I've had z-bars for less than a year now. Installed them in December 2012, then I wrecked the bike on February 2013 and since May I've started riding again. They're not bad, I can't complain. They're great for city riding (which is what I mostly do) I can tuck my head in and rev the bike up! However, my back aches from time to time, specially during lane splitting speeds in long lines of traffic but that's about it. My old ape hangers did not give me that problem. The only and biggest issue with the apes was going at highway speeds, wind resistance would take the fun out of speeding (in hindsight, maybe that was a good thing)

So yeah, nostalgia's kicking in, what do you guys think? Should I go back to the apes or what?

 

My vote is go back to the apes, but that's because that's what I run.

 

My vote is back to apes as well. They would better and you have admitted theyre more comfortable. You could always use a detachable windshield for longer, higher speed, runs on the highway...Damn nice looking scoot by the way bro!

 

Ive got fat bob drag bars. Ive been considering switching to apes...

 

Thanks!

About the windshield, I hadn't even thought about it, thanks for the tip! I've always considered them to be an accessory for old timers, but then again, opening up like a parachute at highway speeds is no fun at all. I'll look into those ASAP.

 

+1 on the detachable windshield, I have one for my bike. It doesn't look the greatest but it sure helps out on the long rides.

 

I think both styles look good, but in the end you have to be comfortable. That's why I voted for the apes.

 

Yeah, I like how the z-bars look too. (Internal wiring was a bitch though, my friends and I spent HOURS getting each wire through the angles) They go well with the low stance of the bike. Too bad they make me lean forward a bit, which is what causes the back ache on extended traffic lines and long trips. I could change risers to fix that issue, but then it wouldn't look like I want it to look.

Good thing I kept the apes.

 

Definitely apes

 

From your picture, there is quite a bit of height difference between the 2. Looks like you need something between then..maybe a taller z-bar (not just risers, that would look dorky on a z-bar).