Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right motorcycle handlebars?
Choosing the right bars comes down to comfort, fitment, and riding style. The ideal handlebars allow you to sit comfortably with a slight bend in your elbows and your wrists in a natural position. Rider height, arm length, motorcycle model, seat height, and riser setup all affect which handlebars will feel best.
If you’re replacing stock handlebars, consider whether you want a similar riding position or a completely different feel. 10” bars are closest to stock and in most cases do not require extensions where 14” bars are most popular among 6 foot riders however they require an extended cable kit available on our website as an “All in One Kit”. This kit will come with bars as well as the appropriate brake and clutch lines. No additional parts needed.
If you’re unsure which handlebars are right for you, we’re happy to help you choose the best option.
⸻
What handlebar height should I choose?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal handlebar height depends on your motorcycle and your body position while riding.
As a general guideline:
- 8”–10” rise offers a lower position, closest to stock bars. You can utilize your stock lines with this bar height.
- 12” rise is one of the most popular choices for everyday riding.
- 14” rise provides a relaxed riding position for many 6 foot riders and require an extended brake and clutch line.
- 16” and taller create a higher riding position and require additional cables and wiring.
Comfort should always come before appearance. A properly fitted handlebar reduces fatigue on longer rides.
⸻
Will I need longer cables, brake lines, or wiring?
Possibly. Whether your factory components will work depends on the height and design of your new handlebars.
Taller handlebars often require:
- Extended clutch cable
- Longer brake line
- Extended throttle cables (where applicable)
- Wiring extensions or longer wiring harnesses
Always verify cable requirements before beginning your installation.
Pro tip: Harley-Davidson recommends extensions for anything 12” and over. When purchasing bars 12” and over you can choose the All in One Kit option. This will come with bars as well as the appropriate brake line and clutch. Ready for install right out of the box. Take the guess work out of the installation process with our complete kit.
⸻
Are your handlebars made in the USA?
Yes. All of our parts are handmade to order in the USA. We are a small family owned business out of Huntington Beach, CA. Just a few friends passionate about motorcycles and fabrication. We ride the same bikes and bar setups that you do, attend the same events and are regularly at Cooks Corner on spaghetti night. HB locals that never thought we’d have a seat at this table but we are grateful to all of our supporters as we continue to innovate aftermarket parts for Harley-Davidson.
⸻
How do I know if these handlebars fit my motorcycle?
Each product page lists compatible motorcycle models and years.
Fitment can also depend on aftermarket risers, triple trees, fairings, hand controls, and cable routing. If your motorcycle has been modified, contact us before ordering so we can help verify compatibility.
⸻
What’s the difference between ape hangers, T-bars, and standard handlebars?
Each style offers a different riding experience.
Ape Hangers
Position your hands higher and wider for a classic custom look and a more upright riding position.
T-Bars
Combine the risers and handlebars into one rigid piece. They’re popular among performance riders because they offer excellent rigidity and control.
Moto bar/riser set up
Our most popular among performance riders. Risers with moto bar attached with our Dominator top clamp. This set up provides excellent control and stability when riding through the canyons. Available with customized 2 tone top clamp to match the color scheme of your bike.
The best style depends on your riding preference rather than which one is “better.”
⸻
Are your handlebars drilled for internal wiring?
Yes. Our handlebars are pre-drilled for internal wiring to create a cleaner appearance by hiding the wiring inside the bars.
⸻
What material are your handlebars made from?
Our handlebars are manufactured from high-quality US born, DOM steel designed for strength, durability, and long service life.
Quality materials and precision manufacturing in the USA help ensure proper fitment and dependable performance for everyday riding.
⸻
Are powder-coated handlebars durable?
Yes. Powder coating is one of the most durable finishes available for motorcycle handlebars.
Compared to traditional paint, powder coating provides excellent resistance to chips, scratches, UV fading, corrosion, and everyday wear. Proper care helps maintain the finish for years.
⸻
Can I powder coat or customize my handlebars?
Yes. You can request a custom powder coat color be used on your order. An additional fee of $199 does apply for custom colors. Since all of our parts are made to order this color upgrade will also add 10-14 days to the process. Custom colored parts are final sale items and not eligible for return or refund.
Many riders customize their handlebars with custom colors, textures, or finishes to match the rest of their motorcycle. Reach out to us to get started with your custom order!
⸻
How do I measure motorcycle handlebars?
Typically our bars will measure from the base to the grip.
Motorcycle handlebars are measured using several dimensions:
- Rise
- Width
- Pullback
- Center width
- Clamp diameter
Comparing these measurements to your current handlebars is the best way to understand how a new set will change your riding position.
⸻
Can I install motorcycle handlebars myself?
Many riders install handlebars at home using common hand tools.
Depending on your motorcycle, installation may require:
- Bleeding the front brakes
- Extending wiring
- Installing new cables
- Adjusting controls
- Rerouting wiring
If you aren’t comfortable performing these tasks, professional installation is recommended.
⸻
How long does handlebar installation take?
Installation time varies depending on your motorcycle and whether new cables or wiring are required.
A straightforward handlebar swap may take a few hours, while installations requiring cable extensions, internal wiring, or brake bleeding can take considerably longer.
Pro Tip: Choose our All in One Kit with PLUG IN READY option when available. This option will come with bars (plug in ready with the extended wiring and factory twist grip sensor or harness pre installed for no wire pulling) plus the appropriate brake and clutch. No additional parts needed. This is the best option on the market. Less time installing and more time riding.
⸻
Why do taller handlebars require cable extensions?
As handlebars get taller, the distance between your controls and the motorcycle increases.
If the original cables become stretched when turning the handlebars, longer components are necessary to prevent binding, restricted steering, or premature wear.
Our All in One kits will come with bars and extended upper lines (brake and clutch).
⸻
Are taller handlebars more comfortable?
For many riders, yes.
Riders often complain that stock bars leave them feeling hunched over. Properly sized taller handlebars can reduce shoulder strain, improve posture, and create a more relaxed riding position on longer rides.
The key is choosing a height that fits your body rather than simply choosing the tallest option.
⸻
Will changing handlebars affect how my motorcycle rides?
Changing handlebars changes your riding position and the motorcycle’s handling.
Different heights, styles and pullback can affect leverage, steering feel, and overall comfort.
Pro Tip:
Ape style bars for long distance riders.
Tbar/riser set ups for better control when cruising through the canyons
⸻
How should I maintain my handlebars?
Keeping your handlebars clean helps preserve both their appearance and finish.
Wash with mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals, and inspect mounting hardware periodically to ensure everything remains properly torqued.
⸻
What should I do before ordering new handlebars?
Before ordering, verify:
- Your motorcycle’s year and model
- Riser height
- Clamp diameter
- Desired handlebar height
Taking a few measurements beforehand helps ensure you order the correct handlebars the first time.
⸻
Do you offer help choosing the right handlebars?
Absolutely.
If you’re unsure which handlebars fit your motorcycle or riding style, contact us with your motorcycle’s year, model, current setup, and the type of riding position you’re looking for. We’ll help point you toward the best option.
⸻
Model specific FAQ
⸻
Best Handlebars for Harley-Davidson Road Glide
2024-2026 Road Glide Dominator's Choice
2016-2023 Road Glide Dominator's Choice
2014-2015 Road Glide Dominator's Choice
2008-2013 Road Glide Dominator's Choice
⸻
Best Handlebars for Harley-Davidson Street Glide
2024-2026 Street Glide Dominator's Choice
2016-2023 Street Glide Dominator's Choice
2014-2015 Street Glide Dominator's Choice
2008-2013 Street Glide Dominator's Choice
⸻
Will 12-inch handlebars fit a 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide without extensions?
Harley-Davidson would recommend extensions for anything 12” and over, we lean with their recommendations. We have however had customers who have been successful using their stock lines and simply rerouting their brake line but it can be tight.
Pro Tip: Snip the zip ties to allow room to reroute your line when using stock lines.
⸻
What size bars should I get?
Handlebar height is personal preference specific to each rider. Some things to keep in consideration when choosing the perfect bar height…
How tall are you?
Our 6 foot riders typically purchase 14” bars where our 6’4 riders prefer 16” bars.
Do you have any previous injuries or shoulder/arm pain?
Riders with previous injuries typically prefer 12” bars.
Do Ape Hangers require longer cables?
Possibly. Whether your factory components will work depends on the height and design of your new handlebars.
Taller handlebars often require:
- Extended clutch cable
- Longer brake line
- Extended throttle cables (where applicable)
- Wiring extensions or longer wiring harnesses
Always verify cable requirements before beginning your installation.
Pro tip: Harley-Davidson recommends extensions for anything 12” and over. When purchasing bars 12” and over you can choose the All in One Kit option. This will come with bars as well as the appropriate brake line and clutch. Ready for install right out of the box. Take the guess work out of the installation process with our complete kit.
What's the difference between Pre-Wired, 100% Plug In Ready and All In One Kit?
With the PreWired solution you’ll use the provided pull lanyard to snake your existing twist grip sensor harness through the bars. There is a step by step video tutorial on our website.( Click Here ) It easy and only takes about 10 minutes. With the 100% Plug in Ready version there is a factory Harley Davidson twist grip sensor and or harness fully installed and PreWired. Thus making them 100% Plug In Ready. The All In One Kit Includes the appropriate brake and clutch extensions.
Are Pre-Wired / internal wired handlebars worth it?
Our internal wired bars are called prewired handlebars. Prewired bars means you get the bars with the harness pre installed. All that’s left is to pull your existing twist grip sensor through the bars with the included metal pull lanyard.
What is it worth to have your project be as simple and easy as possible? We feel it’s worth everything so we’ve gone ahead and done all of the hard work for you. Our bars are prewired with your switch wiring and set up with the ability to pull your existing twist grip sensor in literally under 10 minutes! Those of us who have swapped our bars know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that wiring the new bars can be a daunting task. Because of this we set out to fix that and are able to provide you with a solution that virtually eliminates the headache. We were able to have our twist grip sensor pulled in a few short minutes. All that is left is to swap your hydraulics and it’s done. We all know what the dealer charges to do this, or any experienced tech. We’re extremely confident that we can save you hundreds of dollars!
⸻
How do I install motorcycle handlebars?
We are actively building out our YouTube to host install videos. In the meantime there are several good tutorials on YouTube from trusted builders.
⸻
How do I contact you?
Send our team an email help@dominatorcycles.com
Best,
Yasmin