I want to add chrome handlebar controls to my 2011 Wide Glide. I've read the HD chrome is better and fits better than aftermarket on some sites, and I've also read aftermarket is great and better priced on other sites, including forums.


I want the best chrome and right fit. Stick to HD parts or no?


Thanks in advance.

 

Most likely it's all made in China. You'd think that HD would have a little better quality control than some aftermarket cut rate, but who knows? At least if you go HD you can go to the dealer and look at it.

 

Ive had chrome flake off a handle bar riser and a chrome cable clamp both H D, I've also had a set of street slammer type bars from Custom Chrome that the chrome sort of wore off to a degree so they ended up looking kind of brassy. I think you pay your money and hope for the best. Having said that I think most chrome is probably OK, no matter who makes it.

 

Harley is consistently average to slightly above average.

Aftermarket is a very wide range...from total crap, to really really high quality...you have a biiiiig choice of prices and quality here. So...there's a good chance of getting better than factory grade...just do your homework. Plus it's a chance to be a bit more unique and have something different than the usual H-D or Kuryacrap brand stuff everyone else has.

 

My experience is HD stuff is generally pretty good but I have gotten some pieces that chip and peel. The aftermarket is hit or miss. I bought a Chinese tour pack mount from Amazon that the chrome was rough and pitted and the rack would not line up straight with my brackets but I also bought a backrest with a luggage rack from the same manufacturer that is great. So pony up the money for either HD or aftermarket and cross your fingers.

 

My bike has a lot of aftermarket chrome and other additions but when it comes to controls...I went with harley. Had them on the bike for 12 years and they looks as good as the day they were installed.

 

I had aftermarket control covers on my '09 RK and my new '17 RK. Paid $30 for this new set and they look fine, though granted they have only been on for three months. The new bike controls are super easy to put on. Two screws and the old ones come off and all of the controls stay put on the bar. Took 5 minutes for both sides.

 

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/gener...hd-chrome.html

 

No matter what anyone tells you, my experience has proven the old adage "you get what you pay for" on most occasions.

 

Yep Harley Chrome Lasts a long time
You do get what you pay for