2020 RTL Rider Backrest - how does it come off??

[Fyrefight]

Update... After reading the replies here I was able to pull the backrest. The clip under the seat was a bit stiff to say the least, and I'm contemplating just leaving it in the "release" position. Thanks a bunch!!

Ok, I've done the search thing and found nothing that helped.
I recently purchased a 2020 RTL that already has the BRP rider backrest installed. Thing is, when the wife is riding I'd like to take it off but can't seem to figure out how.
Can anyone enlighten me?

Thanks,
Fyre

[fatboy]

raise the drivers seat reach under pull the wire keeper forward

[peterparker]

Can a different driver backrest be fitted to the seat?
Suggestions on brands?

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

Can a different driver backrest be fitted to the seat?
Suggestions on brands?

Well I have always used the ones from Utopia on all my touring bikes, Spyders included. I haven't checked recently but I'm sure they make one for your year Spyder. they 1/2 BRP's price and are very adjustable .... You can even add a wedge to give more Lumbar support .... PM me on how this is done ....... Mike

[K80Shooter]

I second the Utopia, and to remove it on my 2020 RTL all I have to do is simply slid it up and off.

[Copperman]

Ok, I've done the search thing and found nothing that helped.
I recently purchased a 2020 RTL that already has the BRP rider backrest installed. Thing is, when the wife is riding I'd like to take it off but can't seem to figure out how.
Can anyone enlighten me?

Thanks,
Fyre

Raise the drivers seat and with a flashlight look under the seat where the backrest shaft comes down. You'll see a metal ring. Pull it forward about half an inch (just enough to unlock the seat shaft). If you cant grab it with your fingers, use a pair of pliers. Slide your seat out. That metal ring locks it on the bike.

[Peteoz]

I second the Utopia, and to remove it on my 2020 RTL all I have to do is simply slid it up and off.

Yes, but you can do that with the BRP backrest if you leave the lock bar off, K80 (which I always do )

Pete

[Pooch]

I put the Utopia on my 2021 RTL and zip-tied a rubber doorstop to the shaft to create a more supportive angle for my back.
The straight up/down did not give the support I needed.
You can't see the doorstop as the storage pouch covers it up.

[DT5534]

Frye
I had the same question some time ago. I kept at it and found the information (called my dealer). I made a YouTube video to show how to remove the backrest.
https://youtu.be/rqEx9qpGDBw
Note: don't pull the clip out all the way or you will be struggling to get it back in
Hope this helps

[ThreeWheels]

Frye
I had the same question some time ago. I kept at it and found the information (called my dealer). I made a YouTube video to show how to remove the backrest.
https://youtu.be/rqEx9qpGDBw
Note: don't pull the clip out all the way or you will be struggling to get it back in
Hope this helps

One small addition. Although designed for removal without a tool, I'm unable to move the wire clip unless I grab it with a pliers.
I'm also leaving the wire out to make it easier to remove.
I only remove to take out the rear seat.

[Peteoz]

Note: don't pull the clip out all the way or you will be struggling to get it back in

Hahaha……yep…….that is another of the reasons that convinced me to leave the clip out, DT

Pete

[DT5534]

I made sure to keep mine in as I have heard of a shortage of backrests and I really like mine.

[FrogmanDave]

I made sure to keep mine in as I have heard of a shortage of backrests and I really like mine.

Plus if it is out all the time you cannot use the upper position which I prefer.

[Peteoz]

Plus if it is out all the time you cannot use the upper position which I prefer.

Yeah, that is an excellent reason to leave it in, Dave. I only ever use the lower position.
I’m not so sure about worrying about it being nicked though. I have been using backrests for over 20 years, all unlocked, and have never lost one or heard of one being stolen. It’s a bit like locking your gas cap so no one can syphon your gas

Pete