I bought the rigid rider backrest for an upcoming trip. I am 6'1. Someone shorter could have a different experience. When the backrest was all the way up it pushed me too far forward to ride comfortably. This is with the bracket all the way back.

As you raise the rigid backrest it is angled so it goes forward. I think that is a dumb design. If you need it taller you would think it is because you are taller.

Also, when my wife rode on the bike it would cut into her thighs if it was too low. But, if it was high it would push me forward.

Anyways, we took it back and got the adjustable. It is a night and day difference. The pad slides up and down without having to go forward and back. It doesn't cut into your passengers legs either.

If you are over 6 foot and ride with a passenger much I would stay away from the rigid. Hope that helps.

 

Thanks, I'm just about to do the same, I'm also the same height. Saved me a lot of trouble. Appreciate the heads up.

 

I have the manual HD backrest on my 2013 RK and I am 6'1" and have not experienced the problems you have had.I think every person,type of bike model and seat determines if a manual or adjustable backrest is right for you.Also your passengers comfort is a big factor and lets face it,some passengers fit better in that space than others.

 

I have the Adjustable and really like it.
On a long ride, you can adjust it on the fly if needed for more comfort.
Easy remove when not needed.

 

I've got a Chinese knock-off rigid one. While not real happy with it, it serves the purpose. If I did it again, I would get the adjustable this time around.

 

i have the rigid, manually adjusted one. i had it on my 2010 then transferred it to my 2013 flhtk. love it an have no problems from it. i have it all the way back and all the way down so its in the small of my back. i almost bought the adjustable but the difference in cost kept me from taking the plunge. no regrets.

 

luv my rigid backrest. No foolin' with adjustments. I am 5'10. But good post by OP.

 

I tried the rigid then I bought the adjustable. 6' tall 34" inseam. Yes they are crazy expensive, but then I thought, I ride a bit, and this was to be for the full duration of the ownership of a 15,000 bike and if I am not comfortable then what is the point.

Since typically my rides are a couple of hours or more 3-4 times a week and a few long multi day rides a year I felt for my comfort versatility it was well worth it. Same reason I bought an expensive seat, new handlebars, crash guard floor boards, Zumo Roadtech GPS, and upgraded stereo system. I want to fully enjoy my time in the wind and not just get by. The adjusting on the fly is wonderful, easily removeable.

Only downside is limits on the seats it will work with, and I had to modify the backrest to work with the Hammock seat.

 

The adjustable will also allow for different thickness of clothing, such as stripped down for summer or layered up for winter.

 

.......good point.......i haven't felt the need to adjust going from winter gear to lighter summer gear but i could see where some would and that would make it easy.