I've ridden my entire adult life, many bikes, many brands. I had never even considered tall bars until I rode a custom chop of a friends. Honestly I was shocked at how comfortable they were. You have a lot of leverage with apes. I ride with my grips right below shoulder height now. Any higher and the wind kills me, any lower and I'm in lower back pain in an hour. To the people hating on apes, I used to be you. Try a pair before shooting off your mouth too hard. You might be as shocked as I was.
I have a 96 Dyna Wide Glide with 15 inch apes and the stock risers. I have driven over 500 miles one way with no problems and they are very comfortable. With the 15s the bars come to the level of my shoulders and the blood flow to my arms was perfect. Best investment I ever made.
I aped my footpegs, too. Moved 'em out 3 feet from where they were. So now when I'm riding with 14" ape bars and pegs, I'm truly cool in the pits and the crotch. And, I look like a freakin' Banshee.
Performance cruiser, 66yrs old, tried every height I could, love to rip and shred mountain Twisties like the Dragon. Found out that we arthritics may wish to keep hands at shoulder height: looks good and lets blood flow, has both countersteer and lean support, maximizing control, especially in a curve with some NO-RIDING NUMBNUTZ coming at you in your lane!
Great video and awesome story! Love my 18" apes on my Breakout. Mine are above my shoulder and my arms do not get tired. When I first got them my hands got numb but I realize now I was just gripping the hell outta them, not a problem any longer. Really a fun ride on a bike with apes
Beartooth Pass north of Yellowstone on the Montana/Wyoming border and is my favorite ride. The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway leads from Cody, WY to the top. Switchbacks and sharp curves all the way down amid some the most beautiful scenery the West has to offer. It's pretty much like riding back and forth across the face of a steep mountain range which is what you're doing. The bottom is the destination and it's long ways down, so maintaining a little pucker and keeping eyes on the road are both necessary skills. My ride is an ultra limited with Harley 12" mini apes and a Corbin dual-tour seat. That puts my controls just at the top of the batwing. It's a comfortable position for me on an all day ride.
I just found your channel, and JUST IN TIME! I have an '01 Softail Deuce with the stock bars, and after about 2.5 hrs, my neck, shoulders, and back really get tight, knot uo, and hurt! Have been debating apes, and have been concerned about right height and posture. I'm 5'10" with long arms, and I'm thinking 14s or 16s. I watched your "how to determine..." video and that really made me feel more confident in getting it right. I wasn't aware of width differences in curved or pointed/angled, and I'm glad I watched. My stock bars are quite wide, and I definitely want to go a lil narrower. Sorry for the ramble. Again, thansk for the vids, instant sub!!!
That puts it into words.... Started on stock (Harley) "Buckhorns", then went to mini-apes & extended forks....and upward. The gradual/natural transition influenced my riding style, as I continued to try & keep up with other riders on the road on different types (style) bikes! Other riders would often say how surprised they were that I could (relatively) keep up, in the twisties! Once I drifted into the street-bike scene I had to re-learn how to (counter) steer the bike into turns instead of (smoothly) leaning with the bike...I just didn't know (experience) any better!!
Been riding for 40+ years and just recently, put a back rest and 12" LA Chopper Twin Peaks bars on my 12 Ultra Classic, DAMN!! Wish I hadnt waited that long!! cannot believe the comfort level now. Taking it next month on my first long trip with that set up and really looking forward to see how it goes. I will say, i did ride a Brothers street glide with 16" bars and, I have a jacked up shoulder from my military service, and just after about a 15 min ride, I was hurting for 2 days after that so I was reluctant to get any bars. So anyone reading this may want to take that into consideration, higher is not always a good thing.
18 inch on my 03 Wide Glide, 16 inch on my 49 kick only raked chop. Switching my 80/80 from stock to 18 inch, very happy with apes and will never go back to stock. As far as riding goes, all over South Dakota. PEACE
I run 19 inch apes on my softail and could never go back to having stock bars. Will be the first mod on every bike I ever own. As for favorite place I dont have one. I don't care where I'm going as long as I'm riding
I bought a pair of 16' for my 2009 Road Glide from Hill Country. Not going to lie, those things ain't cheap I got the full pre-wired kit with controls just last year. But the quality is top-notch and I haven't had a single problem with them👍
I’m 6’4” and I ride 16” apes on all my Harley’s, you’re building me 16’s for my 07 ultra classic. I run my apes with a lil more than a 95 degree bend in my elbow. (Out toward the bars) Keeps my posture comfortable, keeps the pullback close enough to slow maneuver with ease, makes counter steering completely natural, my wrists don’t go numb. Vanocker canyon, Iron Mountain, Needles are a complete breeze with my apes (been riding in Colorado over 30 years, might help too) I don’t like the ridiculous heights where a guy can’t even U turn because his armpits are above his nostrils, but fit properly, apes are much more comfortable, especially with shoulder, wrist, and back issues
Awesome video! What you said is key for so many people... They go out, buy a new Harley and it performs like absolute shit. They are forced to go out and modify a brand new bike, not that they wanted to in the first place, but because they HAVE to. Just got rid of my 2016 Ultra Limited I bought used in Dec 2019 that had 15 miles on it because performance was absolutely comical. No power, horrible cornering and highwas riding was scary. I simply never felt safe on the bike. Had a 2008 Goldwing for 12 years and also have a 2018 VMax. Money fixes everything, but not everyone wants to go through the headache. Love your videos :)
I’m 5’6” and the stock bars on my 2022 Lowrider S had me in an uncomfortable forward lean. Putting 12” ape hangers on the bike made a huge difference in riding comfort. My back is straight, my arms have some bend and hands are just below shoulder height.
Something you said really resonated with me. I've been riding my 2011 Crossbones since new. I've had the spring seat on it, the aftermarket HD tractor seat. Anyway, last week or so I bought a Mustang Wide Tripper with backrest. I took the backrest off for the time being, but something I never expected happened. The seat is lower, it sits me IN the bike instead of feeling like I'm ON it. I can feel the tires grip, or not. I can feel the paint on the road and each little bump. I'm no longer pushing the bike, I'm trusting it through the turns. To top that, I ordered some Wild 1 Chubby 14" at their recommendation to get the taller of the 12 or 14 I was up in the air about. Those haven't come in yet, but I'm excited about them. I'm local to you guys, I think you're an hour away. Great video and I feel a lot better about my purchase after watching this.
I love my HCC 13" apes. The stock bars on my Fatboy didn't mix well with carpel tunnel. These bars saved riding for me in East, Central Tennessee. or the Poconos area of Pennsylvania.
I have a 07 FLHRC about a year ago I put 16 inch x inch and a quarter cycle Smith bars on. It took a couple miles to get acclimated now anything I could do with short bars I can do with ape hangers ❤️
All due respect. You don’t turn your handlebars or muscle through turns at speeds above 15 - 20 mph. You counter steer through the turns by applying pressure to the handlebar. 20, 30 years riding experience doesn’t make anyone a good or great rider. Riding with proper technique does
That’s the dumbest comment I’ve ever read. “You don’t turn your bars above 15” followed by “you counter steer by applying pressure to the bars”… bout spit my damn drink out reading that.. with all due respect of course.
Totally agree with William Wheeler. If you don't know how to properly countersteer you have no business being on a bike period. The info in this video is enough to get someone killed.
I can really appreciate this video. Just recently got an 08 Road King Classic with the stock 7-inch bars . With a light bar like that those handlebars need to be a foot out of the top at least. I'm going to put a visor on the front light as well and not the two sides. At first I thought, should I be doing this, and now it's just obvious. Especially after looking at all the other bikes with high bars
I never liked apes especially on baggers until my 09 street Bob, and then I've had em on every bike. On my 16 ultra from a trip from MD to AR, my shoulder blades locked up and knew I needed to raise my arms. Did 10s at first, but now on my 17 SGS I went 12s. So much more responsive and comfortable. My fav spots is all back roads in southern MO into Arkansas.
Favorite place to ride is anywhere with minimal cars and air in my hair! Never had an issue before on 3-4 different sets of apes and bikes but my grips are vibrating and causing hand fatigue. I’m running 16” PYO Monkey Bars on a 15 EG. Running H-D “Nostalgic” coke bottle grips. Same grips I had on my previous FXDWG. Same height above body as I ran previously.
So I just got my Softail Deluxe back from the mechanic. During that time I was very hesitant of putting 16 apes. The moment I drove my bike home I couldn't believe how comfortable and functional they are. My lower back pain is gone! Unbelievable. It also depends how you adjust them to your stretch. My friend has them leaned more forward and its not functional. With all that said I can't believe I didn't do this sooner. I love my 16 inch apes! Great explanation on that video!
I have always pretty much rode my bikes with what ever bars were on it. I have had many different bikes-many. Then I bought a 21 RGS and by the time I got it home from the dealership my hands were numb and my back was killing me. Maybe 35 minite ride. Next weekend we went to Leesburg Bike Rally and Gator harley was running a special. Pick any Bars off the wall made by Chrome works and they were there get the bars installed for free. I picked some 2 inch 14" high chrome workz Bars. I love em-but wish I had gone 16 or even 18s. Made such a huge difference in riding compfort its insane. I was a bit worried about stopping and riding in a tight parking lot at first, ya get used to it pretty quick, I'm going Thursday to pick up a 2002 Heritage( 16 K original miles in a Harley Factory numbered paint scheme) that has 19 inch apes on it. The guy is giving me some 16s and the stock bars as well. My first thought was to switch em out.......maybe not.
Riding in Kumamoto, Japan. Specifically along the eastern Yatsushiro Sea coast. Great mix of sunshine and shady spots to cool down, plenty of twisties up and down hills like riding on a roller coaster (super fun), cliff top views overlooking the sea and Amakusa Islands, and very, very few cars due to the small population.
I’m in Baltimore, MD, which doesn’t really sound like a biker destination, but just north of the city, you get into some of the most spectacular horse country with lots of scenic, twisty roads. A few of these roads like Falls Road and Harford Road start in the city limits and can take you all the way up to PA without touching the highway.
Apes definitely improved my riding experience! I went with Todd's 17" Strip bars on my Street Bob FXBB. I posted a video about them as well. I love em!
Years ago I put 16" Chubbies on my "03 RoadKing and they worked out great. I had no idea what it would be like but once I got used to them (it didn't take long), the handling of my bike improved greatly. I was able to manuever it better and corner carving is a blast. With the chubbies I got better leverage and control over the stock bars. I've put 60K miles on the bike no issues or ever wanted to go back to stock bars. I am 5'7" and those bars were level to my shoulders. I have a mustang back rest and highway pegs which helps eat up the miles. Best move ever for me with a bike.
I got Lucky, Auburn , MA 01501 has it all [ hometown ] Highways, Turnpike , Lesser Highways . Millbury and Sutton [ border towns ] offer some of the best backroads I've ever ridden . The North Side of Worcester offers challenging hills , and a world class ride past the lake . [ my opinion ]
Good choice. I have a '15 1200 custom sportster and I just ordered 16" apes. Just hope it won't be too high. Those stock bars are ugly as hell man...I'm 6'2" and I'm really looking forward to riding with it. Ride safe bud.
@@realdexter1273 At 6'2", I think you'll be fine with 16" apes. The apes really improved the handling and control for me! If I might suggest something , I think you might want to change out the Riser bushings and use urethane instead of rubber. I replaced mine with steel bushings in order to minimize any slippage with the Apes! Not too worried about vibration with the Milwaukee eight counterbalanced engine, but we'll see how it works!
@@thatsabear That sounds good. I can hardly wait to finally ride with the new apes. On longer rides, as a tall rider, I always struggle with back pain. That will now change. Thanks man for your tip! That's smart, I'll follow your advice.
I have rode bikes for more than 20 years, mostly Harley’s but when I was younger I had a gsxr. To me the slumpt over stance of a sport bike became uncomfortable on long rides. But I’ve rode with drag bars, mini apes, stock bars and my bikes both have tall bars. One has 16” evil t bars and my (geyser) glide has 14” apes. Keep them high I say but it’s all a preference. Every person I’ve came across that says man I don’t know how you can ride like that I say sit on it and see how it feels and they are all surprised at how they feel. I have ridden many days 16 hr straight and I have no problems
Forsure im looking to get some ape handle bars from this from facebook hopefully it goes all well an i get them looking to straighten out my back have my hands up and cruise 😎 thanks for sharing brother
I'm just getting back into riding, after being out of it for about 20 years. Got a Sportster Custom 1200, every stock. I enjoy it around town, but on longer rides, by back does ache. In a couple months, I'm moving up to Road King. I hadn't thought seriously about going to apes. But, I will now! Thanks for the video.
this was a great video I have been running ape hangers since the late 70s mid-80s and love them I don't really recall when I heard about Hill Country custom but once I did I've used your bars ever since and love them I don't really recall when I heard about Hill Country custom but once I did I've used your bars ever since. the quality of the bars and the convenience I've getting everything I need to put those bars on in one package cannot be beat. I've ran the ape hangers the Smith bars depending on which bike I was riding and the size of the bars, I really love the 18th but after running down the road in Florida and seen an open road in front of me with a rider beside me we got to the bottom of the hill but the sun in our eyes when we noticed there was a railroad crossing arm down he was able to get around the arm I had to take the hit so I had a fairing on the front of the road king that took the initial hit but the 18 inch bars stuck above the fairing all I could do was duck and hold on to the bars the bars took the hit after the fairing and they spun all the way around and all the way down to the front end we drove down about a mile pulled over and pulled the bars back up and rode another 25 miles to home as my hands swollen inside my gloves. After that I put on the 16 in Apes. after that I put on the 16 in Apes to keep my hands just below the top of the fairing I will never stop running the ape hangers even though they have gotten me a few tickets over the years in Florida. And the road that I love are all over America, Sturgis, Beartooth Hwy, Sedona Arizona, And the Hill Country in Texas we are blessed with many beautiful roads.
Experienced rider myself apes at both right height and angle I was in 😮 and awe of how it has eased shoulder and back pain, as well as how easy counter steering has gotten for me
Great commentary. Inherited my Pop’s Street Glide with 16s. I was very tentative my first couple rides last summer. Was cornering wide and slow; Basically trying to keep the bike up straight and muscle the bars through a turn. Really took a few rides to put some throttle to it and let it lean through the corners. Like you said, once the trust is there, it’s so much more enjoyable. Curves on country roads are just sweet - love to go in at the right speed and just gas it through the middle and out. After a full summer of riding this year, I’d never want factory bars again. So much more comfortable, especially having back problems myself.
Tried them on a new Springfield Dark Horse 116, nope, not for me, felt like I was reaching too much. And when I cranked on it, I was really struggling to hang on. I however, love the stock bars on my 2019 Springfield classic. Perfect cruiser comfort.
I have a 2018 Sport Glide. The first thing I did was put on a set of 12" black mini apes from my old street bob. The factory bars were way too low and like you, my back was killing me because of the bend! I love my Sport Glide and its ability to go naked or bagged and faring. My mini apes made the difference!
I’m about to throw some 16inch apes on my Fatboy just started riding a few months ago but the stock bars are killing my lower back sat on some bikes and was happy to find out that 16inch apes felt pretty comfortable for me even tho I’m only 5’2
I have 16" apes. Way more comfortable now. My hands dont go numb now like they did with the beach bars. I ride needles highway in south dakota almost every weekend
I am 23 and most stock handlebars have me uncomfortable. I am currently on a road king. barely ride it still has stock bars. will be getting some of yalls 14 inch as soon as i can.
Great videos especially for explaining how to put together different upgrades or replacements really thorough so good job. You should have way more subscribers it seems
Good video. A conversation not brought up too much. I have mostly always rode with apes. I am tall with a long torso. Apes put my hands more level to my shoulders for cruising which gives me a comfortable ride for my back and neck. I feel like Harley puts out bikes set up for shorter people when it comes to stock seats and bars.
Once had a running argument with a guy on another Vid about Apes. Basically his point of view was because of Shoulder issues. Same with my Pop. I defended my choice for 16" of total rise running 6" risers with 10" minis. Put my hands a hair under Shoulder height and straighten's out my lower back, which is jacked up 6 ways from Sunday. It went back and forth until he realized he was generalizing everyone who runs Apes when I agreed with him that Apes wouldn't be good for him with his shoulder problems but I did get my Dad to Ride my Bike, after I swapped to 6 up 4 back Risers, and it was comfortable for him. He's a touch shorter than me now. He still doesn't think they would be as comfortable on his '99 Heritage or '04 Nomad but he's not as combative as he once was.
I won't go back to stock bars. Just added 14" meat hooks and I couldn't believe the difference in the ride and the feel. The center if gravity completely changed
The Lolo Pass from Idaho into Montana, and the Banff/Jasper corridor are both fantastic rides! My '07 SG came with 16" apes. I was a little leery at first, as I have arthritis in my shoulders, and wasn't sure it would be comfortable, but now I'll never have another bike without them! A little tricker to maneuver at slower speeds, but you get used to that quickly.
I had my hand grips 30" over my seat. It was on a rigid frame Sporty and it was the best handling bike I had ever ridden until I put apes on my FLH with the floorboards! Holy Fahk what a ride! The thing I noticed most is how the high grips make the bikes act like pendulums where the hands feel like they stay still like it's the pivot point and just shifting your hips right makes you turn left and shifting left makes you go right. No more pushing the handlebars down into the turn. It's all leaning and what a great feeling of freedom! I enjoy riding anywhere in the country except DOWNSTATE NEW YORK. Upstate NY is beautiful but the 5 Boroughs and Longguhisland BLOW for ENJOYABLE riding! If you like "COMBAT RIDING" and are an angry by nature type person you may love the holes in the roads and the assholes in the trucks and cars all trying to kill you! If that's you, have at it! It's not for me. Normally a state would be ashamed to have roads as bad as these are, but Emporer Cuomo has no pride, plain and simple. Ego on the otherhand, he's got more of than even Pres. Trump, but pride? He's void and it shows!
FL-33 from way up north to way down south. Light traffic, not many stop lights and nice scenery. I have to come on over to you guys and get some 16's on my Rebel 1100.
Leaning your bike should be second nature to any bike rider, regardless of their handlebars. Apes don't make you lean the bike better, or trust the bike more - that's learning to ride properly. Surely? And if stock bars hurt your back, put risers on them - keeps the bars at a sensible angle and height, but pulls them up nearer to you. I have done this, and also had 10" mini apes. I felt less control over the bike with the mini apes, I wouldn't dream of going higher, but with the stock bars and decent risers, not only was my ride angle more comfortable, but I lost no sense of control. That said, each to his or her own, and it's what feels good for you that counts. If apes work for you, fabulous. If they don't, there are alternatives. Ride safe.
I bought my pan with pull back drags in 1983 when i was 20, i couldn’t agree with you more, over the years, i went with 12 in., now i am 57, an my pan has 16in. On 4 in. Risers, and with a 48 wishbone frame they look like 22 in.
My local riding are the twisty roads of eastern middle Tennessee. My road glide special has stock bars. No issues, especially in the corners. I also ride sport and adventure bikes so maybe I am just more fit. I mean, they do call motorcycling a sport. I sit on every used bike with apes and just haven't found any that feel natural to me. They do keep the arm pits aired out better than low bars.
Might of not been paying enough attention, so gonna ask,.. is it ok to have bars above your shoulders? Keep hearing you don’t want your hands above shoulders…. Lookin for my first Harley, 19 slim maybe, definitely gonna get some kind of apes for it…
I have a 2004 Harley FXD and I have been wanting to put ape hangers on it for a while now. My bike came stock with back rest. What i need to know is I am 6'2, and I want the tallest apes I can put on it without be illegal, so shoulder height or just below is what I am looking for Can you recommend a height Ape Hangers for me?
I JUST bought a Harley 48 1200 and I'm considering putting apes on it. I cant decide if i should go with mini apes or full apes or WHAT size to go with. So suggestions on what would be best from anyone with any experience with apes on a sportster would be GREATLY appreciated.
The nice thing is, switching handlebars is simple. Have two sets of cables and brake lines, two or more sets of bars, and do the switcheroo when the mood strikes.
One of your best videos. We always get the what about new things to upgrade and personalize our bikes but rarely get the "why" of personal experience with that much in depth thought. I'm thinking of either 12" or 14" on my brand new electra glide. Going to Biketoberfest (never been to a festival before) and want my experience to be centered around getting taller bars to make it more comfortable. My low rider has 9" risers with a drag bar. And I always have wished I went a little taller. I'm 5-10 and nearing 60 years. So I want comfort just not too much.
I think ape hangers are ridiculous and certainly they are not an increased aid to steering the bike but my belief is that everyone should enjoy their bike in their own way. So have at it.
@Kenny H Agreed....I've been riding from 16 as well and now 68....I just went to a set of 16" apes I had in my garage from the original mini apes that came on the low riders...plus I was wanting to replace the cables. I've had apes forever, plus I am 6' 6" so apes and forward controls are a must.
What if one suffers a bit from carpal tunnel ? Doesn't blood flow away from hands and arm's , causing fatigue ? I love the way they look but l'm hesitant on getting them because of this condition ?
I could be wrong but doesn't South Dakota have a shoulder height law on handle bars. I have been told that some people loosen there clamps so if they meet a cop they can pull the bars back to lower them. Not all states are the same.
He talks about having to 'trust' the bike. That's insane to me. You'd have to ride so far within the capabilities of the bike so as to not have an accident. I like corners, braking, acceleration and being in control of those things.
I've ridden my entire adult life, many bikes, many brands. I had never even considered tall bars until I rode a custom chop of a friends. Honestly I was shocked at how comfortable they were. You have a lot of leverage with apes. I ride with my grips right below shoulder height now. Any higher and the wind kills me, any lower and I'm in lower back pain in an hour. To the people hating on apes, I used to be you. Try a pair before shooting off your mouth too hard. You might be as shocked as I was.
I've never.but just bought a bike with drag bars they are killing my back. So apes hmmm. I need to check it out.
I have a 96 Dyna Wide Glide with 15 inch apes and the stock risers. I have driven over 500 miles one way with no problems and they are very comfortable. With the 15s the bars come to the level of my shoulders and the blood flow to my arms was perfect. Best investment I ever made.
I aped my footpegs, too. Moved 'em out 3 feet from where they were. So now when I'm riding with 14" ape bars and pegs, I'm truly cool in the pits and the crotch. And, I look like a freakin' Banshee.
98 soft tail springer with 18" apes is currently what I ride & I love my apes... 13 yrs 💪
Performance cruiser, 66yrs old, tried every height I could, love to rip and shred mountain Twisties like the Dragon. Found out that we arthritics may wish to keep hands at shoulder height: looks good and lets blood flow, has both countersteer and lean support, maximizing control, especially in a curve with some NO-RIDING NUMBNUTZ coming at you in your lane!
Truth spoken brother
Great video and awesome story! Love my 18" apes on my Breakout. Mine are above my shoulder and my arms do not get tired. When I first got them my hands got numb but I realize now I was just gripping the hell outta them, not a problem any longer. Really a fun ride on a bike with apes
Man this really helped me decide on actually taking the leap and getting some apes thank you for sharing your experience man 🤙🏽
Thanx brother, you said it well, trust the leans, at 65 and riding again 14 in. apes makes me feel like a rookie again. God bless.
Beartooth Pass north of Yellowstone on the Montana/Wyoming border and is my favorite ride. The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway leads from Cody, WY to the top. Switchbacks and sharp curves all the way down amid some the most beautiful scenery the West has to offer. It's pretty much like riding back and forth across the face of a steep mountain range which is what you're doing. The bottom is the destination and it's long ways down, so maintaining a little pucker and keeping eyes on the road are both necessary skills. My ride is an ultra limited with Harley 12" mini apes and a Corbin dual-tour seat. That puts my controls just at the top of the batwing. It's a comfortable position for me on an all day ride.
Another great video Robert, I installed the ape myself after watching HCCC videos. Great instruction and instructor!
I just found your channel, and JUST IN TIME! I have an '01 Softail Deuce with the stock bars, and after about 2.5 hrs, my neck, shoulders, and back really get tight, knot uo, and hurt! Have been debating apes, and have been concerned about right height and posture. I'm 5'10" with long arms, and I'm thinking 14s or 16s. I watched your "how to determine..." video and that really made me feel more confident in getting it right. I wasn't aware of width differences in curved or pointed/angled, and I'm glad I watched. My stock bars are quite wide, and I definitely want to go a lil narrower. Sorry for the ramble. Again, thansk for the vids, instant sub!!!
That puts it into words....
Started on stock (Harley) "Buckhorns", then went to mini-apes & extended forks....and upward.
The gradual/natural transition influenced my riding style, as I continued to try & keep up with other riders on the road on different types (style) bikes!
Other riders would often say how surprised they were that I could (relatively) keep up, in the twisties!
Once I drifted into the street-bike scene I had to re-learn how to (counter) steer the bike into turns instead of (smoothly) leaning with the bike...I just didn't know (experience) any better!!
I like them older buckhorn bars, the ones that sweep down, gotta be on an older style bike, they do put you in a comfortable riding position.
18s on an old chopped sportster, 16s on a Dyna, putting 16s on my Roadking. Love apes. Northern Maine has some great long beautiful rides.
Been riding for 40+ years and just recently, put a back rest and 12" LA Chopper Twin Peaks bars on my 12 Ultra Classic, DAMN!! Wish I hadnt waited that long!! cannot believe the comfort level now. Taking it next month on my first long trip with that set up and really looking forward to see how it goes. I will say, i did ride a Brothers street glide with 16" bars and, I have a jacked up shoulder from my military service, and just after about a 15 min ride, I was hurting for 2 days after that so I was reluctant to get any bars. So anyone reading this may want to take that into consideration, higher is not always a good thing.
18 inch on my 03 Wide Glide, 16 inch on my 49 kick only raked chop. Switching my 80/80 from stock to 18 inch, very happy with apes and will never go back to stock. As far as riding goes, all over South Dakota. PEACE
That was absolutely helpful. I'm in the process of deciding how tall the apes should be. 18" it is...
100 percent right on. iv a texas iron horse chopper, 18 inch apes, is so nice to ride. i never get back pain or sore arms ect.
I run 19 inch apes on my softail and could never go back to having stock bars. Will be the first mod on every bike I ever own. As for favorite place I dont have one. I don't care where I'm going as long as I'm riding
I thought apes were a joke until I borrowed a Harley with apes. They are very relaxing being able to hang some of your weight off of them.
I bought a pair of 16' for my 2009 Road Glide from Hill Country. Not going to lie, those things ain't cheap I got the full pre-wired kit with controls just last year. But the quality is top-notch and I haven't had a single problem with them👍
I’m 6’4” and I ride 16” apes on all my Harley’s, you’re building me 16’s for my 07 ultra classic.
I run my apes with a lil more than a 95 degree bend in my elbow. (Out toward the bars) Keeps my posture comfortable, keeps the pullback close enough to slow maneuver with ease, makes counter steering completely natural, my wrists don’t go numb. Vanocker canyon, Iron Mountain, Needles are a complete breeze with my apes (been riding in Colorado over 30 years, might help too)
I don’t like the ridiculous heights where a guy can’t even U turn because his armpits are above his nostrils, but fit properly, apes are much more comfortable, especially with shoulder, wrist, and back issues
I have 14's on my Softail Standard and I love them. Robert's correct, they force you to straighten up your posture. Give them a try.
I love riding through the Allegheny Mountains of PA. Keep up the great content!
Brandon H thru new hope pa, along the delavare canal or river or what ever that stream is
@@ansv3340 I'll have to look into that!
Awesome video! What you said is key for so many people... They go out, buy a new Harley and it performs like absolute shit. They are forced to go out and modify a brand new bike, not that they wanted to in the first place, but because they HAVE to. Just got rid of my 2016 Ultra Limited I bought used in Dec 2019 that had 15 miles on it because performance was absolutely comical. No power, horrible cornering and highwas riding was scary. I simply never felt safe on the bike. Had a 2008 Goldwing for 12 years and also have a 2018 VMax. Money fixes everything, but not everyone wants to go through the headache.
Love your videos :)
I’m 5’6” and the stock bars on my 2022 Lowrider S had me in an uncomfortable forward lean. Putting 12” ape hangers on the bike made a huge difference in riding comfort. My back is straight, my arms have some bend and hands are just below shoulder height.
Something you said really resonated with me. I've been riding my 2011 Crossbones since new. I've had the spring seat on it, the aftermarket HD tractor seat. Anyway, last week or so I bought a Mustang Wide Tripper with backrest. I took the backrest off for the time being, but something I never expected happened. The seat is lower, it sits me IN the bike instead of feeling like I'm ON it. I can feel the tires grip, or not. I can feel the paint on the road and each little bump. I'm no longer pushing the bike, I'm trusting it through the turns. To top that, I ordered some Wild 1 Chubby 14" at their recommendation to get the taller of the 12 or 14 I was up in the air about. Those haven't come in yet, but I'm excited about them. I'm local to you guys, I think you're an hour away. Great video and I feel a lot better about my purchase after watching this.
I love my HCC 13" apes. The stock bars on my Fatboy didn't mix well with carpel tunnel. These bars saved riding for me in East, Central Tennessee. or the Poconos area of Pennsylvania.
I have a 07 FLHRC about a year ago I put 16 inch x inch and a quarter cycle Smith bars on. It took a couple miles to get acclimated now anything I could do with short bars I can do with ape hangers ❤️
All due respect. You don’t turn your handlebars or muscle through turns at speeds above 15 - 20 mph. You counter steer through the turns by applying pressure to the handlebar. 20, 30 years riding experience doesn’t make anyone a good or great rider. Riding with proper technique does
10-4
That’s the dumbest comment I’ve ever read. “You don’t turn your bars above 15” followed by “you counter steer by applying pressure to the bars”… bout spit my damn drink out reading that.. with all due respect of course.
Totally agree with William Wheeler. If you don't know how to properly countersteer you have no business being on a bike period. The info in this video is enough to get someone killed.
With all due respect to everybody what William Wheeler wrote is actually a fact….it is NOT an opinion…
@@glennhour8617 doood… that is exactly how you counter steer
I can really appreciate this video. Just recently got an 08 Road King Classic with the stock 7-inch bars . With a light bar like that those handlebars need to be a foot out of the top at least. I'm going to put a visor on the front light as well and not the two sides. At first I thought, should I be doing this, and now it's just obvious. Especially after looking at all the other bikes with high bars
I never liked apes especially on baggers until my 09 street Bob, and then I've had em on every bike. On my 16 ultra from a trip from MD to AR, my shoulder blades locked up and knew I needed to raise my arms. Did 10s at first, but now on my 17 SGS I went 12s. So much more responsive and comfortable. My fav spots is all back roads in southern MO into Arkansas.
A little further south into the Buffalo National River area is sweet.
I just bought a Road King with 16s and I love them would never go back.
Riding thru the Rockies from Montana to Seattle on US-2 and from Coeur d"Alene, ID down to Boise and out thru Wyoming.
Favorite place to ride is anywhere with minimal cars and air in my hair!
Never had an issue before on 3-4 different sets of apes and bikes but my grips are vibrating and causing hand fatigue. I’m running 16” PYO Monkey Bars on a 15 EG. Running H-D “Nostalgic” coke bottle grips. Same grips I had on my previous FXDWG. Same height above body as I ran previously.
check your crank, run out!
So I just got my Softail Deluxe back from the mechanic. During that time I was very hesitant of putting 16 apes. The moment I drove my bike home I couldn't believe how comfortable and functional they are. My lower back pain is gone! Unbelievable. It also depends how you adjust them to your stretch. My friend has them leaned more forward and its not functional. With all that said I can't believe I didn't do this sooner. I love my 16 inch apes! Great explanation on that video!
+ironmerv Told ya!! Just kidding, LOL
I wish everyone would try them at least once
I love riding in Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Colorado. I have ape hangers and love them.
In Virginia goin up Rt.211 through Warrenton to skyline drive to Front royal lots of turns and scenery!Mountains!!
Are your brake and clutch hoses routed internally? Looks clean
North Carolina! I love the twisties!!
No place like paradise.NEW MEXICO !!!!
I have always pretty much rode my bikes with what ever bars were on it. I have had many different bikes-many. Then I bought a 21 RGS and by the time I got it home from the dealership my hands were numb and my back was killing me. Maybe 35 minite ride. Next weekend we went to Leesburg Bike Rally and Gator harley was running a special. Pick any Bars off the wall made by Chrome works and they were there get the bars installed for free. I picked some 2 inch 14" high chrome workz Bars. I love em-but wish I had gone 16 or even 18s. Made such a huge difference in riding compfort its insane. I was a bit worried about stopping and riding in a tight parking lot at first, ya get used to it pretty quick, I'm going Thursday to pick up a 2002 Heritage( 16 K original miles in a Harley Factory numbered paint scheme) that has 19 inch apes on it. The guy is giving me some 16s and the stock bars as well. My first thought was to switch em out.......maybe not.
Riding in Kumamoto, Japan. Specifically along the eastern Yatsushiro Sea coast. Great mix of sunshine and shady spots to cool down, plenty of twisties up and down hills like riding on a roller coaster (super fun), cliff top views overlooking the sea and Amakusa Islands, and very, very few cars due to the small population.
I’m in Baltimore, MD, which doesn’t really sound like a biker destination, but just north of the city, you get into some of the most spectacular horse country with lots of scenic, twisty roads. A few of these roads like Falls Road and Harford Road start in the city limits and can take you all the way up to PA without touching the highway.
Delaware guy here. We have route 9 on the coast and sometimes go into Maryland on 273 to route 1. Over the conowingo dam and it’s beautiful.
Union Tavern!
Apes definitely improved my riding experience! I went with Todd's 17" Strip bars on my Street Bob FXBB. I posted a video about them as well. I love em!
Apes help me with my back problems. I run 16” now level with my shoulders. I really enjoy riding the Black Hills.
Years ago I put 16" Chubbies on my "03 RoadKing and they worked out great. I had no idea what it would be like but once I got used to them (it didn't take long), the handling of my bike improved greatly. I was able to manuever it better and corner carving is a blast. With the chubbies I got better leverage and control over the stock bars. I've put 60K miles on the bike no issues or ever wanted to go back to stock bars. I am 5'7" and those bars were level to my shoulders. I have a mustang back rest and highway pegs which helps eat up the miles. Best move ever for me with a bike.
I got Lucky, Auburn , MA 01501 has it all [ hometown ] Highways, Turnpike , Lesser Highways . Millbury and Sutton [ border towns ] offer some of the best backroads I've ever ridden . The North Side of Worcester offers challenging hills , and a world class ride past the lake . [ my opinion ]
14" on my '07 1200 custom sportster and just put 16" apes on my 2018 FLHC. Makes a world of difference for me at 6'4"!
Good choice. I have a '15 1200 custom sportster and I just ordered 16" apes. Just hope it won't be too high. Those stock bars are ugly as hell man...I'm 6'2" and I'm really looking forward to riding with it. Ride safe bud.
@@realdexter1273 At 6'2", I think you'll be fine with 16" apes. The apes really improved the handling and control for me!
If I might suggest something , I think you might want to change out the Riser bushings and use urethane instead of rubber. I replaced mine with steel bushings in order to minimize any slippage with the Apes! Not too worried about vibration with the Milwaukee eight counterbalanced engine, but we'll see how it works!
@@thatsabear That sounds good. I can hardly wait to finally ride with the new apes. On longer rides, as a tall rider, I always struggle with back pain. That will now change.
Thanks man for your tip! That's smart, I'll follow your advice.
I have rode bikes for more than 20 years, mostly Harley’s but when I was younger I had a gsxr. To me the slumpt over stance of a sport bike became uncomfortable on long rides. But I’ve rode with drag bars, mini apes, stock bars and my bikes both have tall bars. One has 16” evil t bars and my (geyser) glide has 14” apes. Keep them high I say but it’s all a preference. Every person I’ve came across that says man I don’t know how you can ride like that I say sit on it and see how it feels and they are all surprised at how they feel. I have ridden many days 16 hr straight and I have no problems
Riding in Australia south east coast. Some beautiful scenic rides around here.
Love doing the Bandera run here in Texas. Very biker friendly town.
Forsure im looking to get some ape handle bars from this from facebook hopefully it goes all well an i get them looking to straighten out my back have my hands up and cruise 😎 thanks for sharing brother
14" on my 2001 Indian Chief, I love em both.
Zion, Bryce Canyon, and North Rim of the Grand Canyon are my favorite rides, I live in southern Utah.
I'm just getting back into riding, after being out of it for about 20 years. Got a Sportster Custom 1200, every stock. I enjoy it around town, but on longer rides, by back does ache. In a couple months, I'm moving up to Road King. I hadn't thought seriously about going to apes. But, I will now! Thanks for the video.
I thought the 1200 had mini apes
this was a great video I have been running ape hangers since the late 70s mid-80s and love them I don't really recall when I heard about Hill Country custom but once I did I've used your bars ever since and love them I don't really recall when I heard about Hill Country custom but once I did I've used your bars ever since. the quality of the bars and the convenience I've getting everything I need to put those bars on in one package cannot be beat. I've ran the ape hangers the Smith bars depending on which bike I was riding and the size of the bars, I really love the 18th but after running down the road in Florida and seen an open road in front of me with a rider beside me we got to the bottom of the hill but the sun in our eyes when we noticed there was a railroad crossing arm down he was able to get around the arm I had to take the hit so I had a fairing on the front of the road king that took the initial hit but the 18 inch bars stuck above the fairing all I could do was duck and hold on to the bars the bars took the hit after the fairing and they spun all the way around and all the way down to the front end we drove down about a mile pulled over and pulled the bars back up and rode another 25 miles to home as my hands swollen inside my gloves. After that I put on the 16 in Apes. after that I put on the 16 in Apes to keep my hands just below the top of the fairing I will never stop running the ape hangers even though they have gotten me a few tickets over the years in Florida. And the road that I love are all over America, Sturgis, Beartooth Hwy, Sedona Arizona, And the Hill Country in Texas we are blessed with many beautiful roads.
Experienced rider myself apes at both right height and angle I was in 😮 and awe of how it has eased shoulder and back pain, as well as how easy counter steering has gotten for me
Great commentary. Inherited my Pop’s Street Glide with 16s. I was very tentative my first couple rides last summer. Was cornering wide and slow; Basically trying to keep the bike up straight and muscle the bars through a turn. Really took a few rides to put some throttle to it and let it lean through the corners. Like you said, once the trust is there, it’s so much more enjoyable. Curves on country roads are just sweet - love to go in at the right speed and just gas it through the middle and out. After a full summer of riding this year, I’d never want factory bars again. So much more comfortable, especially having back problems myself.
I just purchased your 14" kit for my 2003 Road King Classic
I just got a bike with my first set of apes. They are 16" high. I though it would be uncomfortable, but it feels great on my back.
Back of the dragon, rt 16, Marion, VA to Tazwell, VA has been my favorite so far.
Tried them on a new Springfield Dark Horse 116, nope, not for me, felt like I was reaching too much. And when I cranked on it, I was really struggling to hang on. I however, love the stock bars on my 2019 Springfield classic. Perfect cruiser comfort.
I bought a set of LA customs 13 inch bars from HCC AND i absolutely love them on my 06 Road King.
I have a 2018 Sport Glide. The first thing I did was put on a set of 12" black mini apes from my old street bob. The factory bars were way too low and like you, my back was killing me because of the bend! I love my Sport Glide and its ability to go naked or bagged and faring. My mini apes made the difference!
I’m about to throw some 16inch apes on my Fatboy just started riding a few months ago but the stock bars are killing my lower back sat on some bikes and was happy to find out that 16inch apes felt pretty comfortable for me even tho I’m only 5’2
I have 16" apes. Way more comfortable now. My hands dont go numb now like they did with the beach bars. I ride needles highway in south dakota almost every weekend
I am 23 and most stock handlebars have me uncomfortable. I am currently on a road king. barely ride it still has stock bars. will be getting some of yalls 14 inch as soon as i can.
Great videos especially for explaining how to put together different upgrades or replacements really thorough so good job. You should have way more subscribers it seems
had 16"s on my ultra classic so decided this time I'm going with 20"s....I'll be putting my order in a few weeks
I just bought my first Harley--a Road Glide, and I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger on bars, but your video is convincing.
Go for it, now or never.. brother
Good video. A conversation not brought up too much. I have mostly always rode with apes. I am tall with a long torso. Apes put my hands more level to my shoulders for cruising which gives me a comfortable ride for my back and neck. I feel like Harley puts out bikes set up for shorter people when it comes to stock seats and bars.
My favorite place to ride is the Scenic route along Lake Michigan. 😎
Once had a running argument with a guy on another Vid about Apes. Basically his point of view was because of Shoulder issues. Same with my Pop. I defended my choice for 16" of total rise running 6" risers with 10" minis. Put my hands a hair under Shoulder height and straighten's out my lower back, which is jacked up 6 ways from Sunday. It went back and forth until he realized he was generalizing everyone who runs Apes when I agreed with him that Apes wouldn't be good for him with his shoulder problems but I did get my Dad to Ride my Bike, after I swapped to 6 up 4 back Risers, and it was comfortable for him. He's a touch shorter than me now. He still doesn't think they would be as comfortable on his '99 Heritage or '04 Nomad but he's not as combative as he once was.
I won't go back to stock bars. Just added 14" meat hooks and I couldn't believe the difference in the ride and the feel. The center if gravity completely changed
I don't feel like you rambled thanks a lot for the information brother
The Lolo Pass from Idaho into Montana, and the Banff/Jasper corridor are both fantastic rides! My '07 SG came with 16" apes. I was a little leery at first, as I have arthritis in my shoulders, and wasn't sure it would be comfortable, but now I'll never have another bike without them! A little tricker to maneuver at slower speeds, but you get used to that quickly.
Couldn't agree more with the rides you mentioned. They are both very beautiful roads.
I had my hand grips 30" over my seat. It was on a rigid frame Sporty and it was the best handling bike I had ever ridden until I put apes on my FLH with the floorboards! Holy Fahk what a ride!
The thing I noticed most is how the high grips make the bikes act like pendulums where the hands feel like they stay still like it's the pivot point and just shifting your hips right makes you turn left and shifting left makes you go right. No more pushing the handlebars down into the turn. It's all leaning and what a great feeling of freedom!
I enjoy riding anywhere in the country except DOWNSTATE NEW YORK. Upstate NY is beautiful but the 5 Boroughs and Longguhisland BLOW for ENJOYABLE riding! If you like "COMBAT RIDING" and are an angry by nature type person you may love the holes in the roads and the assholes in the trucks and cars all trying to kill you! If that's you, have at it! It's not for me.
Normally a state would be ashamed to have roads as bad as these are, but Emporer Cuomo has no pride, plain and simple. Ego on the otherhand, he's got more of than even Pres. Trump, but pride? He's void and it shows!
I’m thirty and it’s literally like you read my thoughts
Awesome vid cheers for sharing, I'm from New Zealand so have amazing windy roads and stunning scenery 🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿🤙🤙🤙👍👍👍
FL-33 from way up north to way down south. Light traffic, not many stop lights and nice scenery.
I have to come on over to you guys and get some 16's on my Rebel 1100.
Leaning your bike should be second nature to any bike rider, regardless of their handlebars. Apes don't make you lean the bike better, or trust the bike more - that's learning to ride properly. Surely? And if stock bars hurt your back, put risers on them - keeps the bars at a sensible angle and height, but pulls them up nearer to you. I have done this, and also had 10" mini apes. I felt less control over the bike with the mini apes, I wouldn't dream of going higher, but with the stock bars and decent risers, not only was my ride angle more comfortable, but I lost no sense of control.
That said, each to his or her own, and it's what feels good for you that counts. If apes work for you, fabulous. If they don't, there are alternatives. Ride safe.
The mountains of Tennessee & North Carolina
Large hills*
I bought my pan with pull back drags in 1983 when i was 20, i couldn’t agree with you more, over the years, i went with 12 in., now i am 57, an my pan has 16in. On 4 in. Risers, and with a 48 wishbone frame they look like 22 in.
+Raymond Kolbus NICE!!!!
And this was a great video. Very interesting. I love listening to people stories. Let's see more of them.
My local riding are the twisty roads of eastern middle Tennessee. My road glide special has stock bars. No issues, especially in the corners. I also ride sport and adventure bikes so maybe I am just more fit. I mean, they do call motorcycling a sport.
I sit on every used bike with apes and just haven't found any that feel natural to me. They do keep the arm pits aired out better than low bars.
Might of not been paying enough attention, so gonna ask,.. is it ok to have bars above your shoulders? Keep hearing you don’t want your hands above shoulders….
Lookin for my first Harley, 19 slim maybe, definitely gonna get some kind of apes for it…
I have a 2004 Harley FXD and I have been wanting to put ape hangers on it for a while now. My bike came stock with back rest. What i need to know is I am 6'2, and I want the tallest apes I can put on it without be illegal, so shoulder height or just below is what I am looking for Can you recommend a height Ape Hangers for me?
I JUST bought a Harley 48 1200 and I'm considering putting apes on it. I cant decide if i should go with mini apes or full apes or WHAT size to go with. So suggestions on what would be best from anyone with any experience with apes on a sportster would be GREATLY appreciated.
North Louisiana and south Arkansas And think you for Sharing this I was having a hard decision to make up my mind on what size to go with
gonna have to try convincing my dad to put some on his nighttrain
Northern Arizona white mountains, Salt River Canyon is SICK
The nice thing is, switching handlebars is simple. Have two sets of cables and brake lines, two or more sets of bars, and do the switcheroo when the mood strikes.
So what would suggest for 09 nightrain for a guy with a bad right wrist that falls asleep all the time
Hwy 84 along the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. From the Dalles all the way to Astoria on the coast!
Love apes. Had 16 on the roadking. Got a 19 ultra limited and it still has stock. Not for long
One of your best videos. We always get the what about new things to upgrade and personalize our bikes but rarely get the "why" of personal experience with that much in depth thought. I'm thinking of either 12" or 14" on my brand new electra glide. Going to Biketoberfest (never been to a festival before) and want my experience to be centered around getting taller bars to make it more comfortable. My low rider has 9" risers with a drag bar. And I always have wished I went a little taller. I'm 5-10 and nearing 60 years. So I want comfort just not too much.
I think ape hangers are ridiculous and certainly they are not an increased aid to steering the bike but my belief is that everyone should enjoy their bike in their own way. So have at it.
Apes are about the comfort.. Thats all.
It's counterintuitive, but apes actually let you steer easier and give you better feel for the road.
@Kenny H Agreed....I've been riding from 16 as well and now 68....I just went to a set of 16" apes I had in my garage from the original mini apes that came on the low riders...plus I was wanting to replace the cables. I've had apes forever, plus I am 6' 6" so apes and forward controls are a must.
You're speaking out of ignorance and a preconceived stereotype about guys who ride with apes.
What if one suffers a bit from carpal tunnel ? Doesn't blood flow away from hands and arm's , causing fatigue ?
I love the way they look but l'm hesitant on getting them because of this condition ?
I could be wrong but doesn't South Dakota have a shoulder height law on handle bars. I have been told that some people loosen there clamps so if they meet a cop they can pull the bars back to lower them. Not all states are the same.
When do you need optimal control of your bike? Racing and off-roading. Try either one with ape hangers and forward controls.
He talks about having to 'trust' the bike. That's insane to me. You'd have to ride so far within the capabilities of the bike so as to not have an accident. I like corners, braking, acceleration and being in control of those things.
+Phil Clarke LOL, some people will never get it, but it’s ok. That’s why the make red cars, green cars, and blue cars.