Handlebar install cost?!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 2,216
Likes: 102
From: Central Illinois
I thought it would be an easy install after reading all the posts here from people saying how simple it was to do bars change. I found it not near that easy. Running the wires through the bars had some challenges as did getting the connectors back together properly, but it was the first time I did it. Also, since I have throttles cables and a clutch cable it required exhaust removal and fuel tank removal. I also had to do quite a bit of disassembly on the fairing to get it to tilt forward and then run the brake lines, throttle cables and clutch cable. I have lots of mechanical experience but it still took a lot of time, way more than the 9 hours Hill Country Custom said it would take. A quote of $900 labor, if the shop charges $100 an hour labor, seems about right, but expensive.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 1,022
Likes: 70
From: Greensboro NC
My local independant mechanic charged me around 400.00 labor and I bought my bars and kit from HCC. So all together between 900-1000 total investment. The dealer wanted close to 1K in just labor when I asked...
So I would say a dealer would run in the 1500 range even though that is a major rip it is what it is.
So I would say a dealer would run in the 1500 range even though that is a major rip it is what it is.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 2,218
Likes: 7
From: Eastern NC
I just finished my ape install today. I did a lot of research beforehand and it still wasn't enough. It was a PITA but well worth doing myself. I hit a few snags and it took longer than planned but I learned a lot about my bike and saved enough money to go on a nice little vacation. I don't have a large expansive tool collection, just the basics. That's all you need. There's enough info and help on here to guide you through it. Go for it man
Road Master
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 992
Likes: 2
From: TN
I am looking at getting the Wild 1 Chubby 12.5" bars installed. That entails the cost of the bars, cable extensions and labor. My dealership quoted me $1500.00, but that seems extremely high. The bars and all parts would be about 500 - 600. Is it possible that labor could be about $900?? It looks like I may be in search of an independent... Any thoughts?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,019
Likes: 3
From: St.Pete Beach
I agree with the guys....DIY or an Indy.....Most STEALERS are for those who have more $ than brains...
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Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 614
Likes: 79
From: Iowa
If you want to PM me feel free and I will give you advice/help you out how I can. I just finished my bars a couple weeks ago.
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 1,967
Likes: 18
From: Florida
Just replace the whole cable with new ones….you will need to do a quick measurement and them order them…..Depending on where you buy the bars the parts guy should be able to tell you what length to order.
Not a hard job just take your time and not to many beer breaks….
Good luck!
Not a hard job just take your time and not to many beer breaks….
Good luck!