Home Harley Maintenance and Safety Harley Handlebar Size Chart: Stock vs Custom
Harley Maintenance and Safety

Harley Handlebar Size Chart: Stock vs Custom

Explore the Harley handlebar size chart for stock vs custom handlebar options. Find the perfect fit for your ride on our blog.

Share
Close-up of a custom Harley handlebar
Share

Key Highlights

  • Knowing your Harley Davidson handlebar size is important for a comfortable and safe ride.
  • This blog offers a detailed size chart for different Harley models and years.
  • When it comes to handlebar selection, you should consider stock versus custom, based on your riding style and any modifications you want.
  • Taking correct measurements is key to ensure everything fits well and works properly.
  • This guide will give you the information you need to make good choices about your Harley’s handlebars.

When you want to change your Harley Davidson, one of the biggest changes is the handlebars. Before you switch out your stock handlebars for new ones, it is important to know the sizes. A good fit can help a lot with comfort and safety when riding.

This guide will help you understand handlebar measurements. It will look at the pros and cons of stock versus custom handlebars, including new bars. By learning this information, you can improve your riding. We will also explain that changing the handlebars might require new cables and brake lines. Additionally, we’ll give you a rough formula to help you figure out the lengths you need.

Understanding Harley Handlebar Sizes

Harley Davidson handlebar sizes depend on several key measurements. These include height, width, pullback, and the area of the center clamp.

  • Height, or rise, shows how high the handlebars are from where they attach.
  • Width is the full size from one end to the other, not counting grips or weights.
  • Pullback measures how far the handlebars move back toward the rider.
  • The center clamp area is important to ensure the handlebars fit your motorcycle’s risers and top clamp.

These measurements can vary greatly for different motorcycle models and years. You need to pick handlebars that fit your motorcycle model specifically.

The Importance of Handlebar Size on Your Riding Experience

The size of your handlebars can change the way you ride your motorcycle. They impact your posture, comfort, and control. Higher handlebars usually let you sit up straight and feel more relaxed. This can be good for your back and wrists, especially during long rides. Lower handlebars, however, make you bend forward, leading to a more aggressive riding position.

More pullback brings the handlebars closer. This change helps you reach them easily and sit comfortably. It is helpful for riders with shorter arms or those who prefer a relaxed grip. It is key to find the right balance of height and pullback for a ride that feels good and fits your body and style.

Knowing how these measurements affect your choice is important when deciding between standard and custom handlebars. Choosing the right size makes your ride comfortable and easy to control. This helps make your motorcycle trips more enjoyable and safe.

Stock vs Custom Handlebars: A Comparison

Stock handlebars are the original parts on your Harley Davidson. They help you sit up straight when riding. They are great for many riders, but some feel they need something different. This is especially true for those who want to change their bikes to match their style and comfort.

Custom handlebars offer many choices. They help you change the look of your Harley and make your riding experience better. There are various shapes, sizes, and styles available. You can pick custom handlebars that suit your riding style and meet your needs.

Custom handlebars can help you ride in a sportier way, enjoy a nice cruise, or make your bike feel unique. However, changing handlebars usually means you will need to make other changes too. You might have to adjust the cables, brake lines, and ensure clearance for the new setup during a full lock turn.

harley davidson handlebar size chart

Choosing the right Harley handlebars is simpler with a size chart. To select the best bars for your bike, you should know the key measurements. The table below lists different sizes of Harley Davidson handlebars. It points out why it’s important to choose a size that fits your bike model and riding style.

Remember, this is only a small selection of Harley Davidson touring motorcycle models and their handlebar sizes. Always look at your owner’s manual or ask a reliable Harley Davidson dealer. They can give you the exact details about the handlebars for your motorcycle.

Harley Davidson ModelYearBar DiameterHeightWidthPullbackCenter Clamp Area
XL883 Sportster 8832002 – 20081″4-1/2″27″7-1/2″2-1/2″ x 4-1/2″
FLHR Road King2009 – 20131″7-1/2″31″12-1/2″2-1/2″ x 4-1/2″
FLTR/I/X/u Road Glide Custom/Ultra2003 – 20131″8-1/2″32″11″2-1/2″ x 4-1/2″

Pros and cons of using stock vs custom handlebars for your Harley

Stock handlebars are great for several reasons. They are designed to fit your specific Harley model. This means they fit nicely and help maintain the bike’s handling. By using stock handlebars, you can avoid any guesswork or issues that might happen with aftermarket modifications. They are also more affordable, especially if you don’t want to make major changes.

Custom handlebars offer several benefits. You can adjust your riding position to feel more comfortable and gain better control. You can also change their appearance to fit the style of your bike. Although custom handlebars might require extra costs for new cables or brake lines, many Harley riders feel that the improved comfort and personal feel are worth the price.

Recommended handlebar sizes based on riding style and preference

Recommended handlebar sizes are different for each person. They depend on how you like to ride and your personal preferences. If you ride long distances or like to cruise, taller handlebars with increased pullback can feel more comfortable. This can help reduce tiredness in your back, shoulders, and wrists. That way, you can ride for hours without feeling as weary.

If you like to ride in a sportier style or enjoy twisty roads, lower handlebars with less pullback might be good for you. To choose the right handlebar size, sit on your motorcycle and hold the handlebars. Use the info above to think about how it feels to ride. Focus on your comfort, reach, and how easily you can control the levers. Trying out different positions can help. You can also ask experienced riders or Harley experts for advice to find the best fit.

Conclusion

Finding the right size of handlebar for your Harley is important. It can change how comfortable you feel while riding. You can choose stock or custom handlebars. Both choices have their pros and cons. It is essential to understand how handlebar size affects your comfort and control for a good ride. Think about your riding style and preferences when picking the right size for your Harley.

If you have questions or ideas, please leave a comment below. Your input can help other riders make good decisions about their handlebars. Ride safe!

FAQs

What size are stock Harley handlebars?

The size of stock Harley handlebars varies a lot based on the model and year. For instance, the 2003-2013 Harley Davidson Road Glide has handlebars that are 1″ wide, 32″ across, and have an 11″ pullback. To find the exact width, height, and pullback for your bike, look in your owner’s manual or search for details about your specific model.

How do I measure handlebar diameter for custom modifications?

The best method to measure the handlebar diameter for custom modifications is to use calipers or a measuring tape. First, take the measuring tape and wrap it around where the handlebars meet the risers. Make sure it fits tightly. This will help you get a good reading of the diameter.

Can I switch from stock to custom handlebars without altering the bike’s performance?

Switching from regular handlebars to custom ones can affect how your bike handles. This change depends on how much you modified it. Small changes may not make a big difference. But if you make significant changes in height or pullback, you might need to adjust your riding style.

What are the benefits of custom handlebars over stock ones?

Custom handlebars make your ride more comfortable, give you better control, and add style compared to regular handlebars. You can change the riding position to fit your preferences. This can help you feel good on long trips and make your bike handle better. Plus, there are many styles to choose from, so you can make your Harley even more unique.

Are there any legal considerations when changing handlebar sizes?

Yes, there are legal issues when you change the size of your handlebars. The rules can be different in each place. It is common for people to exceed the height or width limits. Always check the rules in your area. Make sure your new setup lets you operate your motorcycle safely.

Share
Written by
Morty

The wide road, Harley-Davidson, and helping riders maximize their motorcycles are my passions. You may find maintenance, upgrade, and new ride and route suggestions here. I'm here to share my Harley passion in a relaxed, friendly manner. Take off and enjoy every ride!

Leave a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore more

Related Articles
harley axle size chart
Harley Maintenance and Safety

Comprehensive Guide: Harley Axle Size Chart for Enthusiasts

Discover the complete Harley axle size chart. Learn how to measure axles,...

Motorcycle seat removal process
Harley Maintenance and Safety

Harley Seat Removal Made Simple – A Step-by-Step Guide

Simplify the process of Harley seat removal with our comprehensive guide. Follow...

Harley motorcycle in scenic backdrop
Harley Maintenance and Safety

Harley Seat Height Chart: Find Your Perfect Fit

Discover your perfect fit with the Harley seat height chart. Get the...

Close-up of Harley Davidson motorcycle
Harley Maintenance and Safety

RDRS for Harley: A Comprehensive Guide for Riders

Explore the comprehensive guide on RDRS for Harley riders. Get all the...

MotoBlazeX is your go-to blog for Harley enthusiasts, offering expert insights, tips, and in-depth guides on Harley-Davidson bikes and parts. Join us as we fuel your passion for the open road!

Let's keep in touch

Subscribe to our newsletter to get our newest articles instantly!