USA Motorcycling

When you're looking to enhance your Harley Davidson Street Glide, the right handlebars can make a significant difference in both style and comfort. You've got some impressive options to evaluate, from Dominator Industries' Meathook Bar to the sleek Miter Cut Bagger Ape handlebars. Each choice not only transforms your bike's look but also improves your riding experience. So, which handlebars will best suit your needs and elevate your ride? Let's explore these top contenders and see what sets them apart.

Quick Takeaways

• Dominator Industries Meathook Bar Handlebars offer a polished finish and easy installation for 2015-2023 Street Glide models with a 4.6-star rating.
• The Prewired Gloss Black Miter Bar Apes provide a comfortable grip, quick installation, and are handmade in the USA, rated at 4.7 stars.
• Pre-wired Meathook Monkey Bar Handlebars feature 16-inch height and aggressive styling, although some users report wiring challenges, rated 4.0 stars.
• Dominator Industries Miter Cut Bagger Ape Handlebar (10 inch Rise) ensures comfort and compatibility with various Harley models, receiving a 4.6-star rating.
• Chrome and gloss black finishes in handlebars enhance aesthetic appeal while ensuring durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.

Dominator Industries 1 1/4 PRE-WIRED Meathook Bar Handlebars for Harley Davidson

The Dominator Industries 1 1/4 PRE-WIRED Meathook Bar Handlebars are an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their 2015-2023 Harley Davidson Street Glide models. These handlebars, compatible with various Bagger and Electra Glide models, stand out with their pre-wired design, ensuring a quick and easy installation. Engineered for direct bolt-on replacement, they fit all stock cables seamlessly. The internal wiring is meticulously designed for hassle-free pulling, eliminating any slag inside the bar tubes. Crafted in the USA, these handlebars boast a polished, show-quality finish and ergonomic grip angles for ultimate comfort. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars from customers, they've received high praise for their quality and installation ease, backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Best For: Riders looking to upgrade their 2015-2023 Harley Davidson Street Glide models with high-quality, pre-wired handlebars for enhanced comfort and style.

Pros:

• Pre-wired design allows for quick and easy installation, saving time and effort.
• Crafted in the USA with a polished finish, ensuring durability and a show-quality appearance.
• Ergonomic grip angles provide optimal comfort during rides, enhancing the overall riding experience.

Cons:

• Some users may encounter challenges with throttle by wire installation, requiring additional steps like de-pinning connectors.
• Limited compatibility with models outside the specified years, potentially excluding some riders.
• Installation may still require additional resources or assistance for those unfamiliar with handlebar upgrades.

Dominator Industries Prewired Gloss Black Miter Bar Apes for Harley-Davidson

For Harley-Davidson enthusiasts seeking a stylish yet functional upgrade, the Dominator Industries Prewired Gloss Black Miter Bar Apes stand out as an excellent choice. These 1 1/4" handlebars are designed for compatibility with 2014-2023 Street Glide, Electra Glide, and other models, utilizing stock cables and controls for 2015-2023 Street Glides. The plug-and-play prewired feature allows for quick installation, typically taking between 2 to 3.5 hours. Handmade in the USA, these bars are laser cut and fully TIG welded, ensuring durability and a polished finish. Customers appreciate the natural grip angles and comfort, rating the product 4.7 out of 5 stars. With a limited lifetime warranty and responsive customer service, Dominator Industries prioritizes quality and satisfaction.

Best For: Harley-Davidson riders looking for stylish and comfortable handlebars that are easy to install and compatible with multiple models.

Pros:

• Prewired for easy installation, reducing setup time to just a few hours.
• Quality craftsmanship with handmade, laser-cut, and TIG-welded construction.
• Comfortable grip angles designed for optimal riding experience.

Cons:

• May require throttle control swap and possibly clutch cable extension for certain models.
• Some users reported needing to swap pins on pre-wired bars, which could complicate installation.
• New grips may be necessary, adding to the overall cost and effort of the upgrade.

Pre-wired Meathook Monkey Bar Handlebars for Harley Street Glide/Electra Glide/Ultra Limited Models

Designed specifically for 2016 and newer Harley Street Glide, Electra Glide, and Ultra Limited models, the Pre-wired Meathook Monkey Bar Handlebars stand out with their aggressive style and pre-wiring features. Measuring 16 inches in height, these 1.25-inch ape hangers offer a robust aesthetic while maintaining comfort with ideal grip angles. The pre-wiring includes CAN-BUS switch wires and a throttle by wire extension, simplifying installation. Remarkably, the notched design caters to TBW applications, although users may need to cut and splice existing wires. Weighing 10.32 pounds, the gloss black powder coating not only enhances its look but also provides anti-rusting properties. With a solid 4.0-star rating, many appreciate the quality and style, despite some wiring challenges.

Best For: Riders of 2016 and newer Harley Street Glide, Electra Glide, and Ultra Limited models seeking an aggressive style and improved handling.

Pros:

• Quality construction with gloss black powder coating for durability and aesthetics.
• Pre-wired design simplifies installation with included CAN-BUS switch wires and TBW extension.
• Comfortable grip angles enhance riding experience, making them ideal for long rides.

Cons:

• Wiring challenges may arise, requiring cutting and splicing of existing wires.
• Compatibility issues for riders with 2014-2015 models, as these handlebars are not suitable.
• Some users reported difficulties with TBW installation, leading to additional troubleshooting.

Dominator Industries Miter Cut Bagger Ape Handlebar (10 inch Rise, Gloss Black)

Riders looking to enhance their Street Glide experience will appreciate the Dominator Industries Miter Cut Bagger Ape Handlebar, which boasts a 10-inch rise for a commanding presence and improved comfort. This handlebar, made in the USA, features a sleek gloss black finish and is compatible with various Harley models from 1996 to 2023, excluding Screaming Eagle variants. Designed for easy installation, it's pre-wired for 2015-2021 Road Glides and notched for TBW applications. Customers praise its natural grip angles, aesthetic appeal, and straightforward installation process, reflected in its 4.6-star rating. With a limited lifetime warranty and excellent customer service, Dominator Industries guarantees riders can enjoy both style and reliability with this quality upgrade.

Best For: Riders seeking a stylish and comfortable handlebar upgrade for their Harley-Davidson Street Glide or similar models.

Pros:

• Hand Made in the USA, ensuring high quality and craftsmanship.
• Pre-wired for easy installation, especially for 2015-2021 Road Glides.
• Comfortable grip angles provide a more enjoyable riding experience.

Cons:

• May have minor issues with internal wiring, as noted by some users.
• Not compatible with Screaming Eagle variants, limiting options for some riders.
• Best Sellers Rank indicates it's less popular compared to other options in the market.

Dominator Industries Miter Cut Bagger Ape Handlebar (10 inch Rise, Chrome)

The Dominator Industries Miter Cut Bagger Ape Handlebar, featuring a 10-inch rise in a sleek chrome finish, stands out as an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking both style and comfort on their Harley-Davidson Street Glide. Made in the USA, this 1 1/4 inch handlebar is laser cut and fully TIG welded, ensuring durability and quality. It's compatible with 1996-2023 Harley models, excluding Screaming Eagle variants, and comes pre-wired for quick installation with stock cables on 2015-2023 Street Glides. Users appreciate the natural grip angles, enhanced comfort, and aesthetic appeal, although some noted challenges with wire routing. With a solid average rating of 4.3 stars, Dominator Cycles backs their product with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Best For: Riders of 1996-2023 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide and Street Glide models looking for stylish and comfortable handlebars.

Pros:

• Hand-made in the USA, ensuring high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
• Pre-wired for quick installation with stock cables on newer models, minimizing setup time.
• Positive feedback on comfort and aesthetics, enhancing the overall riding experience.

Cons:

• Some users experienced challenges with wire routing, particularly with throttle grips.
• Adjustments may be required for throttle and clutch cable lengths, which can complicate installation.
• Mixed reviews on overall installation ease, with some customers needing additional modifications.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Handlebars for Street Glide

When you're choosing handlebars for your Street Glide, there are several key factors to keep in mind. You'll want to contemplate compatibility with your motorcycle model, the installation process, and how the design fits your personal style. Additionally, think about the material quality, durability, and how the handlebars will impact your riding comfort and ergonomics.

Compatibility With Motorcycle Models

Choosing the right handlebars for your Street Glide is crucial for guaranteeing a comfortable and safe ride. First, make certain the handlebars are compatible with your specific model year, as each iteration may have unique fitment requirements. For models from 2015 to 2023, verify that the handlebars can work with stock cables and controls to avoid unexpected modifications.

If your Street Glide features throttle by wire (TBW), opt for handlebars designed for this technology. These are typically easier to install and reduce installation headaches. Additionally, consider the rise and width of the handlebars. Different heights can greatly impact your riding posture and handling, so choose what suits your style and comfort.

Lastly, look for installation features like pre-wiring or notching for TBW applications. These options can simplify the setup process and save you time. By focusing on compatibility, you'll not only enhance your ride's style but also guarantee it meets your performance needs. Remember, the right handlebars can make all the difference in your riding experience, so choose wisely!

Installation Process and Features

Installing handlebars on your Street Glide can be straightforward if you consider a few key factors. First, look for handlebars that come pre-wired for quick installation. This can greatly reduce your setup time and get you back on the road faster. Also, check if the handlebars are designed with notched features for throttle by wire (TBW) applications; this will simplify the installation process even more.

Make sure the handlebars fit all stock cables and controls for your specific model year. This helps you avoid any additional modifications that could complicate the installation. Additionally, evaluate the internal wiring design. Handlebars with no slag inside the bar tubes allow for easier wire pulling, making the whole process smoother.

Aesthetic and Design Choices

Aesthetic and design choices play an essential role in enhancing the overall look and feel of your Street Glide. When selecting handlebars, consider the height and rise options, like 10-inch or 14-inch, as they greatly affect your riding posture and the bike's appearance. A polished gloss black or chrome finish not only looks sleek but also complements various motorcycle styles while providing anti-rusting benefits.

The design of the handlebars can also impact visual appeal. Styles like the aggressive Meathook or Miter Cut can give your motorcycle a distinctive attitude, helping it stand out on the road. Don't overlook ergonomic features, either; handlebars that offer natural grip angles and ideal pullback comfort will enhance both aesthetics and comfort during long rides.

As you customize your handlebars, think about wire routing and internal wiring design. A clean cockpit look can elevate your bike's overall presentation, making it not just functional but also visually striking. By carefully considering these aesthetic and design factors, you can choose handlebars that perfectly match your style while ensuring a comfortable ride.

Material Quality and Durability

When upgrading your handlebars, the material quality and durability can't be overlooked. The strength of materials like high-grade steel or aluminum can make a significant difference in the longevity of your handlebars. These options not only offer improved strength but also resist wear over time.

Look for handlebars that are laser cut and fully TIG welded. These manufacturing processes enhance structural integrity, reducing the risk of failure when you're riding hard. A polished, powder-coated finish is also essential; it not only boosts aesthetics but also protects against rust and corrosion, extending the life of your investment.

Pay attention to design features like beveled and de-burred edges, which make wire pulling and installation easier, contributing to overall durability. Additionally, handlebars engineered with ideal grip angles are less likely to suffer from wear due to improper usage during long rides.

Riding Comfort and Ergonomics

Choosing the right handlebars can make a world of difference in your riding experience. The height and pullback angle of handlebars are essential; they should align with your natural grip to minimize strain during long rides. If you opt for properly sized handlebars, you'll notice improved control and handling, which promotes a more relaxed posture and reduces fatigue on extended journeys.

Handlebar width is another significant consideration. It affects your shoulder positioning, impacting overall comfort and stability, especially when maneuvering through various road conditions. Wider handlebars can provide better leverage, while narrower options might feel more agile.

Additionally, features like internal wiring and notched designs for throttle by wire (TBW) applications enhance both the installation process and the look of your bike. Pre-wired options can make setup quicker, allowing you to customize your ergonomics with minimal downtime.

Common Questions

Are Aftermarket Handlebars Compatible With Stock Harley Davidson Controls?

Aftermarket handlebars can be compatible with stock Harley Davidson controls, but you'll need to take into account a few factors. Make certain the diameter of the handlebars matches your controls, and check if you need any adapters for wiring or switch housings. It's crucial to verify the height and pullback to guarantee comfort and functionality. Always consult the manufacturer's specifications and instructions for the best results before making any modifications.

How Do I Know the Right Handlebar Height for My Comfort?

Finding the right handlebar height for your comfort is like finding the perfect pair of shoes; it's all about fit. Start by sitting on your bike and measuring the distance from your shoulder to your wrist while holding the grips. Ideally, your elbows should be slightly bent, allowing for a relaxed posture. Test different heights if possible, and remember, comfort is key for those long rides ahead. You'll thank yourself later!

Can I Install New Handlebars Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?

You can definitely install new handlebars yourself if you have some mechanical skills and the right tools. It's a rewarding project that lets you customize your bike to fit your style and comfort. However, if you're unsure about the process or don't have the necessary tools, hiring a professional might be the safer option. They can guarantee everything's done correctly and avoid potential issues down the road. Trust your instincts and skills!

What Materials Are Best for Durability in Handlebars?

When you're choosing handlebars, consider materials like aluminum and steel for their durability. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it a great choice for long rides. However, steel offers superior strength and can withstand more wear and tear. You'll want to guarantee the finish is high-quality, too, to prevent corrosion. In the end, it's about balancing weight and strength to suit your riding style and preferences.

Will Changing Handlebars Affect My Motorcycle's Warranty?

Changing your motorcycle's handlebars can potentially affect your warranty, but it often depends on the manufacturer's policies. If the new handlebars cause damage or issues, they might deny coverage for related claims. It's essential to check your warranty terms and conditions before making any modifications. You might also want to consult your dealer or the manufacturer to guarantee you're making a choice that won't void your warranty or cause problems down the line.

Wrapping Up

Upgrading your handlebars isn't just about looks; it's about enhancing comfort and control on your ride. The right set can transform your experience, making long journeys more enjoyable and manageable. As the theory goes, good ergonomics lead to better riding—it's true! The handlebars you choose can greatly affect your posture and fatigue levels. So, don't underestimate the impact of style and comfort; invest in quality handlebars and feel the difference on your Harley Davidson Street Glide.