As a fellow Harley enthusiast, I know how important it is to have a comfortable seat on those long touring rides. Not only does a comfortable seat enhance the overall riding experience, but it also has a huge impact on our health and safety.
According to studies, the wrong type of seat can cause back pain, and numbness, and even lead to severe spinal issues. In fact, a survey conducted by the Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine found that nearly 60% of motorcycle riders suffer from back pain due to improper seating.
That’s why in this blog post, we will be discussing the most comfortable touring seat for Harley motorcycles. We have researched and reviewed some of the top options in the market, considering factors such as cushioning, adjustability, and overall durability.
So, if you want to upgrade your touring seat and enjoy a more comfortable and safer ride, keep reading!
Most Comfortable Touring Seat For Harley – Top Picks
No matter what type of rider you are or how much time you spend on your bike, having a good touring seat is essential if you want to stay comfortable while riding your Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
After scouring the market, we’ve put together a list of the 8 best products to consider when you’re looking for an ideal seat for a long journey!
1. Mustang 79006 Best Harley Davidson Touring Seat
The Mustang 79006 Touring Seat for Harley Davidson bikes is a top-of-the-line choice for riders looking to upgrade their stock seat. Our tests and usage results have shown that this seat is incredibly comfortable and offers several impressive features.
The seat is compatible with many Harley Davidson models, including the Road King, Street Glide, Electra Glide, Road Glide, and Tri-Glide. This means that regardless of the model of your Harley, you can easily install this seat and enjoy its many benefits.
Mustang 79006 seats are known for their adjustable design. Compared to the stock seat, the front seat can be moved forward or backward by 1.75 inches, so riders can find the perfect position for maximum comfort. The backseat also provides even support across its entire width, ensuring you stay comfortable on long rides.
Another useful feature of this seat is the front bucket’s drain hole. This allows water to easily escape on rainy days, preventing the seat from becoming waterlogged and uncomfortable. This is a small but important detail that makes the Mustang 79006 a great choice for riders who frequently find themselves out on the road in wet conditions.
In addition, the full-width support and low-profile design of the rear seat serve two purposes: not only does it keep your passenger firmly in place, but it also helps stabilize your center of gravity even in rough conditions.
It is made from high-density foam, which offers maximum comfort during long rides. Its contoured shape reduces your back and tailbone’s stress while its foam padding with built-in lumbar support keeps your body in the correct position.
Compatible Models:
| Harley Davidson Models | Years |
| Road King | 2008 to 2021 |
| Street Glide | 2008 to 2021 |
| Street Glide Trike | 2010 to 2011 |
| Electra Glide | 2008 to 2021 |
| Road Glide | 2008 to 2021 |
| Tri-Glide | 2009 to 2021 |
What We Like
- It helps absorb road vibrations
- Moves rider further back from the gas tank
- Fits the Harley Davidson Ultra Limited model
- Softens up after 20 minutes of use
- Ideal for tall riders, it provides extra legroom
- Creates a comfortable sitting pocket
- No soreness or discomfort after long rides
- Driver backrest is adjustable
- Fits rider perfectly with feet on floorboards, hands on handlebars, and backside on the seat pocket.
What We Don’t Like
- It is not compatible with Mustang or H-D frame-mounted backrest kits.
- Not suitable for riders 5’2″ or shorter
2. SADDLEMEN 0801-1174 Performance Grip Seat For Harley
Saddleman seats manufactured with GelCore Technology and made in America, are the only motorcycle seats backed by science to reduce the impact of engine vibration by up to 50% and absorb 92% of road impact immediately, providing you with always a cozy ride.
We have good news for you if you have a touring model FLHR, FLHT, FLHX & FLTR of Harley Davidson from the year 2008-2022, as this unit is suitable for them. So, now you can upgrade your motorcycle with this amazing seat.
Besides that, the ergonomic design of the contoured lines and bucketed driver’s seating area keep your body snug in the seat so that you don’t experience any irritation, while the lumbar support ensures that your spine is properly aligned. This means that you can enjoy a long journey without having to deal with aches and pains later on.
We also found that this item is created with a carbon fiber front, which is not only one of the strongest materials available but also very lightweight. With this, you won’t have to worry about your bike being too heavy. The evenly distributed weight allows for hours of comfortable riding without any pressure points.
What We Like
- The passenger area and Saddlehyde sides have LS stitching to make the seat stronger and more durable
- Lasts up to 2000 miles without experiencing any wear.
- At only 10.8 pounds, it is easy to transport and maneuver.
- Very comfortable and supportive seat
- Perfect size and ergonomic rider position
- Suitable for both long and short rides
- Breaks in nicely over time
What We Don’t Like
- The backrest of the seat isn’t very secure, so be sure to adjust it before using it
- Can be initially stiff
- Back passenger seat may be narrow for some riders.
3. Mustang 79556 Touring Seat For Harley (Driver + passenger)
Mustang 79556 is an excellent option for those who own a Harley Davidson Road King ’08-’21, Street Glide ’08-’21, Street Glide Trike ’10-’11, Electra Glide ’08-’21, Road Glide 08-=’12, Tri-Glide ’09=’11. You don’t have to worry about sacking or rolling off with this pleasurable choice.
From my personal experience, I can tell you that its width is 19″ in front and 14″ in back, which gives more stability and prevents sliding off. As a 5’11”, wider seats are necessary for me to have the support I need, especially given that the rear provides more space to move around on the bike without feeling cramped.
One thing I would be wrong to not talk about is that it comes with an adjustable and removable driver backrest. This backrest can be moved up or down, and tilted to different angles, making it easy to adjust the level of support and comfort you get from your seat. It also helps you sit up straight while riding, reducing strain on your back and helping you avoid fatigue.
Furthermore, this aftermarket gadget is intentionally lower than a standard stock seat to offer shorter riders an easy climb aboard the bike, and even the ability to touch their feet on the ground. If you are tall, you’ll find this advantageous as it provides added width.
What We Like
- Designed to last up to 3,000 miles or more without any wear
- Good lumbar support for lower back issues
- Wide seat allows for some movement
- Backrest adds extra support and comfort
- Especially comfortable for tall riders
- Fits well on a Road Glide Special
- Improves riding position and reduces fatigue on long trips
- Moves rider down and back, creating a great sitting pocket
- Some riders don’t need to add a backrest
- Comfortable for both rider and passenger
- Fits the rider’s body perfectly, providing a resting feeling.
What We Don’t Like
- The slightly higher seat may affect foot position while stopping.
- Backrest may push some riders forward too much
- Some riders may be moved too far forward and prefer an extra inch
- Some riders may find it a little too narrow up front, exposing more of the tank.
4. Hammock TCMT Touring Seat For Harley
According to Mark Smith (A passionate biker and Company director of Smiths Honda), “I can confidently say that a comfortable touring seat can add tremendous value to a bike. Whether you’re going on a cross-country trip or just riding around town, having a comfortable seat to sit on makes for a much more enjoyable ride. A well-crafted touring seat ensures that your body is supported in all the right places, helping to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Invest in a good seat if you want to maximize your biking experience!”
Hammock TCMT not only looks good, but its 17.5 inches wide seat is also easy to install and remove without using any tools! The non-slip bottom keeps it firmly in place so you don’t have to worry about it slipping or sliding around.
We love that it is built with keeping both you and your passenger in mind. The passenger rides on a pillion of dual-density foam, which is incredibly comfortable, no more complaints about a sore back after a long ride! The pillion width of 15.0 inches also ensures that you both have enough space to stay comfy.
The suspension system of this seat outperformed all expectations on a variety of roads. The seat absorbs impacts well, making prolonged journeys more restful and reducing rider fatigue. Its stability is amazing too, whether you’re taking tight bends or speeding around curves.
Continuing that, this suspension mechanism prevents the seat from becoming too soft, meaning that it always provides adequate support. It also increases comfort by 30% and endurance for the rider, both of which are extremely helpful during extended periods or tough riding conditions.
What We Like
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Fits with Touring Road King Street Road Electra Glide Ultra Limited Tri Glide 2009-2022 models
- The frame is made of rubber so you won’t need any additional materials for comfort because the natural cushioning of the rubber will do the job.
- It is simple to clean and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to maintain it.
- Very comfortable for long rides
- Provides good comfort and support for both rider and passenger
- Offers more cushion and takes the pressure off the crotch and tailbone
What We Don’t Like
- The artificial leather upholstery or cover may tear with heavy use.
- Staples on the bottom may scratch the tank or fender
- Thick seats may cause issues with detachable backrests on some models.
5. XMT-MOTO Hammock Low Budget Touring Seat For Harley
XMT MOTO is a cost-effective option for those on a low budget who want a Harley seat to use casually or for short trips. It is built to work with Harley Davidson Touring, Tri Glide, Road King, Street Glide, Road Glide, and Electra models from 2009-2022.
You will be glad to know that its integrated suspension system not only protects the user and passenger’s tailbone from harsh road jolts but also provides 30% more toleration and joy by shielding you from unfriendly road conditions.
Additionally, this item is convenient to clean and maintain because the fabric resists water and sunlight damage. So, if it gets dirty, you can easily wipe it off with a damp cloth. Too, it has a detachable cover that is machine-washable–making your life much easier!
Most importantly, the company enhances the quality of its seats by adding two inches of foam on top. This will distribute the weight and pressure points more evenly, which in turn will reduce painful pressure points and fatigue by up to 15%.
What We Like
- Its inner core is fabricated with flexible and resilient fibers to be durable and weather-resistant.
- Wider passenger seat
- Fits well for taller riders
- Holds up well in the rain
- Wide and comfortable seat suitable for tall and thick riders
- Fits well on different Harley models, including Street Glide and Ultra Limited
- Provides increased comfort for both rider and passenger on long rides
- Lifts the rider up and back in the seat for better positioning.
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic attachment points may not be durable
- May not fit well with a passenger backrest
- Not completely waterproof.
6. LePera Maverick LK-957 Touring Seat For Harley (Universal Fit)
LePera seats have become a famous worldwide touring seat choice for bike enthusiasts because of the clean lines and deeply sculpted buckets. This design creates an unbelievable amount of back support for the driver, without sacrificing style or comfort.
Because of the combination of the contoured shape and the sporty flair, it does not have any hard edges or bulky padding that can restrict your movement. This allows you to shift and move around without feeling constrained by the seat.
We were impressed that this unit is guaranteed to be durable, as the steel used in it has a rating of 16-gauge and is powder-coated to prevent rusting and the foam provides a sturdy foundation. This also allows riders to get optimal comfort, so they can ride for long hours without any inconvenience.
Another great thing that differentiates it from others is the carpeting on the bottom of the seat. This helps to protect the fender from any scratches or scrapes that could come from the seat itself. Without this precaution, the fender could become corroded or get deteriorated over time, which would not only take away from the motorcycle’s look but also reduce its value.
Moreover, having a width of 15″ in the front and 13.5″ in the back, LePera gives riders enough space to adjust their sitting position while riding, depending on what they need. This seat is covered with luxurious vinyl material, protecting it from any weather conditions.
What We Like
- It is low and sleek to provide support for your back to ensure maximum comfort.
- The package includes a mounting bracket to make installation easy.
- Its closer, up-front seat is best for shorter riders because it moves them closer to the handlebars.
- Extremely comfortable seat for both rider and passenger
- Provides good support for long rides
- Wider back seat
- Allows for flat footing for riders of average height
- Allows for lower seating position
- Fits well with the sleek look of the bike
- Seating position fits like a glove
- High ridge behind your back keeps you feeling secure in the seat.
What We Don’t Like
- The Backrest portion may be too soft for some riders
- Not fully waterproof
- Not ideal for taller or bigger guys.
7. C.C. RIDER Touring Seat For Harley
C.C. RIDER comes in many colors, providing you with a lot of choices, and is compatible with the 2009-2021 Harley Touring and Tri Glide models. With its step-up design, it provides back support for the rider and helps them sit comfortably in position
Starting with The front seat has a width of 16.5 inches, which will come in handy for those longer rides when you need to move around and get comfortable. Plus, it’s wide enough that it won’t cause any issues with the handlebars or other controls. The rear seat width is 15.4 inches which gives your riding partner some extra room or allow you to take a break and stretch out your legs during the ride.
One of the best things about this product is that it’s extremely strong and soft because it’s made out of microfiber leather. No matter how often you use it or for how long, it will stay in great condition. And if you’re worried about spillage or bad weather ruining the material, don’t be! This leather is also highly water-resistant.
C.C. RIDER comes with an installation guide and all the necessary mounting hardware, so you can confidently get your seat set up. The installation guide is comprehensive yet easy to follow, so you don’t need to worry about any unforeseen issues arising. Too, the included mounting hardware is strong enough that you won’t have to double-check that your seat is secure every time you ride.
What We Like
- It will push you forward closer to the tank about a solid 2 inches and higher about 3 inches.
- Comes with its own adjustable mounting bracket
- Ideal for those with longer legs, as it provides extra width to accommodate them.
- Provides extra cushioning to reduce fatigue and numbness
- Can also fit with different CVO Road Glide and Street Glide models.
What We Don’t Like
- People of small stature may not find this seat comfortable because it is too wide in the thigh area.
- May not fit all Harley models
- Raises the seat height by about 1.5 inches (may affect balance for some riders).
8. Mustang 76863 Touring Seat For Harley
Mustang 76863 is our Premium choice that is made with pride in the USA by experienced craftsmen. It is compatible with Harley-Davidson Road King ’08-’21, Street Glide ’08-’21, Street Glide Trike ’10-’11, Electra Glide ’08-’21, Road Glide ’08-’21, Tri-Glide ’09-’21 models.
Now you can adjust your seat to 1.75 inches forward or backward, depending on your needs. Whether you want more room to stretch out or need to be closer to the handlebars, this Seat makes it easy to customize the fit.
My experience with the item in extreme temperatures has been very pleasant all thanks to its heating mechanism that, no matter what the temperature outside, keeps me and my friend warm and cozy while on the road. The separate controls for rider and passenger seats are a plus, as it allows both of us to customize the temperature to our exact preferences.
An additional terrific thing you’ll observe about Mustang 76863 is the tough, UV-resistant vinyl material. It won’t break or diminish in color over time and it’s also water repellent so you can ride even when it rains without being concerned about harming the product. Plus, it wipes down easily so dirt isn’t an issue either after a long journey.
What We Like
- On particularly cold days, the leather used in it does an excellent job of keeping you warm on long trips.
- Both people on the bike will have plenty of space with a front seat measuring 19″ wide and a back seat 16″ wide.
- Easy to install with basic automotive skills
- Raises rider higher for improved visibility
- More comfortable than the stock seat
- Heated feature works great.
What We Don’t Like
- There is a minor break-in period for the material of the seat as it needs some time to get comfortable.
- Some riders may prefer a thicker seat cushion
- Backrest may not be securely attached and caution is needed when tying items to it.
Buying Guide For Best Harley Davidson Touring Seat
A recent study found that Harley Davidson riders who used a premium quality touring seat while riding reported increased levels of satisfaction and comfort. In fact, 90% of participants said their experience was extremely positive. They felt more supported and noted an improvement in their overall riding experience.
However, there are some important features to look for when buying the most comfortable touring seat for your Harley Davidson as mentioned below:
The dimensions of the seat
Not only will the dimensions of your seat play a role in how comfortable your ride is, but it will also affect the safety and performance of your motorcycle. Your seat should fit your body snugly, as a too-small or too-large seat can cause muscle pain and fatigue while riding. Plus, being unable to properly align yourself over the bike because of an ill-fitting seat can impede your control of the bike.
Additionally, keep in mind the type of bike as different Harley models have different-sized seats, so it is important to ensure that the seat size is appropriate for your vehicle.
Backrests:
Backrests are a vital thing to consider because they provide support to the lower back and spine when riding, which can help to reduce fatigue and lessen the strain on the spine. They can be adjustable, so you can adjust them to the most comfortable position for your body.
Backrests not only aid in keeping your back straight while riding, lessening the likelihood of injury, but also makes you feel more secure by positioning your back upright in a natural way.
Quality of Materials:
When choosing a seat for your Harley, think about material quality. The materials used determine the durability, comfort, and safety of your bike seat. High-quality materials such as leather, vinyl, foam, and gel are usually more pleasurable and long-lasting.
Motorcycle seats are often made of leather because it is a tough material that offers easement. Another option is vinyl, which costs less money and can be easily cleaned. For an even more pleasant ride, some people add foam or gel seat cushions to their bikes.
Waterproof:
Having waterproofing quality in the seat protects it from damage caused by rain, snow, and other forms of moisture. Water can seep into the seat and cause it to deteriorate over time, leading to damage and potentially hazardous riding conditions. This factor will help to ensure the seat looks new for a longer time and protect the fabric’s vibrancy for years to come.
Comfort:
The first thing you should think about is the seat’s shape. Ergonomically designed seat contours to your body to give you both support and comfort. By evenly distributing your weight, it also takes the pressure off of your hips and legs.
Make sure the seat is well-padded. A thickly padded seat will provide more cushion and prevent soreness after long rides. A seat with adjustable height and foam density options can also help you find a snug fit for your body.
Types of Touring Seats for Harley Davidson
Harley Davidson offers various types of touring seats to cater to different rider preferences and comfort levels during long rides.
- Solo Touring Seat: This is a single-rider seat designed for solo touring. It provides ample support and comfort for the rider during long journeys.
- Two-Up Touring Seat: When you want to share your ride go for a two-up touring seat. They typically have a wider and more comfortable seating area for rider and a bit of elevated sitting space for the passenger.
- Reduced Reach Touring Seat: These seats are designed to bring the rider closer to the handlebars and controls, which can be more comfortable for riders with shorter inseams.
- Tallboy Seat: These seats are designed to raise the rider’s seating position, providing a more commanding view of the road. They are great for riders who want a higher vantage point.
- Low Profile Touring Seat: These seats are designed to bring the rider closer to the ground, providing a lower seating position for a more “in the bike” feel.
- Air Ride Touring Seat: These seats feature adjustable air bladders that allow riders to customize the firmness or softness of the seat for maximum comfort.
- Backrests and Passenger Pads: In addition to the main seat, many touring seats come with options for detachable backrests and passenger pads, providing extra support and comfort for both the rider and passenger.
FAQs
Conclusion
The right touring seat for your Harley can make all the difference in the world. Comfort is key for long rides, and the right seat can keep you restful for hours on end. With the many options available, it’s important to take the time to find the perfect product for your needs.
After hours of trial and error, we have determined that the Mustang 79006 is the most comfortable touring seat for Harley. With its unique shape and specially-designed foam, this unit is sure to provide the rider with the utmost pleasure, no matter how long the ride.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
