I haven't done much motorcycle riding and don't know how different bikes feel when it comes to the position of my feet, so I have read up on the advantages and disadvantges of where the foot controls are.

Forward foot controls and footpegs on a cruiser type bikeput the rider a much more laid back and relaxed position, especially for taller riders on smaller bikes.

However, having the pegs and controls in the foward position makes it more difficult to get certain control or position of balanceover your bike such as having to take sharp turns or having to rise out of your seat such if you would have to run over a large obstacle and and would need to lean back to get better control.

For you experienced riders with forward controls, do you think you lose any type of control of your bike or do you just know you have to ride more carefully and slower than if you would be riding a bike with mid controls.

If you do need to stand up off your seat WHILE RIDING, how do you effectively do this while you feet are forward of you? Or is it that you just cannot?

Is it better to be riding relaxed with your legs out in front of youor is it better to ride a little less comfortable with you knees bent up, but have more control?

 

I have no experience with forward controls but I have mid controls on mine. I love them. Now sometimes I would like to stretch out, so I plan on getting highway pegs... in my opinion its the best of both worlds.

-LB

 

My FLHS had forward controls (boards removed) and I could stand up on it. My Ultra is stock and I can stand up on it easier than on the FLHS. It really comes down to what makes you comfortable and lets you be in control. IMHO if forward controls are so far forward that you ride with your legs straight, you should probably go with mid-controls.

Of course now that I said that there is a RiderCoach I work with who rides a WG, is some what vertically challenged and his legs are perfectly straight on the bike, yet he can ride the box and the weaves with no problems.

 

Being 6'4" I have no problem standing with forward controls. I even extended mine for comfort and I can still get my fat A$$ off the seat for bumps/potholes etc.

And there's a reason they're called cruisers. I like to enjoy the ride instead of trying to see how fast I can finish it.

 

The secret here is that the position of forward controls as they come stock on Harley Davidsons really isn't very far forward at all.Sit on a few and check it out,you'll see what I talking about.As far as balance,handling etc,etc- Mid controls are definitely optimal,but the position of the stock forwards is pretty conservative,you won't lose much advantage compared to mids plus gain some comfort.

 

As X said, I don't think the forwards on my bike are that far forward at all (05 WG). I'm only 5'10" and my knees are bent comfortably on the bike. I rode my brother's sportster a couple times (mid controls) and it took me a while to get used to my legs being a bit scrunched up under me. I also added heel rests to mine, and I can stand up on it with no problem when necessary. It's all what you feel comfortable with.

 

With time and miles on the fwd controls you'll be able to make any necessary adjustments for cornering and obsticles.

 

I agree!!!!!!!!!!!!!![sm=signs007.gif]

 

As the bros above stated it depends on the rider but also requires some adjustment for rider and controls.

A lot of of us, that raced bikes, prefer mid controls; they allow you to get your weight over critical areas.
i.e. In corners you can more properly transfer your weight and still feel comfortable.

For bar hoping forward controls are much better and probably even more comfortable.

For me the best highway setup is mid controls with small fold-able highway bars.

Ifjust for a cool look,some of the bestchoppers have mid controls, or both,for the classic knees in the air look.

 

I have a Deuce with forward controls and I'm 5'6". I still have a slight bend in my knees when I ride (not straight-legged). I have no problem with low speed maneuvering and cornering. When approaching an obstacle like steel plating, I pull back on the handle bars and straighten my legs on the forward controls. This allows me to rise up about 2 inches off the saddle to clear the obstacle without feeling the bump.