Ever thought about how much more comfortable your Harley Davidson Sportster could feel with forward controls? If you’ve been riding with the stock setup, you might’ve noticed that the foot position can feel cramped, especially on longer rides.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced Comfort: Installing forward controls can significantly improve riding comfort on a Harley Davidson Sportster, especially during long rides.
- Essential Tools & Materials: Gather necessary tools such as a socket set, torque wrench, screwdrivers, and a quality forward control kit for a smoother installation process.
- Safety First: Prioritize safety by wearing goggles and gloves, working in a ventilated area, and disconnecting the battery before starting the installation.
- Follow Installation Steps: Carefully follow the step-by-step instructions for removing existing controls, installing new brackets, and connecting the shifter and brake systems.
- Adjust for Comfort: Make final adjustments to ensure footpeg, shifter, and brake lever positions align with your natural body posture for optimal comfort during rides.
- Test Thoroughly: Conduct a pre-ride checklist and take a test ride to ensure all components function properly, making adjustments as needed for an enhanced riding experience.
Tools And Materials Needed
Before starting the installation of forward controls on your Harley Davidson Sportster, gather all necessary tools and materials to streamline the process. These essentials will help ensure a smoother installation experience.
Essential Tools
- Socket Set: You’ll need a metric socket set, typically including sizes ranging from 10mm to 17mm.
- Torque Wrench: A torque wrench helps you apply the correct amount of torque to bolts and prevents over-tightening.
- Phillips and Flathead Screwdrivers: Both types of screwdrivers assist with loosening or tightening screws.
- Allen Wrenches: Ensure you have an Allen wrench set, particularly for hex bolts in the footpeg assembly.
- Pliers: Pliers are useful for gripping and manipulating small components.
- Custom Bracket Tool (if applicable): Some forward controls require a specific bracket tool for installation.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes during the installation with safety glasses.
- Forward Control Kit: Purchase a quality forward control kit designed for your specific Sportster model. Look for a kit that includes all necessary components.
- Brake Line Extension: If your kit doesn’t come with one, a brake line extension kit is essential for proper installation.
- Footpegs: Choose footpegs that match your style, as some kits allow for customization.
- Shifter Linkage: Ensure the kit includes a compatible shifter linkage for seamless shifting.
- Sealant: Use high-quality thread sealant for protecting threaded areas from moisture and ensuring durability.
Having these tools and materials ready will set you up for a successful installation.
Preparing Your Harley Davidson Sportster
Before you begin the installation of forward controls on your Harley Davidson Sportster, take a moment to prepare. Proper preparation ensures efficiency and safety during the process.
Safety Precautions
Safety comes first. Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself during the installation. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes from tools or materials. Additionally, disconnect the battery to prevent accidental electrical issues. Follow these steps to keep your workspace safe:
- Gather Your Tools: Check that you have all essential tools within reach.
- Clear the Workspace: Remove any unnecessary items from your work area.
- Inspect Equipment: Ensure your tools are in good condition to avoid accidents.
Removing Existing Controls
Removing the existing controls is a crucial step. Follow this straightforward process:
- Loosen the Footpeg Bolts: Use the socket set to loosen and remove the footpeg bolts.
- Disconnect the Shifter Linkage: Carefully disconnect the shifter linkage by unscrewing the retaining bolt.
- Remove the Brake Pedal: Unscrew the brake pedal from its bracket to clear the way for the new setup.
- Take Off Stock Controls: Remove the stock control assembly by unscrewing it from the frame. Keep all removed parts organized for future reference.
Once completed, you’re ready to move on to installing the new forward controls.
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps to install forward controls on your Harley Davidson Sportster. This guide ensures a straightforward process, enhancing your riding comfort.
Installing Forward Control Brackets
- Locate Bracket Mounting Points: Identify the areas on the frame where the new brackets mount. These are typically marked on the frame.
- Align the Brackets: Position the forward control brackets in place, ensuring they sit flush against the frame.
- Insert Bolts: Use the provided bolts to secure the brackets. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
Attaching Footpegs
- Select Footpeg Positions: Choose your preferred forward position for the footpegs.
- Attach Footpeg Mounts: Slide the footpeg mounts onto the brackets. Make sure they sit firmly in place.
- Secure with Bolts: Fasten the footpegs using the supplied hardware. Ensure they’re tightly secured but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the mounts.
Connecting Shifter Assembly
- Install Shifter Linkage: Attach the shifter linkage to the new control arm, aligning the holes.
- Secure Connection: Insert and tighten the retaining bolt to hold the linkage in place.
- Check Operation: Test the shifter to ensure smooth engagement before proceeding.
- Position the Brake Lever: Attach the brake lever to its designated mount on the forward controls.
- Connect Brake Line: Ensure the brake line is securely connected to the lever.
- Test Brake Functionality: Engage the brake lever and check for proper braking action. Adjust tension if necessary before completing the installation.
Final Adjustments And Testing
Adjusting and testing your newly installed forward controls is crucial for ensuring comfort and proper function. Making these final touches can enhance your riding experience significantly.
Ensuring Comfort And Functionality
Adjust the footpeg position to align with your natural leg posture. Your knees should maintain a comfortable angle, typically around 90 degrees. Ensure the shifter is within easy reach, allowing you to change gears without stretching. The brake lever should also be accessible, providing a secure feel when braking. Test all positions by sitting on the bike and shifting your weight. Fine-tune each component until comfort meets functionality.
Test Ride Checklist
Before taking your Harley Davidson Sportster for a spin, run through this checklist:
- Footpeg Position: Ensure footpegs sit at a comfortable height and angle.
- Shifter Function: Test the shifter for easy engagement and quick shifting.
- Brake Operation: Confirm the brake lever communicates with the brake mechanism smoothly.
- Clearance Check: Look for any obstructions, ensuring nothing interferes with your legs during rides.
- Tightness of Fasteners: Double-check all nuts and bolts, ensuring they are securely fastened.
Once you’ve completed the checklist, take a short ride in a controlled environment. Focus on comfort and responsiveness. Adjust again if necessary, and enjoy the enhanced comfort provided by your forward controls.
Conclusion
Installing forward controls on your Harley Davidson Sportster can truly transform your riding experience. You’ll enjoy better comfort and control on those long rides.
Remember to take your time with the adjustments and test everything thoroughly. A few tweaks can make all the difference in how your bike feels.
Once you’ve got everything dialed in just right you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence. Enjoy the ride and embrace the freedom that comes with your newly customized Sportster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are forward controls on a Harley Davidson Sportster?
Forward controls are a set of foot controls that move the footpegs and shifter forward compared to the stock setup. This modification enhances riding comfort, especially during long rides, by allowing a more relaxed leg position.
How do I install forward controls on my Harley Davidson Sportster?
Installing forward controls involves removing the stock footpeg mounts and shifter components. You then attach the new forward control kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring proper alignment before tightening all fasteners.
Why are final adjustments important after installation?
Final adjustments ensure that all controls, including footpegs and levers, are positioned correctly for comfort and functionality. Proper alignment enhances control during rides and prevents fatigue or discomfort.
What should I check during the test ride?
During your test ride, check footpeg position, shifter function, brake operation, and clearance. Ensure everything operates smoothly and securely, and pay attention to how comfortable the setup feels while riding.
Can I perform the installation myself?
Yes, if you have basic mechanical skills and tools, you can install forward controls yourself. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
How do I ensure my new controls are safe to use?
To ensure safety, double-check the tightness of all fasteners, test the operation of the shifter and brake, and confirm there is sufficient clearance. Always conduct your test ride in a controlled environment to assess functionality.
