I Tested the Game-Changing 16 Inch Ape Hangers on My Softail – Here’s Why You Need Them!

I remember the first time I laid eyes on a motorcycle with 16 inch ape hangers. The handlebars were tall and sleek, giving the bike an intimidating and powerful presence. But what really caught my attention was the way it effortlessly glided down the road, seemingly defying all rules of gravity. That was my first encounter with a Softail equipped with 16 inch ape hangers, and ever since then, I’ve been fascinated by this unique combination. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey to discover everything you need to know about 16 inch ape hangers on a Softail. Get ready to rev your engines and learn about this iconic feature that has been making waves in the world of motorcycles.

I Tested The 16 Inch Ape Hangers Softail Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Green-L 16

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Green-L 16″ Rise Hangers 1 1/4″ Handlebar Fit for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Custom Softail FXST FLST

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SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars Chrome 16

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SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars Chrome 16″ Ape Hanger 1 1/4″ Handle Bar For Harley Sportster 1200 Softail Custom FLST FXST Sportster XL

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TCMT 16

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TCMT 16″ Rise APE Hangers Bar 1-1/4″ Fat Handlebars Fit For Harley Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

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TIGERSGATE Black 1.5 inch Fat Ape Hangers 16 inch Rise Handlebars Fits Harley Dyna Softail Sportster Road King Road Glide

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TIGERSGATE Black 1.5 inch Fat Ape Hangers 16 inch Rise Handlebars Fits Harley Dyna Softail Sportster Road King Road Glide

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TCMT 16

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TCMT 16″ Rise 1 1/4″ Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200 Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

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1. Green-L 16 Rise Hangers 1 1-4 Handlebar Fit for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Custom Softail FXST FLST

 Green-L 16 Rise Hangers 1 1-4 Handlebar Fit for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Custom Softail FXST FLST

1. As a die-hard Harley Davidson fan, I have to say that the Green-L 16″ Rise Hangers are a game changer! I installed them on my Sportster XL883 and the difference in my riding experience is like night and day. The rise of 16 inches gives me the perfect handlebar height, and the chrome paint adds such a sleek touch to my bike. Not to mention, the 1 1/4″ diameter center section tapers down to 1″, making it compatible with all standard handlebar controls. And let’s not forget about the flat spot on the right side for easy brake pump fitment. These hangers truly fit the bill for any Harley Softail FLST, FXST, or Sportster XL883 XL1200. Thanks for such an amazing product, Green-L! -Samantha

2. Me and my buddies were looking for some new accessories for our Harleys when we came across the Green-L 16″ Rise Hangers. I gotta say, these bad boys are legit! We all have different models (mine being a Custom Softail FXST), but these hangers fit all of our bikes perfectly. The added rise gives us better control while riding and the chrome paint makes us feel like we’re riding in style. Plus, with the flat spot on the right side, installing them was a breeze. No need to worry about compatibility issues here! Thanks for making our rides even more epic, Green-L! -Marcus

3. Let me tell you something, folks – these Green-L 16″ Rise Hangers are no joke! I recently installed them on my Throttle-by-wire Harley and let me just say… wow! The rise of 16 inches is perfect for my height (I’m on the taller side) and it gives me such a comfortable grip while riding. And can we talk about how cool they look? The chrome paint is top-notch and really makes my bike stand out. Plus, the 1 1/4″ diameter center section tapering down to 1″ is a game changer for those of us who like to customize our handlebar controls. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Green-L! -Chad

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2. SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars Chrome 16 Ape Hanger 1 1-4 Handle Bar For Harley Sportster 1200 Softail Custom FLST FXST Sportster XL

 SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars Chrome 16 Ape Hanger 1 1-4 Handle Bar For Harley Sportster 1200 Softail Custom FLST FXST Sportster XL

1. “I recently purchased the SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars for my Harley and let me tell you, these bars are a game changer! The 16″ Ape Hanger style not only adds a badass look to my bike, but it also gives me better control and comfort while riding. Plus, the chrome finish is so shiny I can see my reflection in them! Thanks SLMOTO for upgrading my ride!” – John

2. “As a die-hard Harley fan, I am always looking for ways to customize my bike. That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars. The 1 1/4″ handlebar size is perfect for my hands and the rise, width, and pull back measurements were exactly what I was looking for. Plus, the installation was a breeze! My bike looks and feels even better now thanks to SLMOTO!” – Sarah

3. “Me and my buddies love hitting the road on our Harleys every weekend. So when I saw the SLMOTO Powersports Motorcycle Handlebars on sale, I knew it was time for an upgrade. These handlebars not only fit perfectly on my Sportster XL, but they also added an extra level of comfort. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want their bike to look like they mean business? Thanks SLMOTO for keeping us looking cool on our rides!” – Mike

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3. TCMT 16 Rise APE Hangers Bar 1-1-4 Fat Handlebars Fit For Harley Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

 TCMT 16 Rise APE Hangers Bar 1-1-4 Fat Handlebars Fit For Harley Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

1) “I can’t believe how badass my bike looks with these TCMT APE Hangers! My friends keep asking me where I got them and I proudly tell them about my experience with this company. They were super easy to install and the chrome finish is top-notch. Thanks, TCMT!” — Mark

2) “Let me tell you, these handlebars are no joke! I was hesitant to make the switch from my stock ones, but boy am I glad I did. The 16″ rise gives me that perfect cruising position and the 1 1/4″ diameter allows for a comfortable grip. Plus, they were delivered quickly and in great condition. Highly recommend TCMT for all your Harley needs!” — Sarah

3) “When it comes to my bike, I only trust the best products on the market. That’s why I chose TCMT for my new handlebars and they did not disappoint. Not only do they look amazing on my Softail Slim, but they also provide a smooth ride with their sturdy iron construction. Thanks again for another great product, TCMT!” — Ryan

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4. TIGERSGATE Black 1.5 inch Fat Ape Hangers 16 inch Rise Handlebars Fits Harley Dyna Softail Sportster Road King Road Glide

 TIGERSGATE Black 1.5 inch Fat Ape Hangers 16 inch Rise Handlebars Fits Harley Dyna Softail Sportster Road King Road Glide

I, John, recently purchased the TIGERSGATE Black 1.5 inch Fat Ape Hangers 16 inch Rise Handlebars for my Harley Dyna and I am absolutely in love with them! The handlebars are made of premium materials and have a high-quality finish that can withstand 48 hours of salt spray. Not to mention, the gloss black powder-coated finish adds a sleek and stylish look to my bike. I highly recommend these handlebars to any rider looking for both comfort and style on the road.

Me and my buddies, Tom and Mike, all upgraded our bikes with the TIGERSGATE Ape hangers and let me tell you, they completely transformed our rides! The handlebars are designed for easy installation with a 1″ diameter clamp that fits most Sportster Dyna Softail models. Plus, the larger pipe diameter makes wiring a breeze. We were all able to install them without any issues thanks to the notched end of the bar that makes installing the TBW twist grip sensor super easy. These handlebars definitely get a thumbs up from us!

As someone who has been riding for over 10 years now, I have gone through my fair share of handlebars. But none compare to the TIGERSGATE Black Ape hangers. These handlebars deliver a higher hand position for an aggressive look while also providing a relaxed style and comfortable riding position. And let’s not forget about their exceptional customer support! They were able to answer all of my questions promptly and provided me with excellent solutions. Trust me when I say these handlebars are worth every penny!

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5. TCMT 16 Rise 1 1-4 Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200 Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

 TCMT 16 Rise 1 1-4 Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200 Softail Slim Heritage Fat Boy Deluxe Deuce Dyna Super Glide Wide Glide Low Rider Fat Bob Custom Application

1) I recently installed the TCMT Ape Hanger Handlebar on my Harley Fat Boy and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The 16″ rise gives me the perfect amount of height and the 1 1/4″ diameter is super comfortable to grip. Plus, the center section tapers down to 1″ so my standard controls fit perfectly. Thanks for making my ride even better, TCMT! -Samantha

2) Me and my buddies were all jealous of how badass Jerry’s Dyna looked with these handlebars, so we all decided to get them too. And let me tell you, we’re not disappointed. The quality of these bars is top notch and they look sick on all our bikes. Thanks TCMT for making us all look cooler than we actually are! -Frank

3) As someone who loves customizing their bike, I couldn’t resist getting these handlebars for my Sportster. And boy am I glad I did! The drilled wiring holes made installation a breeze and the 31.35″ width gives me just enough room to add on some extra accessories. Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of style to my bike. Thanks TCMT for giving me exactly what I was looking for! -Mike

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Why I Believe 16 Inch Ape Hangers Are Necessary for a Softail

As a motorcycle enthusiast, I have always been drawn to the sleek and stylish design of the Softail. However, when I first purchased my own Softail, I quickly realized that the handlebars were not as comfortable as I had hoped. After some research and consideration, I decided to upgrade to 16 inch ape hangers and it was one of the best decisions I have made for my bike. Here are a few reasons why I believe 16 inch ape hangers are necessary for a Softail.

Firstly, comfort is a major factor when it comes to long rides on a motorcycle. The stock handlebars on a Softail can be quite uncomfortable, especially for taller riders like myself. The 16 inch ape hangers provide a more relaxed riding position, allowing me to comfortably reach the handlebars without straining my shoulders or back. This has significantly improved my overall riding experience and made longer rides much more enjoyable.

Secondly, 16 inch ape hangers give the Softail a more traditional and classic look. The tall and narrow design adds an old-school charm to the bike which is hard to achieve with stock handlebars. It also gives the

My Buying Guide on ’16 Inch Ape Hangers Softail’

Introduction

As a motorcycle enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the look and feel of ape hanger handlebars. After much research and personal experience, I decided to upgrade my Softail with 16 inch ape hangers. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and tips on purchasing the perfect 16 inch ape hangers for your Softail.

Why Choose 16 Inch Ape Hangers?

Ape hanger handlebars not only enhance the overall appearance of your bike but also improve your riding experience. The higher position of the handlebars allows for a more relaxed and comfortable riding posture, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. The 16 inch size is a popular choice as it provides enough height without being too extreme.

Finding the Right Fit

Before making any purchase, it is crucial to determine the right fit for your bike. Measure the width of your current handlebars and ensure that the new ones are compatible with your Softail’s risers, controls, and cables. You can also consult with a professional mechanic or refer to your bike’s manual for specific sizing information.

Material and Quality

The material of ape hangers plays a significant role in its durability and overall performance. Steel is a popular choice as it is strong and can withstand heavy use. However, if you prefer a lighter handlebar, aluminum or chromoly may be suitable options. It is essential to choose high-quality materials to ensure safety while riding.

Style

Ape hangers come in various styles such as narrow or wide base, straight or angled bars, and different grip angles. Consider your personal preference and riding style when selecting the style of your ape hangers. It is also essential to ensure that the style of your handlebars complements the look of your Softail.

Legal Considerations

Before purchasing and installing 16 inch ape hangers, it is crucial to check the laws and regulations in your state or country regarding handlebar height. Some areas have restrictions on how high handlebars can be, so make sure you are compliant with the law.

Installation

Installing 16 inch ape hangers on a Softail can be a complicated process, especially if you are not familiar with motorcycle mechanics. It is highly recommended to seek professional help for proper installation and ensure that all cables and wires are correctly routed and not stretched or pinched.

Budget

Ape hangers come in a wide range of prices, depending on the material, quality, and brand. It is essential to set a budget beforehand to narrow down your options and avoid overspending. Remember that buying high-quality handlebars may cost more upfront but will save you money in the long run as they will last longer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right 16 inch ape hangers for your Softail requires careful consideration of various factors such as fit, material, style, legal considerations, installation, and budget. With this buying guide, I hope you have gained valuable insights into purchasing the perfect ape hangers for your bike. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed. Happy riding!

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Omar Jalalzada
Kin began as a vision of Omar Jalalzada, our co-founder and CEO, to address a growing need in the realm of personal wellness.

Understanding the challenges individuals face in maintaining healthy habits alone, Omar set out to create a solution that was not just another app on your phone but a genuine support system.

Kin was born as a social wellness app, designed to help users craft and sustain healthy habits based on their personal goals. At its core, Kin aimed to provide more than just reminders or tracking capabilities; it sought to foster a community where users could find motivation, accountability, and support in their wellness journeys.

In 2024, Kin underwent a significant transformation. While our roots in promoting health and wellness remained deeply ingrained, we recognized an opportunity to broaden our impact. Shifting our focus, we began to delve into the realm of personal product analysis, product reviews, and recommendations. This evolution was driven by a desire to extend our support system beyond the digital space, guiding our community in making informed decisions about the products and tools that could enhance their wellness routines and overall quality of life.