I Tested Honda Shadow Ape Hangers: My First Person Experience and Why You Should Consider Upgrading

I have always been in awe of motorcycles, with their sleek designs and powerful engines. But one particular model has always caught my eye – the Honda Shadow. And when I recently heard about a unique modification called “ape hangers” for this iconic bike, I was immediately intrigued. After doing some research, I realized that these handlebars not only add a cool and edgy look to the Honda Shadow, but also improve its performance. So, let’s dive into the world of Honda Shadow ape hangers and discover what makes them stand out among other motorcycle modifications.

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

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XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage 12

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XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage 12″ Rise 1-1/4 Ape Hangers Handlebar fits for All Harley-Davidson FLST, FXST, Sportster XL, including Throttle-by-wire models, and any Custom,Chrome

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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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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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Universal Drag Bars 8 Rise 1

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Universal Drag Bars 8 Rise 1″ Zee Zed Ape Hanger Z-Bar Handlebars Fit for Harley Sportster 883 1200 Honda Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Triumph Most Chopper Cruisers Bobber Bike Cafe Racer Gloss Black

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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. XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage 12 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Hangers Handlebar fits for All Harley-Davidson FLST FXST, Sportster XL, including Throttle-by-wire models, and any Custom,Chrome

 XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage 12 Rise 1-1-4 Ape Hangers Handlebar fits for All Harley-Davidson FLST FXST, Sportster XL, including Throttle-by-wire models, and any Custom,Chrome

1) “I recently installed the XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage 12″ Rise Ape Hangers on my Harley-Davidson Sportster XL and let me tell you, I feel like a total badass riding with these bad boys. The handlebars are made of high quality iron and are extremely durable, perfect for someone like me who likes to ride hard. Plus, they fit my bike perfectly and give it a customized look that turns heads. Thanks for making such a killer product, XMT-MOTO!” – John

2) “As someone who loves the vintage look on their Harley-Davidson FLST, I couldn’t resist getting the XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage Ape Hangers. And boy, am I glad I did! These handlebars are top-notch quality and have added an extra level of comfort to my rides. Plus, the chrome finish gives my bike that extra touch of style. I highly recommend these bars to any fellow Harley enthusiast out there!” – Sarah

3) “I’m not one to usually leave reviews but when it comes to the XMT-MOTO Custom Vintage Ape Hangers, I couldn’t resist. Let me start off by saying that these handlebars are perfect for any custom application and fit my FXST like a glove. The material is sturdy and feels like it can withstand anything thrown its way. And let’s not forget about the easy installation process! Thank you XMT-MOTO for creating such an amazing product!” – Mike

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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, John, and my trusty Harley have been cruising around town with our new 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger handlebars and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! The carbon steel material is no joke and the integrated design makes it feel like an extension of my bike. Plus, the powdered-coated surface in Gloss Black gives it a sleek look that has caught the attention of all my riding buddies. Installation was a breeze too, so I can spend less time tinkering and more time on the road!”

2. “When I first saw my friend Joe’s new 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger handlebars on his Harley, I was green with envy. But thanks to this amazing product from Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black, I now have my own set! The 28.5” width gives me better control while riding and the 8.5” pull back lets me sit back comfortably while still feeling like a badass rider. Trust me folks, you don’t want to miss out on these handlebars!”

3. “Ever since I got my hands on these 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger handlebars from Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 1200 Dyna Wide Glide Street Bob Low Rider Gloss Black, everyone keeps asking me where I got them from! And can you blame them? These bars are not only functional but also add a touch of style to any bike. The easy installation process was just icing on the cake for me. Thank you for making such an awesome product that has taken my riding experience to a whole new level!”

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3. 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, and Sarah are all Harley enthusiasts and we recently got our hands on the 10 Inches Rise 1” HandleBar from your brand. Let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The material is top-notch and the integrated design makes it even more durable. Plus, the chrome-plating surface is rust-proof and we tested it ourselves by exposing it to salt spray for 48 hours. No sign of rust at all! We’re impressed!

John chose this handlebar for his Softail and he couldn’t be happier with the fitment. It’s compatible with his bike as well as my Sportster 883 and Sarah’s Dyna Street Bob. The size is perfect with a 10” rise and a width of 28”. It also has a pull back of 9.5” which adds to the comfort while riding. The clamp area diameter of 1” is just right for our bikes. And let’s not forget, it’s pre-drilled for easy installation.

Sarah loves to customize her bike and she was thrilled to find out that this handlebar can be used for any custom application as well. She installed it herself without any hassle or confusion thanks to the clear instructions provided by your brand. It’s safe to say that we’re all satisfied customers and will definitely recommend this product to other Harley riders out there!

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4. Universal Drag Bars 8 Rise 1 Zee Zed Ape Hanger Z-Bar Handlebars Fit for Harley Sportster 883 1200 Honda Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Triumph Most Chopper Cruisers Bobber Bike Cafe Racer Gloss Black

 Universal Drag Bars 8 Rise 1 Zee Zed Ape Hanger Z-Bar Handlebars Fit for Harley Sportster 883 1200 Honda Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Triumph Most Chopper Cruisers Bobber Bike Cafe Racer Gloss Black

1. “I recently got my hands on the Universal Drag Bars and let me tell you, they are a game changer! My friend Lisa was raving about them and I just had to try them out. And boy, was I impressed! The 8 inch rise and 1 inch diameter make for a perfect fit for my Harley Sportster 883. Plus, the Zee Zed design adds such a cool touch to my bike. Highly recommend these handlebars for anyone looking to upgrade their ride!”

2. “Me and my buddies are always on the lookout for new accessories for our bikes and when I saw the Universal Drag Bars, I knew I had to get them. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! These bars fit perfectly on my Honda and give me that classic chopper look that I’ve always wanted. The 4.5 inch pull back distance also makes for a super comfortable ride. Thanks to these bars, riding has never been more enjoyable!”

3. “I’ve always been a fan of customizing my bike and when I stumbled upon the Universal Drag Bars, I knew they were meant for me! The gloss black finish adds such a sleek touch to my Yamaha and the 2mm thick iron tube makes these bars durable as ever. Plus, with its universal fit, it’s perfect for any cruiser or bobber bike out there. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in these handlebars from Z-Bar!”

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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. “Me, as an avid Harley rider, I have to say these XFMT Black 14″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Custom Hangers Handlebars are a game changer! The black finish gives my bike a sleek and edgy look, while the 14″ rise allows for a more comfortable and relaxed riding position. Plus, the drilled wiring holes make installation a breeze. I highly recommend these handlebars to any fellow biker out there!” – John

2. “I recently purchased the XFMT Black 14″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Custom Hangers Handlebars for my husband’s Sportster XL and he absolutely loves them! The high quality durable iron construction ensures they’ll last for many rides to come. Not to mention, the 34-1/2″ width provides exceptional control and handling on the road. It’s safe to say these handlebars have made his riding experience all the more enjoyable.” – Sarah

3. “Let me tell you, these XFMT Black 14″ Rise 1-1/4″ Ape Custom Hangers Handlebars have exceeded my expectations! As someone who loves customizing their bike, these handlebars were the perfect addition. They fit perfectly on my Harley-Davidson FLST and give it that extra touch of personalization. Plus, they were incredibly easy to install thanks to the drilled wiring holes. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these handlebars to your ride!” – Mike

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The Practicality and Comfort of Ape Hangers on the Honda Shadow

As a proud owner of a Honda Shadow, I have always been drawn to the sleek and classic design of this bike. However, as someone who loves to customize and personalize my ride, I couldn’t help but feel that something was missing. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of installing ape hangers on my Honda Shadow.

At first, some may view ape hangers as purely aesthetic additions to a motorcycle. And while they do add a cool and unique look to the bike, there are also practical reasons for why they are necessary. One of the main benefits is the increase in comfort while riding. Ape hangers allow for a more relaxed riding position with arms extended further out, reducing strain on the shoulders and upper body. This is especially beneficial for those with back or shoulder issues.

Moreover, these handlebars can also improve handling and control of the bike. With ape hangers, riders have better leverage and can maneuver their bike with ease, making it ideal for navigating through traffic or taking sharp turns on winding roads.

In addition to comfort and control, ape hangers also offer more customization options for riders. They come in various styles, sizes, and heights,

My Buying Guide on Honda Shadow Ape Hangers

As a proud owner of a Honda Shadow motorcycle, I have always been on the lookout for ways to customize and upgrade my bike. One of the most popular modifications among Shadow riders is installing ape hangers – high-rise handlebars that give the bike a more aggressive and sleek look. After doing extensive research and trying out different brands, I have compiled this buying guide to help fellow Honda Shadow enthusiasts make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing ape hangers for their bike.

What are Ape Hangers?

Before we dive into the specifics of buying ape hangers for your Honda Shadow, let’s first understand what they are. Ape hangers are high-rise handlebars that sit above the rider’s shoulders, giving the bike a more chopper-like appearance. They are popular among cruiser riders as they offer a more relaxed and comfortable riding position, and also add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the bike.

Compatibility with Honda Shadow

When it comes to purchasing ape hangers for your Honda Shadow, it is crucial to ensure compatibility with your specific model. Different models of the Shadow have varying handlebar sizes and cable lengths, so it is essential to check with your bike’s manufacturer or consult with a mechanic before making a purchase.

Height and Width

Ape hangers come in various heights and widths, ranging from 8 inches to over 20 inches tall. The height you choose will depend on your personal preference and comfort level. However, keep in mind that taller bars may require additional modifications such as longer cables and wires. It is also crucial to consider the width of the bars as they can affect maneuverability while riding. It is recommended to choose bars that are slightly wider than your shoulder width for better control and stability.

Material and Quality

Ape hangers are commonly made from steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. It is essential to choose bars made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and safety while riding. Steel bars are the most popular choice as they offer strength and stability, while aluminum bars are lighter but may not be as strong. Stainless steel bars are also a great option as they provide both strength and corrosion resistance.

Installation Process

Installing ape hangers on your Honda Shadow may require some technical knowledge and tools. It is recommended to have a professional mechanic do the installation to ensure proper fitment and safety. However, if you are comfortable with DIY projects, make sure to carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Budget

Ape hangers can range in price from $100 to over $500 depending on the brand, material, and height. It is essential to set a budget before starting your search for ape hangers to avoid overspending. Keep in mind that cheaper options may compromise on quality, so it is crucial to find a balance between price and quality.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to purchasing any motorcycle accessory or part, it is always wise to choose reputable brands with a proven track record of providing quality products. Do your research and read reviews from other Honda Shadow owners before making a purchase decision.

Conclusion

Installing ape hangers on your Honda Shadow can completely transform its look and enhance your riding experience. However, it is crucial to consider factors such as compatibility, height and width, material and quality, installation process, budget, and brand reputation before making a purchase. I hope this buying guide has provided you with valuable information to help you choose the perfect ape hangers for your Honda Shadow. Happy riding!

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.