Hi from the UK, I'm gonna change over to apes from wide beach bars soon as I have been wanting some for a long time but I was wondering for those of you that ride with or have ridden with apes how is your ability to manoeuvre/turn at low speeds etc , and will I be sacrificing safety etc for the sake of liking how these bars look, your advice would be welcomed.

 

In my opinion the 18" & 20" inchers look outstanding when your bikes sitting at the local tavern parking lot ( had 'em on 2 bikes) but when you start riding in the twisties up the mountains or splittling lanes in severe traffice they took MY manueverability away, so on my last several bikes I won't go any higher than 12".

 

Never gone higher than 12", but I can tell you that with the increased leverage, I feel like my bike is more maneuverable. When I went to pull out of the dealership after they'd put mine on, I about dumped the bike because my wheel was going farther than I was used to going. I've also noticed that I don't have to put my feet down quite as much as when I had lower bars. . .it's easier for me to balance the bike it seems for some reason.

 

All I can tell you is that I have 18's on mine and I feel much more in control than with stock bars. I've had apes on just about every Harley I've owned and honestly don't like riding without them. It's more of a comfort issue than looks for me.

 

Taller apes actually make lane splitting easier as the ends of the bars are taller than most of the mirrors on cars with the exception of trucks and SUV's so you can actually fit through spaces that are narrower than with shorter apes. Apes are an acquired taste.

As far as maneuverability you have a lot more leverage than with shorter bars thus the tiniest bit of input on the bars will be all you need to change direction. Slow speed maneuvering can be mastered very easily.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing height like how long your arms are, how tall you are and what you will feel comfortable with. If you can find someone who is willing to let you ride their bike that has apes you can get a feel for it. Otherwise it is hit and miss.

 

I have to completely disagree with you on that. I have 18's with 3" risers, and I bet I could wax your *** in the curves. I got a lot more leverage and control with these bars. I have had beach bars, drag bars and the stock ones, and none could compare as far as handling. Also, one thing to realize is your first few weeks with them are going to be hard. It took me about 2 weeks to get adjusted to them, and I love it now. When I first got them I hated it and thought it was the biggest waste of money I could possibly have done. I also have ridden many long distance trips with no issues (300 miles or more). Another thing is that it is not for everyone.....

 

I have 18's on a Heritage and a Deluxe and I do not feel that I have any less control or leverage with the apes. I ride the Heritage all over tight mountain passes in Colorado without any issues. My back is much more comfortable with the apes.

The real downside with the apes is added wind buffeting as you are sitting upright and your hands can get a bit chilly as your hands are out front in the wind.

But, I would never ride a bike without apes after having them for many years. Much more comfortable. SJ Ron

 

ZERO loss of control or leverage riding with my 18" Apes.

 

Just do it, bro! You'll adjust so that you can maneuver with them just as well or better than you could with your current bars. In slow maneuvers I just have to lean forward a bit more to get some slack in my arms, since my 18's are pushed forward for maximum badassness. It's awkward at first, but you'll get accustomed to it within a couple weeks.

 

I'm a tall guy and am way more cofortable and feel like I have way more control with 18's