Harley Davidson Dyna Glide: Exterior Modification

There are many options when it comes to exterior modifications for the Harley Davidson Dyna Glide. This guide will cover some of the most popular and functional upgrades.

By Bassem Girgis - December 28, 2015

This article applies to the Harley Davidson Dyna Glide.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Glide is a cool bike, but there is always room for improvement. This guide will shine some light on some of the popular exterior modifications that you can do to your bike. Some of these modifications will change the looks of your Harley, some will change the feel of it, while others add functionality to it. If you're looking at your motorcycle thinking you may be ready to make it more unique, read on to get some options.

Exterior Modifications

Harley Davidson Dyna Glide
Figure 1. Stock Harley Davidson Dyna Glide.

#1 Increasing Storage

Saddlebags

DIY Cost – $100-500

Professional Cost – $250-700

Skill Level – Easy; this job may require the removal of various components.

When it comes to functionality, adding extra storage to your Harley is the best modification. The classic looks of leather saddlebags are often desired. If you want your motorcycle to look modern, you can add color-matched fiber glass saddlebags, and if you want it to look vintage, leather saddlebags will do just that. There are even locking hard bags with the look of leather, and quick release hard bags that come off in minutes. You can also add a rear trunk. These can vary in sizes, but they all have one thing in common, they are all very functional. If you're looking to change the looks of your Harley while making it much more practical, adding bags or a trunk is the way to go. Recommended for its functionality.

#2 Chrome

Chrome trim

DIY Cost – $100-400

Professional Cost – $300-500

Skill Level – Moderate; some parts are harder to replace or add than others.

If you are like most people, a Harley full of chrome will make you smile. Adding chrome trim and covers can change the look of your Dyna Glide completely. These can be sold as kits or individually. You can purchase chrome grips, chrome floor boards, chrome engine covers, or nearly any other part of your Harley. Installing these parts can vary, but many are as easy as applying adhesive, or unscrewing the old part and screwing on the new. If you want to change the appearance of your bike without changing its feel, adding chrome all around will definitely do that. Recommended for its looks.

#3 Ape Hangers

Ape hangers

DIY Cost – $119-500

Professional Cost – $300-700

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the replacement of brake and clutch lines.

Replacing the handlebars on your Harley will change the looks and feel of it; and if you decide that's what you want to do, nothing is more popular than the famous ape hangers. Ape hangers come in all sizes, from 12" to 18" and up, but you may run into legal and other issues with taller bars. Also, the higher you go with ape hangers, the more difficult it will be to drive and be in full control of the bike. If you decide to go with over 14" ape hangers, you will most likely have to replace the brake and clutch line. If you want to replace the handlebars, it's recommended you test drive bikes with different ape hanger sizes. Once you're comfortable with a specific size, these are sure to change the looks of your Dyna Glide, while completely changing the way they drive. It will be like driving a brand new bike. Recommended for its ability to transform your bike.

(Related Article: Handlebar Modifications - HDForums.com)

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