Howdy all.

Picking up a new Softail Std in a couple of weeks and want to get mini-apes put on. However this is my first Harley. I rode smaller off road bikes when I was younger, but this is my first big bike. Should I get use to riding this bike with the stock bars first before I have the mini-apes put on or does it reald matter?

TIA
Crazy

 

If the mini apes is what you really want, then go for it. Just be carefull, and get the fill for the bike. Some times the other bars may not work for you as good as you might hope. Ive changed bars on my deluxe about 6 times. After all that i went back to the stock bars. Boy, I sure would like to have that money spent ,back.. Remember if you change bars, you may also have to change throttle cables, brake line , clucth cable. Good luck to ya.

 

dude, I wouldn't worry about it. you'll have to get used to how the bike handles just the same, I say just go straight for the mini apes if that's what you want. you'll get used to em pretty fast.

 

I wouldn't bother. Get the bike as is. Ride it and if you don't like it or are convinced you want the mini apes get them then. Why shell out the mula if you don't even know if the ride is a slice of heaven as is? You can always part with your money later. But that's just my humble opinion

 

A friend of mine (5'-10") got a new standard this spring. That was his first Harley. The bars fit him well. I agree with Coaster. Try before you buy.

 

First thing I wanted to do was change bars, I did not and the bars I wanted would not have fit me well on the bike.

Buy it, ride it and go to a few shows/dealers until you find your bike with the bars you want on and then sit and try. You might be surprised with what is comfortable for you.

BUT, I love the mini-apes on my Heritage Classic. I will probably replace it with a chrome one, but will keep the same rise with maybe slightly less "turn-in" on the grips. A little straighter bar would keep my wrist straighter...Anyone have a bar that accomplished that?