Why do bikers have ape hangers?

Why do bikers have ape hangers?

People with back issues sometimes prefer ape hangers over handlebars that create a lower riding profile. Ape hangers encourage a more upright posture instead of creating the need to hunch over. On long rides, apehangers that fit your body type also decrease strain on the wrists, elbows, and shoulders.

What are the laws on ape hangers?

California Vehicle Code section 2780 provides that “a person shall not drive a two-wheel motorcycle that is equipped with handlebars so positioned that the hands of the driver, when upon the grips, are more than six inches above his or her shoulder height when sitting astride the seat.”

Do ape hangers affect handling?

Thus, ape hangers move hands not just higher, but also closer. If the hands become too close to the chest, it can be hard to control a bike. Ultimately, the bike handles exactly the same as it did with different bars — but if the handlebars aren’t right for a rider-and-bike combination, the handling may feel awful.

Why do they call them ape hangers?

“Ape-hangers” — found mainly on choppers, these are handlebars of such exaggerated height that the rider has to reach up to them, hence the name.

In what states are ape hangers illegal?

Q: Are so-called “ape hangers” regulated in any Midwest states? A: Three Midwest states – Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota – do not regulate handlebar height. Some states limit handlebar height to shoulder-height or lower: Illinois, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

What is the legal height of handlebars on a motorcycle?

According to state law, a person operating a two-wheeled motorcycle must have handlebars which are positioned so the hands of the rider are not more than six inches above the rider’s shoulders when resting on the grips (when the rider is seated on the motorcycle).

Are ape hangers harder to ride?

Should you get an ape hanger handlebar for your motorcycle?

If you have a paintshaker engine, you may notice buzzing mirrors and your hands may go numb, especially if you’ve selected really high bars. (Just while we’re on the topic of setup, a one-piece top clamp should be used to tie the risers to one another and add strength.) On a touring bike, an ape hanger handlebar usually comes with some compromises.

What is an ape hanger?

Ape hangers were designed for older bikes with no suspension in the rear or very minimal suspension. As the rider went over bumps in the road, ape hangers would be used to lift the rear up slightly off of the seat so that the tailbone wasn’t smashed into the seat causing discomfort and/pain.

Do Ape Hangers hurt your hands?

I think most people would agree that ape hangers can get uncomfortable if your hands are way higher than your heart. If your heart is working hard to pump blood uphill, coldness and numbness are a distinct possibility. High bars can be comfortable — as long as your hands are in the right place.

What size ape hangers do I need for my horse?

If you find yourself preferring a lower riding profile but like the bobber look, a good compromise can usually be found with a set of mini Ape Hangers, 8 – 10 inches in height. 4. How about long distance riding?