Why ape hangers

Ape hangers are a lot like pineapple on pizza. But regardless of how you feel about ape hangers, they actually did serve a pretty practical purpose at one point in time. But, then again, when have Harley-riding outlaw bikers ever really paid much attention to the law? Practical Arguments for Ape Hangers. While most people with monkey bars probably get them mostly for their appearance, there are actually some practical advantages to them.

They were originally meant to aid riders who had no rear suspensions. Basically, when you would ride over a pothole, you could use them to lift your butt up and avoid getting a hard thump to your crotch region. Having ape hangers on your motorcycle can also be far more comfortable for some. Should You Get Ape Hangers? Moderately high and wide apes give most riders additional leverage. If you go too wide, you may face challenges maneuvering the bike at low speeds.

We can talk you through the choices that will give you a correct weight distribution for comfort, safety, and handling. To get an idea of what might be the best ape hanger handlebar height for you, sit on your current bike, close your eyes, and reach up to what feels like a natural position, with your elbows slightly bent and hands outside shoulder width.

The bottom line? Handlebar choice is extremely personal. For some people, ape hangers are the best possible look on a bike, and the attitude and riding posture they want. Mirrors are often easier to use on ape hangers.

With a lot of handlebars, your arms might get between your eyes and your mirrors. With ape hangers, mirrors are higher than obstructions. If you know what you want, reach out, and let's schedule your service. BarCraft lists the cable length for each Handlebar. Do you prefer leaning forwards or sitting up-right?

If you suffer from sore back, shoulders or neck and are currently running low stock bars you may want to consider Ape Hangers as they will raise your riding position, shifting more of your body weight from your hands to the seat. This will also create a more upright posture for the rider, reducing bending and strain on the back muscles and neck. If you find yourself preferring a lower riding profile but like the bobber look, a good compromise can usually be found with a set of mini Ape Hangers, 8 — 10 inches in height.

How about long distance riding? If you commonly find yourself on rides that extend for hours, especially on the highway, you are more likely to be aware of any little niggles that cause you to end up sore, uncomfortable and in need of another coffee break before continuing along the next stretch of road.

Take note next time you find yourself on one of these rides to which parts of your body are becoming sore. Would shifting more weight to the seat and sitting more upright alleviate the issue? The overwhelming response is that the change in weight distribution that Ape Hangers offer dramatically increases comfort and reduces pain in the wrists, back and shoulders. Do Ape Hangers affect handling? This is due to the fact that you will have to the lean the bars over a longer distance to tip the bike into a curve.

Finding a trade-off. Generally speaking, adding more height to your Ape Hangers gives the following characteristics:. Keep a trade-off between these factors in mind when choosing your ideal height. Conclusion: Is it worth it? Ape Hangers are the most popular modification on Harley and cruiser motorcycles for good reason.