Looks good reel!
RKC i had a top like yours on the v and the sea ox when i got them, it was the first thing gone!! you will love the stand up! maybe you can bolt the top on the arch? i have seen that before.
here was my cure for the seat hitting back of knees
or i just turn the sear to face the rear and use as a leaning post, it was a little tight for a 340 pound guy, but i just got weighted today and i hope it will be better now that i am 188!