Adjustable back rests vs fixed
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6th Gear
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Kirkland WA
Adjustable back rests vs fixed
I don't own a backrest but have been thinking of getting one for the long rides. I have heard that the adjustable ones can break if to much pressure is applied. Any comments. I have been eyeballing a fixed one.
OB
OB
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,548
Likes: 4
From: Southern California
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
No experience with the adjustable but I really like my fixed one. Just a little time and a few short scoots to find the right bracket position.
I like mine and no regrets over not getting the adjustable.
Primo
I like mine and no regrets over not getting the adjustable.
Primo
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 176
Likes: 0
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
I installed a fixed rest and it was a PITA until I added washers under the mounting plate. Once I got the angle right it's been great.
It's advertised as 'easy to remove'. Not so for my meathooks.I need to straddle the bike facing backwards, shove my hand into the hole in the seat as far as it can go and squeeze like hell. I felt like an arthriticgynecologist the 1st few times I tried it but with practice, you can remove or install it with only 4 beers.
It's advertised as 'easy to remove'. Not so for my meathooks.I need to straddle the bike facing backwards, shove my hand into the hole in the seat as far as it can go and squeeze like hell. I felt like an arthriticgynecologist the 1st few times I tried it but with practice, you can remove or install it with only 4 beers.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 743
Likes: 2
From:
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
I have the adjustable and think it's the way to go. Truthfully there's one spot that I find myself using about 95% of the time, but on very long rides or when your back is bothering you, you're just uncomfortable or whatever, being able to move it while going down the road and get a new position is a real life saver and well worth the $$.
Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 241
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
I have had both ..the fixed worked fine,enough "ajustability" to make it comfortable,when I got a new bike I figured I'd go with the ajustable one..for me it works real good..HOWEVER...the pad on the fixed unit was very tapered towards the bottom which allowed much more room for the passengers legs,with the ajustable one the bottom of the pad is a lot wider which causes the wife's legs to have to go wider around it.She has expressed some disspleasure but she is getting used to it.
Yokel..I've got a way for you to try for removing your rest,stand on the side of the bike oppisite the kick stand,press the leg of the rest closest to you in(releasing the ball from the detent in the bracket) using thumb pressure ,at the same time rock the top of pad away from you ,then pull the far leg to you while also rocking the top.,.you can rock the pad back and forth this way and just walk it upout of the bracket.
Yokel..I've got a way for you to try for removing your rest,stand on the side of the bike oppisite the kick stand,press the leg of the rest closest to you in(releasing the ball from the detent in the bracket) using thumb pressure ,at the same time rock the top of pad away from you ,then pull the far leg to you while also rocking the top.,.you can rock the pad back and forth this way and just walk it upout of the bracket.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,000
Likes: 0
From: NH
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
I have the adjustable on my bike,only time i seem to move the position is when i dress heavier in the cooler weather. as far as breaking....... how much pressure are you planning on putting on the back rest,i've got two riding seasons on mine so far,hasnt broken yet
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,150
Likes: 1
From: Tallahassee, Fl
RE: Adjustable back rests vs fixed
Used to work at HD dealer and sold many more fixed ones than adjustable. Quite a bit of $$$$ difference and adjustable is not as easy to install. If you have to have dealer install it you are spending even more $$$$. I run a Corbin solo and use their backrest when it's just me but when mama gets the urge to ride I go back to stock seat and install the HD fixed backrest. Using a backrest really makes your back and shoulders say Thank you !!!!
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