Modifying a Sportster for Touring

Saddlebags

If you are planning on traveling any significant distance on your Sportster, it is wise to invest in a set of saddlebags. Sportster models have little to no storage space, so if you are going to be spending a few days on the bike, saddlebags will help carry along any necessities (a change of clothes, tools, etc). Saddlebags are available in a variety of styles that range from simple leather throw-over bags to weather-proof lockable hard bags. Many saddlebags are available with a quick disconnect setup that allows the bags to quickly and easily be installed/removed from the bike to allow owners to switch to their touring setup whenever necessary.

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Windshields & Fairings

Spending long hours in the saddle with the wind, bugs, and various debris in your face can become quite uncomfortable, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Fortunately, numerous windshields and fairings are available for Sportsters to help minimize rider fatigue when logging considerable mileage. A full-size windshield offers some of the best protection for a minimal investment, but by all accounts is not considered very attractive. Smaller bikini or cafe-style fairings tend to be much more stylish but have a trade-off of slightly less wind protection. Batwing fairings as found on Harley touring models have gained popularity and are available for the Sportster to provide a good mix of style and performance. In any case, any sort of wind protection that can be added to the bike will make a noticeable improvement when touring your Sportster.

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Foot Controls

A number of Sportster models come equipped with mid-controls that work great in most instances but can leave riders feeling a bit cramped when out on longer rides. There are several options that help riders extend their legs for a more comfortable stretched-out riding position. A forward control kit moves the footpegs, shift lever, and rear brake arm from the rear of the cases and places them towards the front of the motor near the frame downtubes for a cruiser-like positioning. Some folks also prefer to swap out the standard footpegs for a wider set that provides a larger area for their feet to rest. A number of individuals have taken things a step further by installing touring-style floorboards for an even greater platform to position their feet.

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Highway Bars

Highway bars are a cost-effective alternative to swapping out the foot controls on a Sportster. Although highway bars are primarily used for crash protection, they also allow riders a place to stretch out their legs when on a long stretch of road. Highways bars can accept a number of accessories including highway pegs and even wind deflectors to further reduce wind buffeting. Many owners prefer using a set of highway bars on their Sportsters because they allow the mid-controls to be retained for sport-oriented riding, but also allows them the option to kick back when cruising.

>>Join the conversation about Modifying a Sportster for Touring right here in HD Forums.

Seat

The stock seats on Sportster models have greatly improved over the years, and while they may work for many riders, an aftermarket seat can further improve comfort on those extended rides. OEM seats are meant to fit people of all shapes and sizes whereas an aftermarket unit can be tailored to fit your needs. A new saddle can not only enhance the look of your bike but can also change the position in which you sit on the bike and be made of a softer or firmer material to achieve the proper level of support. Some touring seats even come with a detachable backrest to provide additional support if needed.

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Handlebars

As you have probably noticed by now, touring is all about tailoring the bike to fit you for utmost comfort over long distances, so it is no wonder that a good set of bars will help improve control and lessen fatigue. The height, pullback, and overall style of the bars will directly influence the riding position, so it is important to choose a set of handlebars that are comfortable. It is probably a good idea to avoid the high reach of a set of ape hangars or the long reach of drag bars when touring, but most other style bars can work well depending on your body shape and arm length. If you are unsure of which style will work best for you, the local bike shop will often allow you to test out a few sets before you buy.

>>Join the conversation about Modifying a Sportster for Touring right here in HD Forums.

Time For A Trade?

There may come a point where you find that the Sportster is just not cutting it as a full-time touring bike. For some, the Sportster tends to feel a bit too cramped for long distance riding. Others find that the smaller fuel tank capacity coupled with a 5-speed transmission ( or 4-speed prior to 1991) requires additional visits to the gas pump. If you already own a Sportster, but are not taking advantage of the smaller size, lighter weight, or quicker handling, it may be worthwhile trading-up to a touring model that has all the amenities built-in for long distance riding. If you are buying a new bike, it is worthwhile to truly consider what type of riding you plan to do before making a purchase. That said, Sportsters are great, well-rounded motorcycles that can be easily molded to suit just about any type of riding with a few simple mods.

>>Join the conversation about Modifying a Sportster for Touring right here in HD Forums.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section right here in the forum.