[markbrad]

I've had my 2002 FLHRCI for about 6 weeks now. I did my first ride of any distance last weekend (about 250 miles each way). My arms and back were not very happy with me. It seemed that I rode with my arms locked in a fully extended position. I am looking at replacing my handlebars with something that will put my arms/hands/back in a more comfortable position. I think I need something with more pullback.

It seems the Chubby 508 and 518 are fairly popular for the RKC. I'm 6 feet tall. Any comments on choosing between these? Any other better choices? Comments about the quality of the bars/chrome/color of chrome?

Thanks.

 

[twincamzz]

You might want to check out a set of "Heritage" bars on it. I have a FLHPI dressed out like a RK. It originally came w/ these bars, and no cable or wiring change is necessary to add them. BTW, I'm only 5' 8" tall, & I reach the bars just fine w/ this set up. You can take a peek at the bars here :http://209.151.86.249/gallery/data/2609P7180005-med.jpg

 

[fcoxwell]

I put a set of the Heritage bars on my 00 RK and then slanted them back as far as they would go without hitting the tank. The bars themselves make a big difference. The heritage bars are the most popular replacement for the stock RK bars and no cable changes are needed.

You will need a new set of grips cause the left grip probably won't survive removal

 

[woodwalkertc88]

stock road king bars are designed for orangatangs

 

[Paladin1]

Markbrad, I just added Chubby 508 bars on my 02 Road King.I had the same issues as you w/ the stock bars, and really like the 508's. Minor issue is that when turning sharp they hit my leg (I have them adjusted low). As I have gotten used to it, however, not a problem as you can move the leg, but thought I would mention it.

Also, needed to extend stock wiring (i.e. splice, cost $50 or so).

Quality seems very good.

Rode 450 miles yesterday (vegas to Reno), no problem.

greg

 

[harleyhog]

Markbrad, I just added Chubby 508 bars on my 02 Road King.
Also, needed to extend stock wiring (i.e. splice, cost $50 or so).
greg

I enquired to the Chubbie factory if I need longer wires to fit these bars and they told me via e-mail

"It is not necessary to cut or lengthen any wires. Releasing
wire looms inside the housing from the two retaining clips
frees up additional length needed. Disconnect the control
wire pins from the junctions leaving all wires attached at the
switch housings. From bar ends run the wire looms through
the bars and plug the pins back into the junctions.

The stock upper brake line is too short to follow the shape
of the bars, so it must be straightened to angle from the m/c
to the forks. This can be done with the line intact and does
not require bleeding the brake lines. You can pull more of
the soft line up from below if needed. Using a small tube
bender on the hard upper line will enable you to get it to
look the best. It won't follow the contour of the bar so the
cleaner you get the bend the better it will look!

Stock clutch, throttle and idle cables are adequate and look
fine. On 2002 models the throttle and idle cables must be
routed behind the cruise control module."

Haven't done it yet, Funds an all that. But gonna.
Might save ya that $50 for chrome/Beer?

Brake lines I would think twice about.

 

[xrystl]

I had the same problem with my 99 FLHR , I replaced the stock bars with HD # 55954-00 , touring bars , they are a couple of inches taller with 2"more pull back and about an inch narrower . they made a world of difference in handling and comfort , cables & etc all remain stock . Cost about $50 .