10 Inch Ape Hangers for My Sportster? Need Advice!

Motorcycles
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Seeking Help on 10 Inch Ape Hangers for My Sportster

Hey fellow riders! I’m considering upgrading my Harley-Davidson Sportster with some 10 inch ape hangers and would love to gather some insights before making the leap. I’ve been doing some research, but there’s just so much information out there! Here are a few things I’m hoping to get advice on:

Pros and Cons

  • Comfort: How do the 10 inch ape hangers feel during long rides? Are they comfortable or more tiring than regular handlebars?
  • Control: Do they affect handling in any way, especially at different speeds?
  • Aesthetics: How do they change the look of the bike? I want something that looks great but also functional.

Installation Insights

  • DIY vs Professional: Has anyone tried installing them themselves? Any tips or is this best left to the pros?
  • Tools Needed: What tools should I have ready for the installation?

Recommendations

  • Brands & Models: Are there specific brands or models you would recommend? I’ve seen some options online, but reviews are mixed.
  • Where to Purchase: Any reliable e-commerce sites or local shops you guys trust for parts like this?

Personal Experiences

I would really appreciate hearing about your personal experiences with ape hangers. Did you notice any significant changes in your ride after the switch? Any regrets or lingering doubts?

Conclusion

Thanks in advance for your insight! Looking forward to your recommendations and experiences as I consider this upgrade to my beloved Sportster. Cheers!

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I’m considering installing 10 inch ape hangers on my Sportster too! I’ve heard it’s a great way to improve comfort and style. Anyone have a step-by-step guide?

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I did this last summer! You’ll need basic tools like a socket set, T25 Torx wrench, and some electrical tape. Safety first!

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Great to hear you’re diving into this! Make sure you have the correct cables. Many forget to consider the length needed for the new height of the bars.

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That’s so true! Longer cables can really make or break the installation. What length did you end up needing?

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I went with 6-inch longer cables, and it made a huge difference. Just make sure the throttle and brake lines are at the right length, or you’ll be in for a surprise!

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Also, don’t forget about the wiring for the controls. I found that routing it through the bars was a bit tricky. Did anyone else face that?

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For sure! It took me some time to get the wiring tucked away nicely. A bit of patience goes a long way here!

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Patience is key! Don’t rush it; otherwise, you might end up with frayed wires or a messy setup. Also, a second pair of hands can be super helpful during the installation.

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Totally agree! My buddy helped me, and it turned into a fun afternoon. Are you all doing this at home or at a shop?

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I’m doing it at home! Just want to save on labor costs. But I hope I don’t end up causing more harm than good.

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No worries, Tward! Just take it step by step. There are plenty of videos online that guide you through the process.

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Exactly! And if you hit a snag, the community is here. Just ask if you need help with a specific step!

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Good to know! I might hit you all up when I get confused. What’s the biggest challenge you faced?

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For me, it was adjusting the risers to get the perfect angle. It took several tries! Anyone else find positioning tricky?

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Absolutely! I almost gave up, but once you find the right spot, it feels great to ride!

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I think I’ll get my handlebars angled just right and then call it a day. Just make sure not to over-tighten anything, or you’ll regret it later!

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Haha, exactly! It’s like they say, ‘Keep it tight but not too tight!’, right?

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I think 10 inch ape hangers can look amazing on a Sportster! However, they do change your riding position significantly. You might want to consider seat modifications to improve comfort.

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That’s true! I’ve heard riser height can also impact handling. Increasing the risers can help position your arms better while riding.