I have searched the many threads on this, but can't figure it out. I am 5'7 and need to change out the stock bars on my 2010 RK to get them a couple inches closer. A couple inches higher wouldn't be bad either.

Would just the reduced reach bars be fine? Or should I go with a heritage bar or something like that? I don't know how apes would be at my height. I also want to keep a normal wrist angle.

Any help is appreciated...

 

I'm not the best guy to answer, but here goes. I'm 5'6" 170 and riding a '12 RKC. I'm also looking for bars that don't make me feel like I'm hugging the tank; I want to sit back a few inches. A lot of guys on the Touring forum ride Kings with the heritage bars and swear by them. The cost is great, $70., but also I'll need a new electronic throttle cable, about $80 I think, plus install, about $75(?). Total = roughly $225. The HD catalog will tell you what additional parts you'll need for the bars you pick out.

I'm going to ask the guys in Service what they think and hopefully get to sit on a few bikes that have the bars I'm considering. This way I can at least get a feel for the bars.

Good luck!

 

I have 16" ape hangers on my 07 King. Look into the 12" bars. They make a world of difference when riding. Turning easier, no more back and shoulder pain. You can roll the bars back to be even with the forks which will be closer to you or roll them out a little. There is a cost to change it out. If you have a manual, just follow the book. It really is not the hard, just takes time.

 

Heritage bars my work but look like azz if you ask me...they won't be in line with the forks if you want them to feel right. Check out http://www.wild1inc.com/ Lots of great info and pictures.

 

May not be for everyone, but I am not sure it looks like azz... Work great for me. No new cables needed.

 

I'm 5'7 also, don't have a Road King but I can tell you 12 1/2 Wild One's are great on my Ultra.

 

Heritage is the way to go.
A very common swap, wires work out fine.
Leave 'em up, or tilt 'em back, whatever you want.
First mod I did, before I rode it home.

 

I have the Heritage Style on my 11 RKC, Easy install, stock cables work fine. I never knew bars had to be in line with the forks, kinda stupid if you think about it. If they were all in line with the forks why would they be adjustable?

 

Save a few bucks and take a look at the Khromewerks Sweeper Bars, the +2 are very comfortable, great wrist angle and you won't be hugging the tank. More pullback and a little higher, under $80.00.

http://www.khromewerks.com/

 

I am 5'7", 170 lbs, my sleeve length is 32". I have heritage bars on my 06 RKC and they work great for me. The stock bars on a RK feel too low and wide for me. I was fortunate that thses bars were on my bike when I bought it.