I've seen a few guys wearing weight lifting belts while riding. I'm wondering if anyone has tried this and if so does it provide some sort of beneficial support for a bad back, or just a goofy fashion statement?

 

The only folks I've seen using kidney belts are those riding rigid frame bikes.

I've been told it is functional and not a fashion statement.

Sammi

 

I wear one on long trips, but it's not as evident as leather weight lifting belts. Mine is a firm internally-reinforced one covered with cordura (black of course) and connects with velcro.

It feels just like having a comfy chair back strapped to the back.

Originally started wearing it when kayaking for many hours on end. Very nice and no aches during or at the end of the day!

 

My vote would be goofy fashion statement.....

 

It's for the dumasses that drop their 800# bike all the time!!!!

 

I used to wear a kidney belt when riding 4 wheelers and it helps alot. I have never tried it on the harley though.

 

Maybe they are on their way to the gym and don't like to have bags on their bikes so they have to wear their gear.

 

I have a kidney belt built into my jacket. I cinch it up when I'm going to go down rough roads. It's not very tight but it keeps the bumps from hurting my back.

 

Goofy, they're for the gym unless you going to be squatting your bike a lot!

 

They help on long rides. I used to wear a kidney belt on my shovel FL anytime I would be on more then a three or four hour trip. Some old motorcycle jackets had a kidney support built in. The newer touring bikes are so smooth that they are not needed for most. and a back rest helps too. But they were very common in the pre 70s.