Rider's Backrest...

[Diesel]

Anyone used or got one of these (or same for 1100)?....


ST1300 Rider's Backrest


Just wanted opinions/thoughts.


Cheers, Diesel

[Nh478m]

I've seen them but can't say I'd want to fit one. Seems to me like they represent an enhanced risk of rider's back (mine's already made of metal) and pillion Crown Jewels injury if the untoward happened.

PJ

[Whizz]

Funny you should ask but my missus spotted one on a Harley just the other day and commented on it. My opinion, it looked both silly and dangerous. These backrests are not really backrests, they are too short for that, they are more like lumbar supports. As such I'm not sure they would do much good from a comfort point of view on a proper tourer like ours, (OK on a Harley where you are almost laying down I suppose) and they would certainly make the pillions job of actually getting on far more difficult.

[Shaun]

It looks like it would make it harder to get on as a rider too, and it doesn't look overly functional.

I also occasionally shift to the pillion seat while riding to ease numb bum, that would be out too.

[Rob Mc]

Well I took the plunge and purchased one, as I have a real problem with my lower back on long rides and have to say I am extremely happy with it. It fits neatly into my lower back  ( without the need to lean back) and after a fair run seems to have alleviated a lot of my  back issues.
Now having said that I agree it does not look all that cool , but the really great feature of the backrest is for those small runs around town where you really dont want to look like a geriatric it simply pulls out without taking the seats off or unscrewing anything.
Rob

[Diesel]

...... it simply pulls out without taking the seats off or unscrewing anything.
Rob

So you can just lift it out to let pillion and rider on/off really easily?

[Rob Mc]

Diesel
Yep  its just that easy, you screw a bracket onto the existing rider seat bracket ( it fits on very easily ) and the backrest just slips into/outoff  the fitting which sits ( out of sight ) between the riders seat and the passangers seat.

[Diesel]

Nice thanks Rob! I enjoyed leaning on my bed roll and tent when they have been packed for interstate rides - a little extra level of comfort - might consider this.       


Cheers, Diesel

[Down Under]

I wonder how they'd go from a safety perspective: eg in something like a low side prang could they snare you or your pillion instead of having a clean off?  In a rear end shunt would they increase the severity of a lower back injury?  I think I'd rather wear a kidney belt for lower back support.

[Rob Mc]

Back problems are a very individual thing and  what works for me may not work for everyone. Kidney belts do not work for me at all , I really need a bit of support it seems, but again I not recemmending for everyone.
I recently rode a wing all over the USA that had a small backrest attached and not once did I get any of my usual back pain which prompted me to try this one. In terms of a safety issue I have no idea , not sure if any studies have been carried out . I do not ride with a pillion and for me the pleasure of reduced back pain and thus increased enjoyment of my ride out ways any risks in what is a very risky activity anyhow.

[Sabie]

I ordered on last week, hoping it arrives before Middleton. I've ordered one with the pocket...