i would say go 16 or more. what ever you decide is best fit i suggest going to the next step up. almost everybody i talk to and myself end up saying i wish i went 16 instead of 14 or 18 instead of 16 ect. restricting to bars that alow keeping stock lines and cables are not going satisfy the comfort you need most likely

 

Umm.. Sorry to ask but when we say "go 16 instead of 14", what do those numbers represent? In bars, I think I have seen numbers related to rise and pullback (and probably overall width?).

 

Most HD dealerships have a fitment center where they can simply fit different bars on bikes. But it's for the new frames. At least that will give you an idea what will work.

 

height. i was guilty when i put 14's i wished for 16's. when i did 18's i kinda wished i went 20.

 

This high:

 

Thanks all! I have a back rest (on the stock seat) but it pushes me so fast forward the controls become uncomfortable, I'll try going 16" and having my seat modified. Thank you all for your help

 

One VERY important thing if you put taller bars on. You bike has a 2 piece handlebar clamp as stock. You will need the one piece "dog bone" clamp. The added leverage will cause the bars to eventually fatigue and crack at the wiring access hole in the middle. Mine snapped in two, luckily while backing into a parking spot. The 1 piece clamp will prevent this.

That said, I'm 5' 10" and have 14's on a '01 RK. Just put 14s on wife's softail and she's 5'5" at most, but overall width is "35-36 vs my "39-40.

Too much pullback will create a wrist angle that will put your elbows in your ribs during tight turns.

Lots to consider...Height, width, pullback angle on the wrists etc. Take your time, ask to sit on a few bikes. You'll be glad you didn't rush it.

 

Also, if you have the drop in type driver backrest, pop it in a vise and bend it back a little. Works wonders.