Harley Davidson Dyna Glide: Handlebar Modifications

When it comes to aftermarket handlebars for the Harley Davidson Dyna Glide, the options are endless. Read on to learn about some popular handlebars for your bike.

By Bassem Girgis - December 28, 2015

This article applies to the Harley Davidson Dyna Glide.

The aftermarket world of handlebars for the Harley Davidson Dyna Glide is a big world. Depending on your very own personal taste, size, and preference, you can modify your bike's handlebars to make it fit you better and be uniquely yours. Replacing the handlebars on your motorcycle will change the way it feels. Do your research and try to test drive a bike with the handlebars you're thinking about purchasing before actually putting them on. Read on to learn about the popular handlebar styles that would fit your height, taste and riding preference.

Handlebar Modifications

Dyna with 10
Figure 1. Dyna with 10" ape hangers.

#1 Drag Bars

drag bar

DIY Cost – $119-250

Professional Cost – $300-500

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various parts.

Drag bars were originally designed for ultimate control. These bars are close to the motorcycle and they go straight from side to side, which allows the rider to put their weight on the front of the motorcycle. You may see these bars on bobber-looking motorcycles, which gives the bike a very raw and hip look as well as feel to it. These may not be the most comfortable, as they increase the reach to the bars and lean you forward; however, they make steering your Dyna Glide a lot easier. So if you want to take your Harley back to the old drag racing days, these handlebars might be for you; however, don't expect too much comfort on long trips. Recommended for riders who want a drag race look but take shorter trips.

#2 T-Bars

T-bars

DIY Cost – $179-300

Professional Cost – $300-600

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various components.

The T-bars are the best of all the world, in some forum enthusiasts' opinion. It gives you the steering feel of regular handlebars, as it comes up narrow and the height gives you the feel as well as look of the ape hangers. These bars can be a bit more challenging to ride with at first; however, riders claim they got used to them rather quickly. If you want a tremendous upgrade in the looks and feel of your Dyna Glide, T-bars give you that Sons of Anarchy style. Recommended for riders who want a new look and don't mind adjusting to it.

#3 Ape Hangers

16" ape hangers

DIY Cost – $139-500

Professional Cost – $300-700

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the replacement of brake and clutch lines.

Ape hangers are by far the most popular upgrade when it comes to handlebars. These usually come in a variety of sizes; however, the most popular three are 14", 16", and 18". Check your local laws because if you get too high, you may get a ticket. The 14" will add a nice touch in the looks of your Harley, but it won't change the way it drives that much. The 16" ape hangers are the most popular option. Throughout the Harley forums, riders say if you want to upgrade the handlebars, you might as well make it look and feel different. If you're anywhere between 5'9" and 6'4", the 16" will be a great fit for you. The 18", on the other hand, are not recommended for the amateur riders. If you've been riding for years and are ready to start learning a whole new thing, those might get your attention. If you like long rides, you may not like these very much, as the blood can drain from your hands. Recommended for riders who take short trips.

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