Motorcycle enthusiasts often emphasize the importance of comfort during long rides, emphasizing the role of a good seat. The Road King model, a popular choice among touring motorcyclists, requires a seat that provides comfort, quality, and durability for those long journeys on open roads. Selecting the right seat for a road king can transform a taxing ride into a pleasurable cruise, allowing riders to cover vast distances without the usual fatigue and discomfort associated with stock seats.
When considering the purchase of a new seat for your road king, there are several factors to keep in mind. It’s crucial to look for a seat that offers adequate support and padding, which can drastically reduce rider fatigue. The material of the seat can also affect comfort levels, with options like leather and vinyl being common, each offering their own benefits in terms of durability and maintenance. Additionally, the contoured design and fit of the seat are essential to ensure it complements the ergonomics of the rider and the style of the bike.
Understanding the often overlooked aspect of seat suspension technology can also make a significant difference. Some seats come equipped with advanced suspension mechanisms that can absorb vibrations and bumps, providing a smoother experience. Finally, we understand that the seat isn’t just about comfort—it’s a statement about the rider and the bike. Therefore, it’s important to choose a seat that not only feels good but also looks the part, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your road king.
With a deep understanding of what riders need and an appreciation for the fine details that make a great touring seat, our efforts have gone into identifying the best seats on the market that support long-distance riding without compromising on style or durability. So what’re you waiting for? Let’s dive into the details – but first here’s my favorite Road King shock of all:
Other Road King Upgrades:
- The Best Handlebars for Road King (of all years) Revealed
- The Best Fairing for Road King Models Revealed +Alternatives
- Best Shocks for Road King: Comfort, Performance, and More
- Best Road King Windshield: Clear, Tinted, and More
- Best Harley Touring Tires: Top Picks for Long-Distance Rides
Top Picks for Road King Seats
We’ve scoured the market to bring our readers a curated list of the top-rated seats for Harley-Davidson Road King models. Our focus was on comfort, quality, and style, ensuring long-lasting satisfaction for every ride. Whether you prioritize a plush ride or enduring materials, our selection caters to various preferences and needs of Road King enthusiasts.
Mustang Super Touring Deluxe Seat
We believe the Mustang Super Touring Deluxe Seat is a game changer for Road King owners seeking the ultimate in long-distance comfort and style.
Pros
- Enhances rider comfort for the long haul
- Provides full-width passenger support
- Premium quality materials and design
Cons
- installation hardware not included
- may change rider’s reach to the handlebars
- can be pricey for some budgets
After clocking in several hundred miles astride the Mustang 79006, it became immediately evident how much more relaxed my rides became. Unlike stock seats, the Mustang’s design offers a laid-back seating position, which is a mercy during those extended tours. Plus, the advanced styling of this seat turned heads at every stop.
Passengers aren’t forgotten either, with the rear seat being just as plush and supportive. My partner appreciated the thoughtfulness put into their comfort, making our weekend excursions more enjoyable for both of us.
It’s not just about the comfort, though. Those looking for a seamless blend with their Harley-Davidson aesthetics will appreciate the meticulous stitching and design that mirrors high-end craftsmanship.
However, be prepared to provide your own tools and perhaps an extra hand for the installation. While not complicated, the process would have been smoother if the necessary screwdriver and specific screws were included.
In adjusting to the new seating position, there was a slight learning curve. This might not be a con for all, but riders should be ready for a minor adaptation period, especially if they’re used to a stock seat’s reach.
The price may give some potential buyers pause, but considering the enduring comfort and quality,—an investment in our riding experience.
Basically, our travels have never been better since upgrading to the Mustang Super Touring Deluxe Seat. It has truly transformed our Road King into a throne fit for royalty on the asphalt.
C.C. RIDER Comfort King
For those looking for a seat upgrade on their Harley, our road-tested choice is the C.C. Rider Comfort King, offering a blend of support and style.
Pros
- Enhanced comfort for long rides with built-in soft sponge
- durable materials and a design that protects against the elements
- step-up design supports good riding posture
Cons
- May be too firm for some riders
- positions the rider higher, which may not suit everyone
Our long rides on the C.C. Rider Comfort King reveal its significant boost in comfort compared to standard seats. The built-in sponge absorbs vibrations from the road, making for a smoother experience. With its robust microfiber leather construction and thoughtful weather-resistant finish, this seat is built to last, looking sharp on any touring bike.
The aesthetics of the Comfort King seat with its black and orange stitching caught our eye when we first installed it. It completely transformed the look of our Road King. With the high-quality stitching and materials, the seat doesn’t fail to impress both in visual appeal and touch.
However, it’s worth noting that this seat positions the rider an inch or so higher, which can be a bit of an adjustment. Also, riders used to a softer, more yielding cushion might find the firmness of the Comfort King seat less to their liking initially. For those with heavily modified bikes, double-check the fit to ensure a seamless integration onto the motorcycle.
Overall, the C.C. Rider Comfort King seat balances durability, comfort, and style, making it a worthy consideration for upgrading your Road King’s seating.
XFMT Orange Stitching Road King Seat
If you’re in search of a mix of style and comfort for long rides on your Harley, this seat is well worth considering.
Pros
- The comfort level is enhanced for long rides with the rider’s backrest
- diamond-pleated design and toast-colored stitching add a customized high-end look
- snug and secure installation
Cons
- Some riders may find the seat firm, based on preference
- installation may require additional tools or hardware like washers for proper alignment
Our recent rides with the XFMT Orange Stitching Road King Seat transformed our touring experience. The additional lower back support from the rider backrest pad made a significant difference in comfort during a full day on the road. The sleek look with the custom diamond-pleated surface and accent stitching turned heads and set our bike apart at every stop.
We were prepared for a bit of effort during the installation, which paid off with a secure and satisfying fit. It’s important to note that while the seat contours are well-designed, the seating might feel firm for some, especially when new. Based on our time on the road, it seems this seat has a break-in period before reaching peak comfort levels.
In terms of service, while the seat itself met our expectations, we advise caution with shipping options and communicating with the seller to ensure a smooth purchase. The visual upgrade and the support provided by the backrest should deliver the comfort and aesthetic you’re looking for, as long as you’re patient with the initial firmness and ready for a bit of a hands-on installation.
XFMT Step-Up Seat for The Road King
If you’re in the market for a comfortable and stylish seat for your Harley ’97-’07 Touring model, this is a solid pick.
Pros
- Enhanced rider and passenger comfort due to integrated suspension system
- quality materials and durable construction
- straightforward installation process
Cons
- Styling may not appeal to all riders
- not as durable as other options, but at a cheaper price point
Having recently fitted the XFMT Motorcycle Seat to a Road King, we can attest to the straightforward installation process, which was a smooth sail. There’s a notable cushioning that really takes the edge off bumps, making long rides markedly more enjoyable.
On our first ride out, the comfort was immediately apparent. It cradles the tailbone nicely, and the passenger has commented on the increased width and support. It’s remarkable how an aftermarket seat can elevate the whole riding experience.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine; we did notice a slightly less snug fit on a Road King Classic. Some tinkering was required, but once it was secured in place, the smooth ride more than made up for this initial hiccup. While the aesthetics are subjectively a hit or miss, for those desiring a cost-effective replacement that doesn’t skimp on comfort, it’s a winner.
TCT-MOTORPARTS Low-Profile Seat
We believe this seat is a solid choice for those looking to improve their Harley riding experience without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Improved comfort with foam cushioning
- sleek white stitching
- straightforward installation
Cons
- Not water resistant
- some riders may find the lower seating position uncomfortable
Our recent ride turned more enjoyable thanks to the TCT-MOTORPARTS seat’s plush foam. It strikes the right balance between firmness and support, making those long tours seem a bit shorter. The white stitching pops against the leather, adding a custom look that’s sure not to go unnoticed.
When installing the seat, we appreciated not having to fiddle around too much. The fit was snug, and it attached to our Road King with relative ease. However, we did miss the option of adding a rider backrest for those extra-long journeys.
One thing to keep in mind, especially for those who ride rain or shine, is the seat’s lack of water resistance. We learned it’s best to cover up during a downpour. And for our friends with different height preferences, the lower profile might take some getting used to.
Overall, the TCT-MOTORPARTS seat kept us comfortable and stylish—just what we wanted for our Road King. Its minor drawbacks don’t overshadow the value it brings, especially considering how it transformed our ride’s comfort and style.
Buying Guide
Comfort
When selecting a seat for a Road King, the foremost aspect we consider is comfort. It is essential for long rides. Look for seats with ample cushioning and support to prevent soreness and fatigue.
- Materials: High-quality foam or gel
- Ergonomic Design: Contoured to fit natural body shapes
Durability
Seat endurance is crucial as we want our investment to last. Durable materials resist weather and wear.
- Leather or Vinyl: Resistant to UV and moisture
- Stitching Quality: Reinforced seams
Style
The seat should complement the aesthetics of our Road King. Styles vary, but simplicity often ages well.
- Profile: Low-profile or touring style
- Customization: Ability to add personal touches
Fit and Compatibility
Our seat must fit our specific Road King model. Manufacturer specifications guide us.
- Model Year: Ensure compatibility
- Mounting Hardware: Check for included parts
Support and Suspension
Good lumbar support and suspension minimize road vibrations, improving the ride experience.
- Lumbar Support: Provides back comfort
- Suspension System: Absorbs shocks effectively
Price
We balance cost with quality to find value. Expensive doesn’t always mean better.
- Budget-Friendly: Cost-effective without sacrificing quality
- Value for Money: Good balance of features and price