short rider help

[phoenixtexas]

Any suggestions on rebuilding a seat for a shorter rider (inseam 29"), such as kits or a company that does this? Any tips from someone who has gone this route appreciated. $500 is a lot for a new lower rider's seat.

[syeager]

Depends on the model of bike you're riding... for instance, one of the members of <a href="http://www.advrider.com">ADVRider</a> is selling a low seat for an 1150GS for around $100 in the Flea Market; other models tend to have model-specific devotee sites with their own classifieds section, so poke around a bit.

Which makes me question, again, why the Marketplace classifieds aren't moving towards this forum - still? Probably been covered lately but I've missed the discussion.

BTW, if you're in the market for a factory-lowered F650 GS, lemme know.

[StevieWonder]

$500 looks like a lot until you lay yours over because you couldn't get you feet solidly on the ground in a low spot or such. Plus the seat is likely to be more comfortable than the stock seat if you go with a Sargent or Mayer or ??? other similar aftermarket item.

[phoenixtexas]

Thanks for the responses. Since my first post, I took the bike to a good auto upholstery place that also specializes in Harley seats. With me getting off and on the bike, they used a sculpting foam shaver to reshape the seat foam, removing the center seat area foam and putting in a good gel pad. The seat was lowered just under 2", and my feet are now solidly on the ground. After the cover was put on and restretched -- using quality stainless steel fasteners and not staples -- you can't even tell anything's been done to the seat other than it being a little lower. The whole job took about an hour. Total cost with tax, $88. This might be of interest to other short riders.

[StevieWonder]

Sounds like a helluva an alternative plan. Let us know how it feels on longer butt-burner rides.

[phoenixtexas]

I'll relay the results when I get the chance for a 300-400 mile ride, first I need to renew my BMWMOA membership. Almost slipped my mind. I can tell you that my butt now feels almost locked into place, no slipping or sliding on twisty-turnies. The long ride will tell the comfort tale. Ride safe down there in Houston, used to live on the north side and worked at NW Cycle years ago.