Topic: Backrest for 2015 solo seat (Read 42938 times)

fredfoot · « **on:** April 17, 2015, 12:24:37 PM »

I have bought an aftermarket backrest for my 2015 cvo streetglide, and thought I would rate it for anyone thinking about buying one. I bought it without the pad. I bought the pad from Harley to match the seat. The backrest bracket cost me $136 delivered. It took about 3 weeks for it to arrive. It mounts very easily under the seat mounting screws. It is a two piece bracket so the top part with the pad can be removed while leaving the bottom mounted to the bike. The positioning of it is pretty good for my normal seating position. It is black powder coated. I thought the back view of it needed something so I put a screamin eagle medallion on it. It definitely has some flex to it so it is not ridged on the back. On a scale of 1 - 10 I would give it an 8 . I am not sure how many will be available from BadBoyz. I contacted George at info@badboyzrideforlife.com.

fredfoot · « **Reply #1 on:** April 17, 2015, 12:30:24 PM »

As received

rayson56 · « **Reply #2 on:** April 17, 2015, 03:09:14 PM »

Can't get into the website, nothing there

fredfoot · « **Reply #3 on:** April 17, 2015, 06:07:16 PM »

I believe it is only an email address not a website.

Fired00d · « **Reply #4 on:** April 17, 2015, 06:20:29 PM »

Quote from: fredfoot on April 17, 2015, 06:07:16 PM

I believe it is only an email address not a website.

That it is

.. the domain - badboyzrideforlife.com seems to be parked by Go Daddy.

Ride Safe,
Fired00d

15CVOSG · « **Reply #5 on:** April 17, 2015, 06:24:38 PM »

l googled grasshopper ltd ... the name on the instructions ... and it came up the co. that sells this unit for $85 plus $10 shipping ... for $95 total ...

l ordered one for $95 shipped ... will see how long it takes to get here...

thx fredfoot for posting ... l have been looking at this setup without pulling the trigger for the past 4 months ... with finding grasshopper and being $95 shipped ... I finally did order it today ... hope l like it ...

update: ... got an email within hours saying my order has been shipped priority mail 2-3 day delivery ... should have it l say by Tuesday / Wednesday ... will post when rec'd ...

this is what l ordered ... link is below ... not sure on backrest pad or not ... looks like it will come with a basic plain pad ... if you change to studded or rear pouch ... price goes up for each upgrade ...

http://www.grasshopperlimited.com/harley-davidson-cvo-glide-series-also-roadking/

CVOSGJoe · « **Reply #6 on:** April 17, 2015, 07:12:48 PM »

Quote from: 15CVOSG on April 17, 2015, 06:24:38 PM

l googled grasshopper ltd ... the name on the instructions ... and it came up the co. that sells this unit for $85 plus $10 shipped ...$95 total ...

l ordered one for $95 shipped ... will see how long it takes to get here...

thx fredfoot for posting ... l have been looking at this setup without pulling the trigger for the past 4 months ... will finding grasshopper and being $95 shipped ... I finally did order it ... hope l like it...

Hey 15CVOSG.... I looked up that site as well but could not locate the unit shown here, I see the one with backrest pad. Did you locate the unit without, and if so please share. I too have been eyeballing this for sometime and certainly will acquire one direct.
please share.

CVOSGJoe · « **Reply #7 on:** April 19, 2015, 08:27:55 AM »

Thought I would share that Grasshopper is certainly the way to go with the these backrest. I spoke with Lonnie @ Grasshopper yesterday and the backrest w/o the pad is only 50.00 shipped. With the pad is 95.00. The other individual who is selling on the forums and FB is reselling and making a serious profit vs sharing with others here where to buy direct.

EAGLE1 · « **Reply #8 on:** April 19, 2015, 01:02:45 PM »

it's definitely the cheapest option if you want every thing to match

harleyrules · « **Reply #9 on:** April 19, 2015, 07:37:14 PM »

Damn, wish I had waited an extra 4 days before I ordered mine. I don't mind someone making a buck or two but really.......oh well it what it is...
Thank you for the informtion.

ZVO · « **Reply #10 on:** April 20, 2015, 09:19:33 AM »

Looks cool...I'm gonna need one of those.

SMSgt B · « **Reply #11 on:** April 20, 2015, 08:17:31 PM »

Thanks for the information as I ordered last week and just received it today for my wife's Street Glide Special with a CVO solo seat.

brassspike · « **Reply #12 on:** April 20, 2015, 09:30:01 PM »

I've got one that I'll sell. Has the pad. I wanted something that I could lean back on. This things bends, other wise it would be pretty good. I thought about welding a steel reinforcement to it but never found the time.
I got my backrest from Seth at Auto Original. Not perfect but I can really lay back on that thing w/no worries.

15CVOSG · « **Reply #13 on:** April 21, 2015, 10:54:50 AM »

Quote from: CVOSGJoe on April 19, 2015, 08:27:55 AM

Thought I would share that Grasshopper is certainly the way to go with the these backrest. I spoke with Lonnie @ Grasshopper yesterday and the backrest w/o the pad is only 50.00 shipped. With the pad is 95.00. The other individual who is selling on the forums and FB is reselling and making a serious profit vs sharing with others here where to buy direct.

Just an update .. Spoke with Lonnie at Grasshopper ... this other website badboyzrideforlife is working with Lonnie. he has put time and funds into the re-designing of this backrest to be more stable so there is no flex as some have stated ... so badboyzrideforlife will soon be getting exclusive rights to the cvo version of this backrest ... Lonnie stated he is a member of this forum and l guess will be coming on the board to confirm the info....

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #14 on:** April 21, 2015, 03:14:42 PM »

Quote from: 15CVOSG on April 21, 2015, 10:54:50 AM

Just an update .. Spoke with Lonnie at Grasshopper ... this other website badboyzrideforlife is working with Lonnie. he has put time and funds into the re-designing of this backrest to be more stable so there is no flex as some have stated ... so badboyzrideforlife will possible soon be getting exclusive rights to the cvo version of this backrest ... Lonnie stated he is a member of this forum and l guess will be coming on the board to confirm the info....

Hmmm, does that mean the ones you buy now from either company will be the "bendy" ones?, if so how long before badboyz brings out the stronger version.... which it should have been in the first place

skorch · « **Reply #15 on:** April 21, 2015, 07:35:37 PM »

Does anyone know if this will fit using a Mustang solo seat??

15CVOSG · « **Reply #16 on:** April 21, 2015, 08:22:08 PM »

Quote from: Wild Hog 4 on April 21, 2015, 03:14:42 PM

Hmmm, does that mean the ones you buy now from either company will be the "bendy" ones?, if so how long before badboyz brings out the stronger version.... which it should have been in the first place

should have the better units within the next 2 weeks....

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #17 on:** April 22, 2015, 02:08:49 AM »

Quote from: 15CVOSG on April 21, 2015, 08:22:08 PM

should have the better units within the next 2 weeks....

Sweet!.... Is that from grasshopper.?

PeterJ · « **Reply #18 on:** April 22, 2015, 05:04:24 AM »

Are the back rest pad location holes matching those on the Harley back pads please - without any modification or re-drilling?

15CVOSG · « **Reply #19 on:** April 22, 2015, 11:26:42 AM »

Quote from: PeterJ on April 22, 2015, 05:04:24 AM

Are the back rest pad location holes matching those on the Harley back pads please - without any modification or re-drilling?

Sweet!.... Is that from grasshopper.? Yes

looks to be designed if you wanted to use your own backrest pad ... so mounting holes should match up ...

PeterJ · « **Reply #20 on:** April 22, 2015, 12:53:11 PM »

Thanks.
I am going to see if Grasshopper will ship to England, that is the uprated, stronger version.

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #21 on:** April 22, 2015, 03:06:44 PM »

Quote from: 15CVOSG on April 22, 2015, 11:26:42 AM

Sweet!.... Is that from grasshopper.? Yes

looks to be designed if you wanted to use your own backrest pad ... so mounting holes should match up ...

cool, thanks buddy

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #22 on:** April 22, 2015, 03:10:55 PM »

Quote from: PeterJ on April 22, 2015, 12:53:11 PM

Thanks.
I am going to see if Grasshopper will ship to England, that is the uprated, stronger version.

Yes they will, i enquired and they quoted $80 shipped to UK but then of course you have import duties as well!
, so i might wait till i am over in the states in july to pick one up as well as ordering the cvo backrest pad from the local dealer,{kinda kill 2 birdies with one stoney!}.

PeterJ · « **Reply #23 on:** April 23, 2015, 03:03:32 PM »

Just got the following from Lonnie at Grasshopper
Peter I appreciate your interest in our product! We are finalizing a deal with the info@badboyzrideforlife.com for the newly designed backrests and they will be exclusive distributors! The backrests are available now So at this time contact George at badboyz and he will help you out! Thanks for considering us for our backrest!

PeterJ · « **Reply #24 on:** April 23, 2015, 03:09:00 PM »

Quote from: Wild Hog 4 on April 22, 2015, 03:10:55 PM

Yes they will, i enquired and they quoted $80 shipped to UK but then of course you have import duties as well!
, so i might wait till i am over in the states in july to pick one up as well as ordering the cvo backrest pad from the local dealer,{kinda kill 2 birdies with one stoney!}.

Thanks Wild Hog.
By the way which region are you in the UK?

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #25 on:** April 24, 2015, 07:55:51 PM »

I'd be in the Oxfordshire region Peter, ever down this way?

Cross threaded · « **Reply #26 on:** April 24, 2015, 10:08:21 PM »

I emailed George today about the upgraded backrest and here is the reply email he sent me back. Thought I would share it with you all. I'm still in the market for one and if it's this product, it would be without the pad so I can buy the matching oem pad.

$137 + ? for the oem pad = #alotofcash

Hello Jeff,
Hope all is well, we actually has redesigned it and stress tested the prototype and it it in production as we speak. This new version will be made out of stainless steel and black powder coated. The set comes with a non matching vinyl pad with bracket that allows you to replace it with a matching pad. The cost of this new back rest is $178 including shipping anywhere in the USA. and $137.00 without the pad. Feel free to contact me if you have any further question 818-402-6966.

Thank you

George Assali
Bad Boyz M/C
Grasshopper

Cross threaded · « **Reply #27 on:** April 24, 2015, 10:35:36 PM »

Quote from: fredfoot on April 17, 2015, 12:24:37 PM

I have bought an aftermarket backrest for my 2015 cvo streetglide, and thought I would rate it for anyone thinking about buying one. I bought it without the pad. I bought the pad from Harley to match the seat. The backrest bracket cost me $136 delivered. It took about 3 weeks for it to arrive. It mounts very easily under the seat mounting screws. It is a two piece bracket so the top part with the pad can be removed while leaving the bottom mounted to the bike. The positioning of it is pretty good for my normal seating position. It is black powder coated. I thought the back view of it needed something so I put a screamin eagle medallion on it. It definitely has some flex to it so it is not ridged on the back. On a scale of 1 - 10 I would give it an 8 . I am not sure how many will be available from BadBoyz. I contacted George at info@badboyzrideforlife.com.

*****Can you please tell me if the oem pad in the OP photo is the same pad that's in the 2015 parts book? The passenger backrest cvo pad? fredfoot or anyone…. Thanks,

15CVOSG · « **Reply #28 on:** April 25, 2015, 01:03:10 AM »

Quote from: Cross threaded on April 24, 2015, 10:35:36 PM

*****Can you please tell me if the oem pad in the OP photo is the same pad that's in the 2015 parts book? The passenger backrest cvo pad? fredfoot or anyone…. Thanks,

yes,... the op's pad shown is the oem street glide pad from the Harley P&A book... the op also states he bought without pad and purchased one from Harley ...

fredfoot · « **Reply #29 on:** April 25, 2015, 05:08:58 AM »

The part number for the backrest pad in the original photo is 52300361. About $115 .

Cross threaded · « **Reply #30 on:** April 25, 2015, 01:00:29 PM »

Thanks Fredfoot,

I bought the backrest frame this morning from George and I'll be ordering the matching cvo pad asap.

@15CVOSG, I read the OP and I also have hours of reading the parts book. The 2015 parts book only shows a pad for the passenger back rest on page #378. I just wanted to make sure it was the one that Fredfoot and others are using as a Rider backrest pad. Thanks…

15CVOSG · « **Reply #31 on:** April 25, 2015, 09:20:26 PM »

Quote from: Cross threaded on April 25, 2015, 01:00:29 PM

Thanks Fredfoot,

I bought the backrest frame this morning from George and I'll be ordering the matching cvo pad asap.

Cross ...
check with George to see if he is going to send you out a re-designed backrest model with welded braces ... it will not work ... l just got mine today and called Lonnie at Grasshopper ... hopefully he contacted George to hold up sending out the new designed one since l saw it did not work ...

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #32 on:** April 26, 2015, 03:40:35 AM »

Cross ...
check with George to see if he is going to send you out a re-designed backrest model with welded braces ... it will not work ... l just got mine today and called Lonnie at Grasshopper ... hopefully he contacted George to hold up sending out the new designed one since l saw it did not work ...
[/quote]

What exactly is the issue then?, do the braces get in the way of the seat or pillion, I kinda thought the new version would have a thicker bar, not a braced version.....crikey at the higher price you would have thought they would have tested it first!!

Cross threaded · « **Reply #33 on:** April 26, 2015, 11:35:20 AM »

Thanks Wild Hog 4

I just sent George an email to see what's up. It's my understanding that he is getting ready to ship me one of the new ones. I made it clear when I bought one that I wanted the new version. But it does me no good if it doesn't work/fit.

I'll let you know what he has to say, when he responds to the email.

15CVOSG · « **Reply #34 on:** April 26, 2015, 12:33:18 PM »

What exactly is the issue then?, do the braces get in the way of the seat or pillion, I kinda thought the new version would have a thicker bar, not a braced version.....crikey at the higher price you would have thought they would have tested it first!!

yes,...the placement of the braces does not allow the pass. pad to slide back on ... so l called immediately and they will look into it ...

Cross threaded · « **Reply #35 on:** April 26, 2015, 01:01:26 PM »

Are you able to snap & post a pic of the new frame. If so, that would be great….

15CVOSG · « **Reply #36 on:** April 26, 2015, 05:03:34 PM »

yes,...the placement of the braces does not allow the pass. pad to slide back on ... so l called immediately and they will look into it ...
[/quote]

PeterJ · « **Reply #37 on:** April 26, 2015, 05:30:26 PM »

I have emailed George and asked him to put my order on hold until they resolve the pillion seat fitting issue.

Cross threaded · « **Reply #38 on:** April 26, 2015, 05:42:05 PM »

I just got this email from George;

Hello Jeff I just noticed it myself however it's being corrected and u will have the one corrected version and any one that bought the bracket that wouldn't allow the back seat to fit we will send them the new version within ten days.

Thank you

George Assali

15CVOSG · « **Reply #39 on:** April 26, 2015, 05:58:11 PM »

l spoke w/ Lonnie at Grasshopper after receiving the new updated bracket... l was having difficulty re-installing the pass.pad ... he said the original bracket was made out of Steel ... this had allowed for some flexing ... so they ( Lonnie @Grasshopper & George @Badboyzrideforlife ) decided to design it out of stainless steel, so there would be less flex. But, by having added the braces as seen in pic to make sure of no flexing ... the braces did not allow the pass. pillion to be re-installed. Lonnie will be sending me a new bracket made out of the stainless steel material without the braces added ... this should take care of the pass. pad install problem as well as the flexing ....

l can confirm this to work... l went ahead and removed the braces with a dremel ... and did notice very little to no flexing... l guess this will be there new updated version ... for what it does by allowing us to keep our stock cvo solo seat and add a riders backrest. the price and concept can't be beat ... l for one am very happy ... l need a riders backrest and this has solved my problem without changing and buying a new seat...

PeterJ · « **Reply #40 on:** April 26, 2015, 10:22:54 PM »

Also heard from George.
"The fabricator miss read the blue print and he was off by 1/8 of an inch which Lonnie and I are working on fixing the big and should be out in production this week. I just became aware of the defect the machine shop made an error reading the blue print and you will be getting the new corrected version of the bracket that will allow you to pair it up with the passenger seat furthermore anyone that purchase one with the incorrect version they will receive at no charge at all the corrected version. Once again the new new version is in process and it will be corrected with 5 days. ".

So I will wait until they resolve the error and get the version 3 sent to me. I reckon it is well worth waiting for.
Cheers

PeterJ · « **Reply #41 on:** May 01, 2015, 03:04:36 AM »

Just had an email from Badboyz. The newly v3 modified back rest is on its way to me on Tuesday. So I'm a week or so time I'll have it on the bike and will post up some pics and review.

Cross threaded · « **Reply #42 on:** May 01, 2015, 11:43:45 AM »

I too, got the email from Badboyz. Can't wait to put it on the bike and hit the open road…

15CVOSG · « **Reply #43 on:** May 01, 2015, 11:51:24 AM »

Rec'd mine yesterday and finally good to go ......

PeterJ · « **Reply #44 on:** May 02, 2015, 05:42:46 AM »

I am off on a Road Trip to the South of France via ferry Portsmouth to Bilbao Spain, then a three day ride across southern France to Saint Tropez for the HOG Euro Rally. Lots of Rock n' Roll,

Eye Candy and oh yeh Bikes. I pray the rain stays away. Could do with the backrest now, but it won't arrive in time unfortunately. Will improvise with my touring bag on the pillon seat so Ill be able to chill out against the pack.
I love Road Trips

rockinred · « **Reply #45 on:** May 03, 2015, 09:22:37 AM »

Want to give my props to Lonnie. Sent the new version and all is great. Awesome product and as others stated hard to beat.

PeterJ · « **Reply #46 on:** May 15, 2015, 09:01:30 AM »

Back from French road trip. 1800 miles of fabulous roads and sunshine.
Paid the import duty on the back rest yesterday and the it was delivered today. Will fit to bike this evening and take s pic of two. Had to bring the bike into dealership to get the ignition switch fixed (a small grub screw had worked free while in France preventing the switch from being turned to ignition. ). All fixed now

PeterJ · « **Reply #47 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:09:26 PM »

So here are the pictures of the backrest (with and without pillion seat fitted).
The backrest is confortable and does the trick.
Only one coment is that when the pillon seat os not fitted one can see the knurled nuts that attach the rider seat to the rear fender as the covering "leather" gets trapped forward of the back rest bracket. But thats only a minor negative. Overall rating is a very high positive.

PeterJ · « **Reply #48 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:10:12 PM »

PeterJ · « **Reply #49 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:10:46 PM »

PeterJ · « **Reply #50 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:11:16 PM »

PeterJ · « **Reply #51 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:12:19 PM »

PeterJ · « **Reply #52 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:13:20 PM »

PeterJ · « **Reply #53 on:** May 15, 2015, 04:13:49 PM »

fredfoot · « **Reply #54 on:** May 16, 2015, 07:57:13 AM »

I ride most of the time with just the solo seat . When I put the backrest on I replaced the chrome knobs with black ones so they blend right in.

ttransport · « **Reply #55 on:** May 16, 2015, 06:52:17 PM »

I ran a grasshopper back rest for years on my last bike and loved it. For this scoot I'm trying a backrest from bitchin stichin. They haven't updated their site but they make a custom bracket for our seats

PeterJ · « **Reply #56 on:** May 17, 2015, 04:20:44 AM »

Quote from: fredfoot on May 16, 2015, 07:57:13 AM

I ride most of the time with just the solo seat . When I put the backrest on I replaced the chrome knobs with black ones so they blend right in.

Are those black knobs HD ? if so you got a part number for them please?

fredfoot · « **Reply #57 on:** May 17, 2015, 06:44:16 AM »

The black knobs are made from Motherwell Products. The part number is PC 4015GB

PeterJ · « **Reply #58 on:** May 18, 2015, 11:53:28 AM »

Quote from: fredfoot on May 17, 2015, 06:44:16 AM

The black knobs are made from Motherwell Products. The part number is PC 4015GB

Thanks

PeterJ · « **Reply #59 on:** May 19, 2015, 03:03:39 AM »

What I've done is to paint the two seat knobs black. Cheap option

brassspike · « **Reply #60 on:** May 19, 2015, 09:26:25 AM »

Quote from: rockinred on May 03, 2015, 09:22:37 AM

Want to give my props to Lonnie. Sent the new version and all is great. Awesome product and as others stated hard to beat.

Shame that he doesn't replace those of us that got stuck with the flimsy bend over backward units they sold! Useless.

15CVOSG · « **Reply #61 on:** May 19, 2015, 11:26:23 AM »

Quote from: brassspike on May 19, 2015, 09:26:25 AM

Shame that he doesn't replace those of us that got stuck with the flimsy bend over backward units they sold! Useless.

l'm sure if you did call Lonnie,... he would do just that .... worth a call...

15CVOSG · « **Reply #62 on:** June 24, 2015, 11:40:29 PM »

info@badboyzrideforlife.com

this is a backrest made to work with stock cvo solo seats...

15CVOSG · « **Reply #63 on:** June 24, 2015, 11:47:20 PM »

there is a backrest made to work with stock cvo solo seats...

fredfoot · « **Reply #64 on:** June 25, 2015, 04:43:06 AM »

I started a topic on this a while back . I'll bring it back up.

fredfoot · « **Reply #65 on:** June 25, 2015, 04:44:22 AM »

kalikali · « **Reply #66 on:** September 05, 2015, 12:15:02 AM »

Bump, any other options besides Grasshoper for the backrest?
How much was the CVO pad? Part #?

edit: Found the part # 52300361.

I guess my question is how bad is the back rest that comes with the Grasshopper? Is it worth the $140 upgrade for the CVO pad?

tervonenllc · « **Reply #67 on:** September 05, 2015, 11:28:29 AM »

comfortwise its not bad at all. but the looks... well. as they say, some like the daughter, some the mother and some even the father and so on...

Quote from: kalikali on September 05, 2015, 12:15:02 AM

Bump, any other options besides Grasshoper for the backrest?
How much was the CVO pad? Part #?

edit: Found the part # 52300361.

I guess my question is how bad is the back rest that comes with the Grasshopper? Is it worth the $140 upgrade for the CVO pad?

68 XLCH · « **Reply #68 on:** September 05, 2015, 10:34:33 PM »

Broadtracker/Kutter harley parts on line: CVO passenger pad 104 dollars.

Grass Hopper, 60 without the pad.

I put the backrest on with the passenger pillion and i really like the look.

I road 100 miles today with the backrest and seat felt comfortable. I can not see having to ever change either one, love the look.

Thanks to all who started this quest for a backrest and hung in there to coordinate with grass hopper to get it done.

I probably ride no more than 150 miles or so a day and the seat and backrest work very well.

kalikali · « **Reply #69 on:** September 29, 2015, 11:50:33 PM »

Well I ordered the backrest with very high intentions and was very disappointed. Product did not fit well at all, you cant tighten the latch for the back rest. In fact in the directions it says to use electric tape to make it fit. I installed it on my bike and it flexed a good 3+ inches when I leaned on it. I had high hopes for this product and really need a good back rest for my CVO , but it does absolutely nothing for support.

Im suprised so many fellow CVO owners rave about the product, did absolutely nothing for me.

Maybe I had a defective unit and they will come out with an upgrade, stock seat provides a little back support which I will do with until something better comes along.

smkymtnboy · « **Reply #70 on:** September 30, 2015, 09:07:12 AM »

been watching the progress on this product since the first post. seems there are still some issues! is this the only option available? corbin offers backrest with seat (theirs),but i like the look of the stock seat. maybe, in time this backrest will evolve into a good product. any news on current updates appreciated.

68 XLCH · « **Reply #71 on:** September 30, 2015, 09:13:23 AM »

Quote from: kalikali on September 29, 2015, 11:50:33 PM

Well I ordered the backrest with very high intentions and was very disappointed. Product did not fit well at all, you cant tighten the latch for the back rest. In fact in the directions it says to use electric tape to make it fit. I installed it on my bike and it flexed a good 3+ inches when I leaned on it. I had high hopes for this product and really need a good back rest for my CVO , but it does absolutely nothing for support.

Im suprised so many fellow CVO owners rave about the product, did absolutely nothing for me.

Maybe I had a defective unit and they will come out with an upgrade, stock seat provides a little back support which I will do with until something better comes along.

Sorry to hear your results.

Did you get the frame from Grass Hopper? I know there was another source wanting exclusive rights to market this and while he replaced some of the original frames that were made of lighter material, these did not provide support, he may have sent you one of the originals.

Also the section that does attach the backrest does slide in and i did put one thickness/wrap of a black plastic tape around that surface and there is still slight movement but it doesn't affect the support or security etc.

Read some of the early posts about the first weaker frames that were mostly replaced.

The other option would be to change the seat with one that has a backrest, but first i would insure he sent you the correct, improved frame. If not contact your vendor.

Grass Hopper, frame 60 dollars, broadtracker/kutter HD, HD passenger backrest 104 dollars, the new frame, because i asked Grass Hopper is made of thicker Stainless Steel and then painted black, mine is sturdy.

Good luck.

Wild Hog 4 · « **Reply #72 on:** September 30, 2015, 08:08:21 PM »

Yep my backrest flexes too, doesn't offer the support it should, I bought mine in July so this should have been the latest improved and stronger mark 3 Version!
Now I know the steel was supposed to be a thicker gauge on the latest ones ,

can anyone tell me what thickness bar there's is , so I can check mine is not a thinner gauge,

Me thinks if grasshopper made a shed load of the original versions with thinner steel construction, grashopper isn't then going to bin them and lose money!, I think they shipped them all out anyway and just wait till people complain (if they do!) then swap them if you shout loud enough!

kalikali · « **Reply #73 on:** September 30, 2015, 08:24:21 PM »

I dealt direct with Grasshopper, Im out $15 to ship the item back and time wasted. I was pretty pissed off about it.
If the company states in its direction to use tape to make the product fit, should be a sign (read #5). I would had to have use a good 1/4 of tape to make it fit, if was that much off.

68 XLCH · « **Reply #74 on:** September 30, 2015, 10:48:13 PM »

I agree that there may still be some of the first batch out there but, since you dealt with grass hopper directly i would think they would send you the improved frame. One thing we haven't discussed is that i am 155 lbs and while it should be made for a 250 lb rider, who knows.

I will tell you that i pushed back on the backrest and it doesn't give much at all.

I didn't get a tracking number or instructions, but it did show up 3 days after ordering it.

I measured the thickness of the portion of frame that is straight up to the back pad, appears to be only a little more than an 1/8 of an inch.

When i talked to grass hopper, they said they changed the material to stainless steel, so it may have to do more with the material than the thickness.

While on the bike i again pushed back and it feels like it only goes back about a half inch.

15CVOSG · « **Reply #75 on:** September 30, 2015, 11:04:23 PM »

older units were made of steel ... the newer units are stainless ... you can tell which you have with a magnet ... the magnet will stick to the steel version and not the stainless ...

also ... l noticed with the mounting bracket which attaches to the seat base ... the ears on the backrest base plate that the knurled screws tighten down on need to be bent up a little so that the backrest base plate actually sits flush down otherwise there will be a little extra flex ...

smkymtnboy · « **Reply #76 on:** October 26, 2015, 11:31:05 PM »

are the issues with this backrest resolved? i want to purchase the backrest just not all the associated problems from past productions!

dayne66 · « **Reply #77 on:** October 27, 2015, 11:34:29 AM »

Quote from: smkymtnboy on October 26, 2015, 11:31:05 PM

are the issues with this backrest resolved? i want to purchase the backrest just not all the associated problems from past productions!

I don't know how I missed this thread earlier!
I just called and left a message...hopefully get a call back. I'm looking for my SG as well as for the Wife's new FLD.

fred786 · « **Reply #78 on:** October 28, 2015, 08:16:19 AM »

Spoke with Lonnie @ Grasshopper personally after several tries to contact him. Think he works off his cell so he is not the easiest to speak with personally. Ordered framework only for my 2016 SG and purchased seat matching pad from HD. Only took a week to arrive in Canada. I am very happy with the final product and it is stainless. Flex is not bad at all and everything fit as expected. Chrome pad cover came with the HD backrest pad. $75 to my door here in Canada.

fred786 · « **Reply #79 on:** October 28, 2015, 08:18:29 AM »

StreetDog · « **Reply #80 on:** December 31, 2015, 11:28:38 PM »

Looks like it leans forward to me. Anybody know if it does and does it straighten when you lean on it?

68 XLCH · « **Reply #81 on:** January 01, 2016, 12:50:02 AM »

It does flex about 1/2 to 3/4's of an inch when you lean back.

webbug · « **Reply #82 on:** January 02, 2016, 12:40:16 AM »

Quote from: fred786 on October 28, 2015, 08:16:19 AM

Spoke with Lonnie @ Grasshopper personally after several tries to contact him. Think he works off his cell so he is not the easiest to speak with personally. Ordered framework only for my 2016 SG and purchased seat matching pad from HD. Only took a week to arrive in Canada. I am very happy with the final product and it is stainless. Flex is not bad at all and everything fit as expected. Chrome pad cover came with the HD backrest pad. $75 to my door here in Canada.

From where you've ordered it and what are the part numbers please

fred786 · « **Reply #83 on:** January 02, 2016, 09:28:18 AM »

http://www.grasshopperlimited.com/harley-davidson-cvo-glide-series-also-roadking/
I called Lonnie because I only wanted the frame work and that was not an issue with him. All contact info is on their site,

webbug · « **Reply #84 on:** January 02, 2016, 12:42:49 PM »

Quote from: webbug on January 02, 2016, 12:40:16 AM

From where you've ordered it and what are the part numbers please

You've ordered with studded or without

fred786 · « **Reply #85 on:** January 02, 2016, 01:50:21 PM »

I did not buy the padded backrest pad from Grasshopper as that is what they are refuring to when they say studded or not. I got my pad from HD to match the seat.

RedNose44 · « **Reply #86 on:** January 08, 2016, 12:28:39 PM »

I just ordered the backrest from Lonnie minus the pad. Nice guy. Said it will ship tomorrow.

smkymtnboy · « **Reply #87 on:** January 09, 2016, 11:00:01 AM »

i also ordered from lonnie and installed without any problems. ordered pad from hd dealer and will report back soon. he was a nice guy and answered all my questions in courteous and mannerly way. thanks lonnie!!

RedNose44 · « **Reply #88 on:** January 10, 2016, 12:19:25 AM »

^^^ My dealer actually had the CVO pad in stock (actually two since I bought a passenger one as well). Just waiting for the bracket, and I will also report back.

RedNose44 · « **Reply #89 on:** January 14, 2016, 12:36:12 AM »

Just got the backrest in the mail and put it on with the CVO pad. I have not ridden it yet, but it went on perfectly and it feels good.

KC2GIW · « **Reply #90 on:** January 14, 2016, 10:55:41 AM »

Was yours the new reinforced version? Just got mine the other day and looks like V3 has an additional layer of material on the lower bend. Want to make sure that doesn't interfere w the seat.

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RedNose44 · « **Reply #91 on:** January 14, 2016, 11:52:23 AM »

I am not sure what the old one looked like, but I can put some force against it and it works great. It flexes back maybe a 1/2 inch or so, but is rock solid.

KC2GIW · « **Reply #92 on:** January 14, 2016, 09:07:29 PM »

This appears to be the mod for rev 3. Looks solid enough.

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15CVOSG · « **Reply #93 on:** January 15, 2016, 12:29:24 AM »

yes,... this one you have seems to be the latest version with the extra welded insert for less flex ... looks good ...

Quote from: KC2GIW on January 14, 2016, 09:07:29 PM

This appears to be the mod for rev 3. Looks solid enough.

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RedNose44 · « **Reply #94 on:** January 15, 2016, 01:22:15 AM »

^^^ That's what mine looks like. I rode a little over 200 miles today and the set screw came lose (It was installed with blue Loctite). I may have to get in welded and powder coated if it continues to happen. I don't really see a need to be able to adjust it back and forth.

KC2GIW · « **Reply #95 on:** January 15, 2016, 06:11:24 AM »

Quote from: RedNose44 on January 15, 2016, 01:22:15 AM

^^^ That's what mine looks like. I rode a little over 200 miles today and the set screw came lose (It was installed with blue Loctite). I may have to get in welded and powder coated if it continues to happen. I don't really see a need to be able to adjust it back and forth.

Was having the same thought last night.

Can't even be mad - $60 may be the cheapest accessory you bolt on a cvo.

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fredfoot · « **Reply #96 on:** January 15, 2016, 08:24:00 AM »

I took the set screw out completely so I can slip it out easily for a passenger to get on/off. It can't go anywhere if I am seated.

RedNose44 · « **Reply #97 on:** January 15, 2016, 08:58:18 AM »

Quote from: KC2GIW on January 15, 2016, 06:11:24 AM

Was having the same thought last night.

Can't even be mad - $60 may be the cheapest accessory you bolt on a cvo.

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True, and my powder coat guy has a 1 day turn around on gloss black, so pretty cheap and simple.

RedNose44 · « **Reply #98 on:** January 15, 2016, 08:59:34 AM »

Quote from: fredfoot on January 15, 2016, 08:24:00 AM

I took the set screw out completely so I can slip it out easily for a passenger to get on/off. It can't go anywhere if I am seated.

I have mine slide forward about 1/4 inch (maybe a little more). If it was all the way back I would not worry about the screw.

KC2GIW · « **Reply #99 on:** January 15, 2016, 09:33:45 AM »

Quote from: RedNose44 on January 15, 2016, 08:59:34 AM

I have mine slide forward about 1/4 inch (maybe a little more). If it was all the way back I would not worry about the screw.

Even at that you could weld a small stop on the bottom piece and re-coat it pretty easily.

That's Not a half bad idea really.

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RedNose44 · « **Reply #100 on:** January 15, 2016, 04:51:07 PM »

^^^ Good idea.

Kodas · « **Reply #101 on:** January 15, 2016, 06:04:17 PM »

Is there a phone number to get these at. Do they come in chrome.

Kodas · « **Reply #102 on:** January 16, 2016, 01:58:40 PM »

Found the number online. Ordered today.

KC2GIW · « **Reply #103 on:** January 16, 2016, 07:00:03 PM »

Fit it up today looks and feels great. Couple months before I get to ride it though :-(

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KC2GIW · « **Reply #104 on:** January 16, 2016, 07:00:37 PM »

With passenger seat

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RedNose44 · « **Reply #105 on:** February 03, 2016, 12:08:46 AM »

Just a heads up. If you plan on running your factory seat as a solo seat, the backrest bracket will makes some indentations on the rear of the seat. I am looking at getting another solo seat now because of the marks on my factory seat. If you never remove the passenger pillion it won't matter. FYI...

bikeman_ne · « **Reply #106 on:** February 05, 2016, 11:04:34 AM »

After reading the various posts decided to call Lonnie and try the backrest vs. buying a new Corbin. I got only the frame only from Grasshopper and went with the matching backrest pillow from HD(2015 StreetGlide). Everything fits great (couldn't fit the tie down strap on the passenger pad but who cares). The issues of flex mentioned in the early posts from been fixed. Was able to get 100 miles on the bike before the weather changed. Looking forward to a long ride to see how it feels. Overall very happy with everything.

Hotfire · « **Reply #107 on:** February 09, 2016, 02:11:50 PM »

Yep, I too acquired (friend sold me his for $50.00 after buying a Corbin solo with backrest) a Grasshopper aftermarket backrest and love it. I have over 1K with it on and can't complain at all.
Hotfire

Hotfire · « **Reply #108 on:** February 09, 2016, 02:13:01 PM »

Here's a rear view.

bigdave110 · « **Reply #109 on:** February 19, 2016, 10:36:13 AM »

I purchased this back rest.
It is a nice product.
For you guys that are normal size or smaller I think it will work out great for you.
It really is a nice option for keeping the stock seat.

I am a very big guy, so as you can imagine. The back rest had entirely to much flex for me. It has in fact bent a bit.
So I just went ahead and purchased an ultimate solo seat with back rest to try. We will see how that works.

Just to close, In no way do I wish to bad mouth this product, it is a great idea.
Just giving the bigger guys that like to lean on there back rest on long rides, this may not be a good choice for you.

Have a great day all.

BigDave

DownUnder CVO · « **Reply #110 on:** March 05, 2016, 08:26:32 PM »

I enquired with bad boz and looked at the Grashopper website, I decided to order #HDCVOTN through grasshopper and got the backrest including pad.
It was $130 with Shipping to Australia. Bad boz was a lot more pricey at $225 shipped.
I then got the following email from George, so now not sure what I am getting! Will I get the new Stainless version?

"Grasshopper will not sell you the triangle Backrest because we are exclusive and they are our partners on the CVO backrest. You will be getting the old version that has a one piece not interchangeable. Lonnie and I are partners and we are the only one that sells this product good luck."

262 CVO 16 · « **Reply #111 on:** May 01, 2016, 07:51:22 PM »

Is there any more information on this? I'm very interested in getting one, but don't want to get the "early model" & waste the money. An email address? Website? Anything?

fredfoot · « **Reply #112 on:** May 01, 2016, 08:56:40 PM »

Go to Grasshoperlimited.com. I believe they are all the new style now.

262 CVO 16 · « **Reply #113 on:** May 01, 2016, 09:32:15 PM »

Grasshopper shows the "Touring", but not the CVO. I'm guessing it's now proprietary to BadBoyz. But.... on Grasshopper, if you look at the seat on the Breakout version, it looks remarkably similar to the CVO SG. Hmmmmm.....

jmanderson6 · « **Reply #114 on:** May 04, 2016, 11:19:35 PM »

yes i ordered one a week ago. grasshopper will not sell them anymore and refers you to bad boy. i called bad boy bc i didn't want the backrest pad and the only offered me a 20 dollar discount not to get it.... plus the price is up to over 200 now.... i bought it bc I'm going on a long trip and wanted the backrest ill tell you how it works out in a month when i leave Brazil and get back to the states.

us1fountain · « **Reply #115 on:** April 15, 2017, 02:42:17 AM »

Old topic, but wanting to see if others are having same results as I.

I ordered this backrest mount from badboyz just a couple months ago. So from reading this thread, mine should be the heavier SS version as its been almost a yr since the updated version. I'm only 155lbs and this one flexes just by resting against it. Plus it does not have the added welded reinforcement angle. (not the 1st redesign with gussets, but the doubled up steel) Also, only the upper half is SS. The lower piece is steel. I'm thinking mine is an old one?? Which would explain why I'm not enjoying the same positive reviews that several here are. Somewhat dissapointed as the flex offers little back support for me. I may weld the reinforcement piece in and repowder coat mine, but Im also concerned about the bolts and the fender. Theres alot of leverage working against them. Afraid the fender could be bent if for some reason someone leans to hard against backrest. I might look into redesigning the lower piece entirely to also attach to the bolts near battery like the HD mount does, if space permits, taking the leverage force off the fender bolts. At least now I have a pattern to work with vs, starting from scratch. I'm a toolmaker and considered making one from day 1, but decided to just buy this instead.

smkymtnboy · « **Reply #116 on:** April 15, 2017, 09:07:00 AM »

Quote from: us1fountain on April 15, 2017, 02:42:17 AM

Old topic, but wanting to see if others are having same results as I.

I ordered this backrest mount from badboyz just a couple months ago. So from reading this thread, mine should be the heavier SS version as its been almost a yr since the updated version. I'm only 155lbs and this one flexes just by resting against it. Plus it does not have the added welded reinforcement angle. (not the 1st redesign with gussets, but the doubled up steel) Also, only the upper half is SS. The lower piece is steel. I'm thinking mine is an old one?? Which would explain why I'm not enjoying the same positive reviews that several here are. Somewhat dissapointed as the flex offers little back support for me. I may weld the reinforcement piece in and repowder coat mine, but Im also concerned about the bolts and the fender. Theres alot of leverage working against them. Afraid the fender could be bent if for some reason someone leans to hard against backrest. I might look into redesigning the lower piece entirely to also attach to the bolts near battery like the HD mount does, if space permits, taking the leverage force off the fender bolts. At least now I have a pattern to work with vs, starting from scratch. I'm a toolmaker and considered making one from day 1, but decided to just buy this instead.

i think you would be happier stiffening the metal and drilling for bolts where it slides in.

Author Topic: Backrest for 2015 solo seat (Read 42938 times)