Trouble removing stock seat on a 2004 VFR800A

I just received a new Corbin seat, but when I went to remove the old stock seat, the key would not move the locking mechanism enough to free the back of the seat. I can't see how I can reach the latch (other than destroying the seat)! Has anyone encountered this problem and what was the solution? Help!




1

 

They do fit tight. Try hammering your hand down and forward on the surface of the seat as you try to turn the key...WITHOUT SNAPPING the key in the chamber. If my memory serves me correct, the latching mechanism is closer to the rear of the seat and the front is held in place with a fixed hook type latch. SO try forcing down and forward near the rear of the seat as well.

I would go out and look close at mine for you but it is 60 miles away right now in the shop getting a clutch rebuild.​

 

If it’s like the 5G, you turn the key then push down on the latch behind the key.
Ignore me if this is what you are doing.

 

turn key, pull down on lever behind lock, lift up the rear of the seat slightly, then pull the whole seat towards the rear.

 

I think the 6th generation has no lever behind the key like the 5th gen. I have tried to push down on the back while turning the key, but the latch doesn't seem to give. I'll get a buddy to turn the key while pushing down and forward as suggested by Randy. I appreciate the suggestions!

 

I would also try spraying some sort of penetrating fluid inside that lock tumbler too in case that is where it is sticking up. I would think it would have to either be there, or where the latch of the key hooks onto the underside of the seat. If someone has a 6th gen, they could go take a look see exactly where that is and might be able to help out. Like I said, mine is in the shop, in another city or I would take a look see. A parts schematic might help you see just where the locking mechanism meets the saddle.

 

If I understand you correctly, the key is turning in the lock, but the seat is not budging? On my 6th Gen I have to turn the key, then try to push the seat BACKWARDS a little, then the back lift just enough to get my fingers underneath it and pull it backwards. Then it pops off!

 

I had a similar problem years ago, there is a cable from the lock on the side to the release in the tail, basically I found pushing down hard on the rear of the seat relieves pressure on the rear latch, then turn the key. Hope that works for you.

 

I recall having similar problems removing the seat on my 6th Gen whenever I had the seat cowl fitted to the rear seat. Without it the problem disappeared so I have never reinstated the cowl.

I have a feeling the presence of the cowl put the latch under tension - hence pushing down on the centre of the pillion seat makes sense if you find the latch is still engaged even after turning the key

Assuming the release cable has not come snapped or come adrift, then removing the seat should however be fairly simple..

Turn key anti-clockwise until it won't rotate any more (then hold it in that position - ideally get someone else to do that) then get hold of the rear of the seat and lift it slightly (1/2 inch is enough) whilst also pulling the seat rearwards (about 1 inch should be enough at which point you can finally lift the seat clear of the bike. The reason you need to move the seat back is that in addition to the actual lock mechanism there are strong latching tabs (plastic protrusions) moulded onto the underside of the seat which engage under tabs on the bike frame.

Bigger problems can occur if any stuff kept under the seat is not properly secured with those rubber securing bands. Obviously if stuff under the seat is not restrained, it could move around whilst you are out riding, and if you are really unlucky it could possibly end up wedged in a location which then prevents those latching tabs sliding back far enough to release from the frame and preventing the seat from being removed.

Good luck - let us know how you get on.

SkiMad

 

You must mean "turn the key clockwise" to release the latch, right? I was able to remove the cowel, since it was in the way. I have tried moving the seat back to clear the tabs, but the latch won't give so the seat is locked into position. I still need to get someone to help by turning the key all the way, and let me jiggle and try to get the latch to give. Thanks!

 

I took the bike in to Musselman Honda in Tucson and they were able to remove the seat. The latch mechanism is worn and needs to be replaced. Part is ordered and will replace it next week. The Corbin seat is wonderful! Thanks for all the helpful suggestions!