I used to have a 1997 FXDL with forward controls. I just put forward controls on my 2014 FXDL. The shift arm (I measure it at 9") from the mid controls was re-used as part of the standard Harley kit instructions, but it sure seems longer than the shift arm I remember from the 1997. I wear a size 11 boot, and the peg hits my toe nail, not the base of my toe like the 1997 shift arm did. Would someone with forward controls on an older FXDL please measure the arm and see if it isn't closer to 7" long? I can get a 7 1/4 inch arm from J&P Cycles, but before going on that hunt, I'd like to get a reply from the Forum. Thanks much.

 

If you are talking the linkage arm from the foot shifter to the trans shifter arm, here's how I handle my conversion from mids to fwds. I found neutral be manually finding (N) at the shifter arm, then connected the linkage at that point. I then adjusted the linkage to the foot shifter by turning out the ends. I kept the foot adjuster arm out of the way of the oil filter, for filter removal. Then adjust the foot shifter on the splines. This has worked well for 15 years.

 

Thank you, but my question isn't that extensive. The forward controls are already in place, and the shifter works fine - I can ride the bike fine. But the shifter arm seems too long, whereas the arm on my 1997 was perfect. I'd rather not have to shift with the tip of my toe if I can get a shorter arm. I just don't have the 1997 anymore, so I can't measure the length of its arm. I just need someone to tell me how many inches long the arm on an older FXDL is, if anyone can. Thanks again.

 

I’ve got a 2001 Dyna Wide Glide an the shifter arm is 7 1/2 ....

 

In 2014 the Low rider was added again to the Harley Lineup. One of the changes HD made was the LR had further forward mid controls. They were 2 inches forward of the standard mid controls that the Streetbob and Superglide had. To compensate the extra 2 inches, they extended the shifter lever. So it`s about 2 inches longer than before.

 

Look on eBay but make sure you get the right lever as some of the longer levers are listed as fitting 1991 up to 2017

Shorter Shift Lever P/N 34564-90B

Longer Shift Lever P/N 33900147

 

When I put Harley fwd controls on my 17 FXDL I had the same problem, shifter went to the tip of my boot. Asked the parts guy ant the dealer if there was a shorter shifter arm. He pulled a STOCK shifter arm out of the back room. Said that bikes with the mid controls have a long shifter arm and the standard lenght works well. He was right.