Saddlemen Explorer Seat for Harley Davidson Review

[@davidoakley9387]

Really like what you did with your Sport Glide it’s a very functional and unique look while still maintaining a since of simplicity. That being said excellent review and fantastic quality of content. Cheers and be safe!

[@TheMotoBarista]

Thanks mate, stay safe 🤟

[@mattleonet4243]

saddlemen make good quality seats and brand is wide world famous! I love my Saddlemen seats!

[@saddlemenusa]

Thanks Matt - we appreciate that.

[@peterconnell3162]

Hi, I just wanted to write a follow up as I purchased the Explorer seat and wanted to do a quick update and comparisson with the Step-Up seat which I also own. Firstly the Explorer is very comfortable. I have only ridden a few hundred kms on it so far but I can see the difference with the stock seat and the Step-Up seat. I intend to use the Explorer for longer tours where I am spending days just riding on the highway, and when I ride with a pillion. In those riding conditions I found I desperately needed more comfort. In terms of looks and asthtetics on the Sport Glide the Step-Up seat wins hands down, but I am getting used to the Explorer’s looks and its growing on me!. In terms of „bike handling” the Step-Up has a clear advantage. Its gives you that aggressive riding position where you can really move your body and even „hang off” the bike. And yes I have actually got my „knee down” on a Harley Sport Glide with the Step-Up seat on a number of mountain roads!!. I guess I am not your typical Harley rider, but that’s why I intend to keep both seats, as it gives me the flexibility to change depending on the type of riding I am doing. Its a luxury I know to have two Saddlemen seats, but I can really see the benefit!. Thank you for your video and the recommendation.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Peter Connell so like you have the perfect setup now dude! Have fun!

[@red.riot.2280]

I’m in the boat where I have the step up and want to switch to the explorer. Is the height the same? I pefer the height of the step up. But want a back rest. Thank you.

[@peterconnell3162]

@@red.riot.2280 I did not notice any height difference between the Step Up and Explorer seats. The Explorer puts you further back from the bars and is wider, so the seating position may have an impact, but its not significant. I am working from memory as I sold the bike in the summer.

[@vmotobiker]

Excellent review to the point and informative

[@gorion70]

Love my Explorer. Great Seat.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Nice! Yeh, so good, can cover so many miles!

[@saddle8bag]

Smart guy. I see so many go for those "club" seats because it's the in thing. Nothing about our butts is built at a 90 degree angle and those things look like torture racks. This looks like a comfortable, practical seat. I wish HD wasn't so known for scooped seats though. Most HDs make me feel like I've fallen into a toilet with it's seat up. Even my RK which is better than most needs a seat pad to boost me up a little. With the forward pegs, the scooped seat makes more sense though.

[@bcbsilverhawk8426]

Good review. When I was looking for a new seat the Explorer was definitely on the list. I opted for the Step-up. I have close to 1000 miles on my seat currently and am 100% satisfied. Looks/Seating Position/Comfort/are spot on for me. The Step-up did move me forward slightly. More comfortable reach to handlebars and controls. I also like that the lumbar section design sits the rider up straighter. Less slouching. Results in less back fatigue. I do not do any 2 up riding so the pillion was not a huge factor for me. I do plan on doing some multi state/day rides with the Sport Glide. Have only put 350 miles as the longest stretch on the Step-up. Very little discomfort. I speculate that will go away as the seat breaks-in more. In the past I've used Mustang seats as replacements. The Step-up is my 1st Saddlemen seat. I can say without hesitation that Saddlemen makes a great seat. Enjoy your videos. Take care.

[@TheMotoBarista]

BCB SILVER HAWK hey mate glad you are enjoying your seat! I would have gone the Step Up if it wasn’t for having a regular passenger. I agree with break in period, I would it wasn’t until around 2-3k miles that I felt the seat was really broken in. Good times ahead for you! Ride safe ✌️⚡️

[@bcbsilverhawk8426]

@@TheMotoBarista I look forward to more miles on the Sport Glide. Love this model. We'll see if the Step-up continues to improve with increased miles. Thanks for the reply. RSMF.

[@sergiopoten]

Hi there, I like your video of the saddlemen seat, but I could not spot looking at how good your windshield look. can you please let me know what brand it is and size and any additional brackets need it. appreciate your feedback. Cheers

[@dangerousdriverschannel]

Hello! Nice video! Can you please tell me the name of that windshield? Do you have a link? Thank you

[@brianstanbridge4271]

Hello great review, a couple of questions, can I ask how tall you are? Second question I noticed in this review you have taken off the SG mini fairing and just have a wind shield. Is this a HD one or an after market one and I assume it gives you more protection on longer rides?

[@lollo_lorecapo]

Very nice video! Finally I saw this seat on a Softail M8 bike, thanks. Do you have by chance a photo of the seat seen from behind the bike and maybe with the sissybar off...? Not easy here in Italy to find one to see before buying it and I'm scared that the passenger area is too wide to me.

[@grysibeau5478]

I was curious about the backrest. Is it the Saddlemen Explorer Contoured Pad? If so, did you have problems mounting it to the sissy bar?

[@willmunroe6463]

Holy shit the bird in the opening shots!

[@TheMotoBarista]

Shout out to Alfred Hitchcock 😂

[@rotl9915]

do you have an exact model for this seat, including the backrest and sissybar you have installed?

[@acethedisturbed]

I'm not the OP and it's been a few months, but it's probably this one: www.saddlemen.com/explorer-softail-harley-davidson-31 the sissy bar I can't say for sure but I'm guessing it's the Harley HoldFast one, standard height.

[@philipwoodacre1644]

do they make one for sportsters .i have a 2018 XL1200C THE ONE WITH THE 4.5 GAL TANK AND THE STOCK SEAT FEELS LIKE YOUR SAT ON A BAG OF CONCRETE AFTER 10 MILES .THANKS

[@geneclarke2205]

Do you use saddle soap or another product to keep the leather from drying out? And, have you noticed any issues with the stitching or the foam bunching up? I think you're right, a seat is a priority upgrade on the SG. The stock seat is just adequate.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Gene Clarke hey Gene, the saddlemen seats are not covered in leather, instead it is a weather resistant vinyl that looks similar to leather. This means there is no stretching as it is very easy to keep clean with general bike cleaning soaps. If you ride mainly around town, you can get away with stock seat, but for 2 hour plus rides, a good seat will make long trips so much more enjoyable! ✌️⚡️

[@Axl_colts]

Love the sport glide!...hate the price!

[@moto-mantis]

I have a Step-Up seat and it is an awesome seat. Amazing back support! I am curious if the back support on the Explorer is as good as the Step-Up, because I need to get a second seat for my wife to ride with me. Thanks.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Hey mate, yeh the support is really nice on this - not as ‘obvious’ because it doesn’t have the harsh angles of the step up - it is a lot more of a bowl shape.

[@miguelsalgado4673]

@@TheMotoBarista what about the passenger comfort, is the passenger seat as firm as the rider seat. I currently have the step up, I like it but it is firm on long rides over 70 miles and bumps it does take a toll on my cheeks

[@TheMotoBarista]

@@miguelsalgado4673 it is firm, but the seat should be for greatest support. If bumps are causing you issues, sounds like a suspension issue. Look at reducing your preload perhaps/check your sag. Otherwise might be worth investing in upgrading your suspension.

[@jangoossens1518]

Hey, I like the screen to, what model is this pls, where could I buy this one ?

[@TheMotoBarista]

Jan Goossens hey mate, this the Memphis Shades El Paso 17” Smoke screen. You buy through their website - they ship worldwide. Otherwise they have distributors in some countries.

[@jangoossens1518]

@@TheMotoBarista thanks

[@eduardomoralesrilo7735]

Wonderful review, just subscribed to your channel. I owe a SG and just put over 1.000 miles on it but approx. after 45 mins ride the stock seat starts being painful on my tailbone (I'm 6´1" and weight over 220 pounds). The HD dealer recommends for the stock seat to break in after some more miles put it, but I don't trust this. Would you recommend this seat for mid to long distance runs given that it cancels the tailbone pain? Where did you buy yours, if they ships internationally to Europe? Thanks a lot

[@coachwright1700]

Looking to get this seat for my 2020 Sport Glide. Your review sold me... there are 3 options of stitching when ordering. Explorer stitch, lattice stitch, and regal stitch... happen to know what yours is?

[@TheMotoBarista]

Hey, mike is the regular I think, they only had a regular or the LS stitch when I ordered!

[@darktimbercustomknives6248]

Really wish u would have shown more views of the seat on the bike and without the bags. Appreciate the review regardless

[@andrewmadge]

Nice review, be good to get the passenger on it with you as well and get them to share their thoughts. Just an idea :) Ride safe.. from a South Australia H-D rider.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Andrew Madge hey Andrew, glad you liked it! Yes, I did ask my girlfriend if she would say a few words but she was a bit shy 😅 we are going camping soon on the bike, so hopefully I can capture her thoughts whilst we are sitting around the campfire 🔥 ride safe dude, hoping to ride over your way at some point this summer! ✌️⚡️

[@andrewmadge]

@@TheMotoBarista Completely understand, no probs. Ride safe!

[@davot.9717]

I was meaning to ask you what exhaust do you have on your sport Glide it sounds tough

[@TheMotoBarista]

It is the SS Cycle 2-1 Superstreet. A beast.

[@frankibrunetti4901]

Never saw the seat the whole Time . Only is face and pose

[@red.riot.2280]

Does this seat set you higher?

[@marcobrusco7655]

Hi man! I really appriciate your channel! I am looking for a more comfortable seat for my sport glide. I ride alone so do you think the step up i the right choice? Is it more comfortable than the original one? Thank you very much

[@TheMotoBarista]

Hey dude! I know a lot of people who really enjoy their Sep Up seat, for me personally I found the angles of the seat to be too intense. It locks you in nicely for performance riding but for long distance travel it wouldn't be right for me. BUT, a lot of other people use it for long distance and love it - it really is about body type and preference. I think if you are doing up to 2-3 hour rides it will be fine. If you are doing 3-8 hours rides (big travel days) I would go the Explorer.

[@eddiemorales6009]

Why this seat vs Sundowner low rider seat? pros & cons,what do you think?

[@TheMotoBarista]

The Harley sundowner is made from soft foam, so the seat looks large and pillowy which I don’t like. Also the soft foam breaks down really quickly and I don’t find it comfortable for long distance (it is fine for around town). The Saddlemen uses dense foam and gel which feel very firm at first, you have to break in the seat over the first 1000kms, but I find that the firmness provides more support and therefore is comfortable for long rides!

[@peterconnell3162]

Nice review. I currently ride with the Saddlemen Step Up seat on my Sport Glide. It pushes you forward, and provides a good platform to get the most out of the bikes handling, but its not a comfortable saddle for long rides or touring. I have been considering buying the Explorer seat for touring and two-up riding, so I was very interested in your review. Only question I have for you is about the fit at the tank. Is it flush, or do you have any kind of gap?. I ask because the Step Up seat is a slightly strange fit. The dimensions are almost too short for the Sport Glide, in that to get the rear fastener to line up with the original seat bolt hole you can’t push the lip at the front of the seat fully under the tank slot. The consequence is that it does not fit fully “flush” with the tank like the standard seat. Its not an issue, but I also saw the same problem with the Harley Sundowner seat on my Sport Glide.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Hey Peter, firstly awesome you have the Step Up, that seat looks awesome but alas I needed that long ride comfort and passenger comfort! To answer your question, yes, I have that gap between the seat and tank too. It seems to be an feature of all aftermarket seats including HDs own from what I have seen! Not the answer you were hoping to hear but hope it helps! Cheers ✌️⚡️

[@bcbsilverhawk8426]

Hello Peter. I'm very interested in your input on the Step-up. How many miles have you ridden in one stretch? How many miles are currently on the seat? I'm asking primarily because it seems as though you are having a bit different experience than me. I noticed a little bit of the fit issue you mentioned around the tank area. Seemed as though the front of the seat was up a bit higher than stock. I'm pretty sure it was directly related to the new seat pan. New and not being broken in. I installed a small piece of silicon hose on the front strap. This pulled the seat down tighter at the front. Looks better. It is no longer noticeable now that I've put more miles on the seat and the pan has settled in. Hope this helps. Take care.

[@peterconnell3162]

BCB SILVER HAWK ...The longest trip so far was about 500 miles in a day, mostly on the highway. It was painful, but better than the standard seat on which I did one tour. Its been on the bike for about 5k kms, so just over 3k miles. I really like the seat, but iI would like more comfort on long highway trips. The problem with the fit around the tank also applies to Harley’s own aftermarket products. I had an even worse issue with the Harley Sundowner seat, and the fit was so bad that Harley gave me my money back!. I think its an issue on the Sport Glide only as I have not seen this problem on any other Harley model. I will have a look at your solution. Thanks.

[@bcbsilverhawk8426]

@@peterconnell3162 Thanks for the reply. I had seen the reviews and videos on the Sundowner issues. Also I just do not like the look of the seat. Too pillowy(is that a word? LOL.) for my taste. I like the angles and looks that the Step-up brings to the Sport Glide. With that said if I experience to much discomfort with the seat I'll move to the Explorer seat. I do ride quite a bit. Comfort is important. From a satisfaction and safety stand point. From this review it looks as though the Explorer seat is a very good option. Take care.

[@bcbsilverhawk8426]

This isn't a plug for you to watch my video. I do have a short video where I talk about the Step up seat along with other mods on my Sport Glide. In that video you can view the Step-up on my Sport Glide. Take care.

[@markgman4157]

I got a Corbin one-up seat for my Sport Glide. I agree 100% that firm is what you want for long times in the saddle. I used to ride a road bike so I know the importance of a firm seat that fits the individual rider. You need support for your "sit bones," more than something you sink into. The Corbin is comfortable for me. I got it for looks (blue double diamond stitching) and for taking my daughter as a passenger.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Mark Gman Awesome Mark, the Corbin is an amazing seat, it was the other brand I was really considering- it was just a bit difficult to get them here in Australia. Glad you are enjoying it though - anything that helps people get out and put some miles on the bike! Thanks for watching! ✌️⚡️

[@jerrynorris3191]

Would you recommend this seat for a shorter rider? 5’2” t’all

[@TheMotoBarista]

Jerry Norris I think you should be fine , the seat doesn’t sit you higher than the stock. The only difference is that it is slightly wider which helps comfort so legs wrap around the seat a bit differently.

[@renzokukenleonhart]

Is there rubbing between the bottom of the seat and your fender?

[@TheMotoBarista]

On the mounting hole at the back for the seat screw - yes - Saddlemen provided with the seat.

[@renzokukenleonhart]

@@TheMotoBarista i meant is there damage to your paint from the seat.

[@TheMotoBarista]

renzokukenleonhart nope, no problem at all.

[@renzokukenleonhart]

@@TheMotoBarista thanks. I'm considering between this and the step up for my slim. A youtuber has the step up and after 15000 miles the bike has some damage on the fender from the rivets in the seat so i was just a bit concerned.

[@balorka]

Where can I get the passenger backrest?

[@TheMotoBarista]

Saddlemen Explorer Contour sissy bar pad.

[@BushPigADV]

Is that a Puig windscreen?

[@TheMotoBarista]

Memphis Shades 🤘

[@BushPigADV]

I like it

[@jaredkish8716]

Does anyone know if this seat raises the seat height of the bike? I’d like to sit an inch or two higher

[@TheMotoBarista]

It doesn’t sit you higher. About the same if not slightly lower and back.

[@jaredkish8716]

The Moto Barista ok further back is good too. I’m trying to gain a little leg room. Thank you

[@robertoangelosemenza2865]

Has the driving position changed?

[@TheMotoBarista]

Roberto Angelo Semenza not significantly, slightly lower and further back perhaps but if so very slight.

[@robertoangelosemenza2865]

@@TheMotoBarista thanks

[@bradholmes3320]

I’m 6’1”. This seat isn’t good for me, pushes you closer to the tank. I really hate it. I love the look of the seat.

[@ctrlz_art9865]

Would have loved to see how it looks without the bags on. This seems to be a seat that checks off all the right boxes for me

[@TheMotoBarista]

Ctrlz _Art ahh good point, sorry I missed that - I never take the bags off which is why I didn’t even think to in the video! I’ll be sure to do so in the future. I can say though that the dense foam and gel combination maintains a low profile over other seats I have seen!

[@reddog907]

I bought the Harley sundowner, only problem is the weather has turned sour, so I can’t say how it really feels, oh well when I get a chance to put the miles on , I will let you know.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Rob please do! It was a little soft for me when I tried it in the showroom but seems to be very popular for the other Sport Glide riders. Let me know how you go!

[@peterconnell3162]

Rob, I had the Sundowner on my Harley SG. It was very comfortable, but the fit on the bike was awful. I could put my fingers in the gap between the seat and the tank. It was so bad that I complained, and Harley didn't argue when they saw the pictures and gave me my money back!. I accept I may have had a one-off experience, and hopefully yours is much better.

[@reddog907]

Peter Connell Same here, I’m not impressed with the fit, a you tube blogger , Suffolk Sport Glide rider, said the same thing, I have that same gap, unfortunately it’s winter now so riding is out of the question. I am debating that maybe I should bring it back and look at a Saddleman.

[@TheMotoBarista]

Rob the gap is still there on the saddlemen. I’m not sure if it the same size or smaller or if I don’t mind as much so don’t pay too much notice!

[@reddog907]

The Moto Barista Guess I’m being too fussy, it’s just that the stock seat had no gap and the sundowner was a little tricky to install, had to work it back and forth. Oh well if it’s comfortable then that’s what really counts. Cheers.

[@donweaver1600]

Not sure I want a hard seat

[@robertprotomanni]

It looks like the fit along the rear fender is terrible.

[@TheMotoBarista]

THE_ELECTRICIAN how do you mean?