Getting the best motorcycle seat pad in the market can and will be, a life-saver. Whether you are riding for short or long distances, you need to be comfortable during every ride. Motorcycle seat pads feature several outstanding benefits that a motorcycle owner can’t afford to overlook. In addition to comfort, they also enhance the look of your bike.
Depending on your level of experience, to may find the whole process of finding a good motorcycle seat pad difficult. If you are not ready for the stress involved in going through the technical information, just pick one from motorcycle seat pad reviews. You can also refer to the buying guide in this article to find out all the information you need to make your first purchase. Let’s dive into it!
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What Is a Motorcycle Seat Pad For Long Rides?
Motorcycle seat pads also referred to as motorcycle seat cushions and aftermarket seat toppers that can be bought differently for a motorcycle seat. As the name implies, motorcycle seat pads are designed to add an additional layer of padding to the seat, for the riders comfort and for extra riding convenience.
This motorcycle accessory also comes as a perfect addition for improving the look of your motorcycle. There are times when you may not like the look or feel of your bike, especially if you’ve used it for an extended period. At such times, motorcycle seat pads come very useful for changing how your bike looks and feels. In a nutshell, your motorcycle seat begins to lose its comfort level over a long time, and this can significantly affect how much you enjoy riding. With the best motorcycle seat pads for long trips, however, you can be assured of total comfort as you hit the road for your long-distance trips.
Types And Uses Of Motorcycle Seat Pad
Motorcycle seat pads come in different types. Each type is designed to service a particular clientele. A proper understanding of the types of motorcycle seat pads will help you make the perfect choice for your motorcycle seat. If you fancy buying a motorcycle seat pad that will add the glow to your motorcycle battery and other visible parts of your motorcycle, then you would want to understand the types. Here’s a short information on each.
1. Air Cushion
Certainly one of the most versatile types of motorcycle seat pads out there. As the name suggests, this type of seat pad works with the air. This means that you will need to pump it with sure to provide the right cushion for your buttocks. The popularity of this seat pad is hinged mainly on its ability to inflate and deflate. This simply means that users can decide how high or low they want the seat pad to be. Typically, the air would continue to reduce until you find your balance sitting on it. It is also worth mentioning that this type of seat pad distributes pressure evenly, preventing numbness when you would have to use it for long-distance rides.
2. Gel
This is perhaps the most popular type of motorcycle seat pads. Most motorcycle riders often prefer to go for this option for its ability to conform to the body. This feature makes it comfortable for both short- and long-distance rides. The ability of the gel seat pads to distribute pressure evenly also helps for the reduction of numbness during long rides. No wonder some medical experts recommend this type of seat pad to patients that are prone to pains in their lower back area. In fact, the origin of the technology can be traced back to the manufacture of wheelchairs, so you can tell that it will be a perfect option for you when you hit the riding trails.
3. Foam
Another popular type of motorcycle seat pad is one that features foam. If you are looking for total comfort for your buttocks during long rides, then this is a perfect type to get. They come with shock-absorbing qualities allowing you to ride on rough terrains without feeling any pressure on your back or waist. You will also find that this type helps with the prevention of numbness. Some of the best motorcycle seat gel brands out there are made of high-density memory foam, and as such provide excellent comfort during long rides. We’ve also seen a few models that combine gel and foam.
4. Sheepskin
Another relatively popular type of motorcycle seat pad is that made of sheepskin. They may not be as popular as gel or foam, but motorcyclists still prefer them. One great feature of this type of seat pad is its ability to regulate temperature. This often means that the rider would be kept cool even in hot summer periods, and warm when the weather takes a downward toll. Sheepskin does not only absorb sweat, but it also provides the right level of circulation for air. Let’s mention; however, most options that fall under this type are typically pricey, but if you search well, you might still find an affordable option.
5. Beaded
Beaded motorcycle pads are specialized types of motorcycle seat pads. They often double as massaging seat cover, although they do not provide enough cushioning. This type of seat pad is typically very versatile and can be used on almost all types of bikes. When used, they provide enough ventilation through the space in the beading.
Benefits Of Motorcycle Seat Pads
Using a motorcycle seat pad comes with several outstanding benefits. Like everything good, you need to find the right one for your need to enjoy most of the benefits offered here. Whether you are a daily commuter, a long-distance rider, or you simply enjoy taking a bike trip once in a while, a motorcycle seat pad will provide outstanding benefits for you. Check out a brief review of some of the benefits that you can expect when you get one.
1. Avoid Pains
Pain and discomfort are the last things any motorcycle rider would want and that’s why we often include top-rated motorcycle backpacks and seat pads in our list of must-haves before any trip. When you ride your motorcycle for long, you soon begin to feel its effect on your body. Most times, your body gets stiff as a result of sitting in one position for too long. Other times, you become prone to experience numbness. Why put yourself through this stress when you can improve your riding comfort by purchasing a seat pad for your motorcycle. The best motorcycle seat pads feature technologies that are geared towards making you more comfortable throughout your trip.
2. Prevent Expensive Upgrades
A stitch in time saves nine. This is the clear case with using a motorcycle seat pad. Apart from comfort issues, the usual motorcycle seats also get old and prone to damage with time. Yes, a top-rated motorcycle wax might be able to restore the shine to your bike, but why not make it even better by adding a seat back to the mix? We all know how expensive it can be to upgrade to a new seat when your old motorcycle seat begins to wear. You don’t have to spend all those dollars if you can find the right seat pad on time. This way, the beauty of your bike is enhanced, and your motorcycle seat gets the chance to last longer.
3. Address Health Issues
Yes, there are some health issues that motorcycle riders are prone to. However, with the right accessories for your motorcycle, you can easily escape such health issues. People that are prone to pain in their lower back or any other areas would find it risky to ride for a long distance. Thankfully, modern motorcycle seat pads satisfy the interest of such people, by making them more comfortable and less susceptible to pains throughout their rides. Some medical professionals even recommend the use of motorcycle seat pads by such people.
4. Stop Less Frequently
Long-distance riders understand the need to stop once in a while to stretch their legs or rest their buttocks. Thanks to seat cushions, you don’t have to stop again. This accessory provides enough comfort for your body, preventing any feeling of numbness. Get one of these useful accessories and say bye to needing to stop in dangerous locations because you need to rest your body.
Best Motorcycle Seat Pads Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Coleman MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector |
| View On Amazon |
 | Airhawk – R-REVB Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion |
| View On Amazon |
 | ButtyBuddy OS2018 Black Over The Seat Mounting Seat |
| View On Amazon |
 | Air Seat Innovations Air Motorcycle Seat Cushion |
| View On Amazon |
 | Airhawk Cruiser Pillion Cushion |
| View On Amazon |
 | Conformax Topper Excel Ultra Flex Motorcycle Gel Seat Cushion |
| View On Amazon |
 | Airhawk Dual Sport Motorcycle Air Cushion Pad 11″ x 11″ FA-DUALSPORT |
| View On Amazon |
Best Motorcycle Seat Pad Reviews
1. Coleman MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector
The versatility of this seat pad is its most striking feature. It is suitable for all types and sizes of bike, making it the perfect option to get if you are unsure about the specific needs of your bike. The pad’s covering is made of high-quality materials, so users can expect it to provide the coverage they will need for their bikes for a long time. Apart from providing the style required for your motorcycle to glow, this option also serves as protection to your bike’s seat against tears and damage.
With the level of affordability that this option offers, users can now get the right protection for their motorcycle seats without breaking their banks. The brand is doing enough to provide a tailored solution to bikers without charging them much. This model features a soft-moulded foam to create a comfortable intermediary between the hard seat and your body.
As expected, this option features a unique layout that can even distribute your weight, keeping all your pressure points as comfortable as possible. Moreover, if the seat of your motorcycle is already damaged, then you can use this pad as covering to prevent the damage from spreading. Its ability to stay on tightly on the seat helps to ensure that it does not pull out when you don’t need it to. The unit features a quick-release buckle system, so you would be able to remove it when you need to easily.
Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Very easy to attach or remove
Cons
- More emphasis is placed on the quality of the covering over comfort.
2. Airhawk – R-REVB Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion
One look at this option and you would be convinced that it has more to offer compared to most other options. It features a rugged design that easily gives off its attention to quality. Airhawk is one of the few brands out there that has been doing so much to ensure the total comfort of bikers. This option is a typical replica of the quality that they are known for. The unit comes with several standout features that will interest any motorcycle rider.
Firstly, we find the outstanding adaptive capability that this seat offers a massive plus for it. The unit uses air technology for adjusting its size and shape based on your features. This mere feature makes it an excellent option for most people since it means increased versatility. The cushioning ability of this option also stands it out, especially for long-distance riders. Moreover, the cushion features a center cut-out which can serve as a relief mechanism for your buttocks when you sit for long. It provides the perfect division for each side of your sit bones, ensuring that you do not feel the hardness of your bike’s seat at all.
Perhaps, you would also find the correct adjustment of the cell geometry incredibly fascinating, since it means that airflow would be incredibly boosted. One reason to trust this model is the amount of focus that the brand gives to the use of excellent durable polyurethane material. The mesh is not just breathable, but it also comes with three layers of knit polyester to ensure a constant circulation of air.
Pros
- Made of high-quality materials
- Very comfortable option
- Features a superior level of airflow
Cons
- It is relatively pricey.
3. ButtyBuddy OS2018 Black Over The Seat Mounting Seat
There are only very few options that feature the level of quality that this one brings to the line, and as an avid motorcycle rider, quality is an indispensable feature. You need to be sure that your motorcycle and all its accessories can handle the road well without causing you any form of discomfort at any time. This is why you need to get accessories and components that combine quality with the performance for your bike.
For most motorcycle riders, the BestBuddy OS2018 comes as a perfect motorcycle component to ensure comfort and safety during any ride. Whether you are going on a cross country ride, or simply enjoying an evening ride around your neighborhood, the need for comfort cannot be overemphasized. This option from ButtyBuddy comes useful for helping you fight stiffness and soreness. No wonder it had become a vital part of the purchase list of most motorcycle riders.
The portable seat pad brings the right combination to performance, cost, and ease of usage. Not forgetting that it provides an incredible level of comfort too. Installing the pad is so easy that all you have to do is to just snap it in place over the seat and you are good to go. To make things better, the manufacturers gave it a design that makes taking off also easy. The seat comes with an ability to hold off well in every weather, making it a good option for long-distance travelers that may not know what the weather in their destination might look like.
Pros
- Provides a good level of convenience
- Doesn’t cost too much
- Easy to install
Cons
- The look is quite basic compared to most others.
4. Air Seat Innovations Air Motorcycle Seat Cushion
This motorcycle seat pad comes with many fascinating benefits that you can’t find anywhere else. It is the right option for you if you intend to use your motorcycle for long-distance rides. Daily commuters can also get this option since it ensures proper blood flow around the buttocks. It features a design that provides your comfort, irrespective of how long you may decide to ride. As expected for the best motorcycle seat pads, this one features an incredible level of quality. The level of quality that it comes with is part of what stands it out from most others in the market.
Both the internal bladder and outer part of this seat pad are made of materials that combine durability with flexibility. This means that you can use the seat pad for years without needing to change it, as long as you maintain basic maintenance routines. The waterproof nature of the pad makes it an excellent option to use for long-distance trips; especially even if you are not so sure about the weather conditions in your riding trail.
This piece of beauty is also easy to install or remove and its top material is machine washable. These features help to ensure cleanliness and total comfort for your seat pad. To make it even better, we found that this seat pad also features an excellent level of breathability, ensuring the possibility to transfer heat from your body.
Pros
- Designed for all-day comfort
- Highly breathable
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Might not be the right fit for real touring seats.
5. Airhawk Cruiser Pillion Cushion
If you are looking for a seat pad that offers you total quality, even if it means sacrificing a good look, then this is a perfect option to go with. The brand behind the manufacture of this one realizes that people’s buttocks are shaped differently; hence, they’ve featured a technology that can make this option adapt to your precise, unique shape. This revolutionary approach adopted by the brand for this unit puts it at the top level. To put more clearly, this seat pad features a design that requires that you blow air into the cushion until it fills up. After this, you can then proceed to sit on it and let air gently pass out from it until you feel entirely comfortable with how it accommodates your form.
With this quality alone, you can be guaranteed that you are buying a perfect motorcycle seat pad for your need. No wonder it ranks as one of the most versatile options out there. You would not have a hard time checking the specifications of different models to find the right size for you. The level of comfort that the option brings to the line makes it great for both short-distance commuting and long-distance rides. This option even comes with a stress-relieving feature built into it, providing the needed check for all your pressure points, without being excessively stressful to the parts that matter. Consequently, this will result in more comfort and relaxation for your legs, while your buttocks will enjoy the feel of being in a perfect place.
Pros
- Features a unique adaptation technology
- Superior ventilation system helps for
- keeping cool throughout any trip
- Comes with a multicellular design that ensures minimized vibration.
Cons
- It doesn’t pay so much attention to looks.
6. Conformax Topper Excel Ultra Flex Motorcycle Gel Seat Cushion
This American-made gel-on-foam seat cushion is undoubtedly one of the best you will find in the market. It provides superior comfort on cruiser seats through short and long trips. The extra gel protection that comes with it helps to ensure maximum protection for your buttocks and lower back. Riders that desire to own a bike seat that’s not difficult to install can opt for this option because of the ease of installation that it offers. The pad comes with a secure adjustable strap system that allows it to attach to your seat without problems easily. This means that removing it for cleaning or other regular maintenance would be a breeze.
Overall, you would like this cushion for the level of comfort that it features. It also has a look that easily gives it away as a top-quality option. The brand also ensures that it has excellent airflow and ventilation, keeping you cool when you need to ride for a long distance. When it comes to riding comfort, this option stands out. It conforms to the shape of your body, reducing and equalizing seat pressure when the need arises. The unit sits properly on your bike’s seat and doesn’t slip or slide around after installation. It’s so lightweight and comfortable that you will often not realize that it’s there when riding.
Pros
- Very comfortable cushion
- Excellent airflow technology
- It can conform to the shape of your body.
- Very durable
Cons
- It takes quite a while for the cushion to break in.
7. Airhawk Dual Sport Motorcycle Air Cushion Pad 11″ x 11″ FA-DUALSPORT
If you’ve been buying motorcycle accessories for a while, then you’ve probably come across the Airhawk brand before. It is one of the top-ranked manufacturers of high-quality motorcycle accessories in the market today. The ability of the Dual Motorcycle Cushion Pad to combine durability, total comfort, and sound design stand further proves the brands resolve always to manufacture qualitative materials. This unit comes with a unique design that makes it good enough to match most Dual Sport Bikes. You will find that the front of this pad is tapered down to reduce unwanted pressure on the front leg pass. This feature allows you to sit and ride for long without any issues.
If versatility is something you are looking for, then this is a perfect option to go with. It fits different bike types and is not even so difficult to use. The unit fits in easily and doesn’t slip off without permission. It includes a cruiser strap that helps to hold it in place until you are ready to take it off.
Pros
- Very durable
- Features a sufficient level of air control
- Comfortable for long rides
Cons
- It may not be a good option for you if your front seats are not narrowed.
Motorcycle Seat Pad Buying Guide
Now that you understand the need to get a seat pad for your motorcycle, you are probably thinking of hitting the market to get one. That’s a good idea, but you can easily get confused by the many options available in the market. To help, we’ve added a guide that points to the factors that you should look out for when selecting a motorcycle seat pad.
1. The Material
This is usually the first thing that most people look out for. Everyone has a different preference when it comes to materials, and except if you get one that fits your preference, you may not enjoy the benefits that it offers. Irrespective of your choice of material, there is a general rule to making your selection. It would help if you made sure that the material featured in your choice is of outstanding quality. You don’t want a cushion that tears in the short run, not when you’ve invested money in it. So you need to check the material to be sure that it features the right level of quality to keep going when it gets tough
2. Shape and Size
As you must have known by now, seat pads come in different shapes and sizes. Although often overlooked, this is one of the most vital aspects that people need to watch out for. There’s a need for you to be sure that you are buying a pad that will fit the seat of your motorcycle. Getting the wrong size can be potentially dangerous. So before hitting the market, keep the size of your motorcycle seat in mind and go for one that’s a perfect fit. Also, remember that motorcycle seats come in different shapes, so you want to be sure about the shape of yours before making your order.
3. Durability
As usual, durability comes very important in anything you buy, especially if you intend to use it for a long time. Seat cushions are not any different. You want to get a seat cushion that’s durable enough to last you through tough usage. An excellent way to find out about the durability of a model is by looking at customer reviews online. That way, you would know if they deliver on their durability promises.
4. Comfort
The main essence of getting a motorcycle seat pad most times is comfort, so you don’t want to jeopardize that by buying an uncomfortable model. First, you need to know why you need the seat pad before making your choice. If you are purchasing a seat pad for particular medical conditions, then your choice must pay specific focus to that condition.
5. Weatherproof
Your motorcycle GPS is an excellent gadget to travel with, but despite their predictions, you will still likely ride through a rainy terrain. During such times, you don’t want to pack your bike and wait till the rain is over. With a weatherproof seat, you can cruise through any terrain, irrespective of the weather conditions, guaranteed that no damage would be done to your seat.
6. Budget
Finally, you always want to be sure that the price of any purchase you make will fit into your budget. You are most likely going to see your desired specifications offered at different rates. Search thoroughly to get the one that’s least expensive. The best deal is one that offers so much value for less. Remember, however, that you cannot sacrifice quality on the altar of price.
How To Install Gel Pad In Motorcycle Seat?
Now that you’re ready to purchase a motorcycle seat pad, don’t you think it will be right to understand the installation process? Different types of seat pads often have their unique installation process, but the procedures are mostly similar. Check the specifications on the pack to find how to install your new seat pad. If yours does not have instructions, then here are steps you can follow to install your Gel pad.
Typically, there are two ways to do this, and it often depends on your preference and the amount of comfort that you desire to get from the seat pad. The first option involves gluing be gel pad directly over the bare foam cushion of a seat. However, most customers dislike this approach because of its tendency to give the seats a ticker look.
The second option involves cutting out a section of the foam in your seat and replacing it with a gel pad. This helps you to keep the original profile of the seat. Take a look at the steps involved in using the second approach.
Steps involved
- Start by stripping the cover of the seat
- After stripping the cover of the cushion, mark the center of the cushion and outline the section where you want to install the pad. It’s crucial to install the gel pad where you feel most comfortable.
- Using a blade, cut out the section where you want to place the gel pad
- Draw a line on the sides of the cutting section, measuring up to ½” from the bottom.
- Trace the top half of the foam on a gel pad and glue it back into the seat.
- Now cut the gel pad and glue it on top of the reinstalled foam.
- Trim the motorcycle seat to fit your desired shape.
FAQ About Motorcycle Seat Pad
1. How To Choose The Right Seat Pad Size?
Usually, this would need a thorough investigation on your part. Check the dimensional support of your seat and directly compare it to your bike’s dimension. This will typically mean that you check the description of the pad that you are buying.
2. Can Motorcycle Seat Pads Make You Sit Higher?
Yes, but the change is usually not too substantial. However, different models have different sizes, so you want to check how tall a model is before buying it.
3. Are Motorcycle Seat Pads Waterproof?
Again, this typically depends on the model. Most modern options are waterproof, but there are a few that are not. Some models even go the extra mile to be machine-washable. So depending on your particular needs, you want to check the specifications to see what your choice features.
Wrap Up
There you have it, a detailed article on the best motorcycle seat pad. The process of getting a seat pad for your motorcycle doesn’t have to be too difficult, not when you know how important it is to get it right. As stated above, the benefits of getting it right when it comes to motorcycle seat pads are unlimited. The availability of so many options in the market, however, can make the process of making your choice difficult.
If you are feeling lazy to go through the technical details of thousands of products, then you can refer to our motorcycle seat pad reviews to pick the best for your needs. We’ve also included a buying guide that will point you to the factors that you need to consider if you want to choose by yourself. Check out other articles from us to find out the best motorcycle accessories and gears for your needs.
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