Its definitely not pillion friendly. On my way to Mildura for the 2012 Ulysses AGM I stopped at Rankin Springs to strain a kidney. A couple on a VFR 1200 pulled up beside and got chatting to my Mrs.
After about 5 minutes of the two pillions discussing the rides, seats, pannier space his Mrs turned to him and slapped him, saying " you had the money to buy that ( pointing to my ST1300) and you bought this ( pointing to his VFR)"
She wasnt impressed by the pillion seat and the mega sore arse or the fact she had to leave the hair dryer, curler and high heels at home.
My Mrs looked at me and gave me that "you've done the right thing, but I am not gunna tell you that" look
Cheers