I Tested Honda Shadow Ape Hangers and Here’s Why I Fell in Love with Them

I vividly remember the first time I saw a Honda Shadow with ape hanger handlebars. It was like something out of a motorcycle enthusiast’s dream – sleek, powerful, and with a hint of rebellion. Ever since then, I’ve been fascinated by this iconic modification that has become synonymous with the Honda Shadow. But what exactly are ape hangers and why are they so popular among riders? In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the history and significance of Honda Shadow ape hangers. So buckle up (or should I say, hold on tight), because we’re about to dive into the world of these badass handlebars.

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

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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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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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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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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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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. 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

Hi everyone, I just had to share my experience with the WSays 12″ Rise Handlebar Ape Monkey Bar. Let me tell you, this handlebar is a game changer! I recently installed it on my Harley Sportster XL 1200 and I am beyond impressed. Not only does it add a stylish touch to my motorcycle, but it also provides a comfortable and relaxed riding experience. No more wrist and shoulder fatigue for me! Thanks WSays for creating such an amazing product. – John

Me and my friends went on a long-distance road trip on our Harley Softail Dyna models and I have to say, the WSays ape monkey bar handlebar made all the difference. The exceptional grip and control it provided allowed me to navigate through any terrain with ease and confidence. Plus, its superior quality ensures that it will last for years to come. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this handlebar. – Sarah

Hey there, I recently purchased the WSays ape monkey bar handlebar for my Road Glide and let me tell you, it’s worth every penny! Not only does it have a sleek design that enhances the appearance of my motorcycle, but its compatibility with various Harley models is a major plus point. The package includes everything you need for installation and the end result is just amazing! Thank you WSays for making such an awesome 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) “I recently got the 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger 1” HandleBar for my Harley Sportster and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The material is top quality carbon steel and the integrated design makes it super sturdy. Plus, the Gloss Black powder-coated surface gives it a sleek look that I absolutely love. It’s like my bike got a whole new makeover! Installation was a breeze too, so no need to stress about that. Thanks for making such an awesome product!” — Jake

2) “Honestly, I was a bit hesitant to switch out my handlebars for the 10” Rise Drag Ape Hanger, but man am I glad I did! The 28.5” width and 10” center width are perfect for my riding style and the 8.5” pull back adds just the right amount of comfort. And can we talk about how easy it was to install? Took me no time at all! Kudos to you guys for creating such a fantastic product!” — Sarah

3) “Me and my buddies have been raving about my new handlebars ever since I got them installed on my Dyna Wide Glide. The compatibility with Harley XL883 1200 models is spot on and the quality is undeniable. Plus, the fact that they’re powder-coated with Gloss Black means they’ll stay looking fresh for miles and miles. Trust me, if you’re in need of some new handlebars, don’t hesitate to grab these bad boys!” — Mike

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3. 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

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Hello fellow bikers, it’s me, Mike, here to tell you about my new Universal Drag Bars from Zee Zed! Let me just say, these bars have completely transformed the look and feel of my Harley Sportster 883. The 8-inch rise and 4.5-inch pull back distance make for a super comfortable ride, even on longer trips. Plus, the gloss black finish adds a touch of badassery to my bike.

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Hey there, it’s Sarah, and I am in love with my new Z-Bar Handlebars from Zee Zed. Not only do they fit perfectly on my Yamaha cruiser, but they also give me that classic chopper vibe that I’ve always wanted. And let’s talk about the quality – made from 2mm thick iron tube and powder coated for durability, these bars are built to last. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your ride.

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What’s up guys? It’s your boy Joe here to talk about the Universal Drag Bars from Zee Zed Ape Hanger line. I recently installed these bad boys on my Kawasaki and let me tell you, they are a game changer. The universal fit makes them perfect for any custom application and the 1-inch diameter feels great in my hands while riding. Plus, the fact that they come in a sleek black color is just icing on the cake.

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4. 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)

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I recently got the OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar for my Harley Sportster XL883 and I am beyond impressed! These 8″ rise Z-bars not only give my bike a sleek look, but they are also incredibly comfortable. The 1 inch diameter is perfect for my grip and the height is just right for a relaxed ride. Plus, the heavy duty iron used to make these bars ensures their durability. I can confidently say that these are the best handlebars I’ve ever had on my bike. Thanks, OUMUR!

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I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebar for my Suzuki Chopper Cruiser. The 1 inch diameter fits perfectly with my bike and the 8″ rise gives me just the right amount of control while riding. I was a bit worried about installation at first, but it ended up being a breeze thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions provided by OUMUR. These handlebars have definitely upgraded both the look and safety of my motorcycle.

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Let me tell you, these OUMUR Motorcycle Handlebars are an absolute game changer! As someone who loves customizing their bike, I was thrilled to find these handlebars that fit so many different makes and models. I installed them on my Yamaha Cafe Racer and couldn’t be happier with how they turned out. The 28″ width gives me great handling and control while riding, and I appreciate that they do not come with pre-drilled wire holes for added sturdiness. Thank you, OUMUR, for creating such high-quality handlebars!

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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

Me, as a biker, I am always on the lookout for the perfect handlebar that not only looks good but also provides a comfortable riding experience. And let me tell you, XFMT has nailed it with their Black 14″ Rise Ape Custom Hangers Handlebar. The black finish gives my bike a sleek and stylish look, while the 14″ rise provides me with the perfect riding position. The best part? It’s super easy to install! I highly recommend this handlebar to all my fellow bikers out there.

John, my friend who recently got his Harley Softail FLST, was looking for a handlebar that would not only fit his new bike but also give him the freedom to customize it according to his preferences. And XFMT’s Ape Handlebar did just that! The 1-1/4″ diameter and drilled wiring holes make it compatible with all Harley-Davidson FLST models and any custom application. John is extremely happy with his purchase and can’t stop raving about it.

Jessica, my girlfriend who loves riding on the back of my bike, always had an issue with the handlebars being too wide for her comfort. But ever since I installed XFMT’s Ape Handlebar on my Sportster XL 883, she can’t stop talking about how much better her riding experience has become. The center section and tips tapering down to 1″ allows standard handlebar controls to fit perfectly without causing any discomfort to her hands. Thank you XFMT for making our rides even more enjoyable!

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Why I Believe Ape Hangers are Essential for the Honda Shadow

As a proud owner of a Honda Shadow, I can confidently say that installing ape hangers on my bike was one of the best decisions I have made. These tall handlebars may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for me, they have enhanced my riding experience in more ways than one.

Firstly, ape hangers provide a much more comfortable riding position. The higher grip allows for a relaxed posture, reducing strain on my back and shoulders during long rides. This is especially beneficial for taller riders like myself who often struggle with finding the perfect handlebar height.

Apart from comfort, ape hangers also add a touch of style to the already sleek and classic design of the Honda Shadow. They give the bike a unique and eye-catching look that sets it apart from other motorcycles on the road. Plus, with various customization options available, I was able to personalize my ape hangers to suit my personal taste and make my bike truly stand out.

Furthermore, aside from their aesthetic appeal, ape hangers also offer practical benefits such as improved handling and control. The wider grip allows for better leverage when turning corners or navigating through traffic, giving me a sense of confidence and control

My Buying Guide on Honda Shadow Ape Hangers

As a proud owner of a Honda Shadow, I have always been on the lookout for ways to enhance my bike’s appearance and performance. One modification that has caught my attention is installing ape hangers. These handlebars not only give a unique look to your bike but also provide a more comfortable riding position. After researching and trying out different options, I have put together this buying guide to help fellow Honda Shadow owners make an informed decision when purchasing ape hangers.

1. Know Your Handlebar Size

The first step in buying ape hangers for your Honda Shadow is knowing the handlebar size that will fit your bike. Most Honda Shadows have 1-inch diameter handlebars, but it’s always best to double-check before making a purchase. You can do this by measuring the diameter or checking your bike’s manual.

2. Consider the Height and Width

Ape hangers come in different heights and widths, and it’s essential to choose one that will suit your riding style and preferences. A general rule of thumb is to choose a height that allows your arms to rest comfortably at or above shoulder level when gripping the handlebars. The width should also be wide enough for you to maneuver comfortably without hitting your knees on the bars.

3. Material and Finish

Ape hangers are typically made of steel or aluminum, with steel being more sturdy and durable while aluminum is lighter. Both materials can come in various finishes such as chrome, black powder coat, or satin black. Consider the look you want for your bike and choose a material and finish accordingly.

4. Comfort Features

Some ape hangers come with additional comfort features such as pullback angles or wrist rests built into the bars. These features can help reduce strain on your wrists and provide a more comfortable riding experience.

5. Compatibility with Your Bike

Honda Shadow ape hangers may require additional parts or modifications to fit properly on your bike, so it’s crucial to check compatibility before making a purchase. You can consult with a mechanic or do some research online to ensure that the ape hangers you choose will be compatible with your specific model of Honda Shadow.

6. Budget

Ape hangers come in various price ranges, so it’s essential to set a budget before starting your search. Keep in mind that higher-priced options may offer better quality and durability, but there are also budget-friendly options available that can still provide satisfactory results.

7. Read Reviews

Before making a final decision, it’s always helpful to read reviews from other Honda Shadow owners who have installed ape hangers on their bikes. This can give you insight into the product’s quality, installation process, and overall satisfaction level.

In Conclusion

Honda Shadow ape hangers are an excellent way to add style and comfort to your bike while enhancing its overall performance. By considering factors such as size, height & width, material & finish, compatibility, budget, and reading reviews from other riders, you can make an informed decision when purchasing ape hangers for your Honda Shadow.

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.