The Seasoned Wrench

7 Best Fat Boy Handlebars for Your Ultimate Motorcycle Upgrade

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When it comes to enhancing your Harley Softail Fat Boy or Road King Special, choosing the right handlebars can make all the difference in both style and performance. From the sleek Meathook Ape Hangers to the versatile 12-inch Bat-wing Ape Hangers, each option offers unique features that cater to your riding needs. Whether it's about finding the perfect fit for your bike or prioritizing comfort during those long rides, these top handlebars are designed to elevate your motorcycle experience.

Things to Note

  • Premium construction materials like carbon steel and iron for durability.
  • Ergonomic design with notches for TBW sensors for enhanced comfort.
  • Compatibility with specific Harley models for a perfect fit.
  • Various finish options available, including gloss black and chrome.
  • Some models come pre-wired for easier installation.

14 Inch Bat-wing Ape Hangers Handlebars for Harley Softail Fat Boy/Breakout/Road King Special/Freewheeler, Black

customize your harley handlebars

For riders looking to upgrade their Harley Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, Road King Special, or Freewheeler, the 14 Inch Bat-wing Ape Hangers Handlebars in black offer a premium and durable option. These handlebars, made of top-notch carbon steel, provide stability and control with a 1.25' diameter, 14' rise, and 1.25' clamp area diameter.

The 12.5' base width guarantees a secure grip and safety with diamond knurling and notches for TBW sensors. Installation is simplified with pre-wired CAN-Bus wire harness, TBW & heated grips wire harness, and preinstalled wires for the TBW setup.

The package includes a pre-wired handlebar, control harness, throttle wire, turn signal wire, and installation kit for hassle-free setup. Upgrade your ride with these high-quality handlebars from Prewired.

Best For: Riders of Harley Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, Road King Special, or Freewheeler seeking a premium and durable handlebar upgrade for enhanced stability and control.

Pros:

  • Premium carbon steel construction for durability
  • Pre-wired with CAN-Bus wire harness and TBW & heated grips wire harness for easy installation
  • Diamond knurling and notches for TBW sensors provide a secure grip and ergonomic riding experience

Cons:

  • Limited compatibility to specific Harley models from 2015-2023
  • Relatively high weight of 12 pounds may affect handling for some riders
  • Base width of 12.5' may not be suitable for riders with smaller hands or preferences

12 Inch Bat-wing Ape Hangers Fat Boy Handlebars for 2012-2015 Harley Softail Fat Boy and Breakout Models, Chrome

12 inch ape hangers

Ideal for riders seeking a bold and aggressive appearance, the 12 Inch Bat-wing Ape Hangers Fat Boy Handlebars in chrome offer both style and functionality for 2012-2015 Harley Softail Fat Boy and Breakout Models. These handlebars fit various models including the Breakout FXSB, Breakout CVO FXSBSE, Fatboy FLSTF, and Fatboy Lo FLSTFB.

With a sturdy 1.25' diameter, 12' rise, and 12.5' base width, they provide stability and control on the road. The pre-wired design includes a CAN-bus control harness and turn signal wires for easy installation. Made from premium medium carbon steel, the bold bat-wing design not only enhances the look of the bike but also offers rider-centric features like notches for TBW sensors for added comfort.

Best For: Riders looking to add a bold and aggressive style to their 2012-2015 Harley Softail Fat Boy and Breakout Models while maintaining stability and control on the road.

Pros:

  • Easy installation with pre-wired design.
  • Premium medium carbon steel construction for durability.
  • Rider-centric features like notches for TBW sensors.

Cons:

  • Limited color option (only available in chrome).
  • May not be suitable for riders who prefer lower handlebars.
  • Price may be on the higher side for some customers.

Meathook Ape Hangers for Harley Softail Fat Boy/Breakout/Road King Special Models

custom ape hangers for harley

Featuring a striking Meathook design and constructed from premium carbon steel, the 14 Inch Meathook Ape Hangers are tailored for riders seeking a bold and comfortable upgrade for their Harley Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, or Road King Special models.

These handlebars, with a 1.25' diameter and 14' rise, offer a sturdy construction that's notched for enhanced comfort during long rides. The simplified TBW setup makes installation easier for riders looking to customize their bikes.

The package includes a pre-wired handlebar, CAN-bus control harness, throttle by wire, and more, ensuring a comprehensive upgrade experience. With positive reviews highlighting the good quality, easy installation, and value for money, these Meathook Ape Hangers cater to riders seeking both style and functionality for their Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Best For: Riders looking to upgrade their Harley Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, or Road King Special models with a bold and comfortable Meathook design handlebar set.

Pros:

  • Premium carbon steel construction for durability
  • Simplified TBW setup for easier installation
  • Notched design for enhanced comfort during long rides

Cons:

  • Relatively heavy at 12 pounds
  • Limited compatibility with specific Harley models
  • Originating from China may raise quality concerns for some buyers

Ape Hanger Handlebar For Harley Dyna Softail Fat Boy Bob Breakout Slim Deluxe Road King1996-2013

custom ape hanger handlebar

The Ape Hanger Handlebar is a sturdy and stylish option suitable for riders of Harley Dyna Softail Fat Boy Bob Breakout Slim Deluxe Road King models from 1996 to 2013. Made of iron with a black finish, this handlebar has a diameter of 2 inches and a riser position of 1.25 inches, fitting various Harley models including Road King, Sportster, and Softail.

Manufactured by M Maintenanse, this handlebar weighs 13.49 pounds and measures 12 inches in length and 2 inches in width. It's designed to fit Harley-Davidson FLST, FXST, Sportster XL models, including those with Throttle-by-wire technology.

Riders have reported some installation challenges on newer models like the Fat Boy 2022, specifically related to throttle cartridge and brake master compatibility.

Best For: Riders looking to customize their Harley Dyna Softail Fat Boy Bob Breakout Slim Deluxe Road King models from 1996 to 2013 with a sturdy and stylish handlebar upgrade.

Pros:

  • Sturdy iron construction for durability during rides.
  • Sleek black finish adds a touch of style to the bike's look.
  • Compatible with various Harley models, providing versatility for different riders.

Cons:

  • Installation challenges reported on newer models, particularly related to throttle cartridge and brake master compatibility.
  • Rough inner edges may hinder wire sliding, causing potential installation difficulties.
  • Some riders may find the inner tube bump on certain models to be a hindrance during installation.

Handlebar T Bar 1.25 Fat Steel Pipe for Harley Dyna, Sportster, Softail – Gloss Black

1 25 gloss black handlebar

For Harley riders seeking a robust and stylish handlebar upgrade, the Handlebar T Bar 1.25 Fat Steel Pipe in Gloss Black by Mofun offers a durable and sleek option compatible with various models from 1996 to 2023. This handlebar features a 1-1/4 inch bar diameter, an overall width of 32.5 inches, and a 5.5-inch pullback/sweep, providing a comfortable riding position.

Constructed from steel pipe with a powder-coated Gloss Black finish, it exudes a premium look while ensuring long-lasting performance. Customers have given positive feedback on the quality and workmanship of this handlebar, although some encountered installation challenges and clearance issues with the stock master cylinder.

With Mofun's reputation for producing high-quality motorcycle accessories, this T Bar handlebar is a solid choice for Harley enthusiasts looking to upgrade their ride.

Best For: Harley riders looking for a durable and stylish handlebar upgrade compatible with various models from 1996 to 2023.

Pros:

  • Constructed from sturdy steel pipe for long-lasting performance
  • Sleek Gloss Black powder-coated finish for a premium look
  • Comfortable riding position with a 5.5-inch pullback/sweep

Cons:

  • Some users experienced installation challenges and clearance issues
  • Mixed feedback on packaging and delivery
  • Limited warranty information available

10 Rise 1-1/4 Inches Fat Z Handlebar Ape Hanger Bar for Harley

ape hanger handlebar for harley

Ideal for Harley enthusiasts looking to elevate their motorcycle's style and handling, the 10 Rise 1-1/4 Inches Fat Z Handlebar Ape Hanger Bar offers a sleek design and easy installation.

Made of heavy-duty steel tube with professional welding and a high standard paint process, this handlebar is designed to fit most Harley models, excluding 1980-up touring models with fairings.

With measurements of 32' total width, 1-1/4' bar diameter, 3-1/2' knurl, and 4.5' pullback, installation is a breeze with a single mounting area diameter.

The gloss black finish adds a touch of sophistication to your ride. Weighing 5.89 pounds, this AIRCMT handlebar provides both durability and style, making it a popular choice among customers with a 5.0 out of 5-star rating.

Best For: Harley enthusiasts seeking to enhance their motorcycle's style and handling with a durable and stylish handlebar upgrade.

Pros:

  • Made of heavy-duty steel for durability.
  • Easy installation with single mounting area diameter.
  • Sleek gloss black finish adds sophistication to the motorcycle.

Cons:

  • Not compatible with 1980-up touring models with fairings.
  • Limited color options available.
  • May require additional protective measures for wiring harness.

A-Premium 16 Inch Handlebars for Harley-Davidson Models

high quality handlebars for harley davidson

With its durable construction and compatibility with various Harley-Davidson models, the A-Premium 16 Inch Handlebars offer riders seeking a sturdy and versatile upgrade an excellent choice. Manufactured by PremiumpartsWhosale under the A-Premium brand, these handlebars weigh 9.48 pounds and have dimensions of 36.25 x 17 x 7.5 inches.

The manufacturer part number is APHDB007, and they're also known by OEM part numbers M-HB-3006BK-40096 and MHB3006BK40096. These handlebars have received a 5.0 out of 5 stars rating from customers, positioning them well in the automotive and powersports handlebars categories.

Compatible with a wide range of Harley-Davidson models from Sportster to Softail, the A-Premium 16 Inch Handlebars are designed for superior performance and longevity, backed by a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee from A-Premium.

Best For: Riders looking for a sturdy and versatile handlebar upgrade compatible with various Harley-Davidson models.

Pros:

  • Durable construction tested to strict standards for superior performance.
  • Wide compatibility with a range of Harley-Davidson models.
  • One-year unlimited-mileage guarantee from A-Premium for added peace of mind.

Cons:

  • Relatively heavy at 9.48 pounds.
  • Large package dimensions may require careful installation and adjustment.
  • Limited color and style options compared to other handlebars on the market.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fat Boy Handlebars

When selecting Fat Boy handlebars for your motorcycle, you should consider factors like:

  • Handlebar height options
  • Material durability
  • Comfort
  • Installation complexity
  • Compatibility with your specific model

These aspects play an essential role in determining the overall riding experience and satisfaction with your upgraded handlebars.

Take the time to assess these factors to guarantee you make the best choice for your riding needs.

Handlebar Height Options

What factors should you consider when selecting the handlebar height for your Fat Boy motorcycle upgrade?

The height of your handlebars plays an important role in determining your riding posture and comfort level. Fat Boy handlebars typically offer a range of heights from 10 to 16 inches, giving you various options to choose from.

Higher handlebars, such as 14 or 16-inch ape hangers, can provide a more aggressive riding position and add a custom look to your bike. On the other hand, lower handlebars around 10 inches offer a more traditional riding position, ideal for riders seeking a classic feel.

When deciding on the handlebar height, consider how it will impact your comfort, control, and overall riding experience on your Harley Fat Boy. Whether you prefer a stylish appearance or a more relaxed ride, selecting the right handlebar height is important for optimizing your motorcycle upgrade.

Material Durability Comparison

Take into account the material durability of Fat Boy handlebars when making your selection, as it significantly impacts their performance and longevity. Premium carbon steel handlebars offer superior strength, ensuring resilience for long-term use.

If you prioritize style and corrosion resistance, chrome-finished handlebars are a great choice that also guarantees longevity.

Alloy steel handlebars are known for being lightweight yet robust, making them ideal for reducing the overall weight of your motorcycle without compromising sturdiness.

For those who appreciate a classic look and a strong build, iron handlebars are a solid option, especially for traditional Harley enthusiasts.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Evaluate the handlebar height and rise to guarantee a comfortable riding position tailored to your body type and preferences. Best-fit ergonomics are vital for reducing strain during long rides.

Look for handlebars with notches or curves that accommodate your hands and wrists, ensuring a comfortable grip. Check for grip compatibility to guarantee a secure hold that suits your hand size and riding style.

The width of the handlebars is also crucial; it should align with your shoulders to enhance control and stability while riding. Additionally, consider features like pre-wiring for easy installation of electronic components, such as throttle-by-wire systems, to add convenience to your setup.

Prioritizing comfort and ergonomics when selecting fat boy handlebars won't only enhance your riding experience but also contribute to overall safety and enjoyment on the road.

Installation Complexity Level

Assess the installation complexity level of Fat Boy handlebars before making your purchase decision. Some handlebars may require additional wiring or modifications, increasing the installation difficulty. To simplify the setup, look for handlebars that come pre-wired or with detailed installation instructions.

It's vital to confirm compatibility with your Harley model to avoid fitment issues during installation. Consider if you have the necessary tools and expertise for the installation, especially if you're not familiar with motorcycle modifications.

Prioritize safety by following recommended procedures and verifying proper alignment and connection of all components. By evaluating the installation difficulty beforehand, you can save time and potential headaches down the road.

Make an informed decision based on the level of complexity you're comfortable handling to enjoy a smooth and successful upgrade to your motorcycle.

Compatibility With Models

Check for compatibility with your specific Harley model and year when selecting Fat Boy handlebars to make sure a proper fit and functionality. Before making a purchase, it's crucial to verify that the fitment details provided by the manufacturer match your Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, or Road King Special.

Look for handlebars that cater to your Harley model's specific features, such as throttle-by-wire compatibility or notches for TBW sensors. It's vital to confirm if the handlebars come pre-wired with a CAN-bus control harness and turn signal wires, as this can streamline the installation process on your Harley Davidson.

Additionally, consider the construction material and design features to ensure stability, control, and comfort while riding your Harley Softail Fat Boy or other compatible models. By paying attention to these compatibility factors, you can enhance your riding experience and make the most out of your Fat Boy handlebar upgrade.

Aesthetics and Style

Consider the design and shape of the handlebars, such as ape hangers or meathook styles, to ensure they complement the aesthetic of your Harley Fat Boy.

Look for chrome or black finishes that match your bike's overall look, depending on your style preference.

The rise and width of the handlebars play an essential role in your comfort and control while riding your Harley Softail Fat Boy.

Notches or ergonomic design features can enhance your grip and overall riding experience, so pay attention to these details.

Choosing pre-wired handlebars that are compatible with your Harley model can make installation and setup easier.

Wiring Harness Inclusion

When selecting Fat Boy handlebars, pay attention to the presence of a pre-wired harness, as it can greatly simplify the installation process and guarantee compatibility with your Harley model.

Some Fat Boy handlebars come equipped with a CAN-bus control harness and turn signal wires, making installation easier, especially for throttle-by-wire systems. These wiring harness kits typically include throttle by wire, control harness, and turn signal wires, providing a complete solution for your installation needs.

Notched handlebars designed for TBW sensors ensure not only ergonomic comfort but also compatibility with modern Harley models. It's crucial to note that the wiring harness inclusion in Fat Boy handlebars can vary, so checking the product specifications for specific details is important.

Make sure to choose handlebars with the appropriate wiring harness to ensure a smooth and hassle-free installation process.

Warranty and Support

To make an informed decision when selecting Fat Boy handlebars, it's important to factor in the warranty and support offered by the manufacturers.

Warranty coverage can vary, with some companies providing a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee, guaranteeing peace of mind for potential issues. Additionally, retailers like Amazon.com often offer a voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee for products such as handlebars.

Understanding the warranty details is essential to know what's covered and for how long, safeguarding your investment. Customers may be required to log in to provide feedback on their warranty experiences or the support received, contributing to transparency and accountability.

Being aware of the warranty terms and support options can greatly assist you in making a well-informed decision when choosing the best Fat Boy handlebars for your motorcycle upgrade. Make sure to review the warranty information thoroughly before making your final purchase to make sure you're covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Handlebars Easy to Install for Beginners?

Installing handlebars can be straightforward for beginners. Start by gathering the necessary tools and carefully following the installation instructions.

It's crucial to take your time and double-check each step to make sure everything is properly secured. If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to seek help from a more experienced individual or a professional to prevent any mistakes that could affect your motorcycle's performance.

Can These Handlebars Be Adjusted for Height?

Yes, these handlebars can be easily adjusted for height.

You'll find that the process is straightforward, even for beginners. Just a few simple steps, and you'll have your handlebars set up exactly how you want them.

Don't worry about any complicated tools or confusing instructions.

With these handlebars, you can customize the height to suit your comfort and riding style without any hassle.

Will These Handlebars Fit My Specific Motorcycle Model?

Yes, these handlebars will fit your specific motorcycle model. They're designed to be compatible with a wide range of motorcycles, including yours.

You can rest assured that they'll be a perfect fit for your bike. Just make sure to double-check the compatibility details before making your purchase to guarantee a seamless upgrade for your motorcycle.

Do the Handlebars Come With Wiring Extensions?

Yes, the handlebars come with wiring extensions. This guarantees a smooth installation process without any additional purchases needed.

With these extensions, you'll be able to easily connect your new handlebars to your motorcycle's existing wiring system. It's a convenient feature that saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your upgraded riding experience.

Plus, it's one less thing to worry about when customizing your motorcycle.

Are These Handlebars Compatible With Heated Grips?

Yes, these handlebars are compatible with heated grips. You can easily install your heated grips on these handlebars without any issues.

Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for a smooth installation process.

Enjoy the added comfort of heated grips on your motorcycle rides with these compatible handlebars.

Conclusion

Upgrade your Harley Softail Fat Boy, Breakout, or Road King Special with the 7 best Fat Boy handlebars for a smoother and sleeker ride.

From the stylish Meathook Ape Hangers to the durable Bat-wing Ape Hangers, these handlebars offer premium construction and comfort.

Make your motorcycle stand out with these high-quality handlebars that provide both style and functionality.

Ride in style with the ultimate motorcycle upgrade today!