I wouldn't and can't ride without apes. I'm 6-9, and the stock bars hit my knees in sharp turns. I can't remmember the last bike I didn't have apes on, and I'm 66 year old and have been riding scoots sence I was a kid. I have shoulder and back problems and love my 16" apes, but with that said, they're not for everyone. I think a back rest is a must. I ride from Houston to Daytona (1100 miles) every year without any problems at all.

Good luck in your quest for comfort.

 

Well Oldhippie is right about not seeing any touring bikes with ape hangers at the track....then again I haven't seen any touring bikes with beach bars or drag bars at the track either. For me personally I also went from wild one beach bars to apes and it felt like I added power steering. I would definately try pushing them forward or pulling them back to see if that helps. Dont think it will help with the cold issue, but look at the bright side your hands will stay cooler in the hot So Cal summers.

 

I have apes as well and thought it was a big mistake due to the arm/shoulder pain I had. Most push the bars far ahead to get your hands/arms up high. For me, moving them back one inch solved the discomfort totally. You will have a more enjoyable ride if your arms are not locked, you need a bend at your elbows, IMO. Good luck and let us know how you make out.

 

I'm tall too, but just can't imagine 16s. When I do my bars in February(ish) I'll probably do 10s or 12s not sure yet.

 

As others have stated, try pulling them back a little, might help, can't hurt. Very nice bike by the way, when i grow up, i'm gonna have an aped up Road King.

 

I'm 5'7" and the 13" Ganster apes are perfect. i had the stock bars for my RKC 07.

I had apes before i purchased this RKC. In the beginning i felt like the low bars were like pushing a wheelbarrow. Apes put my mirrors at eye level don't have to look down.

 

Still wanting to put 16's on my RK as soon as finances allow. This was my goal when I bought the bike and still is. Just fuggin hate these stock bars! Get ahold of me raceface if you wanna sell yer stuff. I'll gladly take it off your hands!

 

I'm glad I threw this thread up!! I think I will try pulling the bars back this weekend and get a little more bend in my elbows and see what happens. Now.....what are these "glove liners" that were mentioned?? I think I'll give those a shot too!!

 

I agree you need to wait until you recover more from your surgery.

If you were trying to solve your lower back pain problem a Driver's Backrest is the best option.
I've had stock bars, wide bars and now apes and the only thing that stops lower back pain is a back rest.

 

Glove liners:
http://www.rei.com/product/816681/th...e-liner-gloves
http://www.backcountry.com/mountain-...er-glove-liner
Or better yet
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...ve-Liners.aspx