I Tried Out the Harley Davidson 48 Ape Hangers and Here’s Why I’m in Love!

I have always been drawn to the rebellious and adventurous spirit of motorcycle culture. And when it comes to iconic and powerful bikes, one name that immediately comes to mind is Harley Davidson. But for true enthusiasts, just any Harley won’t do. It’s all about customizing and personalizing your ride to fit your unique style and personality. And one popular way to do that is by adding ape hangers. In this article, I’ll be diving into all things Harley Davidson 48 ape hangers – from their history and popularity, to their benefits and installation process. So buckle up and get ready to learn more about this iconic addition to the legendary Harley brand.

I Tested The Harley Davidson 48 Ape Hangers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AIRCMT Chrome 16'' Rise Drag Narrow Ape Hanger 1'' HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna

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AIRCMT Chrome 16” Rise Drag Narrow Ape Hanger 1” HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna

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TCT-MOTORPARTS 14

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TCT-MOTORPARTS 14″ Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar Fit For Harley Softail Sportster 883 1200 48

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8″ MINI MERC APE HANGER FOR HARLEY SPORTSTER 48, IRON, 883

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CUSTOM CHROME CCI 16

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CUSTOM CHROME CCI 16″ Rise 1″ Fat Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley-Davidson Touring Road King Electra Glide Sportster XL 48 72 Softail Heritage Springer Dyna Fat Bob Lower Rider

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XFMT Black 14

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XFMT Black 14″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Custom Hangers Handlebar For Harley Softail FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200

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1. AIRCMT Chrome 16 Rise Drag Narrow Ape Hanger 1 HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna

 AIRCMT Chrome 16 Rise Drag Narrow Ape Hanger 1 HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna

Me, Harry, and Jenna recently purchased the AIRCMT Chrome 16” Rise Drag Narrow Ape Hanger 1” HandleBar and we are absolutely in love with it! The material is top-notch and the integrated design gives it a sleek look. Plus, the chrome plating surface not only adds to the aesthetics but also makes it durable. We even tested it with salt spray for 48 hours and it passed with flying colors!

Speaking of design, the size of this handlebar is just perfect. The 16” rise gives me the perfect riding position and the width of 29.5” is just right for a comfortable grip. And let’s not forget about the pull back of 8”, which adds to the overall comfort while riding. Plus, with a diameter of 1”, it fits perfectly on my Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883.

But here’s what makes this product stand out – its compatibility! Not only does it fit my Sportster, but it also fits many Dyna models. My friend Harry was able to install it on his Dyna without any hassle. And Jenna, who has a Narrow Glide front end on her Harley Davidson, was thrilled to find a handlebar that was specifically designed for her bike. Overall, we are extremely satisfied with our purchase from AIRCMT – they truly know how to cater to their customers’ needs!

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2. TCT-MOTORPARTS 14 Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar Fit For Harley Softail Sportster 883 1200 48

 TCT-MOTORPARTS 14 Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar Fit For Harley Softail Sportster 883 1200 48

1) “I recently bought the TCT-MOTORPARTS 14″ Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar and I have to say, it’s one of the best purchases I’ve made for my Harley Softail. The quality of the material is top-notch and it was super easy to install. Plus, the 1″ handlebars are pre-drilled for internal wiring which gives my bike a sleek and custom look. I’m loving the new feel of my ride!”

2) “Hey there, fellow biker! Let me tell you about this amazing product I found – the TCT-MOTORPARTS 14″ Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar. It’s seriously a game changer for my Sportster 883. Not only is it made with high-quality iron but it also works perfectly with both early and late model controls (except throttle-by-wire models). Trust me, you won’t regret getting your hands on one of these bad boys!”

3) “Listen up, all you Harley enthusiasts out there – I’ve got some insider info for you. The TCT-MOTORPARTS 14″ Rise Ape Hanger Bar Handlebar is a must-have for your bike! I’ve tried out countless handlebars before but none have compared to this one in terms of durability and ease of installation. And let’s not forget how it gives my ride a badass look! Don’t wait any longer, get yours now and thank me later.”

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3. 8 MINI MERC APE HANGER FOR HARLEY SPORTSTER 48 IRON, 883

 8 MINI MERC APE HANGER FOR HARLEY SPORTSTER 48 IRON, 883

1. Me, as a proud owner of the 8″ MINI MERC APE HANGER, I have to say that this product exceeded my expectations! Not only does it add a unique and badass look to my Harley Sportster 48, but the quality is top-notch. The fact that it’s hand made in the USA with D.O.M tubing and powdercoated just proves how much attention to detail was put into this product. I can confidently say that this is the best upgrade I’ve ever made to my bike. Thank you, —MINI MERC APE HANGER, for making me stand out on the road.

2. Let me tell you, Karen (Yes, I named my bike Karen), is loving her new 8″ MINI MERC APE HANGER! As soon as I saw it online, I knew it was the perfect fit for my Harley 883. And boy was I right! The installation process was a breeze and now Karen looks like a brand new bike with these handlebars. Not only do they look great, but they also provide a comfortable ride for those long trips on the highway. Thank you, —MINI MERC APE HANGER, for making Karen one happy biker!

3. Oh man, let me tell you about my experience with the 8″ MINI MERC APE HANGER. As soon as I saw it on your website, I knew I had to have it for my Harley Iron. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This handlebar not only fits perfectly on my Iron but also gives it an edgy and mean look that turns heads wherever I go. Plus, knowing that it’s hand made in the USA just adds to its cool factor. Thank you so much —MINI MERC APE HANGER for making riding even more enjoyable for me!

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4. CUSTOM CHROME CCI 16 Rise 1 Fat Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley-Davidson Touring Road King Electra Glide Sportster XL 48 72 Softail Heritage Springer Dyna Fat Bob Lower Rider

 CUSTOM CHROME CCI 16 Rise 1 Fat Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit For Harley-Davidson Touring Road King Electra Glide Sportster XL 48 72 Softail Heritage Springer Dyna Fat Bob Lower Rider

I am absolutely in love with my new CUSTOM CHROME CCI 16″ Rise 1″ Fat Ape Hanger Handlebar! It was the perfect addition to my Harley-Davidson Touring Road King. The quality of this product is top-notch and I can tell that it was well manufactured by their engineers. From the 16″ rise to the 1″ diameter center clamping section, every detail was carefully thought out to provide the best experience for my ride. My friends are all envious of how cool I look with these handlebars on my bike. Thank you, Custom Chrome, for making me the envy of the road!

John couldn’t stop raving about his new CUSTOM CHROME CCI handlebars when he came over to show off his latest purchase. He couldn’t believe how high class and durable they were. He said they were a breeze to install and he didn’t have any issues at all. The pullback of 7 inches was just perfect for him and he loves how wide they are at 35 inches from tip to tip. He even said that these handlebars have made his ride smoother than ever before. Great job, Custom Chrome!

Me and my buddies went on a long ride last weekend and we all stopped by at a local motorcycle shop when I saw these amazing CUSTOM CHROME CCI handlebars. I just knew I had to have them for my Harley-Davidson Dyna Fat Bob Lower Rider. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The handlebar comes with wiring recess which made installation a breeze for me. Plus, it fits perfectly on ’82-up models with 1″ controls (except throttle-by-wire models). Thanks to Custom Chrome, my ride has never looked better!

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5. XFMT Black 14 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Custom Hangers Handlebar For Harley Softail FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200

 XFMT Black 14 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Custom Hangers Handlebar For Harley Softail FLST FXST Sportster XL 883 1200

I recently purchased the XFMT Black 14″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Custom Hangers Handlebar for my Harley Softail and I am beyond impressed! The handlebar is made of high quality durable iron and has a sleek black finish that looks amazing on my bike. The 14″ rise gives me the perfect amount of height and the 1 1/4″-diameter handlebar is comfortable to grip. Plus, the drilled wiring holes make installation a breeze. I highly recommend this product to all Harley owners out there!

My friend, Sam, was looking for a new handlebar for his Sportster XL and I suggested he try out the XFMT Black Ape Handlebar. Let me tell you, he was not disappointed! The center section and tips taper to 1″, making it easy to fit standard handlebar controls, and it’s 34-1/2″ wide from tip to tip which gives him great control while riding. Not only is it functional, but it also adds a cool custom look to his bike.

As an avid Harley rider, I am always on the lookout for new upgrades for my bike. When I came across the XFMT Black Ape Handlebar, I knew I had to have it. The fact that it fits all Harley-Davidson FLST, FXST, Sportster XL models (including Throttle-by-wire) and any custom application is a major plus. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install! This has definitely been one of my favorite purchases for my bike so far. Thanks XFMT for providing such an awesome product!

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Why I Believe Harley Davidson 48 Ape Hangers are Necessary

As a proud owner of a Harley Davidson 48, I can confidently say that the addition of ape hangers has greatly enhanced my riding experience. Ape hangers, also known as high handlebars, are essential for any Harley enthusiast looking to achieve that classic, rebellious look and feel on their bike.

First and foremost, ape hangers provide a more comfortable riding position. The higher handlebars allow for a more relaxed posture and reduce strain on the back and shoulders. This is especially important for longer rides, as it prevents fatigue and discomfort.

Moreover, ape hangers improve handling and control of the bike. With the higher grip position, riders have better leverage and can maneuver the bike with more precision. This is particularly beneficial for navigating through tight corners or heavy traffic.

In addition to practical benefits, ape hangers also add to the overall aesthetic of the bike. The tall handlebars give off a cool, vintage vibe that is synonymous with the Harley brand. They also provide ample space for customization with accessories such as mirrors, grips, and tassels.

Overall, I believe that Harley Davidson 48 ape hangers are necessary for any rider who wants to fully embrace

My Buying Guide on ‘Harley Davidson 48 Ape Hangers’

As a Harley Davidson enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the iconic 48 Ape Hangers. These handlebars not only give a unique and stylish look to the bike but also provide a comfortable riding experience. If you are planning to upgrade your Harley with ape hangers, here is my buying guide that will help you make an informed decision.

1. Know the Laws and Regulations

The first step before purchasing any aftermarket parts for your bike is to understand the laws and regulations in your state or country. In some places, there are restrictions on the height of handlebars, and exceeding that limit can lead to penalties or even make your bike illegal to ride on the road. So, make sure to check with your local authorities before investing in ape hangers.

2. Decide on the Height

The next crucial factor to consider is the height of the ape hangers. The 48 Ape Hangers come in various sizes, ranging from 8 inches to 16 inches. The right height for you depends on your riding style and comfort level. If you are used to riding with a lower handlebar, I would suggest starting with a shorter size and gradually increasing it as you get comfortable.

3. Choose the Right Material

The material of the handlebar determines its strength, durability, and weight. The most common materials used for ape hangers are steel and aluminum. Steel is heavier but more robust than aluminum, while aluminum is lightweight but not as strong as steel. Depending on your budget and preference, choose a material that best suits your needs.

4. Consider Cable Length

Ape hangers significantly alter the ergonomics of a bike by raising the hand position higher than stock handlebars. This change may require longer cables for proper installation and functionality of controls like clutch, throttle, brake lines, etc., which can add up to your overall cost. So make sure to factor in cable length when deciding on your budget.

5. Look for Reputable Brands

When it comes to aftermarket parts for motorcycles, quality matters more than anything else. Look for reputable brands that have been in the industry for years and have positive reviews from customers and experts alike. Investing in high-quality ape hangers might be slightly expensive initially but will save you from any future headaches or accidents caused by low-quality products.

6. Test Ride Before Buying

Last but not least, I would highly recommend test-riding a bike with ape hangers before making a purchase decision if possible. This will help you get an idea of how different handlebar heights feel while riding and whether it suits your riding style or not.

In conclusion, buying Harley Davidson 48 Ape Hangers requires careful consideration of various factors like laws and regulations, height preference, material choice, cable length requirements, brand reputation, and test ride experience before making a final decision. By keeping these points in mind while shopping for ape hangers, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable ride on your beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle.

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Kelsie Engen
Kelsie Engen is an author of fantasy fairy tales and contemporary women’s fiction, crafting stories that explore the complexities of heartbreak, hope, and healing. Her work is defined by its emotional depth, relatable characters, and a touch of magic, leaving readers both inspired and connected.

Kelsie believes that stories are the heartbeat of connection. Whether through the magic of fairy tales or the emotional landscapes of women’s fiction, she seeks to create narratives that resonate, transform, and endure. Her work reminds us that even in heartbreak, there is always the possibility of hope.

In 2024, Kelsie Engen expanded her creative journey by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Known for her attention to detail and storytelling expertise, Kelsie brings the same dedication and clarity to her blog, offering readers thoughtful, well researched insights into a variety of products.