Topic: Sore Butt- Gel Pad?

[Popwood]

It only takes an hour or so riding my ‘75 550K when my 70 year old butt starts getting sore, especially in tail bone area. The seat is original with a newer cover and I suspect the foam is getting harder with age. I added progressive shocks front and back and they help smooth out the bumps.

Wondering if any of you have tried adding a jell pad under the seat cover on top of the foam. If so, what thickness and how do you like it? Any other suggestions most welcome.

Thanks.

[beemerbum]

I at 76 understand and sympathize. Check out seat pads from AirHawk. They solve the problem. AirHawk pads are used by airline pilots and longhaul truckers as well as folks in wheelchairs. They are not gel, but rather very low air pressure

[Popwood]

Thanks, beemerbum, I was reading about Airhawk earlier today. Seems like people either love them or don’t think that highly of them. If they help, I’d not only get backside relief but could easily switch them out between the 550 and 750, as well as the Bridgestone 350 GTR that will soon be roadworthy. Still welcoming other opinions.

[timtune]

I swear by some wooden beads. There's a reason they're a favorite of cabbies the world over. Good air flow and as you move around in the seat ever so slightly it changes the pressure points helping blood flow.
(On the cheap I bought a car seat, followed the threading pattern and cut it down/ altered for my bike size. Some elastic straps to keep it place or for ballers like me some shoe laces and you're done)

[Bankerdanny]

I had an Air Hawk on my GL1000, I didn't like it. I felt less connected to the bike and it had a negative impact on how I rode. My experience is that after a few days on the road your ass adjusts.

[Doobie]

I tried inserting a gel pad into the seat of my Kawasaki and it made no discernible difference to my aging ass. Over one winter, I sent the seat to Sargent Cycle and they installed a layer of their "comfort foam" and that made a huge difference. If you live in a more populated area than I do, I'll bet you could find someone locally to do this.

[MauiK3]

Ive used AirHawk pads, so-so results. I think re-padding the seat itself is the better path.

[Deltarider]

By all means, have a sheepskin. Warmer in winter, cooler in summer. I cut mine out of an old carpet and a friend dimensioned it to an exact fit. I use it on long rides like in holidays.