Drivers Backrest Opinions
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 155
Likes: 0
From: El Paso
I have a plain jane harley rider backrest. You can adjust the height and tilt (just not on the fly). Picked it up at a swap meet relatively cheap. I've never tried the adjustable type, but after 43,000 miles I've never felt the need to adjust it while I was rolling down the road. As a matter of fact, I've never changed the position that I use it in. BTW, I'm 50 too.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 4,618
Likes: 290
From: Johnstown, PA
A thumb screw, you just need to reach behind your back to turn, very easy to do while riding or at a stop light.
Novice
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: canada
I have an adjustable on the RK and like it. I put a hammock seat on the limited and had to go with a fixed mount and like it as well. I like the flexibility of the adjustable and move it around on longer rides so would pick that just because of the flexibility.
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,365
Likes: 9
From: Greensboro, NC
I have a plain jane harley rider backrest. You can adjust the height and tilt (just not on the fly). Picked it up at a swap meet relatively cheap. I've never tried the adjustable type, but after 43,000 miles I've never felt the need to adjust it while I was rolling down the road. As a matter of fact, I've never changed the position that I use it in. BTW, I'm 50 too.
Tourer
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 404
Likes: 2
From: Virginia
I've had both the stationary and adjustable. Harley adjustable one is now on my Limited and as others have said, I end up adjusting as needed during longer rides. I can't imagine not having a backrest of some sorts at this stage in my life (58). It makes a huge difference in how long I can comfortably ride and how I feel after riding. My backrest can go far enough rearward that it doesn't even touch my back or forward enough that it pushes me forward toward the tank and foot controls. Plus enough height adjustment to hit you where you need on your back. The adjustment cable and lever mounts on the left side, forward of the side cover and underneath the mid frame deflector if you have that installed. Simple to adjust on the fly. It makes a world of difference to me.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,416
Likes: 88
From: San Quirino, Italy
I am curious how easy it is to adjust with the deflectors. I want a set but thought that they would make it impossible to use the backrest adjuster...
Tourer
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 404
Likes: 2
From: Virginia
They designed the little lever and mount to fit that deflector well. You can reach easily with your left hand and it falls into a fairly natural position to find and adjust. Never have to go looking for the lever or contort in a weird way to find it. Very easy to put your hand on and adjust while riding.
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I've had the HD adjustable rider backrest on my last two bikes with no complaints and I wouldn't find it as useful if it was not adjustable on the fly. I don't have any problem getting to the adjustment lever behind the heat shield, it allows me to move it far enough back while riding as if it's not there.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,416
Likes: 88
From: San Quirino, Italy
The reason I like the adjustable is the range of adjustment. I have had the other types and they don't move as far forward or back as mine. I do a few 600 mile days a year and like to be able to move around...