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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 12:17 AM
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Smile Softail controls

Ok guys and gals, looking for advice. I have a softail standard w/forward controls. i'm only 5"2, obviously thats a bit of a stretch for us vertically challenged. What is the best way to go about changing to mid-controls?
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 01:12 AM
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I looked into adding mid-controls but that would have been over 2000- for parts alone.

Cheapest option would be to put floorboards on but you will lose lean angle in the process.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 05:12 AM
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There may be some aftermarket gizmos that would work, however, typically the exhaust is in the way.

I am about 5'7" and do not like forward controls for several reasons. I owned a Softail Deuce that I had bought used, but sold it within a year for a mid control bike.

I'd be looking at a Sportster low, or another brand.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 06:51 AM
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try getting a different seat.
I have a Signature Series seat and it moves me forward about an inch which doesn't seem like much however is very noticeable.
 

Last edited by Bluraven; Aug 8, 2016 at 11:17 AM.
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 07:57 AM
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You may need to have custom brackets made for the controls. IIRC, there were no softails made with mid controls. Not sure if the softail frame rails have mounting bosses for mids like forward control equipped Dynas do.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 11:52 AM
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did you buy the bike new? are the controls stock? I had a 94 classic, I'm 5'7 or so 29.5" inseam an they weren't too far for me, my 99 fatboy with boards is perfect for me. On my V rod I put some offset mounts an mini footboards on it an it really helped.



you can see how the mount moves the pegs slightly back an up...the half inch made a big difference. the wider pegs are way more comfortable an my feet feel more stable at highway speeds.

post up a pic of your set up.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 11:53 AM
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I also used a "reach seat" on the v rod.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 04:31 PM
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It can be done, it's relatively easy but you'll probably need to change the exhaust as already mentioned above.

I changed to Mid controls earlier this year and it's well worth the cost.
It's a lot more comfy not having to stretch your leg around the air cleaner which used to make my knee ache on long rides.

Here's the link to the thread
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...n-softail.html
 
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Old Aug 8, 2016 | 04:39 PM
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Mid controls gear shift side.
 
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