Ergonomic experiment update:
As you might recall, if you’re reading this, in an effort to make my bike a more comfortable highway rider, I made a number of changes aimed at relaxing the riding position and dropping high speed RPM’s. I did the following,
1. Taller handlebars with more pullback, and a longer brake line it requires
2. Foam handgrips
3. Highway pegs for that kicked back riding position
4. A 31 tooth rear sprocket to drop rpms at highway speed
View attachment 170928
So now I’ve had time to rack some miles up. I have taken it out a bunch of times now for a couple hours or more each time, all rides have included long stretches at 60 - 65 mph. And I’ve reached some surprising ( to me at least )
conclusions.
First up the handlebars, I really really wanted to like them. Just sitting in the garage they feel so comfortable, I’m more upright and it just felt more relaxed. Around town they’re fine, but I wanted them for faster, longer rides.
The reality , for me at least, is that they feel good early on but as the miles pile up, my lower back starts squawking because of my upright seating position, so to compensate I start leaning forward but the bars are high and close so I bend my arms in an uncomfortable way to compensate. In the end they just aren’t working for me, a huge disappointment. Also when you make a U turn the bars felt awkward and they crowd you.
The highway bars, again I really wanted to like them, but I don’t. They made me feel less in control of the bike, it’s probably just me, but I’m not into them.
The foam grips, Love em, they’re fat and squishy and do a great jobs of neutralizing vibes, plus they’re very comfortable.
The 31 tooth rear sprocket, Love that too, the motor feels very relaxed at highway speeds.