5 Worst Sportster Modifications
Everyone loves to add their own personal touches to their rides. This makes their bike stand out from the crowd. Here are some perfect examples of what can go really wrong with the mod-bug.
1. Ape Hangers
Ape Hangers; you either love them or hate them. Those who love them will say that they are a million times more comfortable than straights or pull back bars. They automatically get you in the correct posture for riding and they are easier on your shoulders. The modification isn't too difficult to do, but you should be aware of how your ride looks afterward. In this photo of a 1200 with 14" apes and a 4" riser, the speedo and tach have been likened to Mickey Mouse ears. Consider relocating them if you want a meaner look for your Sportster.
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2. The Space Shuttle Faring
If you find yourself riding down the super slab often but don't enjoy all the buffeting, you might want to consider adding a sporty windshield and a fairing. Just be careful which you choose. This Sportster's farming is way too big for this style of bike. Something with a smaller profile would work well, but this particular beast looks way too large for the ride.
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3. The Bobber
"Bobberizing" your ride is one of the more intensive projects you can embark upon. While some folks absolutely love the look, there are many who do not. Consider the market if you do not plan on owning your ride from cradle to the grave. There have been many owners who were ready to trade up to a Glide or King only to find that they had to practically give their Bobber away because it was quite a chore finding someone else who loves the look more than you.
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4. The Low Rider
Little else can make a ride look meaner than a set of lowering blocks. A low riding Sportster looks pretty sweet and is a great mod if you ride alone. If you are ready to ride 2-up, those lowering blocks can spell disaster. Before you set off on a trip just briefly warn your passenger of the uncomfortable trip they're about to experience.
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5. Purple People Eater
Beauty is in the eye of the owner. While this ride was modded to the taste of the owner, always consider two very important things: you will rarely get out of it what you put into it when it is time to resell, and almost everyone wants to mod their bike to their liking. So while this purple ride looks hot, a potential buyer may walk away because they either don't care for the paint or it's too much work to make it how they want it. A bone stock bike usually sells better than one modded to the taste of the current owner. If you don't plan on ever giving up your ride, mod it to your heart's content, or else, never give away your stock parts so you can put them back on to sell it for that bigger ride you have been eyeballing.
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