When it comes to Harley-Davidson motorcycles, there are many choices to make, including the type of control system to use. The debate between mid and forward controls is hotly contested, with both options having pros and cons.
So, what’s better for Harley-Davidson motorcycles: mid controls vs. forward controls? Forward controls provide a more relaxed, stretched-out riding posture better suited for long rides and cruising. In contrast, mid controls offer a more aggressive, sporty riding position better suited for twisty roads and cornering.
Continue reading to learn more about the distinctions between mid and forward controls, their benefits, and drawbacks. Also, you will learn which control system best suits different riders.
What Is The Mid Control In Harley Davidson?
As the name implies, mid controls are positioned in the middle of the motorcycle, with your feet under your hips.
Mid controls allow for a more upright riding position, which improves cornering and reduces rider fatigue on extended rides. The position of the controls also improves motorcycle control in tight twists and curves.
Advantages Of Mid Controls
Mid controls have several pros, including-
- Improved cornering: Mid controls improve body positioning, making it simpler to lean into corners and take sharper turns. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy riding on winding roads or racetracks.
- Better body positioning: Mid controls provide an upright riding position that helps you to have a more neutral spine position, reducing strain on the lower back and neck. The controls’ position also provides a more comfortable riding position for riders with shorter legs.
- Reduced fatigue: The neutral spine position given by mid controls aids in reducing rider fatigue, especially on long rides. This allows you to enjoy your riding experience for extended periods.
Disadvantages Of Mid Controls
Here are the disadvantages of the mid controls in Harley-Davidsons.
- Cramped riding position for taller riders: If you are taller than average, you may find the riding position provided by mid controls cramped, particularly for your legs.
- Less comfort on longer rides: While mid controls offer an upright riding position that might help decrease tiredness on extended rides, they may not be as comfortable as forward controls, especially if you have back problems.
What Is The Forward Control In Harley Davidson?
Forward controls, on the other hand, position the rider’s feet forward, placing them in front of the rider’s hips; that is why they are popular in Harley bikes, including Harley Davidson Street 500, too.
This position provides a more stretched-out and relaxed riding position, making taller riders more comfortable on long rides. On the other hand, the position of the controls can make cornering and maneuvering the motorcycle more difficult.
Advantages of Forward Controls
There are several pros of forward controls for Harley-Davidson. They include-
- More comfortable for taller riders: Forward controls provide a more relaxed and stretched-out riding position, which can be more comfortable for taller riders on longer rides.
- Better for long-distance riding: Forward controls enable a more relaxed riding position, minimizing tiredness and making long rides more comfortable.
- More customization options: With forwards controls, there are more options for customizing foot pegs, brake pedals, and shift levers to create a one-of-a-kind look and feel. This can also help to improve ergonomics and make you more comfortable on the motorcycle.
Disadvantages Of Forward Controls
Here are the disadvantages of installing forward controls on your motorcycle.
- Reduced Cornering Ability: The position of the controls on the forward controls makes handling the motorcycle in tight corners and turns more difficult, which can be dangerous for riders who prefer twisty roads or racetracks.
- Less Precise Control: The position of the controls on forward controls can make it more difficult for riders to manage the motorcycle, especially in an emergency.
Comparison Between Mid Controls And Forward Controls
Here is a table showing the comparison between mid controls and forward controls in Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
| Aspects | Mid Controls | Forward Controls |
| Riding Experience | More aggressive, better suited for cornering and twisty roads | More relaxed, better suited for cruising and long rides |
| Ergonomics | Foot position directly beneath hips | Foot position extended forward |
| Performance | Better for aggressive riding, easier to shift body weight and maneuver | Better for cruising, less strain on legs |
| Legroom | Less legroom, more cramped riding position | More legroom, more comfortable riding position |
| Control And Stability | Better control and stability in aggressive riding conditions | Slightly less control and stability in aggressive riding conditions, but more stable at high speeds |
When comparing mid controls and forward controls, it’s essential to consider the differences in riding experience, ergonomics, performance, legroom, control, and stability.
1. Riding Experience
Mid controls provide a more upright riding position that can improve cornering and reduce fatigue on long rides.
Forward controls offer a more relaxed and stretched-out riding position, which is more comfortable for larger riders on extended trips. Unfortunately, the arrangement of the controls on forward controls makes it more challenging to handle the motorcycle in tight twists and turns.
2. Ergonomics
Mid controls position your feet beneath your hips, allowing for improved motorcycle control and a more neutral spine posture.
On the other hand, forward controls move your feet forward, which reduces strain on the lower back and neck but makes controlling the motorcycle more difficult. This indifference becomes more apparent when comparing Road king vs Softail motorcycles.
3. Performance
Mid controls improve motorcycle handling and control in tight corners and turns.
Forward controls allow a more relaxed riding position, which can minimize tiredness on extended journeys but make motorcycle control harder in an emergency.
4. Legroom
Another significant difference between mid-controls and forward controls is the amount of legroom they provide. Mid controls offer less legroom than forward controls, which can be uncomfortable for taller riders or riders with longer legs.
Alternatively, forward controls provide more legroom, allowing you to stretch out comfortably on long rides.
5. Control And Stability
Both mid and forward controls offer excellent control and stability, but the type of control may vary. With mid controls, you have more weight on the rear wheel, which can improve traction and stability during cornering.
Forward controls, on the other hand, shift the motorcycle’s weight to the front, which can improve control during acceleration and braking.
Mid Controls Vs. Forward Controls In Harley: What’s Better?
There are various elements to consider when deciding between mid and forward controls. These include riding style and preferences, rider height and body type, and type of motorcycle and intended use.
1. Riding Preferences And Style
If you enjoy twisty roads or racetracks, you may prefer mid controls, as they provide better handling and control in tight corners and turns.
If you love long-distance rides, forward controls should be your preference since they allow a more relaxed and comfortable riding position.
2. Rider Height And Body Type
If you are a taller rider, you may find the forward controls’ riding position more comfortable since it allows for a more stretched-out riding position.
Mid controls may be more comfortable for shorter riders since they allow a more upright riding position.
3. Type Of Motorcycle And Intended Use
The type of motorbike you ride, and your intended use can also influence your decision between mid and forward controls.
For example, cruiser-style motorcycles frequently have forward controls, whereas sport and racing motorcycles frequently have mid controls.
FAQs
Here are a few more related questions you might be asking yourself now.
Q1: Can my Harley Davidson motorcycle switch from mid to forward controls?
Switching from mid to forward controls on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle is possible. However, ensure that the new controls are compatible with your motorcycle and that the installation is done correctly.
Q2: Can I adjust the position of my forward controls?
Yes, many forward control options allow for adjustment of the position of the foot pegs, brake pedal, and shift lever to accommodate different rider heights and preferences.
Q3: Are forward controls more expensive than mid controls?
The cost of forward controls versus mid controls can vary depending on the brand and type of controls. In general, forward controls tend to be more expensive than mid controls.
Conclusion
Choosing between mid controls vs. forward controls is a personal decision that should be based on your riding style and preferences, rider height and body type, and type of motorcycle and intended use.
Mid controls provide better handling and control in tight corners and turns, while forward controls provide a more relaxed and comfortable riding position. It’s critical to select a control system that matches your specific preferences and needs so that you can fully enjoy your motorcycle riding experience.