I had a VLX honda for a few years and when I first got it,I rode 300+ kms on the stock seat.I nearly crippled myself.The Japanese Sadist Designers had put the mounting bolt directly under my tail bone and as you say,after half an hour riding it seems you may as well not have a seat. I soon got a mustang!
On my Triumph,the Corbin is the best modification I've made.