Do you find yourself speeding from one rest stop to the next? After 250 miles of a two-day ride, do the words "Lincoln Continental" make your mouth water? Obviously, long-distance motorcycle riding should not be that brutal. On the other hand, most would agree that some degree of discomfort on long rides is not only to be expected, it is actually a unique part of the experience. Hence, the joy of arriving. It is important to realize that total comfort on extended rides (3-6 hours) may never be obtained. Let's face it, even in an automobile, with its large spring-suspended foam seat, discomfort can set in within only a few hours. By contrast, a motorcycle seat, with its small seating surface, severely limits movement and has a less dynamic solid foam suspension. That's the bad news. The good news is that diligent comfort seekers, armed with the right information, can be rewarded handsomely.

To be successful, you must first put discomfort in perspective. How much discomfort is too much discomfort, and can something be done to extend comfortable riding time? Since there isn't one solution that works for everyone, a clear understanding of the contributing factors is essential.

Introducing the ATOMIC Theory - the Advanced Theory Of Maximum Integrated Comfort. Its purpose is to help explain the various causes of riding discomfort, define limitations, and recommend possible solutions.

According to the ATOMIC Theory, three major factors contribute to the level of comfort that can be obtained on any given motorcycle:

Examining each of these factors can provide valuable clues for potential improvements in comfort.

Forced Ergonomic Position. First, let's look at the riding position itself. The physical relationship between the foot pegs, handlebars, and the seat on any given motorcycle forces the rider into a specific seating position known as the forced ergonomic position. This position virtually defines all motorcycle types, and can have a profound effect on seating comfort.

For instance, the cruiser, with its high, back-swept handlebars, forward pegs, and low slung seat, forces the rider into a reclined position. Reclined doesn't necessarily mean comfortable. This reclined position causes all of the driver's body weight to be focused on the base of the spine. And, since cruisers typically have a locked-in or bucket-shape seat, the driver is prohibited from using the long distance riding technique known as LAP. Additionally, some cruisers suffer from a foam that is too soft and bottoms out.

CRUISER

Many cruisers can be dramatically improved by installing a high-quality, closed-cell foam to relieve the pressure at the base of the spine. Installing straighter handlebars that force the driver to lean forward can also reduce this pressure.

STANDARD/TOURING

Standard and touring motorcycles are defined by a neutral or upright seating position. While less severe than the cruiser, the weight is still concentrated on the driver's rear-end. Except for most touring models, these bikes often have relatively flat seats, allowing for the use of the LAP technique. Of course, good foam suspension is important and, like on the cruiser, foam that is too soft and bottoms out can be a problem. Modifying seat contours to better suit the driver and/or modifying the handlebars may also be beneficial.

Many find the sport touring configuration to be the best long-distance ride you can buy. These models force the driver to lean forward a little more, distributing some of the pressure from the rear-end to the arms and legs. In addition, many of these models feature a long, flat seat, allowing plenty of room to shift positions on long rides (LAP). Ergonomics are excellent on these models but, as with all models, foam that is too soft and lacks good suspension can shorten comfortable riding time.

SPORT / TOURING

SPORT

Of course, sport bikes live and breath for the race track, or at least a good twisty mountain road. Their precision handling is due in part to positioning the driver's upper body and arms almost directly over the front wheel steering radius. The resulting forward-lean angle transfers much of the driver's rear-end pressure to the upper arms and wrists. Because the forward reach to the handle bars is combined with rear-set pegs, use of the LAP technique can be limited.

Some of the most common changes on this model type involve improving foam suspension and changing angles of the seating platform to better suit the driver. For example, some stock sport bike seats are angled in such a way as to force the driver into the tank. This can be corrected by leveling the seating surface through foam alterations.

Size and Shape of the Seating Platform. The second major factor involving comfort is the size and shape of the seating platform. Changing contours to better suit the driver can do wonders. For example, a motorcycle designed for a shorter driver can be modified for a taller driver by changing the seat contour to allow the driver to sit further back and extend his legs into a more accommodating position.

DISH SHAPE

Widening and "dishing out" the seat platform are also popular foam alteration techniques. Widening is usually limited to only one inch beyond the existing width edge of the seat pan. Dishing out redistributes pressure from the center spine area to the outer buttocks and is usually most effective on seats already 12" in width or more.

There are as many possible changes to seat shape as there are types of people, and this can be a trial-and-error process. Careful thought and experimentation may be necessary. (For more information on this, see our Foam Alteration Guide and our Custom Foam Alteration Policy.)

Type of Padding Suspension. Ideally, padding or foam suspension should behave like springs by absorbing shock and providing continuous support. All mass-produced stock motorcycle seats have injection-molded, open-cell polyfoam suspension. If this foam is too soft, it can lose its air, become fully compressed, and bottom out. Its suspension value is lost. Road shocks and vibrations are then transferred directly to the driver's bum - ouch!

A good, high-quality closed-cell foam installed into the seat can improve this situation. While this material may seem firmer, it doesn't become hard under a full load and continues to absorb road shocks and vibrations.

Obviously, comfort is a very complex issue. The ATOMIC Theory suggests that better comfort can mean anything from a simple foam alteration to changing handlebars or even choosing a bike better suited to your riding style.

The road to comfort is often an exploration. Remember, long rides should be an adventure. Frequent stops are good for the body and soul. Plan well, take your time, and enjoy the ride.

- Mark Todd, President, Sargent Cycle Products N.A. (c)1996-2009