I ride a 1300C and have been frequently asked “how does your butt handle those stock seats?” I have heard people saying that “a 2x4 board is more comfortable than Honda’s stock seats.” Most riders that have made these comments are not riding a “1300” but riding a "1800 model." I find the stock seats on the “1300” to be quite comfortable and soft. They set low which was perfectly fine for me since I am not a tall individual.

The main reason for the switch was for my passenger. Since the stock seats on the “C” model have a slim and a low profile, it didn’t allow your passenger much option to shift. Ultimately causing their legs and butt to go numb during those extended trips. Also, since it does not allow for the contours of the passengers legs and buttocks, it will not prevent them from sliding forward during those quick and sudden braking.

I sat on the Ultimate and the Mustang seats from various riders. Each of them were quite comfortable, but not the look that I was after. Since I did not know much about the Saddlemen, I took a gamble and purchased them online.

Saddlemen Seats have different design options, but I was set on the Saddlemen Explorer. If you decided to purchase this particular design please beware that they are built per order. I waited two months for my seats to come in.

There were significant differences between the two seats. After a month and over 800 miles I have noted several pros and cons:

Pros:
1. The seat sits much higher than the stock seats. If you own a “C” model or ever ride one on long distances, the common complaint is numbing of the hand and wrist. Since the handle bars on the “C” are recessed back, it forces the rider to lean forward. During those long rides with the wrist cocked and the riders weight from leaning forward, inhibits the flow of blood to the nerves on your wrist; ultimately, causing your hand and wrist to go numb. This problem was resolve since the rider sits higher and moves you forward.
2. The higher seat allows the windshield to be at my eye level. Another modification that I don’t have to do.
3. My passenger no longer complains about numbing of the legs and butt. The wider passenger seat allows her to shift from cheek to cheek.

Cons:
1. Despite what most riders claim about the stock Honda seats, the Saddlemen Explorer is not as soft. Saddlemen claims that their seats have gel pads which I just don’t feel. Although I have noticed that it has gotten softer over time.
2. Unlike the Mustang or Ultimate seats, if you order the Saddlemen without the back rest, you don’t have the option to add it later. They don’t add the hole to allow for the back rest if you decide to upgrade.
3. The very front of these seats are flush with the tank. Since I am blessed with a “vertical stance” dilemma, during stopping, I feel the seats rubbing on my inner thighs. Thankfully I don’t have to leave me feet down at all times.

I must say that I am very pleased with the new look of the bike and as far as comfort goes, that still remains to be determined.

Review By: Terry - IslanderX
Company Website Link:  "Saddlemen Seats"