So I currently have some low rise tracker style bars on my bike, and was considering apes, need some opinions/ experiences.
I really like the way the bike handles (esp. at low speed) w/ the current bars, but I feel like some small apes (12"ish) would be more comfortable for cruising, and would look cooler.
The dilemma is that I don't want to give up any low speed handling. So, to the guys with small apes, do you feel like you gave up anything in terms of handling, and if so, how much and was it worth it?
I had a (ahem) Vic with some 16" Burly apes, and I thought it was a b*tch in terms of low speed maneuvering, and don't want to go down that road again...

 

HarDlife,

You might also consider some taller T-Bars. I was going to go the ape route as well, but went with 10" T-bars. Really like how they feel and handle.

Just another option for you to consider.

 

I have wild ones pullback drag bars on my '10 FXDC . They get the bars up AND back. I've been riding for 50 years this July and I to me ape hangers went out with the '60's! If the bars are too high you lose circulation in your arms and hands and that will limit how many hours you can ride .

 

I disagree with both statements. I just road 5000 miles round trip to Sturgis and back and I did not lose circulation in my arms or hands? I do like the Wild One bars, the wife has them on her Sportster and it is a pretty comfy ride...

 

I have 14", just below shoulder height for me and very comfortable on a 2K mile road trip! The stock drag bars were uncomfortable after about 1.5 to 2hrs on the road. With the WG front rake, I think slow speed turning was a challenge anyway, I didnt feel that the challenge increased at all with the apes. I am use to that front end now and slow speed turns are natural feeling.

 

Thanks for the suggestions. No offense to anyone, but I don't really care for the tall t-bar look. It's weird, but I think separate risers w/ drag bars look sweet though.
I think I might try a set of MT mini-apes (Supposed to be same as WG oe bars). Can always go back, and it's only money, right?

 

T-bars are the E-ticket for positive control of your dyna, plus they fit between cars on the freeway alot better! Every time I make a set for someone that previously had apes, they cant believe how much more responsive their bike becomes.

 

Totally get what your saying, I just can't do t bars from an aesthetic pov for me. Oddly enough I have considered drag bars w/ some pullback risers!

 

Just below the shoulders is perfect for my old back and arms. Hard to sat what is comfortable to you. Both are cool looking though.

 

I've never run bars like you're currently running, so I can't really compare, but I'm running 12" Biltwell apes now and have no concerns with low or high speed handling. The grips are just below my shoulders. I'm 6', but slouch a bit when I ride cause I've got a screwed up back. 600 miles one way to Sturgis, no issues. Super comfortable, wouldn't run anything else.