Ok. I installed new HD adj. backrest and in its back most position, it's a little too upright.

So I need to bend just a few degrees. My concern is if I heat the bracket the heat will transfer up into foam and release that magic smoke.

Someone help a newb out here. Can you heat quickly and bend before heat makes it to the pad?

 

I just bent mine last night, the difference is that I do not have the adjustable version. I put it in a press and bent it back approximately 15 degrees, I did not use heat. It feels great now. I think yours could be bent without heat also.

 

classic cruiser,

Where did you put the bend at and how did you stabilze the bars in the press?

 

I have the adjustable one & I just heated mine up quick with an oxy/acetlene torch and put a little more bend where it is already bent. Just stuck it in a vise, heated it up, bent it, and walked over to the sink to cool it off. Now it isback far enough that I have to move it FORWARD to be comfortable at times. It was really pushing me into the tank before.
One thing tonote, the heat took the coating off of thepiece exposing bare metal, so I just painted it black when I painted my other saddlebags. I had no problems with too much heat for the pad/foam to handle.
John

 

Or, you can put some washers under the front mounting bolts (I did) to move the top back. You may have to use longer bolts depending how far you want to move it.

 

Great idea spartns!!! I ordered the adjustable rider backrest last weekend and it arrived at the dealer today. I'll be installing it tomorrow. Will try out the washer idea if needed.

Thanks!

 

If you lean back real hard you can bend it!

SteveO

 

Thanks for the ideas. I will start with the washers and longer bolt.

If that doesn't do the trick I think I may see if there is enough play in the shock to lengthen the stop point on the travel channel that controls the pivot point. It shouldn't take but around a 1/4".