Handlebar fitment on a Harley-Davidson. Is the Dealer right or my friend?

This week Doc Harley explains why a new handlebar choice may or may not need extended wires and cables.

[@whip-its_dad4239]

Safety is the word your looking for Doc . I value my life more than just a few bucks for cables . Thanks for the great videos .

[@dougm5231]

Hey Doc, thanks for using my bike for the video.. lol.. yep that was mine.

[@K9RickRet]

Thanks for addressing these issues, Doc! We see so many times people saying, “You don’t need extensions! Clip here, move it there…..it will work…” resulting in stretched and compromised cables and wiring! 👍

[@genebulford8636]

Once again Doc you gave them the Best

[@chazzcapone.]

Absolutely spot on Doc! I have a 2022 CVO in green flame black fade with different bars installed by the dealer. I’ve a friend who had his handlebars installed by a local shop. His clutch cable is chaffing!! There you have it.

[@bradduffield9603]

Good advice as usual. Keep up the information Doc. It's always appreciated.

[@eddie8279]

Excellent points Doc! So many have bought into the mindset of getting by as cheap as possible. Cheaper isn't better and a lot of the time not safe. Harley has done a great deal of research and development on their products to perform safely and effectively. So thankful for the information you share! We get to spend more time riding and less time wrenching 😁

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Eddie….Doc

[@bluedogsalvage5246]

This was great Doc. I used to go through this with the Goldwingers. Honda always offered kits for popular items, but half the guys wanted aftermarket stuff, and asked all these same questions. No one knows better how your motorcycle should be set up than the manufacturers engineers, followed by dealer techs. Guys that say they can do it without looking over your box of junk and your bike will cost you money down the road, usually a lot, and might even your life. Ample slack is a necessity in cables and wires around steering heads, especially on the stuff routed through the bars! Ride safe

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Well said Blue👍…..Doc

[@thomasr7552]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson great video. I’m doing a swap as well and planning things out so everything is done properly. A completely different question regarding our new 2021 sportster iron. It only has about 2000 km on it. It started to sump within a couple weeks of standing. Up on start up, it will dump the oil out of the breathers into the air cleaner and on the ground or all over the bike. No just a few drops. The dealer we bought it from is further away from us and set, newer bikes shouldn’t do that anymore. The privately owned dealer close to us, said it’s normal all Harleys sump when standing. On start up the oil gets pumped back into the oil tank. They said it was normal. Do we need to buy an aftermarket air cleaner to redirect the oil into the intake or is it really not a normal occurrence on this bike.

[@jonathanlockley9871]

Great video Doc. If you want a bang for your buck you need to contact Hill county Handle bar company out of Texas. Change my 08 softail custom handlebars to 18” ape and they ask all the right questions about cabling length and all wires are plug and play to all specifications for your model. 100% reliable handlebars and company to deal with.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing and supporting a company that does it right….Doc

[@bigheadbiker]

As always your explanation is great! I want different bars on my stock 08 RG but I will wait to buy them and then see if I need to make adjustments. Thanks for all you put out!

[@datkinso30]

Thx Doc as always for your informative videos! Just extended the bars on my 15 RK to 18" KST's (had 16" Chubbys). Once we got the old ones off, whoever did the job prior from stock to 16" used some "creative" ways to get it done! Needless to say, needed all new wiring, clutch + brakes cables to do it correctly. Be aware, once you get above 16", fewer and fewer after-market companies offer what is necessary to do the job and even fewer do it with quality!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your experience…Doc

[@fearsomename4517]

Doc, as always you saved the day. Keep up the great job!

[@philiporourke7896]

Great vid, I got the wrong handlebars on my 18 lowrider and it cost me 900 bucks. Major bummer. Thanx Doc, great info.

[@scottlin777]

Great advice. I wish dealers would have a jig to match up handle bars,seats,pegs,ect. That way you could try different options but then the dealer would have to stock all of the parts

[@williambalyx1053]

Just put 12" bars on my Road Glide and now wish I had gone 14".... $1400 wasted

[@jerryforese2908]

100% right, you never know until you have the bike with you and wires pulled, had Harley dealer tell my friend you don’t need handle control extensions for his 2019 SG, I ran the wires through the bars and 2inches were sticking out lol..

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing Jerry…..Doc

[@joboomcslim]

Great video as usual Doc! I’m going through this now. Started in January getting 12 in bars on my 2022 Tri Glide. Everyone (including bar manufacturer) said I won’t need extension. Except dealer. So I listened to dealer. 😂. Sadly parts have been on order since January. Backordered till end of May or Early June. I would rather have it done correctly.

[@liljoea2002]

Glad to see you back

[@dtork47]

Thanks Doc, very good to know! I need to change out my tri glide bars.

[@bigjohnson9561]

Bars aren’t too expensive it’s the labor that is 4hrs to complete the job. So whatever your HD dealership charges per hour multiply it by 4.

[@bigjohnson9561]

Just got a set of those handlebars installed on my Trike. The HD dealership did installed extensions and everything works fine. In my opinion leave it to the HD professionals to install it right so you don’t encounter any problems in the future.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your experience…Doc

[@oldamerican8070]

Thanks again Doc.

[@koolkim]

Well said Doc

[@BigTruckRacing]

Doc I was fortunate that when I put 11 inch carlini menace apes on my 2019 FLHT , Harley Davidson only had to exchange one brake cable .

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks Doc. Great video as always.

[@MichaelHeinrich1]

And again a great video. Thank you Doc. 😊

[@jeffhennings6579]

Awesome explanation doc your the best

[@ebrich40]

That’s why you “THE MAN DOC” !!!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Ben….Doc

[@chrisbolton5461]

Great explanation and experience on show. Clearly put too.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Chris…..Doc

[@okiemale1589]

😎👍 Big thumbs up for the channel...

[@Jim_Berry]

Good information Doc.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching Jim….Doc

[@idaho_7407]

Solid advice, thank you.

[@mikehowarth6165]

Great video doc,best wishes mike United Kingdom 🇬🇧 softail deluxe owner

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

As always thanks Mike for your support across the pond….Doc

[@CabinGuy]

Just trying to keep an open mind when it comes to crazy service and parts costs. When you change your oil etc for a lot less than Harley does, you are not paying wages/saleries to employees, you are working for free. Business insurance and all the other little bites of taxes, unemployment taxes etc and all the other fixed and variable costs associated with running a profitable business naturally have to be taken into consideration when setting prices and fees.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for your post, but how does this pertain to Handlebars 🤷‍♂️…..Doc

[@CabinGuy]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson it doesn't. sorry to get off topic, but reading through the posts, so many people whineing about cost of service and parts inspired me to write. Love your vids by the way, super helpful. Thanks

[@JohnJones-op8uf]

Thanks Doc

[@timothyvotaw7517]

Sound advice, especially for those owners who rely on shops to do their mods, or aren't pretty darned skilled at doing things like this. Doc is right: HD does the R&D to avoid what can be aftermarket fitment issues, especially where safe operating conditions, like cables, lines, controls of your scooter matter. I can't count how many guys I've known that do a bars change, and actually don't even check the lock to lock operations before they do a check ride. Don't experiment with some of these mods at 75 mph to find out if they fit, work. Just an old guy's advice (me, not Doc...)

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Tim for your support….Doc

[@craigkemmerzell5741]

Good to know

[@richardlennards7823]

Good bit of advice

[@wjb111]

Seems logical

[@High_Desert_Tanner]

I just put 14s on my RKS and EVERYONE (other than Harley) said "all you need to extend is the wiring and MAYBE the clutch cable"... Wrong. I had to extend EVERYTHING because I like things to be routed properly, not pulled out of every single clip and guide and run across the front of the neck just to end up pulled tight on a turn. Went way longer than needed for everything so I can go bigger with bars later if I want. Ended up getting.a new upper clutch cable and all the grunt brake lines from Magnum Shielding and couldn't be happier.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing…..Doc

[@camomanofcranham]

fair comment doc....

[@joemesserhd1]

another great video .....thanx Doc !

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you Joseph….Doc

[@positivelynegative9149]

Stuff like that is why I prefer to use dealerships. Virtually all other situations have people just slapping bikes together any which way that gets the job done quickly.

[@mikelivingston6157]

I thought this video would be about if I need taller handlebars or not. Do you have a video like this? I did learn something so thank you.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Handlebars are always your choice. I wanted to inform you what all goes into the choice and installation…Doc

[@recondoc3034]

Doc On my Dyna Street Bob 2013 i have a HD high flow air cleaner says do not oil do I just wash it in soapy water and let dry? Also should I change my cover to one with the cuts or oval for more air intake part no29442-99e 611011 . Thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes you are correct. Wash and dry. Cutting or drilling holes for more air is a tricky thing. Holes near the motor draw in hot air and that ain’t good….Doc

[@recondoc3034]

Thank you Doc

[@jodyhodge2129]

Always think reliability and longevity. Will be much happier.

[@thanosetsitty1896]

I bought my 12” factory 47 bar from the dealership and I asked the parts guy if I need extensions? He said just the wires and I said how about the clutch cable? He said no but when I put it, the clutch cable came up short so I called the dealership back and ordered 4” extension like Doc has and extended it. I know there are people out there making videos pulling the clutch cable out and rerouting them but just like Doc said, I was afraid I might start having issues with it later on down the road. Unfortunately I couldn’t reuse that rubber holder that goes around the clutch cable because the bar was too thick in diameter so cut that off with my knife.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing….Doc

[@deplorableredneck4.02]

I am still playing lottery..I swear you will be my Dr

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

😆 thanks for your continued support…Doc

[@JDJD-xn4je]

The dealer is also charging extra parts and labor! When it’s on Harleys dime look at all the upgrades you have to make to the new bike. Oh, it’s fine without it. But customers little money, it doesn’t need it but it be better this way! Nice

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

JD what are you trying to say?…..Doc

[@JDJD-xn4je]

Pleasant company excluded of course!

[@fogit4668]

I have an idea for those trying to pick the right handlebars. I took my stock bars off and put 1" PVC pipe in place with 90 degree elbows cut the width, height and pullback pieces. The base width and the grip sections were the same as stock. The height (rise) was to the length I thought was going to feel good. Had the bike level and sat on it with the wheel straight. Grabbed the PVC grips and moved them into place. Got off tapped the elbows with a hammer to make sure they were tight. Got on the bike again to verify the placement and wrapped connections with blue tape. Unbolted from the handlebar clamps and measured. I had the size I needed and started to look through the catalogs an actually found that HD had what I needed from a different model and year that would fit the need.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Impressive….Doc

[@MidnightExpressMC]

But Doc, are you saying that, even though, sure, the Motor Company spent millions of dollars in research and development for this kind of thing, that the KZbin experts are wrong? I mean, they probably spent almost maybe a hunnert’ bucks and have months of experience, so shouldn’t that count for something? 😂 From Southern California ~ Ride Forever!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Everyone is blessed with a skill….Doc

[@K31011]

People will talk themselves into anything to save a buck. I want new handle bars but the cost of having them installed is just out of reach right now. I'll wait until next year and have it done by the Harley shop. Im old enough to know its not going to end well cutting corners . I fix all my own equipment and trucks but my Road King I leave to the professionals. I want it 100% maintained by a mechanic who works on bikes every day.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for your trust and testimony….Doc

[@mikekellam365]

Dealers KNOW Dealer PARTS.. They are NOT an Aftermarket "Parts Source", they're not expected to be... Your not buying parts from "Advance Auto" who deals in many parts (which usually work, but not always) VS the OEM. Are there non-OEM parts that work? You BETCHA!! BUT, it's up to the CONSUMER to do the research, NOT the Parts Counter Guy!! Good Call on an Aftermarket part that DOES work to solve a conundrum, Doc!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Mike for your support….Doc

[@bryanmontgomery4050]

14” on my road king, burly kit in stainless, $800.00!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I bet it looks good👍….Doc

[@cdnrider6200]

in your experience how accurate is the harley requirement document , regarding cables and wires for ordering parts. harley says i need to go 9 inches longer on my clutch cable for the chizeled bars from a 2018 heritage . thanks for your time

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I am not an engineer. At some point I must trust what someone else has measured. HD has shown me that they have tried every combination with Harley parts and I have returned few….Doc

[@cdnrider6200]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thanks Doc

[@bigjoeshmo]

Hey Doc, got a question ❓❓❓❓ 2023 fltrx, when making a hard right turn while covering the rear brake the handlebar hits my knee. What can I do?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

This is a first for me. Your name says it all. Your giant size has dwarfed the Harley-Davidson. The option of changing your seat so you sit back more. Adding a longer foot peddle so your legs can have more room on the floor boards. I believe there is an after market company offering hardware to move the floor boards out….Doc

[@brian833]

Hi Doc :) I want to shorten my upper clutch cable on my 2019 Sport Glide. How do I measure the cable that is on now? From what point to what point? Thx

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have started to research this and found HD is leaning towards replacing the entire cable with the old style. Look for a video addressing this…..Doc

[@daver8298]

Hey Doc…will this cable fit my bike??? 😂

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

🤦‍♂️…..Doc

[@lilgreenman823]

Doc. I love your tips, but you have the "charge more money" mindset. It's gotten much worse since Harley started squeezing the independent dealers out of the picture. My dealership is charging $ 500.00 for a three-hole oil change. I can buy Lucas Oil, a filter, gaskets and an air filter for less than $200.00. I grease all the fittings, which my dealership hits and misses and I control my up keep and maintenance on my bike. The company needs to remember who made them rich. My next ride will be an Indian or BMW. I've bankrolled Harley enough over 50 years of riding.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Lil I hope your observation is not true. I am here to explain how or why and truely believe it is YOUR choice always how and where you spend your money and time. Not everyone is as talented as you…..Doc

[@ericx7476]

Doc, I have a question for you, the flange that connects my rear exhaust pipe is bent, I over torqued, my torque wrench was no longer working properly. Is there a way to fix the flange? Is it possible to use one of those adjustable flanges?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I do not know……Doc

[@ericx7476]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson not surprised lol. Got it fixed already 😁

[@keithbrown8238]

Doc I have a 22 RG I’m 5’8 short arms am I better with 12 or 14 factory 47

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Are you in love with your seat? Sometimes it is worth your time and money to find a seat that pushes you forward with support but also allows you to reach the ground. RG bars are hard to rotate towards you ( pinned under clamp) so choose bars that bend to you. With internal wiring making labor cost high, take your time choosing. Worth the ride to many shops to sit on used bikes with different handlebars before spending your money on a guess….Doc

[@diamond527]

I like you 💚💚💚

[@oneofmany1087]

How much do you make an hour? and what is the shop rate?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Give our Service Writers a call 843-554-1847 for the hour rate. As for my income, I made enough today for a PB/J sandwich. It was a good day 👍

[@jang6969]

👍👍🇨🇦

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for your Canadian support….Doc

[@exupakias]

Thats right.

[@mattrichard8759]

Hey doc is it possible to make a video longer than five minutes

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Not many want to stick around that long. Plus that’s the amount of time I am allowed to stop the crew from working🤷‍♂️….Doc

[@thatmanstumototours2270]

This is all fine and dandy to hear what an actual expert says...., but what does Dr.Joe Rogan say?😎

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

🤷‍♂️…..Doc