How to find the right Powersports Forward Controls AI guide
Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.
What the AI looks for in Powersports Forward Controls
- Chassis and model fitment
- Match the exact chassis family and year. On Harley-Davidson, Softail, Dyna, Sportster and Touring kits are not interchangeable across generations. Frame mounts and the brake and shift routing differ by chassis.
- Complete kit contents
- Confirm the kit includes the extended brake line, rear master cylinder (or relocation), shift linkage and pegs, or budget for buying them. Many kits sell controls only, and a stock-length brake line usually will not reach.
- ABS compatibility
- ABS-equipped bikes need an ABS-specific kit or brake line. ABS rear brake routing differs, and a wrong line can compromise braking.
- Rider inseam
- Choose forwards, mid-controls or extended forwards based on leg length and seat height. Controls set too far forward leave short riders braking on tiptoe with poor leverage.
- Brake bleeding
- Plan to bleed the rear brake with the correct DOT fluid after installation. Moving the master cylinder or line introduces air into the system.
Brands that matter
- Harley-Davidson: OEM forward and mid-control kits matched to H-D chassis.
- Kuryakyn: Wide range of cruiser control kits and extensions.
- Burly Brand: Cruiser control and ergonomic kits.
- Arlen Ness: Styled billet controls for custom cruisers.
- Performance Machine: Premium billet control kits.
What to avoid
- Kits that omit the brake line when your bike needs a longer one.
- Mismatching non-ABS parts on an ABS motorcycle.
Questions
Can I install forward controls myself?
Yes, if you are comfortable bleeding hydraulic brakes. If not, have a shop finish the brake portion.