Motorcycle / Motorbike Seat Foam

Many factors influence the comfort and performance of motorcycle seats. It's simply not a one size fits all, and such seats can be vastly different depending on a bike's usage. For example, those riding for leisure may want a softer, more luxurious seat that incorporates several parts. Alternatively, competitive racers may want a thin, incredibly lightweight option to improve the efficiency of their riding position.

Things to consider with a motorcycle seat include the design and the length, height, depth, width, and type of upholstery covering. The majority of this largely depends on the style and use of the motorcycle, but some individuals do like to incorporate different elements to upgrade their bikes. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current seat or conduct repairs, we have a couple of tips.

When selecting your motorcycle seat foam, it is also worth considering both the firmness and density of such foam, as this will impact its overall performance. For example, denser foam may retain its shape for a longer period, but it may also be less comfortable for leisurely riding. Likewise, a softer foam could be lighter, but indentations from your seating position may show sooner than preferred. When considering thickness and density, it all boils down to how supportive you'd like your foam seat to be if you rely on its material composition alone to maintain your riding position.

Seat foams suitable for motorbikes / motorcycles include open-cell polyurethane and closed-cell polyethylene foams. Due to the denser seat cushions created by closed-cell and reconstituted foams, these are typically selected for use on motorcycles and used for both the base layer and upper cushioning layer.

Closed-cell and reconstituted foam typically offers better grip for racing riders as their dense nature means its shape is better retained, giving the rider greater control and less chance of slipping when navigating tight turns. On the other hand, less dense open-celled foams can offer superior comfort though are not advised for competitive racing situations and should only be selected in some circumstances. Cruiser motorcycles such as those created by Harley Davison would perhaps suit a more comfort-based solution, but this is down to rider discretion.

Whatever you choose – whether it be closed-cell, open-cell foam, or a combination of both for your base and upper layer – all can be customised to your needs. Our cut to size tool enables you to select and design motorcycle seat foam to your personal choice whether you need one panel or several. You may wish to order modular pieces in line with your exact dimensions before fixing these to your bike and upholstering in your desired material. Alternatively, some riders prefer ordering a foam sheet or block to custom carve into their desired shape, and for this, we recommend reconstituted or closed-cell foam.

To do this, we recommend marking the single foam piece with a dark pencil or washable marker to determine your desired shape and contours. Then, using a sharp craft-style knife, the first contours can be created, starting from the front and rear sides. Once you have established the correct length for your seat, it is easier to shape your needs' right seat and leg positions.

For further guidance on ordering foam for your motorcycle seat, please contact one of our friendly advisors.