It should be inflated so that the main part of the Aithawk under your butt has just enough air to keep it from touching the seat. The areas of the Airhawk that you're not directly on will balloon up slightly.

 

Slightly, but I got used to it within miles and forgot about it for the next 10 years.

 

Thanks for this advice guys.

My air hawk has no straps (I got it used). The prior owner said he used shoe laces or mostly used nothing. It does stay put pretty well, but not perfectly, I've had to sit up and adjust it (which I wasn't thrilled about, I'm afraid I'll lose it).

Do you guys use the straps?

 

I don't use the straps on mine. It stays put and it's easier to throw in the tour pac when I want to.

 

I have a sheepskin (Alaska Sheepskin) over mine and use velcro 1" onewrap sliced in half to 1/2" through the loop on the pad and around the saddlebag guards. Same deal has stayed on since 05 in West Yellowstone when I got it. Quick to remove. Tossed the buckle and straps that came with it, must be for metric bikes.

 

I've had one on my SG for about 5 years. I love it but only use it for longer rides not around town stuff. I've never used any straps just toss it on the seat and go. I've also used it on long car trips and sitting on other hard surfaces like sporting event bleachers etc.