How To: Harley FORWARD CONTROLS Install!

[@its_yaboy_j5278]

With all these videos, I have the perfect go to guide for any kind of how to, installs, and mods I could want for a bike.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Hope they help you out when the time comes! 👍

[@RamboHikes]

Thankfully on a 2017 Iron 883 it's much easier to remove the brake side linkage, only downfall is it's held in with a flimsy C-clip and a pin. I was able to remove my mids without removing the exhaust but like you said, it's much easier. So much more comfortable with forwards though, great work Blockhead!!!

[@soorajsaikumar]

This is what i did as my first mod for my 883. The comfort is surreal and even more comfy if you have tall bars.

[@miporsche]

Our family 2007 Sportster has mid controls. My daughter is 5'3". She has trouble pushing the side stand forward past the pegs, they're in the way. Great design, Harley! My 6'2" son rides it, too. He is so cramped, we installed highway bars and pegs for him. When I ride it, the pegs are in the way of me putting my feet down at the stoplight. So for all those reasons, forward controls are in the future. Thanks for the excellent tutorial video!

[@TheKamikaze104]

I'm 6'1", I never had problems with my mid controls. They definitely help in the streets of San Francisco. I like to stand on them over speed bumps.

[@BlockheadMoto]

I've walked on San Fran streets, would def keep the mids!

[@commonsurvivor]

I'm 61 also and just rode to work for the first time on my 883 and my leg cramps right when I got to work. It did come with a $99 Amazon seat though which sucks for sure I need to switch that out too.

[@TheKamikaze104]

@@commonsurvivor yea the seat can make a difference. Either switch to forward controls or get a seat that pushes you back a little bit

[@agheraparth16]

After searching for 3 hours i finally got a precise video on foot peg !! Worst motorcycle ever for replacing parts... Have to remove various parts for installing one tiny shit !

[@mikechoi184]

Your videos taught me how to ride and now to work a little on my Iron 883. After watching this video, I had the confidence to swap out the cheap forward controls for some OEM Harley ones. Quite the difference. Thank you for all your great video content and for all the future ones you make.

[@jays6274]

The organization in your shop make me happy.

[@airlionman1852]

Literally was just watching your install videos yesterday and I was like damn he doesn't have a fwd control install

[@BlockheadMoto]

Took me awhile, but finally got around to it! haha

[@chiguy_]

being a long limed person it is nice to have the fwds to help with fatigue. not as nimble persay but still good. fun vid as always cheeers.

[@hackattack7811]

Good thing you recorded this. That's alot of parts to remember where they belong

[@cesarzamora2354]

Thank you for the video! I have a Nightster 1200 and feel cramped on it and been wanting to put on some forward controls. I was unsure how difficult an install would be, but it doesn't seem too bad even for a shade tree mechanic like me. Thanks for all the info!

[@SeismicSales]

I have the same bike, I get a hip pinch after about 15 minutes. Were you able to install it and how do you like it?

[@earlnolf]

Watching this now because the other day riding my 2007 sportster with forward controls went to go over a pothole stood up a little and the bolts on the brake side snapped off while I was doing about 45 mph. After I EZed out the snapped off blots (that no shop in the area would touch) remounted the peg and brake. Made for a much more exciting Sunday ride than I was looking for. I watched this to see if you would mention something about that and how to prevent it.

[@johnbrian118]

Wow! I over torqued the brake linkage and it broke off from V-Twin manufacturing. What brand did you have that broke? Just curious-my parts seemed too "soft"

[@kennethloke5944]

Hey block, thank you so much for talking me into a bike. I'm 18 and own a 87 sportster 883 and damn I'm enjoying building it. Gonna learn how to ride on her.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Happy the vids helped out!

[@michaeljames6821]

It was like the old days seeing you work on the iron....loved it. Keep them coming bro. PIECE.....

[@BlockheadMoto]

Nostalgia for sure, haha

[@saliston]

You really keep your tools organized very nice.

[@roddybaba]

Thanks man, you got the best bike tutorials on youtube, especially since i ride a sportster. Thought i would have to have a pro put these controls on but it looks pretty basic.

[@stevenlawrence2790]

I have an 03 100th Anniversary xl883r , which is now 20yrs old making it a little harder to find certain parts. But loving the bike only 5k on it. New tires on it now, still had the 20yr old factory tires on it 😅 making me realize, the brake fluid & etc is 20yr old too.. Paint and everything is in great shape

[@twistieslayer3592]

I like my mid controls. I purchased a Saddlemen seat that pulled me back and sat me up higher. So my Mid controls feel more like forward or extended reach mid controls.

[@BlockheadMoto]

That works! Did the same on my Softail FXLRS

[@ohthedude]

just did the opposite on my 2018 Fat Bob. Went from forwards to mid. Much better than forwards on long trips. Feels more like floor boards.

[@linux_38]

Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! About time you put forward controls on it, I did it on my 883 and it was a day and nigh difference I recommend to everyone. Great video man.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Thanks!

[@ironhog6818]

Just picked up forwards for my '18 Iron 1200. Planning on installing tonight after work with this video and instructions from HD. THANKS Block.

[@blackbeard9545]

Thanks so much man! I have a 1200 Nightster and I'm 182 cm AND and I have a short achillies tendon so riding for a mere 10 min would already give me cramps. I wasn't sure if I would be able to change the controls but now I know how. I appreciete it a alot!!

[@TonysGarage]

Forwards are a must on the iron in my opinion. 👊

[@BlockheadMoto]

Definitely!

[@twodogs2076]

Man you make working with snap rings look easy.

[@BlockheadMoto]

The Harley ones are a pain in the ass! The normal snap rings are MUCH easier!

[@twodogs2076]

That would explain my frustrations 👍

[@joshualandry3160]

These HD forward controls are unobtainium right now. They are out of stock online and I bought the last brick and mortar ones with 100 miles. Really looking forward to installing them as soon as my new pegs get here.

[@RowdyRowe2]

Sadly, I can’t ride my (new to me) 2001 Sportster 1200 Custom since the Ohio BMVs are still closed and Bell hasn’t shipped my helmet I ordered April 6.. love watching the videos! Gotta get my motorcycle fix somehow!

[@bobnordin291]

don't even have a bike but enjoyed it great stuff

[@BlockheadMoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@xapaiz]

Hey, I just noticed something at 6:35, perhaps that hole in the exhaust bracket was to insert the socket key

[@dutchboyblues8998]

Thank you, Awesome how to vid. At 5’ 8” In height I found the mid controls uncomfortable on my 2020 Roadster. Noticed that on my first 100 mile ride in 30 years, and yes gonna upgrade seat also. Thanks again, enjoy all your vids. Dutchboyblues, Boston, Ma.

[@exexpat11]

I just bought a Roadster also. King Cobra seat and better pegs are my first mods. Forwards will be coming. 5'10.

[@georgejed2255]

Hello Block, I hope you and your family are safe. It's amazing how you make this Interesting to watch, especially with ONE Hand. Thanks for that. lol

[@BlockheadMoto]

All good here, hope you and yours are safe as well. Thanks for watching!

[@Delzona]

Great video! I already have forward controls on my Sportster 72, but still found the video interesting. I wish the brake linkage was adjustable like the shifter side is.

[@BlockheadMoto]

That'd be nice, I wish!

[@Delzona]

I’ve actually have been looking into making my own adjustable rod so I can adjust the brake pedal to flatter (more forward) position.

[@jonnymac8925]

@@Delzona you can adjust it, but not much. Under the rubber coat that covers the spring at the end of the brake rod there are two nuts to adjust it (maybe 1/2 inch to 3/4) which isn't much but it might be enough to get it where you need it. I had to put a bracket on my frame to mount my forwards with my new exhaust and it caused my brake pedal to run horizontal to the peg which was no good. I was able to adjust it a small amount but ended up switching to mid controls two weeks later haha, if that isn't enough, DK Customs makes adjustable brake rods for each set up. I would have ordered one, but the shipping was more than the part because I am Canadian. If you want your brake pedal to be horizontal, order the little bracket from Vance and Hines for their stainless 2-1 system to relocate your forwards. It will cause it to flatten out. You can see mine @trucker_mac on instagram and I can send you some pictures!

[@Sharty_McFly]

Nice man! I just redid my forward controls last week. Those spring washers for the footpegs were a pain in the ass for me to get just right lmao

[@MiguelAngel1897es]

Dude you make awesome videos, subscribed for sure. I love your bikes and your garage keep it going bud!

[@CraigSmith568]

Had a 1200c with forwards and always wanted mids with highway pegs. After riding 3-4 hours I wanted to move my feet to another position and couldn't. With mids and highway pegs I would have had two places to put my feet. Plus with the mids I think I would have liked them better in the twisties. I would actually put my feet on the passenger pegs at times. No more forwards for me.

[@exexpat11]

Personal preference isn't it. Some people don't like resting their elbows on their knees and others like to play speed racer.

[@luish8056]

The stars are aligning. Pretty soon there won’t be anything keeping me from getting an Iron 883!

[@Zer0Mood]

Just go for the 1200 bro! By the time you've acclimated to the 883, you'll be wanting to go a bit faster. 1200 is the true best bike for beginners, and just anyone who likes true sportsters

[@DRelektro13]

Please take my 2022 Street Bob and turn it into a Bobber 🙏🏼 great videos love you guys!

[@ILike2Tinker]

Can't wait to see it with the new exhaust!

[@ControlRider]

Me either

[@micknicola6171]

how do you like the forward controls on it? maybe make a vid of your thoughts?

[@AutoAuctionRebuilds]

Thanks for this bro!

[@Don_Kedich]

Definitely saving this video for future use, I plan on getting the Iron 1200 for my first bike and I want to install forward controls on her. 5'8 180 Lbs Appreciate the vid Blocker smocker!

[@GIJOE573]

That's a good looking crank case breather

[@clarkbabin9799]

Had a sportster custom with Harley installed forward controls and a sportster low with mid controls. I'm 5'8"and the controls were the only thing I didn't like on the low. My legs felt cramped and like my knees were in my face.

[@ElitusCleetus]

Dropped my bike and broke the linkage thanks for the help !

[@towelie4625]

I definitely recommend using the right tool for the retaining rings 🤣

[@JJones-jo4yt]

Some grease on the pivot points is a must.

[@NAguitarist]

Don't even have an iron... watched anyway.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Appreciate it! 🤘

[@itemps]

same lol

[@ARTISTVAIBHAVYADAV]

same lol, actually it's my goal to buy iron 883 after getting job and earning money

[@doulos77]

😂

[@anthonyramos4188]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Firestorm637]

The old Harley controls already rusting in Florida. Needs more aluminum Harley! Powder coating does not stop rising in steel.

[@mariahm.7199]

“Put a little drop of lock tight...... that’s a big drip....” lol whoops 🤣🤣🤣 thanks Blockhead! Do the Low Rider S next!!!! But only if you want to it is your bike 👌🏻 seriously appreciated this! Was super helpful

[@mikeg4501]

Love that bike

[@ear3800]

this got to be the cleanest and sickest iron

[@trust085]

I am picking my iron up on Wednesday! Wanna install these on it

[@BlockheadMoto]

Nice, congrats!

[@maximumeffortflsb2715]

Awesome video will probably do this mode down the line. I'm installing new slip ons to my Iron 1200 see you around Orlando or Kissimmee area man.

[@martincopeland5580]

You can't adjust the shifter angle by turning the rod like that in situ, you will be moving the thread in one end and out the other end so it stays the same length, doesn't matter which direction you turn it.

[@OHBUCKEYESisBACK]

Thanks for the video, helped me install my forward controls today!

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Thanks Blockhead I need to take a ride on a bike with forward controls to see how it feels.

[@kolbymackell1]

Great video! Kinda curious what bike was under the shop blanket against the wall... future project?

[@BlockheadMoto]

Future project for sure, it'll be revealed to you all when the time is right 😁

[@MrDieselduck2000]

I have a HD Softail 2019 FXLR tell me is it the same idea to fit forward controls to this as it is for the Sportster

[@BlockheadMoto]

Should be similar!

[@__kingy__3061]

Thanks to you blockhead, I'm going to ride an 883 when I reach legal age 👍🏼

[@BlockheadMoto]

That's awesome!

[@ElitusCleetus]

Got this on my 883 much more comfy

[@patrickmultimedia]

im from chile but always go to orlando i love it there. was there this march....just before COVID. now is all dead i think. hope to be there soon and meet u blockhead! i have an iron 883

[@alex5761]

I noticed you have the 2016 and up rear shocks for sportster on your iron!!! Do they make a big difference from the old ones?

[@assyx4607]

After reviewing some vids including captain ana, i just got the idea maybe you just can sweet talk her todo some vids for smaller riders. I'am just 5'6 HUGE with a ~28 inseam. After selling my BMW because shes just to high for me, it will be a HD. I'am looking at the Iron 883 and the roadster, but have to test them first and try to get my feet on the ground. But i bet alot of not tall people would love that ;) Keep going the good work. Maybe a how to fit a Harly to your needs (lower seat, suspension) is possible, too? ;)

[@luish8056]

Do I have a bike currently? Nope. Am I gonna get one? hell yes. Have I already watched this video? Yup, still just as good the second time around.

[@RodrigoBraga]

I miss the old "I'm not a certified mechanic" thingy...

[@BlockheadMoto]

Oh yeah, I forgot to say that.... "I'm not a certified mechanic, I'm just a guy that likes working on my bikes," lol

[@squilla7005]

Great video man. Your channel is the first place I go when I have install questions! Also, did you or should I replace the gasket for the exhaust when you reinstall? Keep the great content coming!

[@davidpeterson943]

Excellent vid Block. Thx

[@maritimeme]

Thanks again good information

[@Bald_Sauerkraut]

Awesome video this is first thing i’m doing when I get my bike!

[@DavidSvare]

Is there any way to add floorboards to the sportsters as well?

[@darkjediknight187]

Nice micro tech!

[@brendanmullen1677]

Mate on my 883 I was able to remove it all without taking exaust out. Two Allen key bolts under exaust removes the whole foot peg in one piece apart from break rod linkage. Why did you remove so much ? Is this a modified exaust ?

[@sadema5353]

I broke my gear shifters... can I get a replacement for just the shifter??? Or is it that the whole things comes only as a (forward control )set..

[@ginogarcia1107]

Thanks dude doing this tomorrow!

[@karantaylor2462]

Thanks Blockhead!! Appreciate ya!!

[@BlockheadMoto]

👊

[@exexpat11]

Bought a Roadster yesterday and I have already bought $500 in accessories... then I find this video. Which kit did you use as I see HD, Amazon, and one other? I swapped out my Yamaha Warrior for this 1200 as the Warrior was too much bike. Sportster is 200 pounds lighter and 2 feet shorter with slightly less power. Plus the Warrior was a gas hog.

[@JoseGonzalez-hp9oi]

Looks better!

[@robertlumsden942]

nice to have these for reference. good job.

[@OakleefMoto]

As always, nicely done. Question - What is that lift? Looks very handy..

[@millinutz]

Block lives in US and I'm in Switzerland. I have the exact same little lift that he has. But I have no idea where I bought mine from, having had it for so many years. It was money well spent as it always seem to be in use, me not having a big garage and 2 bikes. Even for detailing, it makes doing the left side better accesable and so much easier to do. So, I hope Mr Block can answer your question of where to buy one.., you won't regret doing so.

[@BlockheadMoto]

It's a great little lift, I use it all the time! Scissor Jack: amzn.to/3d7kh0G Scissor Jack with Dolly: amzn.to/2KT4x5o

[@Ty2507]

Watched this and another install same bike, same kit. The other had the shifter linkage bar on the top. Is this personal preference or is somebody wrong?

[@AsikNation]

Forward control n a rough rear suspension,, be cautious with ur spine block,,

[@BlockheadMoto]

Upgraded rear suspension on it 😁

[@lomparti]

Thanks for the video. What height are your apes?

[@rafaelgaldino3464]

I just done my forward control and my rear brakes got locked, after remove the middle control could you help me ? My tyres dosent move

[@cormschr]

When I had my iron I unfortunately purchased cheap Amazon forward controls. I ended up tossing them because the steal was so crappy my feet would vibrate off the pegs on the highway. The harley ones were much more solid and didn't have any of those problems.

[@BlockheadMoto]

I read that in some of the reviews as well. Some things you just gotta go OEM for the quality. Figured this was probably one of those things.

[@FauziNomad]

Hey there Blockhead please make a review of Royal Enfield Classic 500/Continental GT

[@monks883goldandsilverleaf3]

Would the forward controls still work if you put the big radius exhaust back on?

[@jeffomspaugh6691]

My factory footpegs wouldn't work. Gotta check with the dealership on monday why.

[@1p99games2]

Great video keep up the good work

[@davidzhao6270]

when you ride with forwards, do you feel air filter is in the way?

[@skincarving]

What pipes do you have if you don’t mind . Thank you

[@Justin-qv4kd]

Heard the forward controls kit requires new foot pegs. Was this mentioned? Saw them on the left of the forward control box

[@BlockheadMoto]

I just reused my mid control foot pegs, they work fine. But you can buy new foot pegs that angle back a little bit to go with the forwards.

[@MyDunnLife]

My Sportster came with the forward controls but I get why someone buys the knock offs, Harley really charges too much. I have not priced them recently but have seen H-D ones go for $350-400. I will also say if your looking at exhaust I know Vance and Hines has several styles that have versions for forward or mid controls.

[@LOAZFK]

Cheers mate am doing my conversion this weekend this is very helpful. Quick question the second breather filter on your air intake what is it?

[@potheadjoe4505]

So I have a question I'm 15 and 5'5 and I've been thinking about buying a grom because of your inspiration and I've just been thinking about how it be for me I'm not in the skinny set and I'm about 180 but slim should I buy the grom

[@darlenecorreia5773]

You mentioned standing when going over a pothole or tracks, etc. With forward controls, is it still possible to stand or at lease raise up? I'm 5'5" and sat on the 2021 Iron 883 at the dealer, it has mid controls. I immediately felt cramped with my knees higher than i'd like them, and told them to put forward controls on.

[@kilojoliet3855]

Thanks brother.

[@jameswhelan2082]

That was really good well done Blockhead, not hard to do feel confident in doing my 2020 low rider s now keep up ya work 👍

[@DeadOriginalMusic]

where can I order those handlebars that you have?

[@thomaszach0229]

Been waiting for you to do one of these videos, what do you do with your old exhaust ?

[@BlockheadMoto]

It'll probably go on top of one of the cabinets on display, first exhaust I ever installed on a bike, haha

[@kamakazi32]

Hey blockhead. Your link for the hex set and scissor jack is the same. Was looking for a good scissor jack too.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Good catch, sorry about that! Here's the link - amzn.to/2W60qsN