u/Ferasone

Back in 2021, I built an early version of this backrest.

On paper, it looked right. Solid structure, clean mounting, everything aligned. But once I tested it, a problem showed up.

The backrest was rotating backward under load.

The issue was simple. Both mounting screws were on the same axis, so there was nothing stopping that rotation. No real locking point. That made the whole setup unstable over time.

At the time, I was also trying to keep things simple in terms of production. I didn’t want to introduce a separate locking device or add extra parts. Everything had to stay within CNC-cut plates.

So in the new version, I approached it differently.

I added a locking point away from the main screw axis, built directly into the plate design. No extra mechanism, just geometry doing the job. That single change stopped the backward rotation and made the structure stable under load.

Simple idea, but it changed everything.

Curious to hear your take.

Would you solve it the same way, or go for a completely different approach?

I designed this setup for my own Honda Rebel and tested it on my bike.

It’s a double backrest system for both rider and passenger, with:

• Adjustable rider backrest
• Passenger backrest
• Extra padded rear seat
• Radiator guard
• Headlight guard

The idea was simple: make long rides actually comfortable without ruining the look of the bike.

Curious what you guys think about the design and the concept.

If anyone wants to check more details, it’s available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGDHTZGQ

I tested two different backrest designs on my Honda Rebel 500… and the result surprised me.

On the left was an earlier prototype. Honestly, it didn’t look good at all. Raw, aggressive, not something you’d expect on a finished bike.

But the comfort? On another level.

At the time, I actually had some lower back pain. After riding with that version, the discomfort noticeably reduced. It wasn’t just “more comfortable”… it genuinely felt like proper support. Even without cushions, the way it held the lower back made a real difference.

On the right is the final version. Cleaner lines, more refined, something that actually fits the Rebel visually.

It’s still very comfortable. No issues for the rider at all.

But what really changed is the balance between comfort and design. The final version keeps the support while making it look like it belongs on the bike, not like an experiment.

One thing I learned during testing:

Comfort isn’t about padding. It’s about geometry.

This setup is a double adjustable backrest system (rider + passenger), designed specifically for the Rebel 500.

If anyone’s curious or thinking about upgrading their setup, I’m open to feedback.

US listing:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGDHTZGQ

Now also available in Canada with competitive pricing:

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DGDHTZGQ

And I also documented some of the process here:

https://youtu.be/tXfm2QDe-ek