I just finished the installation of the HD ext reach handlebar and love it. I can now really sit back and for the first time on any bike, I actually feel comfortable. Installation, while not the easiest in the world, certainly isn't as bad as I had envisioned. First of all, no wiring extensions are needed in my '05. There's plenty of extra in the nacelle. I was able to transfer my grips, but, most will need new ones. I fed the wire through the handlebars with no problems - just write the wiring diagram on a piece of paper and it'll work when you're finished. Please email me if you have any questions - btw, I am only 5'8" with relatively short arms. That's the reason it has made such a difference.
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I ride an 02 Roadking, and mine were put on by the dealer. I love 'em. Most people that try mine can't believe what a difference they make. I rode a friend's 05 and didn't like the handlebars at all. I was told it's about $600 on an 02 with all the changes.
If anyone who owns a Road King ever gets a back pain or stiff shoulders, it's probably because of the over-reach for the grips. That has been my scenario for the past 5 years with the BMW R1100RT. I could never get what I call really comfortable and the R1100RT wasn't condusive for riding in an upright fashion. The '05's stock handlebars can be considerably improved by simply rotating their position a couple of degrees downward toward the driver, but, I doubt if there's a dealer out there who would suggest that be done - it really should be since most men have longer arms than I do and the rotation makes a big difference. But, for the dealer, it would be an expensive job - might take an hour or two to get it right and the buyer needs to be there to get the angle correct. Anyway, one should not be afraid to do the job himself - the handlebars (extended reach) are $50 and , other than time, that's all you need. All cables will reach and the wires are run through the handlebars making a very clean install.
Yes, I sure can. Might take a day or two - we're (actually, my wife) participating in a neighborhood garage sale tomorrow and my life has been temporaily interupted. [:@] I sure like these bars and, there's nothing else to buy - I have added braided brake lines and throttle cables, but, they weren't due to the bars - just cosmetic.
What is the Harley stock number for the Extended Reach handlebars? Are you referring to the Road King High Handlebar, stock #55954-00 ?
I was having the same "reach" problem on my '04 Road King Classic. Felt like I had to reach for the grips. I installed the High Handlebar and it solved the problem. Bar was $50 and installation was another $50. The $50 for the installation was $50 well spent.
I also had the severe neck and shoulder pains after picking up my 2005 RKC in June.
The extended reach handle bars were installed by me (I strongly suggest getting the service manual from HD) with no problem except time. About a 3-4 hour task, but fun just the same. The biggest difference is the change in wrist position. The stock bars have more of a wheelbarrow grip while the new ones are flared out more.
Road King Extended Reach Handlebar
