Anyone tried 14 inch ape hangers on their Sportster?

Motorcycles
1

I’m considering upgrading my Harley-Davidson Sportster with a set of 14-inch ape hangers, but I have a few questions before I take the plunge. I’ve seen a lot of posts about different handlebar heights and styles, but I want to get a better understanding of how these specific ape hangers will impact my riding experience.

Questions:

  1. Comfort: How comfortable are the 14-inch ape hangers for long rides? I do a lot of highway cruising and want to make sure I won’t end up with sore shoulders.
  2. Control: Do you feel like there’s a significant change in handling or control with these bars? I’ve read mixed opinions, and I want to know if it really makes a difference, especially in corners.
  3. Installation: How difficult is it to install them? Are there any special tools needed, or is it pretty straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills?
  4. Aesthetics: How do they look on a Sportster? I’m aiming for a more classic bobber style, and I want to ensure that they fit the vibe.

Additional Considerations:

  • Cable Extensions: Do I need to replace cables or wires when switching to 14-inch ape hangers? I want to avoid any surprises during installation.
  • Legal Issues: Are there any height restrictions in your state or city that I should be aware of?

I appreciate any insights or experiences you guys might have!

Thanks in advance!

2 Likes
2

I’ve installed 14 inch ape hangers on my Sportster! You’ll need basic tools like a socket set, screwdrivers, and possibly a torque wrench. Make sure to have a friend help—it’s a lot easier with two people.

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3

Great to hear! Did you encounter any challenges during the installation? I’ve read that rerouting cables can be a bit tricky.

4

Definitely! Rerouting cables is the most challenging part. You’ll need to extend your brake and clutch lines, usually with aftermarket cables. Measure twice so you don’t end up with too much slack!

5

Also, check the height of your mirrors. You might have to adjust or replace them to maintain visibility. It’s surprising how a higher handlebar can change everything!

6

That’s good to know! What extensions did you use? Any recommendations that worked well?

7

I went with the V-Twin extensions. They were easy to install and look great. Just make sure to look for ones that match your Sportster model!

8

What about the wiring? I’ve heard it can be a hassle. Is it necessary to run new wires for the controls?

9

It’s not too bad if you take your time. Often, you can use existing wiring but may need extensions for the throttle and switches. Just keep everything organized!

10

And don’t forget about your handlebars’ angle! Make sure they’re positioned comfortably for riding to avoid wrist strain. It makes all the difference.

4 Likes
11

Good point! Did anyone here add grips or a different throttle while upgrading the bars?

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12

I switched to some really soft grips. They help soften vibrations, which is nice on longer rides! Definitely worth considering.

13

Just a warning, be careful if you’re shorter—it can change your reach and how you handle the bike. Test ride first if you can!

14

We need to set a solid height limit to avoid any short-rider mishaps! Maybe we should stick to 12 inches instead? Haha, just kidding!

15

I’ve had 14 inch ape hangers on my Sportster for about a year now. They definitely change your posture and the ride feel. My back was sore at first, but I adjusted the seat height and that helped a lot.

4 Likes
16

I can agree with this! I found that after a few long rides, my arms felt fatigued. I now use grips with better padding, which has made a big difference.

17

What kind of grips did you switch to, regina77? I’m considering some changes to reduce fatigue on long rides.

18

I recently installed 14 inchers too! Initially, I felt more wind resistance, which was unexpected, but my posture is much more relaxed now. Just need to tweak the seat a bit.

19

Yeah, seat adjustments are key. I went for a wider seat with more cushion, and it really helps with comfort on long rides!

20

You might also consider adding a backrest, especially if you plan to ride long distances. It can provide a lot of support and minimize fatigue.

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