RKC bars
RKC bars
Test rode a 07 RKC today, but didnt like the bars, or the heel toe shifter for that matter.
I have looked at the catalogue and like the sound of the beach bars, but have some questions.
First is; have you changed your RKC bars and if so what do you use now.
Does anyone run beach bars on their RKC and if so how did it change your hands, did it move them out and to the rear, out and up, or what. Oh and did you have to change cables etc.
Any info will be greatfully received, oh and I'm 6' 2" if that helps with the advice.
I have looked at the catalogue and like the sound of the beach bars, but have some questions.
First is; have you changed your RKC bars and if so what do you use now.
Does anyone run beach bars on their RKC and if so how did it change your hands, did it move them out and to the rear, out and up, or what. Oh and did you have to change cables etc.
Any info will be greatfully received, oh and I'm 6' 2" if that helps with the advice.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
From: Santa Maria di Camisano, Italy
RE: RKC bars
I'm 6'4" and built like an orangutan so the stock bars on my RK Classic killed me (I'm guessing you're talking about the Classic and not the Custom). I had to hunch down because they're too low IMO, and the pain in my neck and shoulders was terrible. I've known a few people who have complained about them.
I've always had ape hangers/high bars on my bikes so that I don't have to lean forward (plus it looks cool), so I put the RK high bars on. Granted they aren't apes but they are more comfortable. Cost less than $50 and you don't have to change out the wiring/hoses/cables, etc. Now I don't have to hunch forward, I can sit up and keep my back straight.
I just took a 1,400 mile ride up the East Coast and back down with them and I can't complain.
I've never liked beach bars, especially for any long riding which is what I like to do, but I just talked to a guy who had a Custom with beach bars on it and he really liked them. He was tall, too.
[IMG]local://upfiles/13235/A2A4DC76C2E049C2A2E57A29545D101D.jpg[/IMG]
I've always had ape hangers/high bars on my bikes so that I don't have to lean forward (plus it looks cool), so I put the RK high bars on. Granted they aren't apes but they are more comfortable. Cost less than $50 and you don't have to change out the wiring/hoses/cables, etc. Now I don't have to hunch forward, I can sit up and keep my back straight.
I just took a 1,400 mile ride up the East Coast and back down with them and I can't complain.
I've never liked beach bars, especially for any long riding which is what I like to do, but I just talked to a guy who had a Custom with beach bars on it and he really liked them. He was tall, too.
[IMG]local://upfiles/13235/A2A4DC76C2E049C2A2E57A29545D101D.jpg[/IMG]
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 657
Likes: 0
From: SLO Calif.
RE: RKC bars
I have the RKClassic and changed the bars. I put reach bars on mine as I don't have your height problem. 
The CUstom has the beach bars so you could sit on that and get and idea how it feels. Lots of reviewers didn't like the beach bars but if they work for you thats great.
I tried the heel toe shifter. Everyone said I'd get used to it and how wonderful it was. I finally pulled it off and it's so much better (for me) without it. More room on the board and more comfort.
(YEAAA 50 posts. SLO but sure!)
The CUstom has the beach bars so you could sit on that and get and idea how it feels. Lots of reviewers didn't like the beach bars but if they work for you thats great. I tried the heel toe shifter. Everyone said I'd get used to it and how wonderful it was. I finally pulled it off and it's so much better (for me) without it. More room on the board and more comfort.
(YEAAA 50 posts. SLO but sure!)
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
From: Santa Maria di Camisano, Italy
RE: RKC bars
I love the heal/toe shifter if for no other reason than it keeps the toe of my boot clean (I'm in the Army).
And hey SLO you better hurry up I'm catching up to you! 36 and counting!!!
And hey SLO you better hurry up I'm catching up to you! 36 and counting!!!
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 611
Likes: 3
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Road Master
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 791
Likes: 0
From: Arizona
RE: RKC bars
When I had my '02 RK Classic, I changed to the reach bars from HD. I'm 5'8" and there were still room for adjustment. I never had the beach bars, but seen them on other RK's. I was told that they might make it more difficult when doing tight U-turns. But, if that's not a problem, go for it! If you go with Beach Bars, you'll need to replace all your cables and front brake line with longer ones.
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,108
Likes: 9
From: Lincolnton, NC
RE: RKC bars
Running the RK High Bars. These really helped eliminate the cramp I would get in my back. Price is right and they're chrome compared to the stock stainless bars. I ran the wiring insdie the bars to clean things up a bit, no need to extend anything or use longer control cables. Pretty happy with them.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,335
Likes: 13
From: MA
RE: RKC bars
I'm 6' 2" and I've looked at different bars for my RKC. I really liked the feel
of the reduced reach bars and will be ordering those. I tried them on a friends
RKC and the seemed to fit me really well.
of the reduced reach bars and will be ordering those. I tried them on a friends
RKC and the seemed to fit me really well.