I have seen some good posts regarding Fat Boy handlebars (WO518's, Apes, Street Slammers, etc). Great information, especially the threads with the install pics. I got some good saddle time on my bike yesterday, and I plan on some additional long rides before making any changes. I got used to the hand position fairly fast, but it seems that after a half hour or so, my back would get a little stiff and after that, I was haing tosit back in the seat and stretchquite often. I am 6' tall and have normal length arms. I think the stock bars are making me lean forward a little, and this is creating some pressure on my back. Any suggestions for possible change to make it more comfortable for long rides?

Thank you,
Brent.

 

Try and Loosen the clamps and pullem back.
The street slammers I put on my bike appear to be the same distance to me just narrower. I have found no problem with the riding position. I am 6' tall also.

 

brent-sounds like you and i are looking for same thing. just got an '07,i'm also 6' but i don't think i can get used to the stock bars. reach does not seem to be a problem, but they turn in way to much,wrist are twisted somewhat. i thought the mini apes would be the ticket,but 2-3 hours labor,new lines,cables and wire extensions worked out to around $600,and that's crazy. i do like the looks of those street slammers,i mean i really do. so,stay in touch on what you find. thanks,jon.

 

41/2 inch pullback risers make a ton of difference. No cables, easy to do and cheap to try. This is one piece that you don't need to buy Harley parts for. No one can tell any difference.

 

I have a Deluxe and I recently installed Carlini Freeway bars. Friggin awesome. 1.5 inch diameter = phat!!! Very expensive though and you have to use a carlini 1 piece riser, which is also way cool. Email me at mdebelli@rdg.boehringer-ingelheim.com if you want some pics. You cant go wrong with Carlini, they're just a bit pricey.

 

Carlini has an ace style, 1.5" fat esp for a fatboy cause the front end is fat - yea
They do have a light chrome job on them so wax and microfiber only

Check 'em out on the fatty:
https://www.hdforums.com/m_1379390/tm.htm

 

Brent I experienced the same. I am going to guess you don't have a windshield, if so, IMHO and after 5,000 miles in the odometer, what you are describing, I believe,is NOT due to the bars, they are fine. I have concluded the combination of high speed (over 70 mph), fighting the wind (whole upper body takes nasty brunt and the helmet wants to come off) andhence theawkward seating position, werecausingmy back to strain. The strain was gone AFTER I installed a windshield. The shield is a MUST ifyou plan long trips, ear plugs will help too, I know. Just my 2 c.

 

Waltman, thank you for your advice. What windshield did you go with?

Brent.

 

I finally had an opportunity to sit on an '07 Fatty the other day and did NOT like the stock bars at all. The bars that came stock on my '05 were OK, I replaced them only because I wanted chrome chubby's with internal wiring. It seems that they really changed the geometry on the new bars, and not for the better!

 

i think i decided...i'm going to go with th H-D BOMBAY bars,much straighter hand and arm position,i think? anyone else out there running these?