I have one..it seems harder than the stock seat..
Yes, it is firmer, particularly in the center portion where the gel insert resides. It feels that way by design. For the same reasons the Corbin seats feel a lot firmer than stock. I used a Corbin on several sport-touring bikes in the past, and they are much, MUCH firmer than stock, and for a reason.
Unlike stock foam seats, the gel seats, the Corbins, Russel Day-Long, et al do not compress after a relatively short riding period. When the foam compresses, it may feel okay for a while, but the compressed foam results in that area of your butt not being supported the same as areas immediately adjacent to the compressed portion. This results in the creation of "hot spots", areas that burn and pinch after a fair amount of saddle time.
The Gel seat does not suffer from the "compressed foam" phenomena, because it is firmer and actually supports all areas of your butt equally (those portions that the gel actually makes contact with). So, yes, it does feel firmer initially, but it is for a good reason - less seat compression - which allows you to stay in the saddle for longer periods with (relative) comfort.
That said, it's still all very subjective to the rider.... kinda like tires, helmets, boots, etc. What is fantastic for one rider may be absolutely terribly for another....
