Harley Davidson Touring: Ape Hanger Modification
Ape hangers can come in various shapes and heights. This guide will cover the popular sizes so you can pick the right ones for you and your Harley Touring rig.
This article applies to the Harley Davidson Touring (1995-2015).
The Harley Davidson Touring is one of the most comfortable bikes on the market, but sometimes, comfort isn't as much fun. If you're a fan of ape hanger handlebars, then you're a true biker. Ape hangers give you that stretched out feel, with the wind in your face and your arms held high. Of course there are various heights for the ape hangers, and what is good for you might not be good for the next person. This guide will cover the most popular ape hangers on our forums. Read on to choose the right ones for you.
Ape Hanger Modifications
14" Ape Hangers
DIY Cost – $189-299
Professional Cost – $300-500
Skill Level – Easy; just simple hand tools are needed.
If you're a first time ape hanger rider, the 14" apes are the wisest decision for you. These apes are high enough to give you a flavor of the ape hanger world, but not too high that it will change the ride comfort and stability. These ape hangers are easier to install than anything bigger, because most of the time the brake and clutch lines are long enough, so you don't have to change them. These are big enough to change the look of your bagger, and the feel while riding, but not so extreme as to make it uncomfortable. So if you're ready to join the ape hanger club, you can certainly start here. Recommended for first time ape hanger riders.
16" Ape Hangers
DIY Cost – $299-499
Professional Cost – $400-600
Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various components, and the replacement of various lines.
With the 16" ape hangers, you're right there with the big boys. Whether you're 5'7" or 6'3", these ape hangers will work for you. These will require you to replace both the brake and clutch lines, however. That means disconnecting hydraulic lines and bleeding the system afterwards. The wiring should be long enough to allow the switch gear to reach on 16" tall bars. Before you commit to 16" tall bars, be sure to try these on another bike first, and check your local laws. These ape hangers will change the way your bike rides. Lots of guys ride big bikes with 16" bars on them all the time, but be warned things will feel strange and you may feel uncomfortable in parking lot maneuvers. Recommended for riders who are used to ape hangers.
18" Ape Hangers
DIY Cost – $399-599
Professional Cost – $500-700
Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various components and lines.
The 18" ape hangers are just another level, with an extreme stretched out look that will become a real pain after a long time in the saddle. These are not recommended for riders that spend a lot of time on their bikes. After a while, your hands will fall asleep, as the blood is going back down to your arms. Many local laws outlaw handlebars where your hands are above the level of your shoulders, which these likely are. Experienced riders claim you will get used to it after a while, but most say the 18" are not for everybody. This will take a little longer to get used to it, especially on the highway, as your body will work like a sailboat due to your arms being spread aside and as high as you can reach. If you want to commit to the real deal apes, go for it and enjoy the outlaw look these will bring. Only recommended for riders who are ready for this height ape hanger and/or will be taking shorter rides.
Related Discussions
- Ape Hanger Size and Comfort - HDForums.com
- Ape Hangers - HDForums.com
- Ape Hangers for Tall Riders - HDForums.com
