Hello all. I've searched the threads and the Internet high and low looking for ideas on a custom back rest. I just picked up a 2008 zx14 that needs a bit of tlc to get back in riding condition. While I've got all the plastics off, I wanted to try to fabricate some kind of back rest for my daughter(8yrs old) who rides with me since my wife refuses. I found a few old threads on this subject, however the pictures were no longer avaliable. Since the majority of my funds for this project have gone to priority parts, I don't really want to spend $200-$300 on a back rest if I can avoid it. From what I have seen so far that people have fabricated themselves, I know there is a huge amount of talent out there. Thanks in advance for your help guys. Hopefully someone somewhere can help me find what I'm looking for.

I think Corbin makes a seat with a back rest, look for a used one on craigs/ebay, but not going to be less than the $200-300 you dont want to spend.

Only other thing I can think of is look for the rear (Euro) passenger grab and fabricate/weld something on to it.

Plan C could be a used Givi top case with a back rest but thats $$$ also

dont do it man, i wouldnt feel right riding my eight year old girl that i dont have, using a back rest on this bike. not saying your gonna be goosing it or anything but just saying if your wife refuses then dont be stupid and want to ride your little girl, if the zx14r wanted you to have a back rest they would have issued you one.

I appreciate your concern. I'm not looking to take her on the highway or anywhere with speeds over 40mph. She's always enjoyed riding my other bikes, I would just feel a little more comfortable with a back rest for her. I wasn't looking to pick up another bike since I sold my last one last year, but this one fell in my lap and I couldn't pass it up. As I get older, I think I'm starting to lean towards getting a cruiser, but I look forward to getting this one on the road soon

I have the Corbin seat and the backrest. I use the backrest for long trips. It acts like an anchor point for my dry bag. I've never taken the wife or daughter for a ride with the backrest in place but I'm sure it would work for your needs. There is also a waist belt with handles that you wear and your passenger holds on to. That maybe an option for you.

+1 on the Corbin...
I have it, and a) passengers love it, if for no other reason than (possibly imaginary) peace of mind for not sliding off the back and b) it is the PERFECT spot to keep visor cleaner, chain lube, and when I tour, I stick my various chargers in a plastic baggy in there. Granted, Corbin solution (b/c you have to buy saddle too) is not cheap, but I like it. Even the looks have grown on me! Couple of photos below...

With the Corbin back rest your Daughter will be a long ways back.
Try to find a used one, they are expensive new.