Ever feel like your Road Glide’s handlebars are just… okay? Maybe they’re a little too low, or perhaps they make your shoulders ache after a long ride. You’re not alone! Finding the perfect handlebars for your Harley-Davidson Road Glide can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are so many styles, heights, and widths, and the wrong choice can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and a less enjoyable riding experience.
But what if we told you that upgrading your handlebars could completely transform your ride? Imagine cruising down the highway with perfect posture, effortless control, and a look that truly matches your style. This guide is here to help you do just that. We’ll break down what to look for, explore different types of handlebars, and help you discover the set that will make every mile on your Road Glide feel amazing. Get ready to upgrade your ride and your comfort!
Our Top 5 Handlebars For Road Glide Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Handlebars For Road Glide Detailed Reviews
1. TIGERSGATE Gloss Black 1-1/2″ Fat 16″ Rise Handlebar for 2015-2023 Harley Touring Road Glide FLTRX Custom/FLTRXS Special/FLTRU Ultra Models
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your ride with the TIGERSGATE Gloss Black 1-1/2″ Fat 16″ Rise Handlebar. This handlebar is built for 2015-2023 Harley Touring Road Glide models, giving your bike a bold new look and a comfortable riding position. Its sleek gloss black finish and substantial 16-inch rise create an impressive presence on the road.
What We Like:
- Perfect Fit for Road Glides: This handlebar fits 2015-2023 Road Glide FLTR, FLTRXS, and FLTRU models, excluding trikes.
- Easy Wiring: The larger pipe diameter and pre-drilled holes make running wires inside the handlebars a breeze.
- Durable Construction: Made with laser-cut, TIG-welded steel, it’s built to last and has a beautiful, show-quality finish.
- Corrosion Resistant: The gloss black powder coating and rust-proof plating can handle tough conditions.
- Secure Installation: Diamond knurling on the clamp area ensures a solid and stable mount.
What Could Be Improved:
- Fitment Note for CVO/Ultra: For CVO and Ultra bikes, you might need to adjust the alignment pin on your risers or drill a new hole to make it fit perfectly.
- Cable Extension Needed: You’ll likely need longer cables and wiring extensions for most installations.
This handlebar offers a stylish and functional upgrade for your Harley. While some minor adjustments might be needed for specific models, the overall quality and ease of installation make it a great choice for customizing your Road Glide.
2. Eumti 12″ Rise Pre-Wired Ape Hangers Handlebars 1 1/4″ Fat Meathook Monkey Bar for Harley 2016-2023 CVO Road Glide Custom Special Ultra Limited FLTR FLTRX FLTRXS FLTRU FLTRK
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your Harley Road Glide with the Eumti 12″ Rise Pre-Wired Ape Hangers. These handlebars offer a bold “Meathook” style and come ready to install with pre-wired components, making your customization project a breeze. Designed for comfort and a killer look, they’re built to last and enhance your riding experience.
What We Like:
- Perfect fit for 2016-2023 Road Glide models, including CVO.
- Pre-wired with TBW and CAN-Bus harness saves installation time.
- Made from strong, rust-resistant steel for durability.
- The “Meathook” design gives your bike an aggressive, stylish look.
- Diamond knurling adds grip and helps reduce vibrations.
- Notched for electronic throttle, ensuring a clean setup.
What Could Be Improved:
- CAN-Bus wire color coding might need cross-referencing in rare cases.
- A multimeter is recommended for the orange with white striped wire splice.
These Eumti ape hangers are a fantastic upgrade for any Road Glide owner looking for style and convenience. Get ready to enjoy a more comfortable and eye-catching ride.
3. Ape Hangers for Motorcycle Handlebar – Ohhmoto 1-1/4″ Diameter Sportster Handlebars Bar Compatible with Road King Glide Softail Slim Dyna XL 883 1200 Breakout Fat Boy 1984-2024
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your ride with the Ohhmoto 1-1/4″ Diameter Ape Hangers, designed to give your motorcycle a bold new look and feel. These black 10-inch rise handlebars are built for comfort and control, fitting a wide range of popular Harley-Davidson models from 1984 to 2024. Get ready to experience a whole new level of riding pleasure!
What We Like:
- The versatile design fits many Harley-Davidson models, offering riders a great way to customize their bike.
- Enjoy a comfortable grip that reduces hand and arm tiredness on long rides.
- These handlebars give you better control and easier maneuvering on any road.
- Made from strong carbon steel, they are built to last and handle tough rides.
- Installation is straightforward, letting you upgrade your bike quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fitment list has specific exclusions, so double-check compatibility with your exact model and year, especially for certain Electra Glide, Street Glide, and 2008-2011 Cross Bones models.
These Ohhmoto ape hangers are a fantastic choice for riders looking to improve their motorcycle’s comfort and style. They offer a great combination of durability, control, and an easy upgrade for your ride.
4. Pre Wired Dominator Industries 1 1/4 Inch Road Glide Meathook Ape Hanger Handlebars
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your 2015-2022 Harley Road Glide with these awesome Pre Wired Dominator Industries 1 1/4 Inch Meathook Ape Hanger Handlebars. They give you a comfortable, stylish 14-inch rise in a sleek gloss black finish. Dominator Industries makes it easy to get that custom look without a huge hassle.
What We Like:
- Easy Installation: These bars come pre-wired and are ready to go. They are designed for internal wiring, and they have notches for Throttle By Wire. This means you spend less time working and more time riding your bike.
- Great Fit: They work with all the original cables and controls on 2015-2021 Harley Road Glides. They are made specifically for 2015-2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide (FLTR) models.
- Top Quality: These handlebars are handmade in the USA. They are laser cut, TIG welded, and polished for a beautiful finish. The inside of the bars is clean, so pulling wires is simple.
- Comfortable Ride: The design focuses on a natural, relaxed grip. They offer great pullback comfort.
- Trusted Brand: Dominator Cycles is known for making high-quality handlebars. They offer great customer service and a limited lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Model Year Range: While they fit 2015-2021 for controls, the model compatibility is listed as 2015-2020. It’s worth double-checking if the 2022 model year is fully supported for all aspects.
If you want a comfortable and stylish upgrade for your Road Glide, these Dominator handlebars are a solid choice. They offer excellent quality and make installation much simpler.
5. Mofun 12″ Rise Handlebars Pre-wired Ape Hangers 1.25″ Fat 1″ Clamp Compatible with Harley Touring Road Glide FLTR FLTRX 2008-2013 Black
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your ride with the Mofun 12″ Rise Handlebars. These pre-wired ape hangers offer a sleek black finish and are designed for Harley Davidson Touring Road Glide models from 2008-2013. They bring a custom look and improved comfort to your motorcycle.
What We Like:
- The handlebars are pre-wired, saving you a lot of time and hassle during installation.
- They are made from strong steel pipe with a triple coating for extra durability.
- The 8-inch pullback offers a comfortable riding position, reducing fatigue on long trips.
- The design is notched for electronic throttle, making installation smoother.
- They have a stylish flat ape hanger look that complements your motorcycle’s factory style.
What Could Be Improved:
- These handlebars are not compatible with CVO models.
- Fitment is specific to certain Road Glide models and years.
These Mofun handlebars are a great way to personalize your Road Glide and enjoy a more comfortable ride. They offer a blend of style, durability, and user-friendly installation.
Upgrade Your Ride: The Ultimate Handlebar Buying Guide for Your Road Glide
Ready to give your Harley-Davidson Road Glide a custom feel and boost your comfort? New handlebars can make a world of difference! This guide will help you pick the perfect set.
Why Change Your Handlebars?
Your stock handlebars are okay, but they might not be the best fit for you. New handlebars can:
- Improve Comfort: Reduce strain on your back, shoulders, and wrists.
- Enhance Control: Give you a better grip and feel for your bike.
- Change Your Style: Create a unique look for your Road Glide.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for handlebars, keep these important things in mind:
1. Rise
This is how tall the handlebars are. A higher rise means you sit more upright. A lower rise puts you in a more forward, sporty position. Think about how you like to sit on your bike.
2. Pullback
Pullback is how far the handlebars curve back towards you. More pullback brings the grips closer to your body. This can be great for shorter riders or those who want a more relaxed posture.
3. Width
The overall width of the handlebars matters for comfort and control. Wider bars can offer more leverage, while narrower bars might feel more nimble. Make sure they feel right for your shoulders.
4. Grip Diameter
Most handlebars have a standard grip diameter, but some custom bars might be thicker or thinner. Make sure your grips will fit snugly.
5. Knurling
This is a textured pattern on the handlebar where it clamps to the bike. Good knurling helps stop the handlebars from slipping. It’s a small detail but important for safety.
6. Finish
Handlebars come in different colors and finishes like chrome, black, or powder coat. Choose one that matches your bike’s style.
Important Materials
Handlebars are usually made from strong metals.
- Steel: This is the most common material. It’s tough and reliable. Steel handlebars are built to last.
- Aluminum: Some handlebars use aluminum. It’s lighter than steel, which can make a small difference in bike weight. However, steel is generally considered more durable for handlebars.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a handlebar set great or just okay?
- Thick Tubing: Thicker tubing makes handlebars stronger. This means they won’t bend or flex easily.
- Welds: Look for clean, smooth welds. Sloppy welds can be a weak spot. Good welds show the manufacturer cares about quality.
- Fit and Finish: The paint or chrome should be smooth and even. No chips or rough spots. A good finish looks great and protects the metal.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands. They usually have a history of making good parts. They also often stand behind their products.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do different handlebars feel and what are they good for?
- Cruising Comfort: Handlebars with higher rise and more pullback are fantastic for long rides. They let you sit back and enjoy the scenery without aching.
- Sporty Control: Lower and narrower bars can give you a more aggressive riding position. This helps you feel more connected to the road and makes quick turns easier.
- Custom Style: Many riders choose handlebars just to change the look of their bike. Ape hangers, T-bars, or Z-bars all offer a distinct style.
Installation Notes
Changing handlebars might require longer cables or wires. Be prepared for this. Sometimes, you’ll need to reroute existing wires. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a professional mechanic can help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: You should look for rise, pullback, width, grip diameter, knurling, and finish.
Q: What materials are commonly used for Road Glide handlebars?
A: Steel is the most common and durable material. Aluminum is also used, but it’s lighter.
Q: How does tubing thickness affect handlebar quality?
A: Thicker tubing makes handlebars stronger and less likely to bend or flex.
Q: What should I do if I’m unsure about installing new handlebars?
A: If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to have a professional mechanic install them for you.
Q: Can I install handlebars that are much different in size from my stock ones?
A: Yes, but you might need longer cables or wires. Sometimes, you’ll need to reroute existing ones.
Q: What is “knurling” on handlebars?
A: Knurling is a textured pattern where the handlebars clamp. It helps prevent them from slipping.
Q: How does pullback affect my riding position?
A: More pullback brings the handlebars closer to you, creating a more relaxed riding posture.
Q: Is chrome or black finish better?
A: It’s a matter of personal style. Both look great and protect the metal if applied well.
Q: Will changing handlebars affect my bike’s handling?
A: Yes, different widths and heights can change how your bike feels and handles, especially during turns.
Q: Where can I find good quality handlebars?
A: Look for handlebars from reputable motorcycle parts brands. Many online stores and local bike shops carry them.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.