I have kit number 52596-09A which is suppose to fit my '15 RK. It does fit but I don't see the seat lasting very long based on the fitment. I did expect some touching but nothing like this.

I have double checked my install of course it isn't hard and there isn't much to double check.

This is in a comfortable riding position. Is this normal?

 

That sure don't look right. Got one on mine and it comes up perfect through the hole in the seat. No distortion of the seat.

 

Does the seat make a difference?

This is the seat I have.

 

Is that a stock '15 RK seat?

 

Not impressed with Harley adjustable backrest.

Monday this week did this to the adjustable backrest on my '14 SGS. Reshaped, cut and welded the post.

 

Do you have the backrest moved to the most forward position?

 

That looks nice Sierra. Good job. Can you give us some pictures of the back rest out of the seat showing the angles of the piece you bent and welded?

 

Backrest is in the rearmost position. It's comfortable for me - 6'1" but if I do the job again will move backrest an inch or so further back.

Placed pad where it is now to see if the radius of the metal post touched my lower back. It doesn't so next time will move pad another inch back and down an inch too.

The post is 4mm (3/16") flat stock hardened steel. It's not easy to work. Used 3/4" round solid bar stock and a BIG vise to move radius down about half an inch and reshape the post flat with the top of the seat. Cut and welded the post to place the pad.

Guys in the shop say they will duplicate the work for $150.

 

As far as I know. It was on the bike when I bought it...new

Nope, while it can go further back there is still significant touching

 

While that position may be the most comfortable riding position, I do believe you have the backrest in its most forward position, which is used to make it easier to dismount without having to remove the backrest. I don't believe that position is a recommended riding position.

The installation instructions give a warning about this position:

If you view the instructions, there are two positions the backrest can be set to, with options to move the backrest up and down by pulling the adjustment **** on the back of the backrest.

I remember when I installed mine that I experienced the seat material bunching up like yours is bunching up. I went out to the garage just now and, sure enough, mine did just what yours is doing when in that most forward position. I ride with mine at the next setting towards the passenger seat. HD didn't design a very elegant adjustable backrest, but I don't know if they had any other options.