Finding the perfect handlebar for your Harley Softail is a crucial step in customizing your ride for comfort and style. But when you're thinking about beach cruises and open road adventures, the choice becomes even more important. This in-depth guide explores the best beach bars for your Harley Softail, considering factors like riding style, comfort, aesthetics, and overall performance. We'll delve into specific models, materials, and installation considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Your Harley Softail and Riding Style
Before diving into specific beach bar options, it's crucial to understand your Harley Softail model and your typical riding style. Different Softails, like the Slim, Fat Boy, Breakout, and Deluxe, might have slightly different mounting points and overall aesthetics, impacting handlebar compatibility. Your riding style – are you a long-distance cruiser or a spirited rider navigating city streets? – will also influence your choice.
- Cruising: If long, comfortable rides are your priority, you'll want bars that provide a relaxed, upright riding position.
- City Riding: For navigating city traffic, more manageable and less wide bars might be preferable.
- Spirited Riding: If you enjoy more spirited rides, slightly lower bars might offer better control and feedback.
Knowing your needs helps narrow down the vast options available.
Top Beach Bar Styles for Harley Softail
Several beach bar styles cater specifically to the Harley Softail aesthetic. Let's examine some popular choices:
1. Ape Hanger Handlebars
These are the iconic, high-rise bars instantly recognizable for their dramatic upward sweep. They offer a commanding riding position, excellent visibility, and a classic look, perfect for cruising down the coast. However, they may not be ideal for shorter riders or those navigating tight spaces.
Pros:
- Iconic, classic look
- Excellent visibility
- Relaxed riding posture
Cons:
- Can be uncomfortable for shorter riders
- Less maneuverable in tight spaces
- Might require additional cabling
2. Mini Ape Hanger Handlebars
A compromise between the full ape hanger and a standard handlebar, mini apes offer a more manageable height while still retaining that slightly elevated, relaxed riding position. They strike a balance between style and practicality.
Pros:
- Good compromise between height and maneuverability
- Relaxed riding position
- Less demanding on cabling than full ape hangers
Cons:
- May not offer the same commanding view as full ape hangers
- Might not be as visually striking
3. Beach Bars (Traditional)
These typically offer a wider, swept-back design, emphasizing comfort and a relaxed riding posture. The name "beach bar" itself speaks to their association with laid-back, coastal cruising.
Pros:
- Relaxed riding position
- Wide sweep for comfortable hand placement
- Classic cruiser look
Cons:
- May require more effort for tighter turns
4. Drag Bars
Drag bars are a different style, lower and closer to the rider, offering a sportier and more aggressive riding posture. While not strictly "beach bars" in the traditional sense, they can be a good choice for riders who want a more engaging experience, particularly in sharper turns or city riding.
Pros:
- More control and feedback
- Agile handling
- Sleek and sporty look
Cons:
- Less comfortable for longer rides
- Less relaxed riding position
Materials and Construction
Beach bars are often made from several materials, each offering trade-offs in terms of strength, weight, and cost:
- Steel: Durable, strong, and relatively inexpensive. They're a popular choice for their longevity.
- Chrome: Steel bars with a chrome finish offer a classic, shiny appearance.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel, offering better handling and a potentially more comfortable ride. However, they can be more prone to bending in a crash.
Installation Considerations
Installing beach bars on your Harley Softail often involves more than just bolting them on. You might need to:
- Replace cables and wiring: Longer cables might be required depending on the height of the bars.
- Adjust the brake lines: Similar to the cables, brake lines may need adjusting or replacing.
- Consider risers: Risers can help fine-tune the bar height and angle.
It’s often best to consult a professional mechanic for installation, especially if you're not experienced with motorcycle maintenance.
Case Study: Choosing Beach Bars for a 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim
Let's consider a hypothetical scenario: A rider owns a 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim and enjoys long coastal cruises. They want a comfortable, classic look. In this case, traditional beach bars or mini ape hangers would be suitable. The wider sweep of the traditional beach bars would offer maximum comfort, while mini apes offer a slightly more manageable height for tighter turns. The rider could opt for steel or chrome bars, depending on their aesthetic preference and budget.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Beach Bar
Choosing the right beach bars for your Harley Softail is a personal decision based on your riding style, preferences, and physical characteristics. Consider the factors discussed in this guide—bar style, material, and installation complexity—to make an informed choice. By carefully considering these aspects, you can transform your Harley Softail into the perfect beach cruiser, ready for sun, sand, and countless unforgettable rides. Remember always to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance when needed during installation.