lower back discussion
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 507
Likes: 5
From: Florida
One of the best money I've spent on my bike. It took some tries before I found the sweet spot on my non-adjustable H-D backrest. Highly recommend one even for those not experiencing any back issues as it helps alleviate fatigue from long distance riding.
Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,308
Likes: 3
From: Central Texas
I use a backrest from Utopia..large enough so I can lean back and enjoy the ride. Rode from Central Texas to FT. Sill Ok and had the time of my life ! If I didn't need to stop for gas/**** breaks, I would prob still be riding around the base lol
After several back injuries/wounds, I had to change out my handlebars and tried several back rests. The Utopia worked out best for me.
After several back injuries/wounds, I had to change out my handlebars and tried several back rests. The Utopia worked out best for me.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 6,508
Likes: 168
From: WPB, FL
ADJUSTABLE Back Rest!
One of my favorite mods was my adjustable drivers backrest! It took all the "stress" off of my back and allowed me to be seated more relaxed, sort of like falling into a recliner. Being adjustable it allows for me to make changes "on the fly" and allows me to easily compensate for how bundled I am for the ride.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 3,542
Likes: 161
From: Booming metropolis
Get a backrest
I have degenerative disk problems with my back. I could not ride for 20 miles without being in severe discomfort. The backrest allows me to ride all day with no problems.
I do need a seat with some cushion also to absorb the shocks in highway bumps (bridges, railroad tracks)
I also tried a 2011 Ultra seat (which I assume you have), I could not ride 60 miles without it killing my tailbone.
I have degenerative disk problems with my back. I could not ride for 20 miles without being in severe discomfort. The backrest allows me to ride all day with no problems.
I do need a seat with some cushion also to absorb the shocks in highway bumps (bridges, railroad tracks)
I also tried a 2011 Ultra seat (which I assume you have), I could not ride 60 miles without it killing my tailbone.
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 45
Likes: 0
From: Melbourne, Florida
I have been riding my 1990 FXSTS for years, but last November had to have some serious back surgery (L1 through S1 fused, with titanium rods inserted for support), now I can still ride the Sporty but the back can't handle any long rides. So about a month ago I bought a 2012 Ultra Limited, I had the dealer install the optional riders backrest. Wow, over the 4th of July took the bike down to Key West and back. Was able to drive straight through (about 6 hours 1 way from Melbourne, Florida). With the adjustable backrest I felt better than taking the trip in either my car or truck. As a side note the use of a cruise control was simply fantastic !
Now I am spoiled, but the Springer is great for around town. I thought I was done with road trips, but now the highways have opened back up for me. It is a great feeling. I highly recommend the riders adjustable back rest.
Now I am spoiled, but the Springer is great for around town. I thought I was done with road trips, but now the highways have opened back up for me. It is a great feeling. I highly recommend the riders adjustable back rest.
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,905
Likes: 66
From: Hartford, AL
Proper back support depends on many things. Bars that you can reach and put your shoulders/back in a comfortable position. Seat position and comfort, some seats move you back, some forward, the ever important back rest, and adjustable pegs.
I have the Wild1 575, Mustang Widetouring with backrest and HD short angled pegs. The pegs let me change my butt position and pressure on backrest. My combo works great for me and allows hours of comfortable riding in a day.
I have the Wild1 575, Mustang Widetouring with backrest and HD short angled pegs. The pegs let me change my butt position and pressure on backrest. My combo works great for me and allows hours of comfortable riding in a day.
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 289
Likes: 0
Addition of an Airhawk R to the seat/glutes is a game changer. Like an extra set of air shocks that actually work. One of the best add ons that you forget about because it so good at what it does.
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I have had lower back issues for years and would not be able to ride any distance with out a back rest,and if I am planning on some high mileage I also wear a wide kidney belt..This combination works very well and supports me better than anything that I have been able to find.