I want to move up from a sportster forty eight. I have test drove a wide glide and it felt a little long for my short legs. I don't know if I am just gonna look weird on it. May be a new seat or handle bars can fix this? Any short wide glide riders out there?

 

You can get reduced reach forwards, footboards, pullback risers, reduced reach seat, shorter shocks, or any combination of those. You are plenty tall enough.

 

I am 5' 7' and I have no problem reaching the front controls of my Wide Glide. Part of the Wide Glide's appeal is the slightly stretched profile you get, just like you were riding a chopper. It did take a couple of hours of riding time to get used to the front controls versus the floorboards of my old Electra Glide but I wouldn't trade my Glide for anything now.

If you like the way the ride feels, Go For It!

Navarre

 

Most of rider ergonomics is based on the things you listed as a combination or one or two adjustments.
There are seats that move you slightly forward in position or back, there's forward foot control designs for everybody, and handlebar types to make the whole rider/bike synergy work.
If you still have doubts, rent a WG for the day from a dealer and see how you feel after.

 

I suggest you try thick soled boots first. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best.

 

Always remember, any problem can be fixed with an unlimited amount of money.

Yes, you can buy reduced reach seats, new control parts that move the pegs and controls to the rear, new handlebar risers, new bars with more pullback, etc., etc..

Or, you can find a Super Glide with mid controls and take it for a ride. Might be a good idea.

 

True story! I'm 5'7 and have the lowrider. Try it out it fit's like a glove plus the adjustable seat and bars!

 

Ok so are you concerned about looking weird, or the feel? Lol

Looking to big for the bike is not fixable, but looking to small for the bike isn't a problem. It's possible it just feels huge after riding the 48. After some time it won't feel so massive.

How can handlebars fix a leg problem?

Sorry man just busting you ***** a little. If leg reach is the only problem then that's a easy fix. Ride it until you get used to it, or reduce the controls. I think we all have to change something when we get a new bike so at least you know your first mod. I think reduced controls will be cheaper than buying a seat to move you forward. But I do think it's highly possible you won't feel the same after some time. Getting off a 48 and onto a WG is a major change in feel. A little seat time and you may feel just fine with it

Good luck man. wide glide is a cool ride. I ride a 2002

 

I know a couple of guys about the op's height that have wide glides with forward controls. Neither has ever mentioned wanting mid controls or reduced reach forwards. My guess is that it's just a matter of getting used to the new position.

 

I'm 5' 7" and have a 2004 low rider. It had forwards on it when I bought it, and I could not get used to them. So I put the mids back on, and it fit much better.


The wide glide is a sweet ride, I looked at them too.
The earlier boot suggestion is a good one too.


I guess I like the mids because I feel more staybil with my feet under me.
Ride both styles if you can, you'll know then. Good luck