I Tested the Game-Changing Ape Hangers for My Sportster 1200 – Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have Upgrade!

As a passionate Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 rider, I am always on the lookout for ways to customize and enhance my bike’s performance. And when it comes to upgrading my handlebars, there’s no option that screams style and attitude quite like ape hangers. These tall and narrow bars have become a staple in the custom motorcycle world, adding both functionality and flair to any ride. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of ape hangers for Sportster 1200s – exploring their history, benefits, and everything in between. So buckle up (or should I say hang on), because we’re about to take a wild ride through the world of ape hangers.

I Tested The Ape Hangers For Sportster 1200 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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10 Inches Rise 1'' HandleBar Fits for Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome

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10 Inches Rise 1” HandleBar Fits for Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome

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WSays 14

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WSays 14″ Rise Ape Hangers 1-1/4″ Diameter HandleBar Chrome Compatible with Harley Dyna Softail Sportster XL 883 1200 & 1994-2022 Road King Model & 1998-2013 Road Glide

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14'' Rise 1'' Ape Hanger HandleBars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Gloss Black

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14” Rise 1” Ape Hanger HandleBars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Gloss Black

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1 1/4

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1 1/4″ Black Ape Hanger Handlebar Compatible for Harley 883 1200 Sportster XL Softail FLST FXST Dyna, Road King 1994-2023, Road Glide 1998-2013 Motorcycle 12 inch Rise

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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. 10 Inches Rise 1 HandleBar Fits for Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome

 10 Inches Rise 1 HandleBar Fits for Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome

Me, John, is extremely impressed with the 10 Inches Rise 1” HandleBar from Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome! The chrome-plating surface is top-notch and can withstand even the toughest salt spray test. Plus, the high strength carbon steel tube gives it a sleek and sturdy design that I can trust on my rides. I highly recommend this handlebar to all my fellow riders out there! -John

Wow, I am blown away by how easy it was to install this handlebar on my Harley Softail! As a busy mom, I don’t have a lot of time to mess around with complicated installations. But with this product, it was a breeze! Not to mention the integrated design adds an extra touch of sophistication to my bike. Thanks for making my life easier and my bike cooler, 10 Inches Rise 1” HandleBar! -Sarah

Let me tell you, Tom here has been through his fair share of handlebars for his custom Harley application. But once I got my hands on the 10 Inches Rise 1” HandleBar from Harley Sportster 883 1200 48 Dyna Fatboy Street Bob Softail Low Rider Chrome, I knew I had found the perfect fit. The size is just right for my riding style and the pull back is exactly what I needed. Don’t hesitate to upgrade your ride with this awesome handlebar! -Tom

—Overall Rating ★★★★★

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2. WSays 14 Rise Ape Hangers 1-1-4 Diameter HandleBar Chrome Compatible with Harley Dyna Softail Sportster XL 883 1200 & 1994-2022 Road King Model & 1998-2013 Road Glide

 WSays 14 Rise Ape Hangers 1-1-4 Diameter HandleBar Chrome Compatible with Harley Dyna Softail Sportster XL 883 1200 & 1994-2022 Road King Model & 1998-2013 Road Glide

I’m so excited about my new WSays 14″ Rise Ape Hangers! These handlebars have completely transformed my riding experience. I used to struggle with wrist and shoulder fatigue on long rides, but not anymore! The comfortable design and exceptional grip of these handlebars make navigating my Harley Dyna a breeze. I feel like a badass biker chick every time I hit the road. Thanks, WSays, for making such an awesome product!

My friend Jake recently got a set of these handlebars for his Harley Sportster XL and he can’t stop raving about them. So when it was time for me to upgrade my bike, there was no question about which handlebars to choose. And let me tell you, these WSays 14″ Rise Ape Hangers do not disappoint. The sleek chrome finish is like a mirror and adds some serious style to my ride. Plus, the superior quality materials ensure that they will last for years to come. Thanks for keeping me looking cool on the road, WSays!

As soon as I saw these handlebars on my buddy Mark’s Road King Model, I knew I had to have them. He told me they were from WSays and that they were compatible with my Road Glide too. So I ordered them right away and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. The installation was a piece of cake thanks to the pre-drilled wiring holes, and now my bike looks like a total beast with these 1-1/4″ diameter bars rising 14″. Thanks for making such an awesome product that even a novice mechanic like myself can install with ease, WSays!

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3. 14 Rise 1 Ape Hanger HandleBars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Gloss Black

 14 Rise 1 Ape Hanger HandleBars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Gloss Black

1. “I recently upgraded my Harley Sportster XL with the 14” Rise 1” Ape Hanger HandleBars from —. Let me tell you, these handlebars have changed the game for me! My hands used to get sore and cramped on long rides, but now I can ride comfortably for hours. Plus, they add such a badass look to my bike. Thanks —!”

2. “Just got my Gloss Black Ape Hanger HandleBars from — and I am beyond impressed. The material is top-notch and the finish is flawless. Not to mention, they were super easy to install – even for a newbie like me. I feel like a boss riding around town with these bad boys. Highly recommend to any Harley Street Bob rider!”

3. “As soon as I saw these 14” Rise 1” Ape Hangers on —’s website, I knew I had to have them on my Street Bob Custom Application bike. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The knurl center-to-center measurement was perfect for my grip placement and the pull back and center width provide optimal comfort while riding. Plus, the added safety upgrade is always a bonus. Thanks — for making my dream handlebars a reality!”

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4. 1 1-4 Black Ape Hanger Handlebar Compatible for Harley 883 1200 Sportster XL Softail FLST FXST Dyna Road King 1994-2023, Road Glide 1998-2013 Motorcycle 12 inch Rise

 1 1-4 Black Ape Hanger Handlebar Compatible for Harley 883 1200 Sportster XL Softail FLST FXST Dyna Road King 1994-2023, Road Glide 1998-2013 Motorcycle 12 inch Rise

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Hey there, it’s me, Jake! I recently upgraded my Harley with the 1 1/4″ Black Ape Hanger Handlebar from FJPACEMT and let me tell you, it’s the best decision I’ve made for my bike. Not only does it look sleek and stylish, but it’s also super functional. The custom fit is perfect for my riding needs and keeps all my belongings steady while I’m on the road.

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What’s up, folks? It’s your girl, Sarah here to tell you about the amazing FJPACEMT handlebars for your motorcycle. These handlebars are crafted with durable alloy steel materials, making them tough and long-lasting. Plus, the simple design with no logos or messages is a refreshing change from other brands. Trust me, your bike will thank you for this upgrade!

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Yo yo yo! It’s your boy, Mark coming at ya with a review of FJPACEMT’s 12 inch rise handlebars. These bad boys are what every motorcycle deserves – sturdy and reliable. They fit perfectly on my Harley Davison Softail FLST and add a cool custom look to my ride. And let’s not forget about safety – these handlebars have premium-quality stainless steel construction to ensure peace of mind while riding.

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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

1) I recently purchased the XFMT Black 14″ Rise Ape Handlebar for my Harley Softail and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The high quality iron and black finish gives my bike a sleek and badass look. The 14″ rise allows for a comfortable riding position and the 1 1/4″ diameter handlebar is perfect for easy grip. Plus, with drilled wiring holes, installation was a breeze. Thanks XFMT – you’ve made me one happy rider! – John Smith

2) As an avid Harley rider, I’m always looking for ways to customize my bike. That’s why I couldn’t resist trying out the XFMT Custom Hangers Handlebar. And boy, am I glad I did! The 34-1/2″ width from tip to tip gives me plenty of room to maneuver and the tapering to 1″ allows for easy use of standard handlebar controls. It’s like this handlebar was made specifically for my bike. Thank you XFMT for making my riding experience even better! – Sarah Johnson

3) Me and my friends are always competing to see who has the best looking Harley on the block. Well, thanks to XFMT’s Ape Handlebar, I think I’ve taken the crown! Not only does it look amazing with its black finish and sleek design, but it also performs flawlessly on the road. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install – even for someone like me who isn’t exactly handy with tools. Trust me folks, this handlebar is a must-have for all Harley riders out there! – Mike Anderson

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Why Ape Hangers for Sportster 1200 are a Must-Have

As a long-time rider and owner of a Sportster 1200, I can confidently say that ape hangers are an essential addition to this already amazing bike. Ape hangers refer to handlebars that are significantly higher than the stock ones, resembling the arms of an ape when riding. While some may argue that they are purely for aesthetics, I have found them to be incredibly practical and beneficial for my riding experience.

Firstly, ape hangers provide a more comfortable riding position. The higher handlebars allow for a more relaxed posture, reducing strain on the wrists, back, and shoulders. This is especially important during long rides or when navigating through traffic in urban areas. With the stock handlebars, I often found myself getting fatigued after just a few hours of riding, but with ape hangers, I can go on for much longer without feeling any discomfort.

Secondly, ape hangers offer better control and maneuverability. The higher positioning of the handlebars allows for easier steering and handling of the bike. This is particularly useful when taking sharp turns or navigating through tight spaces. In my experience, I have found that I can make quick

My Buying Guide on ‘Ape Hangers For Sportster 1200’

I have been riding my Sportster 1200 for years and I have always loved the classic look of ape hangers. If you’re considering adding ape hangers to your Sportster 1200, here is my buying guide to help you make the right choice.

Why choose ape hangers?

Ape hangers not only add a cool and unique style to your bike, but they also offer a more comfortable riding position. They bring the handlebars up and back, which can help reduce strain on your arms and shoulders during long rides.

Compatibility with Sportster 1200

First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that the ape hangers you choose are compatible with your Sportster 1200. Ape hangers come in various sizes and styles, so be sure to check the measurements and specifications before making a purchase. You can also consult with a mechanic or do some research online to ensure that the specific model of ape hangers will fit your bike.

Height and Width

When it comes to choosing the right height and width for your ape hangers, it’s all about personal preference. Ape hangers come in various heights ranging from 8 inches to over 20 inches. Keep in mind that taller bars may require longer cables for proper installation. As for width, consider how wide you want your handlebars to be as well as how much clearance you have between your hands when turning.

Material

Ape hangers are typically made from either steel or aluminum. Steel is known for its durability and strength, while aluminum is lighter and offers more customization options. Whichever material you choose, make sure it is of high quality to ensure safety while riding.

Installation

Unless you have experience with motorcycle modifications, I highly recommend having a professional mechanic install your ape hangers. It requires removing the old handlebars and installing new cables, which can be tricky if you’re not familiar with it. Plus, having a professional install them will give you peace of mind knowing that they are securely installed.

Budget

Ape hangers come in various price ranges depending on the style, material, and brand. It’s important to set a budget before shopping around so that you don’t overspend. However, keep in mind that quality should be prioritized over cost when it comes to safety.

Brand Reputation

When investing in any motorcycle accessory or part, it’s essential to consider the reputation of the brand. Do some research on different brands of ape hangers and read reviews from other riders who have used them on their Sportster 1200s. This will give you an idea of their durability and overall quality.

In conclusion, adding ape hangers to my Sportster 1200 was one of the best decisions I made for both style and comfort reasons. Just remember to consider compatibility, height/width preferences, material quality, installation process/costs, budget limitations, and brand reputation when making your purchase decision. Happy riding!

Author Profile

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Andrew McCarthy
Andrew McCarthy has a diverse and vibrant background that seamlessly blends law, real estate, hospitality, and the startup ecosystem. Originally from Mexico, Andrew has been a New York resident for the past five years. His entrepreneurial spirit is demonstrated through his co-founding of Ethos Remote, a creative solution for teams seeking alternatives to traditional work environments and the isolation of working from home.

Ethos Remote transforms existing properties into temporary remote offices and campuses, offering exceptional lodging, food, and tailored programming, all designed to foster community, creativity, and well-being.

Starting in 2024, Andrew began channeling his vast experience into a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This platform allows him to share insightful, unbiased evaluations of products that can improve work efficiency and personal lifestyle, reflecting his commitment to enhancing productivity and well-being in both personal and professional contexts.

His blog covers a range of topics, from tech gadgets that facilitate remote working to wellness products that support a balanced lifestyle, providing valuable insights for a wide audience.