A couple of weeks ago I took my Sporty out for a day-ride into the mountains. After 167 miles I arrived back home and decided I HAD to get a different seat. I was using the stock 2-up seat and not only did my butt complain but my wife had also complained about how narrow the passenger section was (though she wasn't with me on this particular ride).

I ordered, recieved and installed a Mustang Vintage Wide Super Touring seat. Though it put me a little higher off the ground I was MUCH more comfortable. I found, however, that I was now leaning forward into the stock drag bars more than before and was beginning to feel it in my lower back. I decided to replace the handlebars as well. Nothing extreme, just something to bring the controls closer to me.

Now when I ride, I'm sitting up, my hands are in a comfortable position and my butt is happy again. Unfortunately, I now have this new pain in my back directly below my left shoulder-blade after I ride. I don't really know what the issue is as I am now sitting and holding my arms very comfortably.

Is it possible, because I'm sitting more upright than before (and a little higher) that I have introduced other stresses. Perhaps something that might be alleviated by a windshield? BTW, I'm 6'-2" and around 230lbs.

Maybe some highway pegs to stretch your 6'2'' frame out?

Maybe some highway pegs to stretch your 6'2'' frame out?

I have forward controls now so my legs are already out a bit. Where would I put highway pegs on my bike?

I have forward controls now so my legs are already out a bit. Where would I put highway pegs on my bike?

Engine guard or a frame mounted set. But since you already have frwds it probably won't make that much difference. Maybe pullback risers?

How long does it take before you notice your back hurting? Is it just on the one side?

I notice after only a few minutes of riding. The longer I ride, the longer I notice it afterwards and it's only on my left side. I have tried a couple of different positions with the handlebars but nothing has really improved. The bars are much closer to me now than they used to be.

Maybe it's just coincidence and I'm now suffering from something else (totally unrelated). Maybe I'm TOO comfortable. :)

I had slight, occasional shoulder pain on my '03 883XL. I think I was having to over-reach to the bars just a little. My '05 883XL is perfect, and very relaxed. I'm sure you too can get your bike to perfect (or close to it) comfort. Unfortunately it may take some experimentation. Try to determine the moment the pain starts and where, to see what isn't comfortable. Good luck.

I have 10k on my 883c with the stock seat. I did install a memphis shade slims windshield and a throttle rocker for my longer rides. Some advice that was given to me that works is not carry a wallet in your back pocket. Ive found that motorcycling is like any other physical activity, the first couple times you do something you muscle aches, and you build up a tolerance over time. I fold a bedroom pillow in half and put in on the rear seat for the couple times my wife comes out, it works.

I put a Corbin seat on my bike and taller bars to match same as you. I also got the pain in my shoulders. It really got bad after a long ride. I think it was because I was still reaching for the bars.

I solved this with a backrest. I slid a backrest into the Corbin seat and have had no discomfort since. It really keeps my back straight so my shoulders and arms aren't doing that work.

It really keeps my back straight so my shoulders and arms aren't doing that work.

That probably is what helps on my Sporty too. The LePera Maverick LT has great back support that positions me straight, or maybe even a little forward lean. It's very comfy. The forward controls on the '04+ models are also a little closer so I don't have to reach for them or the handlebars.

the stock seat and bars on my 05 1200c are very comfy. i am 6 foot 200 lbs.
i tried a solo seat that put my butt 2 inches back and about 1/2 inch lower. it changed everything. no longer did the stock bars feel right and i felt every bump on the road. this is with the special padding. i want a custom looking solo seat and trick bars but i am affraid comfort will suffer.

Tom, you mentioned your height and weight but not how old you are. Maybe you're getting old. Just kidding. I'm 50 and I always have a few aches and pains after putting some miles on. I just accept it as payment due for all the fun I had when I was young.