Needed to replace the handlebar bushings on my '04 EG @55K miles today.

Used the HD Polyurethane bushings, HD part no. 56298-03 and am posting only because of a simplified method for making this repair that a tech at my local HD store told me about.

It requires a buddy to hold the handlebars. Get the front wheel off the ground so it can swing stop to stop left/right. Remove the bolts (3/4" hex head) below the old bushings, and have your buddy lift/pull the handlebars away from the front enough for your to access the holes for the new bushings. While he/she hold the bars, insert both sets of bushings.

Now the bars can be reinserted over the new bushings (don't forget the electrical ground that goes back under the left riser) and the bolts reinstalled. It's a tight fit, but very doable. Sure beats removing the handlebars and took about 15-20 minutes. Some soapy water on the new bushings helps slide them into the upper triple tree.

HTH.

 

Its not a bad idea unless your handlebars have been lined up off center because of the old bushings gone bad. Then you have to realign the handlebars anyway....
Might as well disassemble the entire handlebar, clamps, risers etc and then you can get to the bushings.