I am looking for a change. Currently, I have 4 1/2 in pulllback risers with stock bars(02 FXD). I'm wanting my hand position higher and back. The Wild-1 model 507 drags(thanks ktm scott) is an option, as well as mini-apes. Is there a different "feel" as far as handling, or is the only difference between the two just esthetic?

 

As far as looks go it's the fast style vrs old school. How do you want your bike to look when you are finish? As for me I'll take the drags. Both should be very comfortable though.

 

It is more than just aesthetics, apes do add a little more leverage because of the height. I like them for the more upright sitting position, just feels a helluva lot more relaxed to me. I would not go with the HD mini's, I would go with Wild1 1 1/4" bars and internal wiring. I have 12.5" Wild1's and they put my hands at about shoulder height which is ideal for me.
One nice benefit of apes is you get a lot more adjustment front to back to find the perfect position for your own tastes.
just my opinions your mileage may vary.

 

I have tried drag bars, pull backs and now have 16" apes on with stock risers, and to be honest, I never wanted to go to apes because I was affraid of what it would do to my back and shoulder, well I gave in and tried them and figured if I was going to do it, go big, so the 16" apes 1 1/4" bars came up for free. Well I will say that for me, it has helped my back. I sit up more upright and forward and my should is fine. So I guess it really comes down to what do you want your bike to look like? Like the other person said, old school or fast school? Then it comes down to what feels good. If you know someone with these different bar variations, give them a try and see what fits. I went the long and expensive route. Goodluck.

 

Hadn't thought about that. With drags, your locked into one postion.

 

Part true but you can always change the risers with drag: higher, lower, high or low with pullback etc..

But I´m going back to apes myself, like Stranger, my back hurts after a while with drags.

 

not to hijack things, but 'Bosken'... your bikes is going to look absolutely SICK with apes!!!

I want to cut my struts so bad... i've done all i could do to get this bike where i want it to be...and still not satisfied

by the way, how did you connect that fender?

 

True, but that requires paying for different risers to try something different, no such problem with apes.
Bottom line is it's all about what you find most comfortable for you.
Maybe it's because I grew up in the day of stingray bikes with "apes" and banana seats....lol

 

I am toying with the idea of apes too. I agree with you jsbridgew that Bosken's bike will look sick with apes. Good thread.

 

Those were the days....Banana seats!!!! Lol