A Clean FXR Gets a Fresh Handlebar & Suspension Upgrade

Few bikes carry the cult following of a Harley-Davidson FXR. When one shows up in this kind of condition — garage kept, clean, and that rockin 1990's character — you know you’re looking at something special. This FXR is one of those rare finds: old-school stance, classic Evo power, and a timeless silhouette that still turns heads in parking lots and at fuel stops.

We took these photos before performing a few basic but important changes to upgrade control and handling. We wanted to keep this FXR with it's original bones but give it a modern handlebar/riser and Suspension setup. Below is the brief walk through, plus links to the parts now on the bike.

Old-School Charm Meets Modern Control & Control

The FXR in these photos shows exactly why this model is still so sought after — it’s agile, balanced, and unmistakably Harley. The stance is pure early-90s muscle:

• Twin rear shocks

• Simple, clean lines

• Chrome in the right places

• Polished Evo motor

• Classic mag wheels

But as with any FXR, a modern handlebar upgrade dramatically improves the riders experience in the front end, reducing flex and giving the rider better ergonomics for daily riding or highway miles. Modern suspension also plays a huge role in rider experience with these older models. 

1. Handlebar Upgrades 

In these after shots, we updated the controls with a bar + riser combo to give the FXR a more planted, aggressive posture while improving rider comfort.

• Thrashin Supply 9.5" Chrome Pullback Risers / Kraus Solid Riser Bushing
• Thrashin Supply Chrome Mid Bend 1" Bars
• ODI Ruffian Lock-On Grips for Harley Dual Cable

A clean, modern setup that stiffens the cockpit and adds that performance look and feel. Perfect for FXR riders wanting height and a rock-solid feel. 

Side NOTE Since we ran the Thrashin bars, we did need to the Drag Specialties TBW Plug since these older models are Dual Cable. 

2. Cables & Wiring- The Long and The Short of it

To sum it up for cables & wiring on this bike, we did need to extend the stock wiring using the Namz Universal Handlebar Wiring Extension. We also had to replace the Clutch, Idle, Throttle and Brake Cable below.

• 24" Black Brake Line
• 39.5" Black Vinyl Throttle / 39.5" Black Vinyl Idle Cable
• +6" Black Vinyl Clutch Cable

If you're upgrading your own FXR cockpit be sure to measure before ordering replacement cables to ensure proper length. 

3. Suspension Upgrade: Bitubo WME0 Shocks for a Smoother, More Controlled Ride

To complement the handlebar upgrades, we brought the FXR’s ride quality up a level with a new set of Chrome Bitubo WME0 Shocks for Harley FXR

These shocks transform the bike’s feel, delivering noticeably better damping, sharper cornering confidence, and a much smoother ride over rough pavement. Bitubo’s dual-adjustable design allows fine tuning for preload and rebound, making them a perfect match for the FXR’s performance-oriented chassis. The result is exactly what an Evo-powered FXR deserves: modern suspension performance that keeps the bike stable, planted, and far more responsive than stock.

Since the shocks are taller than stock height, we used Bung Kings 1" Kickstand Block to correct the lean angle when parked. Simple, Easy. Check it out in the video install below.

4. License Plate Solutions

To finish the tail section on this bike, we used Kruesi Originals Black Lay Down License Plate Mount. Quick, Easy and best of all clean. 

5. Upgrading The Seat

While the stock seat was still in great condition, we wanted to add a little style so we swapped it out for the new Saddlemen SDC Pro Series Performance Tuck-n-Roll Seat. This seat features contoured lines and Carbon Fiber weave in the Tuck-n-Roll stitch pattern, which adds a race feel to the bike. 

When we picked up this FXR, it did come with the Chrome Bassani Short Road Rage Exhaust which we think fits this bike perfectly - so we decided to keep it. Plus it sounds great with the EVO engine.

Handlebar & Suspension Upgrades Matter on an FXR

The FXR frame is legendary for a reason — it handles well. But the original handlebars and bushings can feel vague or flex under load. A modern riser setup fixes that instantly:

✔ Better leverage and steering feel

✔ More comfortable riding posture

✔ Reduced front-end flex

✔ Cleaner, updated cockpit

✔ Improved ride control at higher speeds

It’s one of the highest-impact upgrades you can make. Plus we think the chrome setup looks really clean with this bike. 

A Perfect Blend of Classic and Modern

With the upgraded bars, this FXR now handles even better than stock and the bike’s stance remains true to Harley’s performance past — but the cockpit feels transformed.

If you're building or refreshing an FXR of your own, check out other options to upgrade the setup to your style:

🔗 Harley Handlebars

🔗 Harley Risers

🔗FXR Shocks

🔗FXR Seats

We love that so many riders have taken the FXR and turned it into stunt bikes or complete build show bikes. But for us, we were happy to make a few simple upgrades to this FXR and stop when we had a good balance between original and modern ride ability. The new handlebar setup not only sharpens the riding experience but also adds a tough stance that perfectly matches this machine’s attitude.

If you have any questions about  this bike or parts used, give us a call 215-394-8409, shoot us an email CS@getlowered.com or hit us up on Instagram.