2009 Fatboy Handlebars to APES!! : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

dc3plt · 11-01-2009, 10:27 AM

Hi ALL!!

Looking to upgrade the bars on my FB to Apes this winter. I'm planning on the Wild 1 12.5 bars. I'm 5'7 so I'm thinking this may be good.

Does anyone have any good pics of Fatboys with Apes they could post so I can get a better idea. I've seen a couple on here.

What would the biggest recommendation for install? I'm doing it myself and my biggest concern is the cables and brake lines.

Have a good one!!!!!!!!!!!!!

dmwilki · 11-02-2009, 05:41 AM

here's my '04 with 16" apes... looks better now since I moved my turn signals below my spots and put on Arlen Ness Rad II mirrors

dc3plt · 11-02-2009, 08:25 AM

Do we have any recommendations on the cables, wiring etc.?

Should I go with HD parts and use extended sizes or aftermarket?

Thanks

sam sam the mex · 11-02-2009, 08:38 AM

hill country cycles..... they have pre wired bars with controls all ready to mount!! you tell them what bike you have and what size bars you want and they send everything needed to do it!! throttle lines clutch and brake lines!!!

or they can prob only send the cables just have to call them!!! i ordered the 16" 1 1/4" apes and did all the work my self!!

dc3plt · 11-02-2009, 09:24 AM

That definitely sounds like an option

Would have any pics of your install that you could post?

Dyna Mike · 11-03-2009, 06:06 AM

I put 20"Psycho chubbys on my '09 night train and before that on my dyna wide glide.
All the bars and cables etc were got over the internet from J&P cycles who provided a fast efficient service and lots of helpful advice which was great seen as I live in Ireland.
I also did my mates '04 softail with 16" apes.
All with internal wiring.
Patience and eye to the detail and it is easy enough.
See pics.

MilesToGo · 11-04-2009, 06:08 PM

Here's some pics of my Heritage with the Wild1 12.5 bars. I really like these bars! I'm 5'9" and they are shoulder high when sitting on the bike - just where i like them. As far as what size cables, the easiest way to make sure you get the right size is to mount the bars then measure for the cables. This means a little more down-time but if it's a winter project then it really doesn't matter. I went with HD stainless 6" over for my Heritage but your Fatboy has lower stock bars so they might be a little short. Good luck with the install...it's not that difficult and if you run into a snag just ask for help.

hbmc · 11-04-2009, 06:38 PM

You know what they say? " You don't go back after you go Ape"
I got 16's at 5-8 and they sit flush with my shoulders at the base of the bar handles regular position puts them about 1.1/2 inch above the shoulder line (sitting up) I can get under them on long trips or duck behind my shield too. You will love them. JP Cicles is a good place to get your stuff.
One other thing is I noticed that you can trim the ends off of bars allowing the grips to move to a higher point on the bars (Check it out) for your application.
Cables and wires are a breeze for height. just set the new bars where the old ones are and measure the difference in height and then just figure the difference in cable length
+4 or +5 inch (whatever) Not to precise here as there is some grace. I used to have 3" pull back risers along with those 16''s Pretty nice ride too----May want to think about that if your 5'-7" is reaching a little too much. that puts you at 12.5 + 3 At 15'5 with a 3 inch rake back. Puts your bars right at the top of your dash speedo highest point.

If you put the wires in yourself (thrifty) you will make sure to use a file where you pull the wire thru---make sure you get any and all burs as well as get the areas smooth where they 'rub'
If I remember----I pulled the wires thru with only a slight bit of resistance. With the fatter bars you are considering it will pull thru make sure you wrap them in tape (not to thick) and a little soap will pull them thru. the ends should pop out of your plastic plugs with a bit of patience. (see a video on here somewhere about those if unsure)
Also take a picture of your connections and mark them clearly. I used my manual and wrote the color to what or where.(future troubleshoots resourced) Your gonna have fun and take your time

anubisss · 11-12-2009, 01:11 PM

16" apes on my 2002 fatboy. 5'9" and comfortable as can be.

evilspringer · 11-12-2009, 07:47 PM

I have 18" on my springer. I am 5'5" and they are very comfortable for me. Installing the bars and then measuring would be the best way to go. I went 12 over on my cables, the clutch cable was good so was the brake but throttle was a little long.

Me taking my grandson for his first ride

JR_HD · 11-16-2009, 04:22 PM

Got 14" on my Fatboy. I am 5'6", the controls are right at shoulder height and are very comfortable. Put them on at the end of last season and have logged over 16K miles this year so far without any problems. Did a 6K+ mile ride this summer over 14 days straight and didn't have any issues. Some complain aout issues with their hands...I have only had problems if I am on the bike longer than 8-10 hours non-stop in the cold, but nothing serious. Love the looks of bars and love the comfort. Will probably go with 16's on my next one.

JR