Drag Bars... your thoughts?
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 756
Likes: 0
From: MN
Yes ...
If you're not running a windshield, drag bars are the only way to get down the highway in comfort. I hate windshields so I run drag bars with a riser (1200 C) and forward controls. The forward lean is offset by the wind and it is very comfortable at speeds over 30mph+.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 253
Likes: 1
From: Virginia Beach
+1
Below 30-40 for extended periods can be a drag (ha ha, like what I did there lol), but really, if you plan to ride it for any length of time, on normal roads, and at normal speeds, you will probably love the drag bars.
Below 30-40 for extended periods can be a drag (ha ha, like what I did there lol), but really, if you plan to ride it for any length of time, on normal roads, and at normal speeds, you will probably love the drag bars.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,541
Likes: 11
From: Elyria, OH
I got 32 inch drag bars with 4 inch pull-back on my nightster on e-bay for $25. There was no change in wiring or cables, I just rerouted the cables to make them not kink. I also inverted the mirrors so I can see behind me. There are not any clearance issues with anything. Relocatng the speedo is fairly easy, the only cost to that is the Auto-meter clamp (About $16 if you choose to go that route) and a top-clamp from an older model sportster which can be found on e-bay cheap also. Got mine for $8 and painted it black.
I think if you go with bars shorter than 32 inches, you may have clearance issues with the signals and mirrors.
I have lower back problems and have no problem with the riding position with the mid-controls. Forward controls would be very uncomfortable I would think.
Depending on how many people you have helping you, I would think a 12 pack would do it
I think if you go with bars shorter than 32 inches, you may have clearance issues with the signals and mirrors.
I have lower back problems and have no problem with the riding position with the mid-controls. Forward controls would be very uncomfortable I would think.
Depending on how many people you have helping you, I would think a 12 pack would do it
Last edited by Gpsjr10; Mar 3, 2010 at 11:31 AM.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 260
Likes: 3
From: Fort Worth, Texas
... once you install them during the first rides your shoulders/back will get sore and you are going to think that drag bars are not for you.... then you start to appreciate the better handling characteristics, you'll find a more comfortable riding position, your shoulders will not get sore anymore, and then one day you'll realize that you love drag bars.. I know this from experience..
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 636
Likes: 4
From: Illinois
joebotics hit the nail on the head! i love my drag bars. u dont need to relocate ur turn signals. i have flanders drag bars, they are 27''wide, 4''pull, wide center, and dimpled and knurled. i wired my bars internally so my install took much longer.
i spent 100 bucks on my bars. but u can find some at swap meets or ebay for cheap. dont get broom sticks, u will have wrist problems.
i spent 100 bucks on my bars. but u can find some at swap meets or ebay for cheap. dont get broom sticks, u will have wrist problems.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 253
Likes: 1
From: Virginia Beach
If you get the WIDE CENTER type of drag bars, everything will be fine as far as clearances go. I got my drag bars for 30 bucks from HD and they are for the night train. I had a hell of a time adjusting them so my mirrors (flipped) didn't hit my tank. When I finally got it right on both sides, I had like 1-3mm clearance. It will be tight with the 28 inchers, and Im not sure about the turns.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 3,056
Likes: 251
From: Connecticut
Tara, you go on a lot of long rides so consider long distance comfort, as opposed to just a couple of hours on the bike. I can see how drag bars would keep the wind from beating you down at high speeds but how will your lower back and shoulder feel leaning forward like that for 300+ miles. I don't have an answer for that but it's something to consider.
I do like the side mount speedo. Love it actually. My nephew just put it on his sporty. This is what you're looking for from Joker Machine.
http://www.jokermachine.com/itemstre...&Placeholder=0
I do like the side mount speedo. Love it actually. My nephew just put it on his sporty. This is what you're looking for from Joker Machine.
http://www.jokermachine.com/itemstre...&Placeholder=0
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Road Master
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 756
Likes: 0
From: MN
Regular bars put you upright with all the weight on your back and cause bumps to be absorbed exclusively by your spine.