Choosing the right Harley Davidson handlebars can make a major difference when you spend hours on the open road. Your handlebars affect your riding position, arm placement and overall comfort. Therefore, choosing a setup that suits your height, posture and motorcycle is important for enjoyable long distance touring.
There is no single handlebar setup that will suit every rider. However, certain bar heights and styles can create a more natural riding position and help you stay comfortable for longer.
Why Harley Davidson Handlebars Matter for Touring
Long distance riding places different demands on your body compared with a short trip around town. As the kilometres build up, an uncomfortable riding position can become much more noticeable.
Your Harley Davidson handlebars influence where your hands, arms and shoulders naturally sit. They can also affect how far you need to reach forward.
For this reason, comfort should be one of your main considerations when selecting handlebars for a touring motorcycle.
Are 14 Inch Harley Davidson Handlebars Comfortable?
For many riders, 14 inch Harley Davidson handlebars can provide a comfortable position for longer journeys. In particular, pullback or ape hanger style bars can position the hands closer to shoulder level.
This can create a more neutral riding position. As a result, the rider may place less unnecessary pressure on the neck and lower back.
However, bar height alone should not determine your choice. Your height, arm length, posture and motorcycle model all play an important role.
12 Inch Harley Davidson Handlebars for Touring Models
A 12 inch setup can also work well for certain touring motorcycles.
On bikes with Batwing or Sharknose fairings, including models such as the Street Glide, the relationship between the bars and fairing needs careful consideration.
Correctly positioned Harley Davidson handlebars can help you maintain a relaxed arm position while keeping your hands within the protection offered by the fairing.
Therefore, riders should consider the complete riding position rather than simply choosing the tallest bars available.
Harley Davidson Handlebars for Shorter Riders
Shorter riders can have different requirements.
If your Harley Davidson handlebars sit too far forward, you may need to lean towards the grips. Over a long journey, this position can place additional strain on your shoulders and wrists.
Extra pullback can be a useful solution because it brings the grips closer to your torso. Consequently, you may be able to sit in a more natural and comfortable position.
The goal is simple. Your handlebars should come to you rather than forcing you into an awkward riding posture.
How to Find Your Ideal Harley Davidson Handlebar Position
Before deciding on a motorcycle or changing its handlebars, sit naturally on the bike.
Place your feet in their normal riding position. Then reach towards the bars without deliberately stretching or changing your posture.
Pay attention to your shoulders, elbows, wrists and back. Your hands should naturally reach a comfortable position.
If you need to stretch significantly, additional pullback may be worth considering. Likewise, if your hands sit too high or your shoulders feel raised, a lower setup may be more suitable.
Ultimately, the best Harley Davidson handlebars are the ones that work with your body and riding style.
Choosing Harley Davidson Handlebars With Expert Help
Handlebar changes can involve more than replacing the bars themselves. Depending on the motorcycle and the chosen setup, correct parts and professional fitment may also need to be considered.
Furthermore, modifications should comply with applicable road traffic requirements and vehicle testing standards.
For this reason, getting professional advice can help you choose a setup suited to both your motorcycle and individual riding needs.
Find Your Harley Davidson Touring Setup
The right Harley Davidson handlebars can help transform your experience on a long journey. Rather than selecting bars based only on appearance, consider your height, reach, posture and motorcycle.
If you are ready to explore your options, Harley Davidson Gold Rand and Harley Davidson Mzansi offer access to motorcycles, servicing, parts, accessories and riding gear.
Visit the Hdavidson website to get started.
Browse Harley Davidson motorcycles or view the latest Gold Rand promotions and Mzansi promotions.
You can also book a service, explore the OEM parts finder or browse motorcycle accessories.
For personal assistance, contact Harley Davidson Gold Rand or Harley Davidson Mzansi.
