Rider backrest: difference between adjustable and non-adjustable
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 179
Likes: 10
From: Switzerland
Rider backrest: difference between adjustable and non-adjustable
I have the stock seat on my FLTRU. I'm contemplating which version of the rider backrest mounting element I should get for my Tourer. Looking at the price for the adjustable one I get tears in my eyes (no, not tears of joy!) and I wonder if anyone can explain to me the difference between the adjustable and the non-adjustable. They both seem to be adjustable in height. So what does the adjustable one actually do so much better that it warrants the significant price difference?
Anybody out there who can enlighten me? Thanks!
Anybody out there who can enlighten me? Thanks!
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 2,718
Likes: 1,822
From: In a house
The adjustable version can be changed on the fly. If you want to adjust the fixed position one forward/back you have to unbolt it and reposition. I had the fixed position and after trying a few variations to tweak it in I never moved it after that.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 972
Likes: 633
From: Ohio
I have the adjustable version. It is nice to be able to move it back and forth on the fly. Really the only time I find myself moving it is on long trips, mainly to get a little different seating position. I think I would get by with the non adjustable but it came with my last bike and I was able to move it to my current ride. They do make a difference while on the longer trips.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 14,731
Likes: 2,536
From: Mountain Top, Alabama
My HD Adjustable Back Rest has a small gas shock that when you move the remote lever, it pushes against your back and you just let up on the lever when you get the level of support you want. Quite simple and effective, IMHO.
This is the way to go.
An unexpected bonus to the back rests is when you are backing up the bike.
This is the way to go.
An unexpected bonus to the back rests is when you are backing up the bike.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 352
Likes: 10
From: PA
To each his own....
I've owned both and prefer the non adjustable. Once you have it set, it's fine. Easier to remove I thought too. My adjustable was a pain to get it off at times.
Plenty of them out there too. Bought my last one on eBay for $80 like new. Everything included.
I've owned both and prefer the non adjustable. Once you have it set, it's fine. Easier to remove I thought too. My adjustable was a pain to get it off at times.
Plenty of them out there too. Bought my last one on eBay for $80 like new. Everything included.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,935
Likes: 90
From: Charlotte
I have and love the adjustable but it does wiggle (not while you're riding). And, with it, I can ride a lot longer and be more comfortable. In the city, I'll adjust it so that I'm more upright. On long straight roads/empty highways, I'll adjust to have it lean back and then I'll pop on the cruise control.
Leaning it back feels like I'm on sofa. All I need is a remote and a cold one. lol
Leaning it back feels like I'm on sofa. All I need is a remote and a cold one. lol
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Tourer
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 283
Likes: 22
From: Grand Prairie, TX
I've had the non-adjustable on three bikes and while it might be nice to make small adjustments while riding I'm fine with just doing it the next time I stop.
As others have said, "to each their own"; if the price is an issue go with the non-adjustable one and be done with it.
As others have said, "to each their own"; if the price is an issue go with the non-adjustable one and be done with it.