Saddle

A motorcycle seat, often called a saddle, is the designated area where the rider sits and may also accommodate a passenger. Its design varies based on the type of motorcycle and its intended use.

Types of Motorcycle Seats Define Functionality

Dual Saddle Offers Shared Space

The dual saddle, or bench seat, is the most common type. It runs along the top of the motorcycle’s chassis and is long enough for a pillion passenger to straddle behind the rider. This design became standard in the mid-20th century, replacing earlier configurations with two detached seats.

Solo Seat Focuses on Rider Needs

The solo seat is designed for single riders. It’s smaller and often found on racing motorcycles, off-road bikes, and vintage models. These seats prioritize performance and maneuverability over passenger accommodation.

Trials Bikes Remove Seating Entirely

In motorcycle trials, seating is eliminated altogether. Riders stand on footpegs throughout the competition to maintain control and balance during challenging maneuvers.

Historical Evolution Tracks Design Changes

The evolution of motorcycle seats reflects advancements in motorcycle technology and changing rider needs. Early motorcycles, like the 1885 Daimler Reitwagen, featured rudimentary seating arrangements. By 1969, separated rider and passenger seats were common, as seen on BMW motorcycles. Modern designs, such as those on the 2007 BMW R1200RT, incorporate ergonomic features for comfort during long rides.

Influence from Related Saddles Shapes Design

Motorcycle seats share similarities with other saddles, such as those used on bicycles or horses. These influences are evident in their shape, padding, and support structures.

Motorcycle seats aren’t just functional—they’re tailored to enhance the riding experience across different terrains and styles. Whether you’re racing, touring, or commuting, the seat plays a crucial role in comfort and control.

Citations:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcycle_seat

Motorcycle_seat (Wikipedia)

This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages) This article possibly contains original research. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding inline citations. Statements consisting only of original research should be removed. (September 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this message) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

A motorcycle seat (sometimes saddle) is where rider sits, and may also accommodate a passenger.

The most common type of motorcycle seat is a dual saddle or bench seat, which runs along the top of the chassis and is long enough for a pillion passenger to straddle the motorcycle behind the rider. Two detached seats, rather than one elongated one, were more common until the mid 20th century. A single, or solo, seat is only large enough for the rider. They are typical of racing, off-road, and many historic motorcycles. In motorcycle trials, the bikes have no seating at all, as the rider remains standing on the footpegs for the entire competition.

• 
  Separated rider and passenger seats on a 1969 BMW motorcycle
• 
  Modern seats on a 2007 BMW R1200RT
• 
  Solo racing seats
• 
  The 1885 Daimler Reitwagen