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Help guys. I have 2 bikes. My 08 Softail Rocker is my local/bar hopper bike and my old reliable 99 Road King Classic for long rides. I just put Apes on my Rocker and LOVE them. They changes the look/ride of the bike. I like them so much I'm thinking of putting them on my RK as well. My concern is that on the Rocker I noticed that I get blown around a lot at highway speeds ( 70 plus ) where I didn't with the stock bars. I don't want to comprimise highway ride on the RK. I'm quessing that with the shield on this would not happen but I need to hear from some guys with Apes before I take the plunge. I spoke with several local guys and got mixed answers. I'm not looking to go that high, either 12.5's or 14's as I'm 6 foot and thats comfy for me. Any input is appreciated. Thanks
I had 12.5's on my fatboy when i had it.when i got my RKC had to put them on as well.Put 16's on the RKC.I ride with and without the shield.If i'm going a distance on the highway or 2 up i leave the shield on.otherwise i take it off.Bars can be adjusted forward or back to accomodate the shield,takes 5 seconds to do.When i had the fatboy i never used a shield and yes sometimes you have to deal with the wind.
If you are going to ride any distance. Ie Iron Butt length.... the apes are just not smart. They look good at bike night but as a practical long distance set up.... no so much.
I had 10.5" FXRP bars on my FLHRI but found them no where as near comfortable as 16" Wild1s added a few years later. Now I don't leave home without them! BTW, very comfortable for long distance rides. Like having "power steering"!
I had 10.5" FXRP bars on my FLHRI but found them no where as near comfortable as 16" Wild1s added a few years later. Now I don't leave home without them! BTW, very comfortable for long distance rides. Like having "power steering"!
Pray tell...... what is "long distance"? I dont see 1500 or even 1,000 miles in 24 hrs with hand above sholders..... Where am I wrong here.
Pray tell...... what is "long distance"? I dont see 1500 or even 1,000 miles in 24 hrs with hand above sholders..... Where am I wrong here.
R. Todd
It's actually very comfortable if the bars are not crazy high. You can just hang your arms and go. The biggest benefit is it gets your back straight and no neck pain. I've done 1000 in 24 with 12" hangers. That and a good gel pad (ortho pad plus) and it was a piece of cake.
12.5 On my bike and I just got back from a 1600 miles ride and had no problems they are not true apes, I guest they have to be taller. I like them because they put my hands the same high as my steering wheel in my car and the bike handles way better they the stock bars
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