Changing handlebars?
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
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From: Michigan
Changing handlebars?
After years of riding my 2000 Ultra which has the "highway" handlebars, I just picked up a 2013 CVO Ultra last week and I find that the handlebars are about two inches farther forward than I like.
With all of the braided cables, clutch and brake hoses, I have a feeling that it would cost a fortune to have upgraded handlebars (even if they're available) installed on this bike.
Has anyone with a CVO Ultra had this done, and if so, with what, and how much are we talking?
BTW, I'm not wanting apehangers, just handlebars that shorten the reach that is required without leaning over the fuel tank.
I'm not a small guy and I have normal arm length (34"-35") for a guy my size so I'm curious as to what other CVO Ultra owners think.
With all of the braided cables, clutch and brake hoses, I have a feeling that it would cost a fortune to have upgraded handlebars (even if they're available) installed on this bike.
Has anyone with a CVO Ultra had this done, and if so, with what, and how much are we talking?
BTW, I'm not wanting apehangers, just handlebars that shorten the reach that is required without leaning over the fuel tank.
I'm not a small guy and I have normal arm length (34"-35") for a guy my size so I'm curious as to what other CVO Ultra owners think.
Advanced
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 73
Likes: 0
From: NY
I have 2012 CVO RG but I don't think there is a lot of difference changing bars. You said the bars are too far forward, there is a good amount of forward or rearward adjustment and it's pretty simple to do, basically loosen a few bolts adjust the position and retighten the bolts. If you are talking about changing the bars well that's a very involved process mainly because of the internal wiring. Why HD uses the connectors that they do I'll never understand, you basically need to disassemble each plug (a major pain and very tedious work) in order to "snake" the wires through the bars. As far as the hydraulic brake and clutch lines are concerned there should be plenty of length in the stock lines to change bars if you are only adding an inch or two.
I can find a link to a DIY bar swap for the newer CVOs. That's what I did but it was a PITA. On the plus side I did save $1200 or more by making the swap myself. I needed to change lines because I went from 18 inch apes back to stock bars.
I can find a link to a DIY bar swap for the newer CVOs. That's what I did but it was a PITA. On the plus side I did save $1200 or more by making the swap myself. I needed to change lines because I went from 18 inch apes back to stock bars.
Last edited by NYSport; Sep 19, 2012 at 04:08 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 633
Likes: 4
From: missouri
I'm changing out the Bars out on my 2013 CVO Road King as we speak. As far as any bars fitting......kinda....CVO's come with 1 1/4 risers on them I had to switch to 1 in risers to be able to run a majority of the bars out there. Also, since the CVO's come with the hydrolic clutch you cant go with 1 1/2 inch bars either.
I have a 2012 ultra. I recently switched to the tall boy bars from HD. You dont have to lengthen anything to run them. They might solve your problem.
Around here a lot of the dealers are offering deals on Bars and performance upgrades. Half off on labor just to keep guys working during the seasonal slow down. Check that out. I'm using an Independent, He retired from the place that charges me twice as much.
I have a 2012 ultra. I recently switched to the tall boy bars from HD. You dont have to lengthen anything to run them. They might solve your problem.
Around here a lot of the dealers are offering deals on Bars and performance upgrades. Half off on labor just to keep guys working during the seasonal slow down. Check that out. I'm using an Independent, He retired from the place that charges me twice as much.
Stage IV
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
I have a 2012 CVO RGC that I am putting new bars on. I need to get cable that are 8+. Does anybody know what the stock length of the hydraulic clutch lines is ?
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Tourer
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 372
Likes: 2
From: Staten Island, NY
Khromewerks 2+2 sweepers. had to change the TBW cable but everything else stayed the same.. will do a +4 clutch cable in the spring but not really necesary
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 435
Likes: 10
I used Johnny Vaughan http://hdbikeparts.com/ to get the correct lengths. I put on the Chubby 577's and they are very comfortable 12.5" mini apes, a lot of folks like the 578's or 575's (Not apes & more pullback), which both have a 10" rise.
When you tell them your set up via their menu selection, they will send you the correct length lines. Good service!
When you tell them your set up via their menu selection, they will send you the correct length lines. Good service!
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
From: Spanish Fort, AL
I have a new 2013 CVO Ultra Anniversary bike as well and after a couple of hundred miles,my neck and upper back cramp. I am looking for the same upgrade that you are. I had my soft tail custom set up perfectly and have ridden several 500+ days with no discomfort. I'll be watching for responses to your post. Enjoy!