I just put some 12" mini apes on my old metric bike, partially for kicks and partially to get used to them before putting some on my [soon to be] Harley.

The bars are forward (perfectly vertical) for cable length reasons and my seat is low, so they end up around shoulder height, with me leaning forward.


So far I've only tested it out at parking lot speeds and in slow maneuvering, and it feels...weird. Certainly not as much control. That normal? How long did it take those of you that have apes to first get used to them?

 

Bring the bars back an inch or two till you are comfortable

 

I put 16 inch apes on my Street Bob and like you was a little nervous how they would pan out... turns out they were best thing I have ever done yet to my bike. I feel a ton more comfortable, more in control and I love the way the bike handles. You have to adapt your riding style a little but after a few miles it became second nature. Hope you get to like yours as much as I like mine.

 

Well I would, but then I'd have to get new cables.


Yeah I may just have to ride around with it a while. How bent are your elbows while riding? Mine are almost straight.

 

I'm in the minority but I did not care for 16" apes on my Dyna. Good excuse to trade up.

 

Take it on the street only way your going to get used to it took me all of 10 mins on the road and all worries were gone

 

With my 16" apes, I don't think I've experienced any lessening of control. Took me about a minute to get used to them. I'm 55 years old, been riding since I was old enough to straddle a mini-bike, and these are the most comfortable bars I've ever had. Never going back.

 

+1 I know you said you would need to get new cables, but if you want it done right and comfortable you'll have to do what you need to do. I went from my stock mini apes to 15". At first they were to far forward as you described and it was uncomfortable and turning was sketchy. Moved them back about 1.5-2" and very comfortable and reacts better for turning. No my bars I pretty much vertical but I'm 6 foot with long arms, so it fits.

 

Grant it I only have 13's but it took one trip around the block to get used them

 

And don't forget ......their great for panic stops.........kinda like a sling shot