said. Bar position and a good seat go a long way. On my slim, the mustang seat is definitely more comfortable than the stock.
If that doesn't go well than you can change out shocks. Most the sporty guys like the progressives. With the sporties, you can only go so far with getting them not-so-stiff. That's why their sporties, for performance you need a little stiffer suspension.
If that doesn't work then you may have to look at a different bike. I could ride my slim all week without so much as a pinch in my back. You'll find that some bikes are naturally just better fitted to you.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 616
Likes: 70
I think the mods suggested are all good ideas but having a sporty will limit you in what you can achieve as far as comfort compared to the bigger bikes. I have herniated disks in my lower back and the best mod I ever did to my roadking was to get a backrest. I realize that may not be what you want to do to a sporty, but it hasn't been mentioned yet and thought I'd throw it out there. good luck.
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 262
Likes: 0
From: Bemidji, MN
Thank you all for the informative and helpful advice! I think that my back issue, a sacrum displacement that rears it's ugly head ever so often; and more so since the Sportster is only going to be helped by a more ergo friendly and matched bike...the fact that my 2001 is rigid mounted doesn't help matters I am sure.
I'll investigate options and solutions; anyone want a well-loved sporty?
I'll investigate options and solutions; anyone want a well-loved sporty?
Road Master
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,180
Likes: 3
From: utah
If it's his sacrum I don't think a back brace is going to help. Maybe a gel seat or maybe a more forward riding position. I liked the idea that another poster had of trying to mirror your riding position on your scooter.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,250
Likes: 0
From: París, TX
I think the responses on this thread have reflected the best of the HDF. Good going, bros!
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Joe Kucinski
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 12,653
Likes: 18
From: Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Mostly good suggestions. I would also suggest (I haven't seen it suggested yet), a rider's backrest when you change seats. Fitted properly, it'll force your back into proper posture. And, don't ride with your wallet in your back pocket. You'd be surprised the pain that can cause in your hips, back, and knees, after a few hours.
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