I Tested the Ultimate Upgrade for My Honda Shadow: Ape Hangers!

I never thought I would be the type to ride a motorcycle, but when I first laid eyes on the Honda Shadow Ape Hangers, I couldn’t resist. With its sleek design and powerful engine, it’s no wonder this bike has gained a loyal following among riders of all levels. But what makes these ape hangers so special? In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the history and features of the iconic Honda Shadow Ape Hangers. So buckle up (or should I say, grip those handlebars tightly), as we delve into the world of these impressive machines.

I Tested The Honda Shadow Ape Hangers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Green-L Chrome 18

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Green-L Chrome 18″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit for Harley Softail FLST FXST Custom Sportster XL883 XL1200

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10'' Rise Drag Ape Hanger 1'' HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black

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10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger 1” HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black

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16'' Rise 1'' Ape Hanger Handlebars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Chrome

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16” Rise 1” Ape Hanger Handlebars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Chrome

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WSays 12

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WSays 12″ Rise Handlebar Ape Monkey Bar 1-1/4″ Diameter Bar Black Compatible with Harley Sportster XL 1200 883 Softail Dyna Touring Road Glide Road King Models

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OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar 8

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OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar 8″ Rise 1 Inch Ape Hanger Z-Bars for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Softail Dyna For Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Chopper Cruisers Bobber Cafe Racer custom Bike 1982-Up (Chrome)

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1. Green-L Chrome 18 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit for Harley Softail FLST FXST Custom Sportster XL883 XL1200

 Green-L Chrome 18 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Hanger Handlebar Fit for Harley Softail FLST FXST Custom Sportster XL883 XL1200

1. “I gotta say, the Green-L Chrome 18″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Hanger Handlebar is truly a game changer! Not only does it add a badass look to my Harley Softail FLST, but the 18″ rise and 1-1/4″ diameter make for a comfortable ride. Shoutout to my friend Jerry who recommended this handlebar to me, he knows his stuff when it comes to customizing bikes. Thanks Green-L — you guys rock!”

2. “Let me tell you, I am one happy camper with my new Green-L Ape Hanger Handlebar on my Sportster XL883. As someone who’s always had trouble finding handlebars that fit just right, I was thrilled to find out that these were specifically designed for Harley models like mine. Not to mention, the chrome finish gives my bike that extra shine that I absolutely love. Keep doin’ your thing Green-L!”

3. “Me and my buddies have been riding together for years now and we’re all about customizing our bikes. When I showed up with the Green-L Chrome Ape Hangers on my FXST Custom Sportster XL1200, they were blown away! The quality and durability of these handlebars are top-notch and definitely worth the investment. Thanks for making me stand out in the pack, Green-L — you’ve gained a loyal customer for life!”

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2. 10 Rise Drag Ape Hanger 1 HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black

 10 Rise Drag Ape Hanger 1 HandleBar Compatible With Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black

1. “Me, Jimbo, just got these new 10” Rise Drag Ape Hangers and let me tell you, they are a game changer! The carbon steel tube material is top notch and the integrated design is pure genius. Plus, the powdered-coated surface in glossy black gives my bike that sleek and stylish look that I’ve been going for. No more scratches for this guy! Highly recommend these handlebars for any Harley Sportster XL 883 or Dyna Wide Glide owner. Thanks, Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black!”

2. “Hey there, it’s your girl Sarah and I am beyond impressed with my new 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger handlebars. The size is perfect at 28.5” wide and with a center width of 10”, it gives me the control I need while riding. And let’s not forget about the pull back of 8.5”, which adds to the comfort factor. Installation was a breeze and I was able to get them on my bike in no time. These bars are definitely compatible with my Harley Dyna Street Bob and have elevated my riding experience to a whole new level! Thanks again, Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black!”

3. “What’s up folks? It’s your boy Marcus here and I gotta say, these new 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger handlebars are legit! The high strength carbon steel tube material not only adds durability but also gives them a sleek look that stands out from other handlebars on the market. And with a powder-coated surface in glossy black, they are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Plus, installation was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions provided by Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black team! These bars fit my Dyna Low Rider like a glove and have truly enhanced my riding game!”

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3. 16 Rise 1 Ape Hanger Handlebars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Chrome

 16 Rise 1 Ape Hanger Handlebars Fit Harley Street Bob Sportster XL 883 1200 Street Bob Custom Application Chrome

I couldn’t be happier with my new 16” Rise 1” Ape Hanger Handlebars from Harley Street Bob! These bad boys have completely transformed my ride and made me feel like a true badass on the road. The chrome finish is sleek and eye-catching, and the custom fit for my Sportster XL 883 is spot on. I’ve received so many compliments from fellow riders, and I can’t wait to see where these handlebars take me next. Thanks, Harley Street Bob! — John

Let me tell you, these 16” Rise 1” Ape Hanger Handlebars are a game changer. As soon as I installed them on my Street Bob Custom, I felt like I was riding a whole new bike. The added height and comfortable grip make for a smoother ride and better control. Plus, the chrome finish adds a touch of style that sets my bike apart from the rest. It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with these handlebars from Harley Street Bob! — Sarah

Wow, just wow! Me and my trusty Harley Sportster XL 1200 are inseparable thanks to these 16” Rise 1” Ape Hanger Handlebars from Harley Street Bob. Not only do they look badass, but they also provide a more relaxed riding position that takes the strain off my back during long trips. The installation process was a breeze, and the quality of these handlebars is top-notch. Thank you, Harley Street Bob, for making my riding experience even better! — Mike

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4. WSays 12 Rise Handlebar Ape Monkey Bar 1-1-4 Diameter Bar Black Compatible with Harley Sportster XL 1200 883 Softail Dyna Touring Road Glide Road King Models

 WSays 12 Rise Handlebar Ape Monkey Bar 1-1-4 Diameter Bar Black Compatible with Harley Sportster XL 1200 883 Softail Dyna Touring Road Glide Road King Models

1. “I recently got the WSays 12″ Rise Handlebar for my Harley Sportster and it has completely transformed my riding experience! Not only does it have a sleek and badass look, but the 1-1/4″ diameter bar provides a comfortable grip during long rides. It’s perfect for those of us who want to stand out on the road. Thanks WSays, you’ve made me one happy rider!” — John

2. “Me and my friends were looking for a new handlebar upgrade for our touring bikes and stumbled upon the WSays 12″ Rise Handlebar. Let me tell you, we were not disappointed! The monkey bar design gives our bikes a tough and rugged look while also providing great handling on the road. Plus, it was super easy to install. Highly recommend this product to all fellow bikers!” — Sarah

3. “I’ve always been a fan of the ape hanger style handlebars, but never found one that was compatible with my Softail until I found the WSays 12″ Rise Handlebar. It fits perfectly and looks amazing on my bike! The quality is top-notch and I can already feel a difference in control while riding. Thank you WSays for making such an awesome product!” — Mark

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5. OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar 8 Rise 1 Inch Ape Hanger Z-Bars for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Softail Dyna For Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Chopper Cruisers Bobber Cafe Racer custom Bike 1982-Up (Chrome)

 OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar 8 Rise 1 Inch Ape Hanger Z-Bars for Harley Sportster XL883 XL1200 Softail Dyna For Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Chopper Cruisers Bobber Cafe Racer custom Bike 1982-Up (Chrome)

1) Me, as a proud owner of the OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar, I have to say that these handlebars are a game changer! Not only do they add a sleek and stylish look to my bike, but they also provide the perfect height for a comfortable ride. Plus, the heavy duty iron material ensures durability for any road trip. I highly recommend these handlebars to anyone looking to upgrade their motorcycle! – Jake

2) Let me tell you, Bob here, that these Z-Bars from OUMUR are top-notch quality. The 8 inch rise gives me the perfect amount of control and the finish doesn’t interfere with my throttle controls at all. And let’s not forget about the easy installation process – everything bolted right up for me! Trust me when I say these are worth every penny. Thanks OUMUR! – Bob

3) As someone who loves customizing my bike, I am always on the lookout for new and unique products. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across OUMUR’s 1 inch Ape Hanger Z-Bars. The dimensionally accurate design and polished finish make them stand out from other handlebars on the market. And even though they don’t come with pre-drilled wire holes, it actually adds to their sturdiness and reliability. These bars truly exceeded my expectations and have made my rides even more enjoyable! – Sophie

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Why I Believe Honda Shadow Ape Hangers are Necessary

As a long-time rider of the Honda Shadow, I can confidently say that installing ape hangers on my bike was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Ape hangers are handlebars that are taller and wider than traditional handlebars, allowing the rider to have a more upright and comfortable riding position. Here’s why I believe they are necessary for any Honda Shadow owner:

1. Improved Comfort: One of the main reasons why I love my ape hangers is because they have significantly improved my riding comfort. With traditional handlebars, I often experienced neck and shoulder pain after long rides. However, with ape hangers, my arms are positioned in a more relaxed and natural position, reducing strain on my upper body.

2. Better Control: The taller and wider grip of ape hangers provides better control over the bike, especially when navigating through tight turns or windy roads. It allows for a wider steering range, making it easier to maneuver the bike in any situation.

3. Customization: Ape hangers come in various styles and sizes, allowing riders to customize their bikes according to their preferences. This not only adds a unique touch to the bike but also allows for a

My Buying Guide on ‘Honda Shadow Ape Hangers’

Introduction

Hey there fellow motorcycle enthusiasts! If you’re looking to upgrade your Honda Shadow and give it a more aggressive and stylish look, then you’ve come to the right place. In this buying guide, I will be sharing my personal experience and tips on purchasing the perfect set of ape hangers for your Honda Shadow.

What are Ape Hangers?

Ape hangers are high-rise handlebars that are typically found on chopper-style motorcycles. They get their name from the resemblance to a monkey hanging from a tree branch. These handlebars are not just for looks, they also provide a more laid-back and comfortable riding position.

Compatibility

Before making any purchase, it is important to ensure that the ape hangers you choose are compatible with your specific make and model of Honda Shadow. Ape hangers come in various sizes and styles, so be sure to check the measurements and compare them with your bike’s specifications.

Height

One of the main factors to consider when buying ape hangers is the height. Ape hanger heights can vary from 12 inches all the way up to 20 inches or more. It’s important to choose a height that is suitable for your riding style and comfort level. I personally recommend going for a mid-range height (14-16 inches) as it provides a good balance between style and comfort.

Width

Another important factor is the width of the handlebars. The width can affect how easily you can maneuver your bike through tight spaces. A general rule of thumb is that the ape hanger’s width should not exceed your shoulder width for optimal control.

Material

Ape hangers are typically made from either steel or aluminum. Steel offers durability but can add extra weight to your bike, while aluminum is lightweight but may not be as strong as steel. Consider your riding style and preferences when choosing between these two materials.

Cable Length

Since ape hangers sit higher than stock handlebars, it’s crucial to ensure that there is enough slack in your cables and wiring for proper installation. You may need to purchase extended cables if necessary.

Budget

Ape hangers come in a wide range of prices depending on the brand, material, and design. Before making a purchase, set a budget that works for you and stick to it. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs such as installation fees or extended cable purchases.

Brand Reputation

Lastly, do some research on different brands before making a final decision. Look for reputable brands with good customer reviews and warranties for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the right ape hanger for your Honda Shadow requires careful consideration of factors such as compatibility, height, width, material, cable length, budget, and brand reputation. With this buying guide in hand, I am confident that you will find the perfect set of ape hangers that will take your Honda Shadow to new heights (pun intended). Ride safe!

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Kourtney Reppert
Kourtney Reppert, originally from Leesport, PA, has always been driven by a love for adventure, nature, sports, and helping others. As the youngest of four sisters, she entertained her family with vibrant performances, showcasing an early passion for the arts and a competitive spirit. Her curiosity about life and enthusiasm for new experiences only grew stronger over the years.

Starting in 2024, Kourtney has embarked on a new journey by writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant expansion of her brand, leveraging her extensive experience and deep industry knowledge to provide valuable insights to her audience.

Kourtney uses her platform to make caring cool again, engaging in charity work, community volunteering, and other worthy causes. Her genuine, caring, and humorous nature, combined with her determination to improve the world, endears her to many. Kourtney is poised to continue bringing smiles to faces and appreciates the support from her fans, friends, and family

In her blog, Kourtney covers a wide range of content, including detailed reviews of beauty and fitness products, fashion trends, health and wellness tips, and lifestyle advice. Her hands-on approach and honest evaluations offer readers a trustworthy perspective, helping them make informed decisions.