fits make: Harley.

( Brand: Harley-davidson ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 52587-80 ), ( Part Type: Pad Seat Bar Backrest ), ( Color: Brown, Tan ), ( Compatible Model: Sportster ), ( Material: Leather ), ( Item Length: 9 7/8 ), ( Vintage Part: Yes ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Rear ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Compatible Make: Harley Davidson ), ( Compatible Year: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Harley-Davidson 52587-80 NOS 2-Tone Rear Seat Sissy Bar Pad Backrest (7/8")** is a meticulously crafted aftermarket accessory designed to elevate both the comfort and style of your motorcycle s rear seating area. Engineered with Harley-Davidson s signature precision, this high-quality sissy bar pad features a **7/8-inch thickness**, offering a perfect balance between cushioning and structural integrity, ensuring riders and passengers enjoy a plush yet supportive seating experience during long rides. The **2-tone color scheme** likely a sleek combination of matte black and a contrasting tone such as tan, gray, or another premium shade adds a touch of modern sophistication to your bike s aesthetic while maintaining a timeless Harley-Davidson appeal. Crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, this pad is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, from urban commutes to highway cruising, without compromising on comfort or durability. The **NOS (New Old Stock) designation** indicates that this part is either brand new or a gently used, high-quality replacement with minimal wear, ensuring it meets the same exacting standards as factory-issued components. Whether you re a seasoned rider looking to upgrade your bike s ergonomics or a customizer aiming to refine the look and feel of your Harley, this sissy bar pad backrest delivers a seamless blend of functionality and style, making it an essential addition to any well-equipped motorcycle.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Harley-Davidson 52587-80 NOS 2-Tone Rear Seat Sissy Bar Pad/Backrest (7/8 Length)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Original Equipment Quality (OEM)** Being a **New Old Stock (NOS)** part means it is factory-fresh, unopened, and likely in pristine condition. Harley-Davidson parts are known for durability and compatibility with their motorcycles.
2. **Enhanced Comfort** The **2-tone design** (likely black and tan or similar) adds a stylish touch while improving grip and padding for the rider and passenger. The **sissy bar pad** reduces pressure on the rider s back, and the **backrest** provides better support during long rides.
3. **Proper Fitment** Harley-Davidson parts are engineered to fit their motorcycles precisely, reducing the risk of misalignment or improper installation compared to aftermarket alternatives.
4. **Resale Value** Since it s an **OEM part**, it retains higher resale value than generic or third-party replacements.
5. **Aesthetic Appeal** The **2-tone color scheme** matches Harley s classic styling, making it a visually appealing upgrade rather than just a functional one.
6. **Durability** Harley-Davidson materials are built to last, meaning this part should withstand regular use without premature wear.
7. **Easy Installation** As an OEM part, it should integrate smoothly with existing sissy bar and seat systems, requiring minimal modification.
---
#### **Cons:**1. **Higher Cost** Being a **new, unopened OEM part**, this will likely be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives. Harley-Davidson parts often come with a premium price tag.
2. **Limited Customization** Unlike aftermarket options, you cannot choose materials, colors, or designs beyond what Harley offers. The **2-tone pattern** may not match every rider s aesthetic preferences.
3. **Potential Overkill for Some Riders** If you rarely carry a passenger or prefer minimalist setups, this upgrade may not be necessary, making the cost unjustified.
4. **Weight Consideration** Adding extra padding and a backrest increases the overall weight of the seat/sissy bar system, which could slightly affect handling, especially on sportier Harley models.
5. **Availability & Lead Times** Harley-Davidson parts, even NOS, may have longer lead times depending on demand and stock levels, requiring patience for delivery.
6. **Potential for Overuse of "Premium" Features** Some riders may find that the **backrest** is unnecessary if they already have adequate lumbar support from their riding position.
7. **Installation Complexity (If DIY)** While designed for easy fitment, improper installation could lead to misalignment or discomfort. Professional installation may be recommended for best results.
---
### **Conclusion:**The **Harley-Davidson 52587-80 NOS 2-Tone Rear Seat Sissy Bar Pad/Backrest** is a **high-quality, comfortable, and stylish upgrade** for riders who prioritize **OEM reliability, aesthetics, and passenger comfort**. It is particularly beneficial for **touring or cruising riders** who frequently carry passengers or prefer a more cushioned, supportive seat setup.
However, if **budget is a concern** or if you **rarely use a sissy bar**, the cost may not justify the purchase. Additionally, riders who prefer **aftermarket customization** (e.g., different materials, colors, or ergonomics) might find better alternatives elsewhere.
For those who **value Harley s build quality and want a hassle-free, long-lasting upgrade**, this part is a **solid choice**. For others, weighing the **cost against actual usage** will determine whether it s worth the investment.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You want a **premium, comfortable, and stylish** sissy bar upgrade, frequently carry passengers, and prioritize **OEM reliability**.
- **Skip it if:** You are on a tight budget, rarely use a sissy bar, or prefer **aftermarket customization** over Harley s standard design.
- **Consider alternatives if:** You want **lighter weight, different materials, or a more aggressive riding position** in which case, aftermarket options may be more suitable.
Ultimately, this part is a **good investment for serious Harley riders** who want a **comfortable, durable, and visually appealing** upgrade.
It is a direct fit for: Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron head / XLS XLCH. Up for sale is a rare, factory-original New Old Stock NOS passenger sissy bar backrest pad. The leather remains supple, the piping is intact, and backing plate solid. This genuine Harley-Davidson component features the classic late-1970s / early 1980two-tone tan and brown leather styling, complete with factory stitched seams two center-accented buttons.
Mounting brackets and screws are not included. Harley-Davidson Super Glide FX / FXE FXEF FXWG Shovel head. Verified Dimensions: Total Cushion length height : 9 7/8 width : 4 1/4 Thickness: 2 3/4 Horizontal Mounting Hole Spacing: Center-to-Center. Fitment Compatibility: Originally produced for 1971 1980 model's equipped with factory high sissy bar upright hoops.
Condition Notes:This item is New Old Stock NOS. Because this is a vintage NOS item, it delivers the exact factory-correct look, density, and stitching that aftermarket reproduction pads simply cannot replicate. Vertical Mounting Hole Spacing: 4 Center-to-Center. It has never been mounted on a motorcycle.
Vintage NOS OEM Harley-Davidson Two-Tone Sissy Bar Backrest Pad. Perfect for a high-end vintage restoration project or period-correct chopper build. Please verify your sissy bar bracket dimensions using the measurements provided above prior to purchasing.