Heli-Bars + Gel Seat = Sweet

5700 Views 15 Replies 13 Participants Last post by LIV2, May 18, 2008

ShnikeJSB

Discussion Starter · May 14, 2008

So, I have had these Heli-Bars since the first GB from last year forever now, and JUST put them on a few days ago now that the weather has been SEMI-cooperative for short bursts... I also received my Gel Seat from Shane a couple weeks ago. I finally got to ride to work yesterday with both of them installed. I've gotta say, although the feeling of the Heli-Bars is kinda odd at first -- the difference is night-and-day (or should I say Crotch-Rocket and Dirt Bike?). :laugh:

The installation is easy -- just time-consuming. Just make sure you have the 38mm (or in my case, 1-1/2 inch) socket for the big @$$ steering nut. I was a moron and attempted to use a big ass wrench instead, since I didn't have a socket that large. It chewed through the soft metal and looks like crap now... I had to make a special trip to go buy one. Tools tools tools! Don't be one like I was, and make sure you have the required ones before starting. :stupid:

Anyways, after getting more used to the feel, I can't believe how much more comfortable this combination is! I may have only ridden for 20 mins each way, but I can tell you I love it already! The comfort is only PART of the equation, as the bike also turns in more quickly and feels like a toss-able toy now (yes, even more-so than before). That little bit of extra length works wonders! I was grinning like a total goof (AKA Bill), whipping her around like she was a 250.

The only downside, as others have said, is the extra vibration. It didn't bother me TOO much, as I only got to ride 20 mins at a time. BUT I think that is a minimal downside compared to the pluses.

As for the Gel Seat -- I have NO idea how some of you say that you can barely feel a difference from stock... Either it was Shane's pre-made butt grooves, or the seat really IS much more comfortable to me! It could just be the combination between the two mods. Either way, this combo is amazing. Can't wait to try it out for at least a full tankful! :cool2:

I HIGHLY recommend getting both the Gel Seat AND the Heli-Bars at once. It's good stuff. :nod:

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1 - 16 of 16 Posts

caipira

· #2 · May 14, 2008

i think that the advantage of the gel seat should be different per individual and their anatomical shape of their butt. my butt doesnt appreciate the stock seat at all, and i think a gel seat would do me wonders.

i also think it kinda depends on where you sit on the seat. i spent my whole life racing dirt bikes and this is my first street bike. my dirt bike riding was 90% sitting almost on the gas tank, so i tend to sit right up on the tank on the 675. my two boys dont like it, but that's where i feel most comfortable for handling the bike.

ShnikeJSB

Discussion Starter · #3 · May 14, 2008

caipira said:
i think that the advantage of the gel seat should be different per individual and their anatomical shape of their butt. my butt doesnt appreciate the stock seat at all, and i think a gel seat would do me wonders.

i also think it kinda depends on where you sit on the seat. i spent my whole life racing dirt bikes and this is my first street bike. my dirt bike riding was 90% sitting almost on the gas tank, so i tend to sit right up on the tank on the 675. my two boys dont like it, but that's where i feel most comfortable for handling the bike.

I think so too. My theory is, the more bony your ass, the more you'll like the Gel Seat, LOL! So basically, Tattoo should REALLY benefit from one! :laugh:

I also sit really close to the tank -- JUST far enough to keep my balls directly off it, but as close as I can get without doing so. I also have the StompGrips, so I am ABLE to keep them just so under most conditions.

TheRedSlayer43

· #4 · May 14, 2008

I thought about the gel seat and heli-bars the other day when I was going down the autobahn... :rofl2:thinking about how it might be nice to sit back in the seat and have my hands up a little higher. But the amount of riding that I do like that is slim to none, as I get right up on the tank and hold on as I'm enjoying the bike, I don't think that those mod's would do me any good, but then again you never know...

Jstu202

· #5 · May 14, 2008

ShnikeJSB said:
That little bit of extra length works wonders!

Thats what she said.. :rofl:

ShnikeJSB

Discussion Starter · #6 · May 14, 2008

Jstu202 said:
Thats what she said.. :rofl:

I was WAITING for someone to say this... :laugh:

TimTuned

· #7 · May 14, 2008

Glad to see you are enjoying your mods Josh! However... PICTURES or it didn't happen! :smilielol5:

ShnikeJSB

Discussion Starter · #8 · May 14, 2008

timtuned said:
Glad to see you are enjoying your mods Josh! However... PICTURES or it didn't happen! :smilielol5:

Pssh, you guys have seen pics of HeliBars. It's no different on mine, LOL! No one has seen my bike in all its modded glory in awhile! I want my replacement StompGrips first. :cool2:

Scooter Scott

· #9 · May 14, 2008

I told you so. I have had the cycle-cats for over a year and the gell seat when the bike was two weeks old. I put stock bars on for Barber and holy shit, it was strange. The next time you watch WSB check out Troy Bayless HB position. Very little downward slant.

brooksie

· #10 · May 15, 2008

The Bars/seat combo works great. This bike is soooo smooth it is a riot!

Thinkwell

· #11 · May 16, 2008

I have been enjoying my gel seat since the first day I got it! :grin: I also ride close to the tank, and I am amazed by how much a difference it makes!

Newbury

· #12 · May 16, 2008

+1000 to this entire thread. I have both as well and holy crap is there a difference. The 6 hour sunday rides are no sweat now. Before my back and wrists would be killing me and I would be soooo stiff. Definitely worthwhile mods to anybody considering!:thumbup:

triple grrr

· #13 · May 17, 2008

Josh, better go tell pops he needs more tools so that you don't screw up your bike any more if you ever need to work on it again. Ahh, the benefits of living with the folks. Save yer money for video games and beer!! Make the folks buy the tools. :sifone: :coolgleamA:

GSE1Fro

· #14 · May 18, 2008

Josh, we gotta get together for a ride soon. Theres a guy that works at Sears in Gurnee with a new blue 08. Hes on here under 675fury. Be nice to make another run up North like last season.

Moomer

· #15 · May 18, 2008

Ok I have got one, how much height does the gel-seat add to the ride height. I can't stand flat foot unless I am wearing some boots, so if the gel seat adds to much height im screwed lol. Also, if it rains on the seat does it hold water and when its hot out, I live in Texas, does it take a while to cool down?

LIV2

· #16 · May 18, 2008

Moomer said:
Ok I have got one, how much height does the gel-seat add to the ride height. I can't stand flat foot unless I am wearing some boots, so if the gel seat adds to much height im screwed lol. Also, if it rains on the seat does it hold water and when its hot out, I live in Texas, does it take a while to cool down?

Should be the same size, the seat feels similar at first but you basically have to wear it in for a few miles.

Doesn't seem to retain water as far as I could tell
Can't tell you about heat, it's heading towards winter over these here parts and I've barely touched my 675 besides washing it

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