How to Change Harley Davidson Handlebars: A Complete Guide for a Customized Ride

Have you ever felt like your Harley just doesn’t fit you quite right? Maybe those handlebars are too high or too low, making your rides less enjoyable. Changing your handlebars can transform your comfort and control, giving you a better experience on the road.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Importance: Changing Harley Davidson handlebars can significantly improve comfort and control, enhancing your overall riding experience.
• Gather Essential Tools: Before beginning the process, ensure you have a torque wrench, socket set, Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and other essential tools for a smooth installation.
• Follow a Step-by-Step Guide: Carefully prepare your bike, remove old handlebars, position the new ones, and securely reconnect all components to complete the installation correctly.
• Choose the Right Handlebars: Consider factors such as riding position, width, material, and height to select handlebars that suit your style and comfort needs.
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Measure accurately and perform necessary safety checks to ensure a proper fit and secure installation for optimal handling and safety.
• Test Before Long Rides: After installation, take a short test drive to check for comfort and functionality before embarking on longer journeys.

Tools Required For Changing Harley Davidson Handlebars

Having the right tools makes changing your Harley Davidson handlebars straightforward and efficient. Gather the necessary equipment to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools

• Torque Wrench: This tool ensures you tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid damage.
• Socket Set: A metric socket set, including sizes specific to your handlebars, allows for easy removal and installation.
• Allen Wrenches: These come in various sizes; ensure you have the correct size for your handlebar clamps and controls.
• Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers are needed for removing grips and controls.
• Pliers: A pair of needle-nose pliers helps with any small parts, like clips or fasteners.

• Padded Work Gloves: Protect your hands during the process and improve grip on tools.
• Crescent Wrench: While not always necessary, a crescent wrench can assist with adjusting any unique components.
• Wire Cutters: Useful for cutting any zip ties securing wiring.
• Cable Lubricant: If you’re replacing cables, this product helps ensure a smooth operation.
• Shop Manual: Having a shop manual for your specific model provides detailed instructions and specifications.

Gather these tools before starting your project for a more organized and efficient handlebar change.

Step-By-Step Guide

Changing handlebars on your Harley Davidson can enhance your ride’s comfort and control. Follow these steps for a smooth process.

Preparing Your Bike

1. Park your bike on a flat surface, ensuring it’s stable.
2. Disconnect the battery by removing the negative terminal. This prevents any electrical shorts.
3. Gather all necessary tools. Keep them organized for easy access during the procedure.

Removing Old Handlebars

1. Remove the grips by loosening the screws or cutting them off if they’re glued on.
2. Disconnect the controls. Carefully unplug any wiring and remove the switch housings. Note their arrangement for easy reconnection later.
3. Loosen the handlebar clamps. Use a torque wrench to avoid damage.
4. Carefully lift the old handlebars away. Ensure all wiring and cables are free.

1. Position the new handlebars in the clamps. Make sure they’re aligned with the front wheel for optimal handling.
2. Secure the handlebars by tightening the clamps. Follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications to prevent over-tightening.
3. Reconnect wires and controls. Ensure everything is securely plugged in and routed correctly.
4. Reattach the grips, replacing any screws or glue as needed.
5. Reconnect the battery, starting with the positive terminal first, followed by the negative.

Following these steps guarantees a smooth transition to your new handlebars, enhancing your riding experience.

Tips For Choosing The Right Handlebars

Choosing the right handlebars for your Harley enhances both comfort and control during rides. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind.

Types of Handlebars

1. Ape Hangers: These handlebars sit high and provide a unique style for cruising. Ideal for a laid-back riding position.
2. Drag Bars: Lower and narrower than other types, these handlebars give a sporty feel. Perfect for aggressive riders seeking a sleek look.
3. Bonsai Handlebars: Mid-height options that offer a blend of comfort and control. Great for everyday rides without sacrificing style.
4. Z-bar Handlebars: Feature a distinct angular design. These handlebars stand out and provide a comfortable grip.
5. Riser Handlebars: Added height improves visibility and control. Use for a more upright riding position.

1. Riding Position: Ensure handlebars match your preferred riding posture. Higher bars offer more relaxed positions, while lower bars may lean you forward.
2. Width: Choose the handlebar width based on your shoulder width. Wider handlebars provide better control and leverage.
3. Material: Handlebars come in various materials, including steel and aluminum. Steel offers durability, while aluminum is lighter and easier to handle.
4. Finish: Select a finish that complements your bike’s aesthetic. Options range from chrome to powder-coated styles.
5. Height: Decide on handlebar height based on comfort. Too tall or too short can affect your control and overall ride experience.

By focusing on these factors, you can choose handlebars that enhance your Harley’s performance and align with your personal style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Changing handlebars on your Harley can enhance your riding experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to problems. Pay attention to these key areas to ensure a smoother installation process.

Incorrect Measurements

Taking incorrect measurements can result in handlebars that don’t fit properly. Measure existing handlebars before purchasing new ones. Consider width, height, and rise to ensure compatibility with your bike. Miscalculating these dimensions may lead to discomfort during rides, which defeats the purpose of changing handlebars.

• Width: Ensure the new handlebars match or complement the existing width.
• Height: Choose a height that aligns with your riding position; too high or low can strain your back.
• Rise: Verify the rise suits your comfort level for easier reach.

Neglecting Safety Checks

Completing safety checks before and after installation is crucial. Overlooking this step can lead to loose parts or inadequate handling. During the installation process, double-check all bolts and fittings to ensure they’re secured. It’s also essential to verify that brake lines and wiring are properly routed to avoid complications.

• Check Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are tight to prevent future failures.
• Inspect Brake Lines: Confirm brake lines aren’t pinched or damaged during the installation.
• Test Drive: Take a short ride to test the functionality and comfort of the new handlebars before going on longer rides.

Conclusion

Changing your Harley Davidson handlebars can truly transform your ride. By choosing the right type and ensuring everything’s measured and secured properly you’re setting yourself up for a more enjoyable experience on the road. Always take the time to double-check your work before hitting the highway. With a little patience and attention to detail you’ll not only enhance your bike’s look but also improve your comfort and control. Enjoy the ride and the new feel of your Harley!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best handlebars for a Harley?

The best handlebars for a Harley depend on your riding style. Popular options include Ape Hangers for an upright position, Drag Bars for a sporty feel, and Riser Handlebars for a mix of comfort and style. Choose based on how you want to ride and feel on the road.

How do I choose the right handlebars for my Harley?

To choose the right handlebars, consider factors like riding position, width, and height. Measure your current setup to find handles that suit your arm length and comfort. Also, think about the material for durability and aesthetic appeal.

What mistakes should I avoid when changing handlebars?

Common mistakes when changing handlebars include inaccurate measurements of width and height, which can lead to discomfort while riding. It’s also important to ensure you secure all bolts correctly and route brake lines appropriately to avoid safety issues.

How can I ensure the safety of my new handlebars?

To ensure safety, double-check that all bolts and fittings are securely tightened. Make sure to properly route brake lines to avoid pinching or kinks. After installation, test the handlebars’ functionality to ensure they work correctly before taking longer rides.

Why is it important to test handlebars after installation?

Testing your handlebars after installation is crucial to ensure they respond correctly to your steering input. A proper test ride helps identify any issues with height, width, or functionality that could cause discomfort or safety hazards on the road.