Best bars for bad shoulders
#1
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My left shoulder wore out before I did and will soon enjoy replacement with non OEM parts! In the meantime, I'd like to get new bars to reduce the ouch factor. My wife believes my needs may change post surgery and I should wait. However, I doubt I have many miles remaining on my right shoulder so I think the most shoulder friendly option will be helpful long term. I know there are forum members who have experienced shoulder replacement and I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts. I am guessing bars that will keep my upper arms closest to my sides should be my target(?) Also, if you want to comment on reverse shoulder as opposed to traditional....(My surgeon is planning reverse)
#2
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Don60 (07-29-2024)
#3
#4
#5
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My left shoulder wore out before I did and will soon enjoy replacement with non OEM parts! In the meantime, I'd like to get new bars to reduce the ouch factor. My wife believes my needs may change post surgery and I should wait. However, I doubt I have many miles remaining on my right shoulder so I think the most shoulder friendly option will be helpful long term. I know there are forum members who have experienced shoulder replacement and I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts. I am guessing bars that will keep my upper arms closest to my sides should be my target(?) Also, if you want to comment on reverse shoulder as opposed to traditional....(My surgeon is planning reverse)
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Don60 (07-29-2024)
#6
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Thanks for your response. My surgeon talked about a reduced range of motion but it will probably be much greater than I've had for many years!.
#7
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As a "TracerBullet" correctly stated, what works well for one may not work well for another.
I've had "aftermarket" bars on my last two Ultras, and now on my Tri-Glide going back to 2000.
On my '00 Ultra I had H-D "Tallboy" bars, on my '13 CVO Ultra I had W.O.'s 577's and on my '18 Tri-Glide I have Helibars.
The Helibars are fully adjustable (rise, reach and grip angle) and they work well for me but they are pricey.
With "us" older riders it is very important (and iMHO necessary) that our hands (and grips) be lower than our shoulders but with a trike requiring more "muscle" to "push and pull" the handlebars i turning the "width" of the bars is important as that "width" gives the rider more leverage on the bars which assists the rider in steering the trike in curves.
An option for making the trike "steer" easier would be having the OEM "triple-tree" changed, changing the "rake" of the forks but that is also not for everyone and it is also a bit pricey BUT IF it makes riding easier for you and saves your shoulder it may well be worth the investment.
When changing bars it's a perfect time to add heated grips if you ride in cooler weather
I've had "aftermarket" bars on my last two Ultras, and now on my Tri-Glide going back to 2000.
On my '00 Ultra I had H-D "Tallboy" bars, on my '13 CVO Ultra I had W.O.'s 577's and on my '18 Tri-Glide I have Helibars.
The Helibars are fully adjustable (rise, reach and grip angle) and they work well for me but they are pricey.
With "us" older riders it is very important (and iMHO necessary) that our hands (and grips) be lower than our shoulders but with a trike requiring more "muscle" to "push and pull" the handlebars i turning the "width" of the bars is important as that "width" gives the rider more leverage on the bars which assists the rider in steering the trike in curves.
An option for making the trike "steer" easier would be having the OEM "triple-tree" changed, changing the "rake" of the forks but that is also not for everyone and it is also a bit pricey BUT IF it makes riding easier for you and saves your shoulder it may well be worth the investment.
When changing bars it's a perfect time to add heated grips if you ride in cooler weather
Last edited by 2AMGuy; 07-29-2024 at 01:59 PM.
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Don60 (07-29-2024)
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#8
#9
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I've read on this forum before that the 2+2 bars are a good option and appreciate your endorsement. Under normal circumstances, I am fine with the stock setup on my trike. But, as you know arthritis and/or bursitis doesn't like you moving out of your comfort zone. My theory is that the narrow sweepers, and having the controls closer to me, would reduce the occasions when I'll need to extend my arms into the range of extreme discomfort. There are ways to take advantage of arm strength without upsetting your shoulder but it sure gets mad if you **** it off!!
Last edited by Don60; 07-30-2024 at 08:58 AM.
#10