Looking for a good backrest for me and for one that won't interefere with her space so much in the back. I have a 2010 with heated seat so I'm not really wanting to cut into the OEM seat for fear of messing up that system and doing damage to the seat.
I've read other reviews and feedback on backrests but am looking for one final push based on your experiences. I leaning on the Markland but would like your two cents. Thanks.
If extra space is the priority, the Utopia is better. The hoops on the Markland type backrests take some leg room away. Fitting the Utopia isn't as hard as you think and you won't damage the heater wires because they are nowhere near the cut. Here is a tutorial with video and photos of how to install it;
If extra space is the priority, the Utopia is better. The hoops on the Markland type backrests take some leg room away. Fitting the Utopia isn't as hard as you think and you won't damage the heater wires because they are nowhere near the cut. Here is a tutorial with video and photos of how to install it;
Mine has the heated seat,
The wiring is along the side of the seat and you will be no where near the heating pads if you cut where the instructions tell you to cut.
Jim let me know when you get the uthopia I did two of them my friend and I have 09s no problem we bought off wingstuff but hal will match prices.I live on pequot ave off hines.
Utopia is best if you need the space for the co-rider, but if you don't want to cut the seat the Kuryakyn back rest has the brackets that lay flat against the side of the seat and lay forward so the passenger can mount.
The Utopia is easy to install and by far better than the ones with bars. Wires are no problem as you can see them through the bottom of the seat pan. Read Instructions: Just like wood work; Measure twice and cut once!
I love my markland backrest. It's way more adjustable than most and you can easily remove it if necessary. There are zero problems with passenger leg room, even better than the Kurys in that respect.
Big bike makes a clone that you can pick up for under $100. Just look for add-on backrest on ebay.
I have the Markland & find it very well suited for me & my SO. I have asked her if the bars bother her in any way & her reply was that she never noticed them. I am 250lbs & she is 120 & 5ft.4, if that helps. I would buy one again.
Decisions decisions. Good thing I still have 3+ weeks before the bike shows up and I'm guessing another 2 months before I dare take it out on the dirt laden salty roads.
I put a Markland on my 02 wing... 61,000 miles...LOVED IT... put one on my 05 wing 35,000 miles... LOVE IT ALS0... easy to install, adjusts fore & aft... don't have to cut the seat either... i give Markland a 10 +.....
I had a local upholster shop remove some foam from the passenger backrest, this move her back enough that I would have room to use a driver backrest. It also moved her more upright. Helped with some of the Mic wind noise and made her more comfortable.
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