Seat of Choice?

[Mellow]

What's your CURRENT Seat of Choice?

Let me know if I need to add any...

[Killtimer]

Sargent curently, but I haven't given up on my custom from Rich's in Seattle. I'm hoping to get it back to him for an adjustment this winter, and then one of them will be for sale. :eek:

Steve

[lddave]

Have two Russells and one Mr Ed Moto ,never again will I have a corbin.

[STony G]

I have the Bill Mayer seat, only because I could ride in and get fitted. Now that I have 30,000 in the seat, it is just alright. I need to get it adjusted one more time and I think it will be perfect. I'm going to go with the leather cover and have the rear reworked for a passenger.

[skydog]

Maybe you can add "Modified Stock" to the survey.
I've got two seats and both are Modified Stock seats rebuilt by a local Reupholstery place. I wanted to try this route before springing for the real deal. Only cost 200.00 to get both modified. The first one I took in and said I wanted it to look like a Russell, the second one to look like a Sargent. Well, looks are there but I'm sure the comfort is not. However, this guy said he would continue modifying them until I was happy. :badabing:

[Mellow]

Maybe you can add "Modified Stock" to the survey.
I've got two seats and both are Modified Stock seats rebuilt by a local Reupholstery place. I wanted to try this route before springing for the real deal. Only cost 200.00 to get both modified. I first one I took in and said I wanted it to look like a Russell, the second one to look like a Sargent. Well, looks are there but I'm sure the comfort is not. However, this guy said he would continue modifying them until I was happy. :badabing:
Skydog.. you got it...

[Daryl]

I've got the Sargent - but the passenger seat occupant is pointing me toward a Day Long. I think Russel's setup is better for us "heavier" folks.

[Bones]

In 12,000+ miles and a number of 400+ mile days, I have found the stock seat very comfortable. I've never had any interest in replacing it.

I'd be curious to know if other lightweight STers (I'm 135 lbs) also find the stock seat good, and likewise if heavyweight STers find it not so good.

[dond]

Have a Rich's. Works for me.
I've got about 40,000mi on it..so far.
Couldn't vote tho' :-(

----------------
Yay, I voted! Thanks guyz.

[Hewhois]

Well, my set-up doesn't quite fit any of the choices. I use the stock seat, but have a removable AirHawk cushion on top of it. So far in the 400 miles I've ridden on my '05 ST1300 it works great :)

EDIT: I'm 6'2" and about 185lbs, the stock seat was good for 45 minutes, then I had to put the AirHawk on.

[Mellow]

Hewhois..... I just added the airhawk option... LOL

[Daryl]

I don't think so - once I get some other farlkes settled I will see If Russell will do just the passenger portion of a rebuilt on the stock pan. A man has to have priorities!! i.e. - dash shelf on - GPS on - buy a radar detector :cop2: - and Uh Oh yeah - buy her a new truck first!!:eek:

[John Anthony]

A Russell with one of their butt warmers was one of my better investments. Much more comfortable than the stock seat and their staff was great to work with. Their guarantee is pretty tough to be. Always good to do business with people who stand behind their products. These guys also nailed their production commitment. A nice touch!!

[jeff4912]

BonesinMass,

I am 6'00" 180 and found the stock seat to be the worst I have ever ridden on. 150-200 miles and my butt hurt so bad I would almost have to abort the ride. I also was pushed forward toward the tank by the slope of the seat. On one 8 day ride, if one of the riders had not let me use his AirHawk seat pad, I would have had to bail at the end of the first day.

Went to Rick Mayer's and he did my seat, took the slope out and I love it. Rode 973 miles back home to Seattle from his house (Redding, Ca) via the coast and my rear was in heaven. I know Rick has a poor mail in reputation, but for ride ins, he is great. IMO

PS.. My avatar was taken about an hour after leaving Rick's on Hwy 36 heading to Eureka, Ca

[Dave Wicks]

I have thrown this comment a number of times and get no come-back on it so here we go again. If you lift off the front portion of the seat you will see two rectangles of rubber slid over two small brackets that actually hold the back of the seat up. They are not necessary for the seat to be secure but do tip it up at back. I'm short so I have the stock seat in full forward and down position. With the blocks removed I don't slide forward, much more comfy..In the future I will likely put on a Sargent, but the blocks out has helped..

[Mellow]

Dave, thanks for the advise... I wish I would have tried that when I still had the stocker.. might have made a difference...

[st1300forever]

Thanks for all the info, I still have a question. I am 6.2" and 190 lb. I always ride with the passenger. What kind of seat will work for me? I am between Sargent and Russel Day long. Any advise will be helpful. Thank you.

[sherob]

Corbin with sheep :D

[Coop]

I think we all ought to kidnap Bones and force him to eat fattening stuff until he's a lardass or at least 150 lbs. Geez...135 lbs! LOL!!

[Polovision]

I have thrown this comment a number of times and get no come-back on it so here we go again. If you lift off the front portion of the seat you will see two rectangles of rubber slid over two small brackets that actually hold the back of the seat up. They are not necessary for the seat to be secure but do tip it up at back. I'm short so I have the stock seat in full forward and down position. With the blocks removed I don't slide forward, much more comfy..In the future I will likely put on a Sargent, but the blocks out has helped..

I know you have thrown this out before and now you have a bite. I've tried the seat adjustment one the front of the seat and the rear of the driver's seat (rectangles of rubber) with no luck.

I'll keep reading.

[CrashTestDanny]

Top Saddlery and Bagster might also have some representation...

[dduelin]

I wonder if I am the only person that stops every hour to two to stretch my legs. In that time my butt has no problem with the stock seat. Perhaps if I rode non-stop for a full tank (what's that, 4 or 5 hours?) at a time the stock seat would not work for me anymore, but at 7600+ miles I haven't had a problem with the stock seat. I tend to ride back roads and stop at corner stores for 5 minutes or so.

I live in the same town as Sargent and tried their seat-loan program for a short ride but could not convince myself to part with $656 for it when the stocker works OK. The Sargent is a tad bit broader right under my thighs and more squared-off on the edges to get this width without widening the seat pan at that point. Since I am inseam-challenged at 30" I could possibly see the Sargent not working as well for me as what I have.

I have the seat low in the front and rear.

[Rolling Thunder]

My stock seat starts off nicely, but turns into a brick ~ 300 miles. I want to swap seats, but make the right choice since a change is expensive. The decision is hard to make though - so many choices and so many swearing by those various choices!

[Brassreed]

Love my Rick Mayer seat. The best part besides making my seat much better, is he dished the pass. seat and now my wife dosen't slide forward into me on a hard stop... It was a problem with the stock seat. He also did it in a basket weave pattern for more grip.. We (wife and I) just love it..
I did a ride in, as Rick is only 15 min. form where I live. Also a note of intrest he finished his new shop and now you can wait in air condition comfort and watch while your seat is being done. He is having an open house party on May 6th. See his web site for all the details...

Tom...

[Medicine Bear]

My stock seat starts off nicely, but turns into a brick ~ 300 miles. I want to swap seats, but make the right choice since a change is expensive. The decision is hard to make though - so many choices and so many swearing by those various choices!

PM JR (J Reviere) - he modified a stock seat for practically nothing. Looks almost like and feels almost like my Russell. He lives up on Lake Livingston.

Fred :03biker:

[Firehawk]

Tried the Stock - More comfotable than my Corbin
Tried the Corbin - Shipped it back for a complete overhaul. This seat left my butt and back in a great deal of pain. Corbin has the seat now. I'm waiting for them to return the seat. We'll see if it's any better. If not, it will be For Sale!

[Firehawk]

I wonder if I am the only person that stops every hour to two to stretch my legs. In that time my butt has no problem with the stock seat. Perhaps if I rode non-stop for a full tank (what's that, 4 or 5 hours?) at a time the stock seat would not work for me anymore, but at 7600+ miles I haven't had a problem with the stock seat. I tend to ride back roads and stop at corner stores for 5 minutes or so.

I live in the same town as Sargent and tried their seat-loan program for a short ride but could not convince myself to part with $656 for it when the stocker works OK. The Sargent is a tad bit broader right under my thighs and more squared-off on the edges to get this width without widening the seat pan at that point. Since I am inseam-challenged at 30" I could possibly see the Sargent not working as well for me as what I have.

I have the seat low in the front and rear.

Dave,

I agree with your view of the Sargent. I had the same experience. The Corbin I purchased - very hard. I sent it back. See my other port in this thread. On my ST1100 I had the Saddleman / Travelcade seat & LOVED it. I called Saddleman & they said they don't make a ST1300 seat yet. They have not had enough requests. However, they did tell me that if I sent them the stock seat they would build me a seat for $200. If my Corbin comes back as bad as it was, I am seriuosly thinking about taking Saddleman up on their offer.

[Jefro]

"What kind of seat will work for me? I am between Sargent and Russel Day long. Any advise will be helpful."

Have a close look at the photos of both seats.
You will see that the Russell seats are shaped kinda like a tractor seat with a big pocket and side wings to give full support.
The pics of the Sargent show it to be less of a pocket and more flat but wider than stock. You should be able to move around quite a bit on the Sergant, where the Russell has a definite pocket that holds you in one position.
Both are great seats. I've always had Corbins, so I like a deep pocket with full support, so I went with the Russell for long distance comfort.
Hope this helps you some.
Jefro.

[Gug]

+ on the Rick Mayer. He builds an excellent seat.

[IndyST]

Got a Corbin on my 03. Took a while to break in but after 26k it works great. It's hard and lets me move around alot. After 4-5 hours I get out the "Pro Pad" that adds several more hours. Love the heat option too:) .

Mike

[John Ephlin]

Corbin W/Heat.:biker:

[Louie Louie]

;) Take the heated seat of the Acura TL and put it on the nice blue ST..That will solve all problems.

[DataHawk]

PM JR (J Reviere) - he modified a stock seat for practically nothing. Looks almost like and feels almost like my Russell. He lives up on Lake Livingston.

Has he posted somewhere on this site what he has done to the seat?

[Medicine Bear]

Has he posted somewhere on this site what he has done to the seat?

I believe he has. PM for more details or do a search. I believe he posted about what he did in the last month.

Fred :03biker:

[GodFather]

Corbin no heat...love it!

[Trashman]

Have a Sergent put a little over 2500 miles on it but it makes my tail bone sore so I just received a new Corbin and plan on trying it for 500-600 miles then will sell one of them.

[Mike]

Got the Russell and really like it but have to say I will not do buisness with them again. I own my mistakes and put blame on no one so I was totally p---ed when they acussed me of cutting the seat....nope, won't buy from Russell again.

[Bigfish]

New to the site and a "new to me ST owner", 04 ST1300. I love the ride! Purchased from a fellow in North Carolina, drove it back to Bastrop Texas. (1403 miles!) I will say one thing, OUCH! I did 1100 miles from 0630-2400, that was last week Friday. I believe I have a pinched nerve in the rear bumper area. I say the stock seat in marginal, and will be the first thing I will modify after the bar extention. Until then I will try Mr Wicks suggestion, the rubber blocks will come out today.THANKS DAVE!

[oldowl446]

I have thrown this comment a number of times and get no come-back on it so here we go again. If you lift off the front portion of the seat you will see two rectangles of rubber slid over two small brackets that actually hold the back of the seat up. They are not necessary for the seat to be secure but do tip it up at back. I'm short so I have the stock seat in full forward and down position. With the blocks removed I don't slide forward, much more comfy..In the future I will likely put on a Sargent, but the blocks out has helped..

Dave
Thankx for the advise I removed the rubber gromets & repaced them w/ temporary rubber pads.I sit level now no forward slope, much better. Think things will improve when riser plate is installed.

[Blue STreak]

I think the Russell Day Long is the only seat I haven't heard anyone complain about. All the other seats, while they have lots of proponents, also have a number of people who don't like them. Russell is also, if I'm not mistaken, the only vendor to have a true money back guarantee if you're not satisfied.

I have no personal experience with the Russell, but I think I'm going to try one.

[Yogi]

In 12,000+ miles and a number of 400+ mile days, I have found the stock seat very comfortable. I've never had any interest in replacing it.

I'd be curious to know if other lightweight STers (I'm 135 lbs) also find the stock seat good, and likewise if heavyweight STers find it not so good.

Well I would be a Heavyweight Currently 310lb but I am trying to cut down:D and all I can say is I can't wait till Aug 18th for my appt with Russell to get his seat. The stock seat for myself starts hurting my tailbone at about 50 -70 miles by 150 I am doing the butt dance and looking to take a break..One of the reasons I bought the ST was for the range so for me to have to stop at 150 mile sorta defeats that purpose.

[dteel]

Ok, on Dave's advice I pulled the rubber blocks today. I'll give the stock seat a whirl and see how it goes with this easy mod. Having just returned last Sunday from a 2700 mile ride, I'll have to admit that I was experiancing a lot of discomfort at any distance beyond 80 miles. I'm short and heavy 30" inseam 300+ lbs, but don't have the resources to try custom seats until I find a good match.

Curious if anyone has had any problems with the metal hoops breaking through plastic on the seat after removing the rubber pads? Remember I'm not a lightweight rider.

[JReviere]

Saddles, like the body parts which interface with them, are very personal items. Pity the poor designer who tries to make "one size fit all." It's just not possible.

Fred (Medicine Bear) rode one of my modified OEM seats while his Russell Day Long was being built, so I'll let him comment.

I have three OEM saddles, each with a different degree of modification. Two, including the one Fred rode, look totally stock. The third is one I built for myself. I added "wings" a la Russell to widen the butt pocket area and destressed the weight bearing under the midline moving the weight out to the sides. I had a local upholsterer make a new cover in a silver/gray vinyl which looks good with the Silver 03ST I ride. I rode it back from CheapSTOC, a bit over 300 mi with zero discomfort.

I saw another mod technique described the other day. I'll try it on the next OEM saddle I get.

I have a file complete with .jpgs of the modifications I have done. I'm located about 80 mi NNE of Houston, TX on the east shore of Lake Livingston.

I'll be pleased to be of aid to anyone on the forum or list. Being full time retired gives me the time to do such things.

JR
New E-mail address: jrev@cebridge.net

[Medicine Bear]

Saddles, like the body parts which interface with them, are very personal items. Pity the poor designer who tries to make "one size fit all." It's just not possible.

Fred (Medicine Bear) rode one of my modified OEM seats while his Russell Day Long was being built, so I'll let him comment.
After riding JR's modified seats, I've come to the conclusion that the reason the stock seat feels good (initially) and rock hard after a while, is that it's too soft. There is no real support - at least for big ol' guys like me.

JR's mod to the stock seat without changing the shape was astounding. It looked the same as stock but it sure didn't ride like it. I took it on the RTE to Woodville (about 2 hours ride each way) and, at the point the stocker wouldv'e been trying to sneak up on me, the modded seat was fine. It remained so throughout the return trip too.

The wings offer more support but the flipside is that it's harder to get a foot down when stopping. I've had my Russell for several thousand miles now and still have to "prepare" to stop. A comment someone made months ago - the big difference between stock and Russell seats were apparent the next day after a long ride. With the Russell, you feel like you're starting a brand new day - not continuing the pain from the day before.

Fred :03biker:

[Bigfish]

I will be watching this one very closely, as I have a stock seat and absolutely hate it. I really don't understand how I got the bike home from 1400 miles away in 2 days. Maybe thats my problem, I haven't recovered yet.
5"10" 190 pounds. I'm not going to vote as I have only experienced the stock seat. BUT IT WILL BE THE MOST IMPORTANT FARKLE ON THE BIKE. I love everything else about this machine. JR has graciously offered to help modify the stock seat. I will be taking him up on this offer. More info to come, LOVE this site.

[v908]

You needed an "other" category. I currently run a Saddlemen (Travelcade) Stealth saddle (with Gel inserts) for my '93 ST1100. It put me a little lower than the stock seat, is comfortable, and the craftsmanship was fine. I like the gel insert, but it really heats up when left in the sun for any amount of time. I've got to find shade anytime I park in the summer, or seek out sun in the winter (heated seats!).

[emshaferii]

stock seat only because I haven't got enough insight into what options would best suit me. Getting lower to the ground would a first priority.

[bs]

:04biker: Had a Sargent on a 96 ST1100, after returning twice, it was just OK. Bought my 04 used, and it came with a Corbin. When you first climb on, it feels great, after an hour or more I would have to get off. Corbins look great, but there is nothing custom about them. Bought a stock pan to send to Russell, best seat ever, although I thought their customer service could use some work. You can ride literally ride all-day, and not think twice about climbing back on...... I'm sold on this one..

[Mellow]

I Pulled this Poll into the seat section, it's an old one and didn't have Spencer listed so I added that, let me know if there are other seat options I need to add to allow for what you have and since you can now withdraw your vote, you can change your original selection.

[bandf1]

I have a corbin that came with my bike when I bought it and cannot ride for more than 100 miles without having to stop. I am 6'2 260 so I do have a lot of weight on it but they guy I bought it from is about 5'8 180 and bought the closeup version of the seat which actually has my legs riding against the fairing. I would love to try another model to make memore comfortable.

[Papa Ritch]

I like my stock seat with a sheep pad, I also have a Corbin heated seat , I only use in the winter. It to hard for long ride. Ritch :03biker:

[Geoff]

Spencer seat with the alaska buttpad..........works just fine...the key I find to rising this bike is to get off about every hunderd miles for a few minutes and stretch.your legs..some of the butt discomfort I'm sure comes from the legs being tucked up a little...this is not meant as a dig to anyone but overall we are an older group and the old body aint what it use to be.....Geoff......61 years old.

[Biker George]

Well...I have a hybrid on my ST1100.

I bought a Spencer that had the pillion flattened out for placing gear on it. It would work for a passenger, but only for a short ride.

It forced me forward into the tank.

SO...I got Spencer to do a mod and he fixed the problem and definitely improved the seat.
:shout1: AND HE IS A GREAT PERSON TO DEAL WITH - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

Therefore, I have a Sargent/Spencer.

I must admit, as much as I like this seat - the comments about the Russell make me curious. One of these days I'll find an ST1100 with a Russell that I can at least sit on.

Meanwhile, life is good and my bottom feels fine.

[ST1300A]

Spencer with the Alaskian sheepskin. Hope to send in my stock seat to be modified by Spencer with the LD mod, right now it's just a regular Spencer seat.

I have the stock seat front and rear, Spencer modified seat front and rear and another rear seat with Utopia backrest. I use the Spencer front seat with the Utopia rear right now...

[Magna]

Spencer seat with custom sheepskin.
Second the motion that Spencer's a Super Guy to deal with. Shame he doesn't have a Honda Dealership. (Yet?) He'd be Overwhelmed with business!
Ed

[JW-1300]

I just dropped my order for a Russell in the mail today. In a couple of months I'll be cruising in comfort. At least I'd better be or I want all that money back.

[v65saber]

I have a stock seat with an AirHawk. Stock seat was good for about 200-300 miles or 8-10 hours then ouch big time. Put the AirHawk on and it's good for SS1K or about 1200 miles/24 hours. Did a BBG 1500 miler and the Airhawk got uncofortable around 12-1300 miles butt finishing the 1500 was not a problem. I would not like to double up on the 1500s with the AirHawk.

1000 miles take a break AirHawk good to go..... BBG3000 + I gotta get a Russell. :bow1: :rolleyes: 50CC for the fittting Maybeee. :03biker:

[H20SKIER]

ST1100 have a Corbin and a stock, ordering a Russell and putting the Corbin with passenger backrest on E-Bay. I like the Corbin but I want to be able to go farther with less pain.

[pretbek]

I gots me a Corbin on my ST1100 which I believe is very different from the ones on the ST1300, because it is very comfy, not notoriously hard at all...

It has been "rebuilt", according to the previous owner. Now I don't know if that means re-made into what it was originally after wear and tear, or re-done to change it to be nice and comfy which it perhaps wasn't in the beginning.

[SupraSabre]

When I bought my St1300 in Nov 05, the first thing I wanted to do was get a Russell Day-Long. My "Better Half" told me "NO WAY!". She wanted a Hondaline TopBox! :rolleyes: So I got a TopBox with the idea she was going to ride "a lot". Ha! I get her on the bike once or twice a year if I'm lucky! :(

By Feburary I had to convince her that I needed a new saddle. Of course her response was; "Its a brand new bike, what's wrong with the BRAND NEW SADDLE THAT CAME WITH IT?".

At that time I ordered my Russell. Front and rear (yes for her too) with the Velour covering. Before I got it, I rode to Sacramento (500 miles one way), did a ride with the Pashnit group (200 miles) and back home (500 miles). By the time I got home I was dieing! My butt was suffering from a severe case of VSB! A few weeks later I got my Russells.

23277

In May, the wife and I did a 180 mile ride near Sacramento (I trailered the bike up) and she loved her new seat. Then in September my brother Dave and I rode our STs around California up to Crater Lake and by the time we finished I had done 2,600 miles and he did 2,100 miles.

http://www.hamptonrpi.com/Sabre/SabMag-Trips/DBAdventure.htm

By that time the velour was washed out so bad that I decided to have it covered in leather.

23278

So I sent the rider's seat and another stock passenger seat up to Russell and had them recover them both to match.

23276

So now, when my wife rides with me I pull out her Velour saddle. The rest of the time I have my leather covered stock passenger seat on.

And BTW, I did the 666STOC (1,400 miles in 46 hours in 115 degree heat for a couple of hours) and just last weekend did the Sacramento ride of 1,000 miles and no TB! :)

[Magna]

[QUOTE=SupraSabre;309366] "By that time the velour was washed out so bad that I decided to have it covered in leather."

Bob,
What exactly do you mean by "washed out"?
I had a Velour seat made by Diamond for over 10 years and 60,000 miles, and it still looked almost new when I sold it (even the stitching). It was black, and I did use a raincover most of the time, when in a downpour.
I thought about a velour Russell, but not if it's wore out in 2,600 miles.
Ed

[Speedracer612]

What's your CURRENT Seat of Choice?

Let me know if I need to add any...

I can't believe that no one has said anything about the Travelcade Stealth. Love mine....

James

[PLCBithead]

I currently have a sargent. I like how it looks and it is comfortable for about 2 or so hours of ride time. After that it feels like the vinyl covered foam transmorgifies into cast-iron over concrete block. After that point it does not seem to matter how many breaks I take or even how long the breaks are, the seat is just plain uncomfortable on my arse.

I'm open to suggestions

[Byron]

I've put several thousand miles on three seats; stock, Sargent and Bill Mayer. I picked up the all leather Bill Mayer (BMS) from eBay so it is not made for me specifically but it is still my seat of choice for overall comfort. From what I can tell the seat was made for someone shorter than me and I'm 5' 8" with 30" inseam. I run it with the front adjuster in the middle and the rear on the lowest to minimize the slide forward affect. It does seem to have more heat get by the area at the tank because there is no extra material like the stock or Sargent seat. It is the overall comfort winner though.

The Sargent is second. It is pretty good but feels flat by comparison and it is flatter and wider than the Bill Mayer. It also has a slight ridge that hits the underside of my leg that over time gets to me. It doesn't stop me from riding by any stretch of the imagination. It's just there is a pressure spot there that isn't there with the stock or Bill Mayer seat.

I put over 10,000 miles on the stock seat before giving anything else a try. For me it was shaped right but just to soft.

[Bigfish]

Spencer seat mod update: I now have nearly 28K on this seat, and I still love it. Works great for me as a daily commute (40 mile 1 way) and good up to 1K non-stoppers.
Thanks once again Spencer!

[Viggo]

Being frugal (aka cheap bastid) I modified my stock seat myself. Stripped the vinyl off, carved out a chunk of the stock foam and replaced it with a chunk of memory foam. That did the trick for me, changing from discomfort in less than 100 miles to all day comfort. I also have a full sheepskin that I cut and sewed to perfectly fit the seats and usually wear bike shorts with a little padding.

[ParkerBill]

My first '06 ST1300 (purchased new) had the stock seat. My second '06 ST1300A (purchased used with 2700 miles) came with a heated Corbin seat (as well as the stock seat). At this point in time the heating unit is not hooked up; being in Florida I haven't felt the need for it. I do find the Corbin more comfortable than the stock seat for longer rides, but I still find myself starting to squirm a bit every couple of hours or so on it. I'm usually ready for a break by then anyway.

If I didn't have the Corbin I would definitely get Spencer's LD comfort seat mod on the stock seat. In fact, I'm thinking of doing it anyway one of these days, just to see if it's better than the Corbin. Right now I have other farkles I'm working on (lights) before spending money on the seat mod.

I'm 6'2" and hit the scales at around 215 lbs or so. Oh yeah, and my wife says my butt has dissappeared (meaning it's bony, I guess), so maybe that's part of the problem. :D

[steve3b3]

Another Spencer believer here.

He did mine this past summer and it's great for all the riding I do.

Steve:04biker:

[kolasinski]

Just goes to show there is no one size fits all.

Mine came with the stock seat, and a heated corbin (not the close).

I hated both (though I have kept the corbin for the cold days), and I got a seargent now, and just think that seat is great.

Made all the difference in the world.

[STBNE]

I have 3 seats,a Corbin Rumbleseat...which i do not like at all..a Travelcade seat that is pretty comfortable but the seat that is Most Comfortable is my Spencerized LD modded stock seat.It gets the Gold award from me!:D

[SupraSabre]

[QUOTE=SupraSabre;309366] "By that time the velour was washed out so bad that I decided to have it covered in leather."

Bob,
What exactly do you mean by "washed out"?
I had a Velour seat made by Diamond for over 10 years and 60,000 miles, and it still looked almost new when I sold it (even the stitching). It was black, and I did use a raincover most of the time, when in a downpour.
I thought about a velour Russell, but not if it's wore out in 2,600 miles.
Ed

Sorry, but sometimes I'm a bit slow in answering ...:cool:

My problam was that I didn't cover the bike and it sat in the San Burn-arse-dino Sun and baked. Within a very short time it was almost white (like what you see in that picture.) So with that in mind, I went with the leather. and I also keep the bike covered. :p:

[Last1Out]

Mine's still new so I'm on the stock seat. I'm 240 pounds and I did the top front, middle rear setup adjustment and so far so good, but the longest ride has only been 270 miles. I want to find out how far I can go on the stocker before I switch (if I do) to an aftermarket seat. I've been using a Corbin on my 1200 Bandit and 500 mile trips on that are a breeze, so I might go that way on the ST, but I think I'll try the Spencer mod first. Christmas is coming you know!

[Subdivided]

As a life-long LD (long distance) motorcyclist and new ST owner, comfort is upmost in improtance. I'm 6'4" and 235 pounds, so the stock setup had to go immediately.

I added a 1" handle bar riser, and dropped the rider's pegs 1". STill not enough. After trying the seat in all 3 positions, I find the stock setup (at all 3 heights) pushes me forward toward the tank, scrunching my gonads an further cramping my knees.

A couple of days ago, I put the rear of the front seat in it's lowest position and just sat the front of the seat on TOP of the little bar. I like this better, as it raises the front and pushes me a little toward the back of the seat. I'm still experimenting with different combinations, looking for best ergonomics. I may try an aftermarket seat later.

Sub

[sbe]

I've got a Russell Day Long that the previous owner had custom made. He and I are about the same size and weight, so the seat fits well. I do have to slide forward at stops, to get my feet flat - I imagine the custom seat added an inch or two to the stock height. Otherwise, I find the seat very comfortable - tilts my pelvis forward, relieving pressure on my lower back. Beats my VFR's cardboard seat!:biker:

[danyn_canyon]

:policeST: Have only had two seats, the STock seat and the SargenT. My longest ride on the STock seat was from Kalmazoo, MI to Ft. Morgan, Colorado (1050+ miles). OMG then I knew the true meaning of 'iron butt'. I was so damn sore, had trouble standing straight. Later, I ordered the Sargent through the group buy (Sport Touring). After 6-8 week wait, my brand spankin' new Sargent (Daytona perforated leather) seat arrived. Damn impressive looks and build quality. Nice nifty storage pockets, but how was the ride ?:cool:

Firt ride 100+ milers, I am like okay, what is the big deal? The seat feels flat and where was that gold-wing-style-living-room comfort that I was anticipating? First true test was Phoenix to Reno ride to pay my brother a visit (755 mi). Left Phx 5:30am arrived Reno 5:30pm. No iron butt, no detectable soreness, nothing, nadda, zippo. Oh joy, the SargenT seat really performs!!!:clap2:

Every butt is different, but mine oh so happy :rolleyes: on the SargenT (5'9; 205lb):rolleyes:

[gegundez]

I am trying to lose 50lbs (going from 240 to 190), so I am undecided between Spencer and a Russell. Spencer is a lot cheaper, but I need some advice. I generally ride 150 miles max daily. Should I Spencerize or get the BIG TAMALE!! HIGH PRICED SADDLES??

[Papa]

I have the Spencer seat mod and I use a sheepskin as well.

[Brighteyesue]

is it blaaaaaack?

[Papa]

is it blaaaaaack?

:spank1: :rolleyes:

That's baaaaaaad!

[bigswifty]

I have a Corbin and can be in the sadle for several hours at a time without any problems...I'm 6' 1" @ 215lbs...so probably being a little "wide in the glide" adds to the comfort. Ok, so I'm a little on the heavy side...but I really was something in my prime...honest!

[Bluecrew]

My wife and I both prefer the Sargent over the stock.
Multiple 600+ mile days no problem on the Sargent.
Stock seat was ok the first day, but became quickly unbearable on subsequent days.

[Finewest]

Fat tall boy here with a Sargent. At 6'4" and 300 lbs. I found the Sargent a better fit for me then the stock, and I thought the stock was pretty good for OEM! I also use a Alaska sheepskin butt pad and on long long distance rides I also wear LD Comfort riding shorts which I love!

The Sargent is wider than stock, is a flatter platform and much firmer. I don't slide into the tank like I did on stock and the Sargent feels much more "formed" to me than stock. I like my Sargent. But since I am a "big boy" I still have to stop every 100 miles or so for a stretch.

[2dogs]

Another vote for Spencer. The first time I sat on an ST I thought the seat felt like a 2x6 with some vinyl stretched over it. and after riding for a few hundred miles not a whole lot better.
After getting both front and rear seat mods from Spencer done last winter I'm pretty happy. The cost was under $100 and now with over 10k miles the seat is better than ever!
Thanks again Spenser

[RobsTV]

You needed an "other" category. I currently run a Saddlemen (Travelcade) Stealth saddle (with Gel inserts) for my '93 ST1100....).

+1 on other or Travelcade in a general seat of choice thread!

Looks like the Travelcade is one of the top 2 or 3 seats to have on an ST1100 with only Russell a step up.
But at 1/2 to 1/3 the price, no old seat or pan needed, no build time, and no ugly wings, it might be the best overall for an ST1100.

EDIT: I take back what I posted above. Yes, the Travelcade is much better than the Corbin, but still nowhere close to being comfortable after a few hours. Ended up buying a well used 100,000 + mile Russell, built for people nowhere close to our size, and it still blows away all the other seats tested. Can go all day without butt pain.

[kdj]

I managed one day on the stock seat before deciding I needed something else!

I rode a couple of hundred miles on the Sargent yesterday and it is so much better.

So, for a seat you can order today, ride a couple of days later and looks good on the bike, I'd recommend the Sargent.

Instant gratification is satisfying :07biker:

[TRICKYRIC5474]

I've had to make a seat change on every bike I've owned in the past 12 years. I'm 6'3", 270# so I guess I'm just not exactly typical. I spent BIG bucks for a Mustang seat for my HD Road King Police and even more for a Diamond seat on my '01 Goldwing.

I got the Spencer LD mod when he was first offering the LD option of his mod. I LOVE THIS SEAT ! The only thing I want more of is even more leg room and Spencer said he can add some more to the my seat when I send it back down to him. The Spencerized seat is completely comfortable, my long abused knee's just need as much room as possible. NO, peg lowering is not something I would consider.

As far as stopping every hour to stretch, a good plan. I also stretch without stopping by standing up on the pegs for a mile or two while underway.

As soon as Spencer gets his heat option ready, I'll send my seat back to him to get the seat raised just a little more and add the heat.

Great price for great results and wonderful customer service.

[Dandebike]

What's your CURRENT Seat of Choice?

Let me know if I need to add any...

Spencer LD mod and Loved Dat on my recent 3k Utah run.
Daniel

[Max R.]

I have only known the Corbin. Never even sat on a ST stock seat, so I have no reference point. No complaints so far with the Corbin.

[Brighteyesue]

Rode on a Spencer mod, have a Corbin and then got a Russell.

I thought the Corbin was my favorite until I got the Russell. I fell in love with it! It feels like two hands massaging.

;)
:woo
:bannana

:bow1:

Russell RAWKS!!

[Coop]

In 12,000+ miles and a number of 400+ mile days, I have found the stock seat very comfortable. I've never had any interest in replacing it.

I'd be curious to know if other lightweight STers (I'm 135 lbs) also find the stock seat good, and likewise if heavyweight STers find it not so good.

135 pounds!! Somebody ought to kidnap Bones, dress him in Barbie Doll clothes and tie him to a telephone pole by the freeway. LOL!!

[Fat Man Bass]

Spencer comfort lowered seat with Alaska sheepskin.

Was not on the poll list, but anyway.
Both are great, I love the combination for long rides.

[Speedracer612]

I have the Travelcade Stealth Gel Seat... I love it... but there is not vote for it... The gel is so comfortable.

James

[STinner]

stock seat with the 2 rubber pads out from the frame. lowers the back of the seat just enough for me. i add the sheepskin pad when its below 35.


dave

[Dinkie Diesel]

I'd be curious to know if other lightweight STers (I'm 135 lbs) also find the stock seat good, and likewise if heavyweight STers find it not so good.

At 135 pounds you could probably be comfortable sitting on a Band-Aid. At 280 I think I need a queen size mattress. The stock seat is horrible at my size. I had Spencer do his magic. He did relieve the tailbone issue but now the pressure point has moved forward about a few inches to the "T'aint" area. I have every hope someone will get a group buy going at Russell again this fall so I can afford to try one. A buddy has one I tried. Just sitting idle it seems like it may be the answer. I may have to resign to the fact that a 200 mile trip without stopping will never be possible?

[Schavlan]

I had Sargent make up my seat for my ST1100.
I called around, Travelcade, both Mayers, Corbin, etc.
Sargent identified my problem as soon as I said I had an ST1100.
They also explained why the stock seats behave the way they do. They are made of open cell foam. Work great for a short time, but after the air is compressed out of the seat it's OUCH time.
For me, that also explained why, after riding two hours, getting off and stretching my legs no longer helped, since the seat was deflated.

[Shuey]

Reading through the thread it seems like for most of us, whichever seat we switched to after being dissatisified with the STock seat, found the change to be SO MUCH BETTER that "it" became our seat of choice. Most of us that switched haven't had the need or luxury of again switching to another seat so there isn't any real comparison.

Then again there are those lucky few who aren't heavy enough to compress the air out of the STock foam and so are happy with it - thus freeing up dollars that can be better used for tires, fuel and farkles. :) or PIE!

Shuey

[MGDaversa]

Spencer mod plus a sheepskin. If I were 90 pounds lighter, it would be perfect.
-- MGD