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Best Sissy Bars for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: January 26th, 2024

🏍️If you're a Harley-Davidson fan, finding the right sissy bar means balancing style with practical functionality. Whether you're aiming to make those long tours more comfortable or add a sleek touch to your Sportster, we've got some solid picks for you.

We've dug deep into the available options, looking at a mountain of user feedback and product details to bring you this list of the best sissy bars for 2024. We've got something for everyone, from top-notch overall picks to budget-friendly choices and specialized options.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our recommendations.

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Overall Best: Quick-Release Sissy Bar Upright- Freewheeler

The Quick-Release Sissy Bar Upright- Freewheeler is our top pick for its blend of style, versatility, and user-friendly design. Specifically made for Freewheeler Trike models from 2015 onwards, its quick-release mechanism ensures that attaching or detaching the bar is hassle-free. You can tailor the aesthetics of your bike with either gloss black or mirror chrome finishes. This bar is also compatible with a variety of backrest pads, boosting passenger comfort on extended trips. For those who prioritize convenience, style, and functionality, the Quick-Release Sissy Bar Upright is an excellent choice.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

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Runner-up: Air Wing Chrome Sissy Bar Upright

Our runner-up, the Air Wing Chrome Sissy Bar Upright, stands out for its premium build quality and stylish design. Crafted for Harley-Davidson Touring models from 2009 onwards, the chrome finish adds a high-end touch to any bike. A notable feature is its compatibility with an optional LED light kit, making night rides safer and more stylish. The easy installation and removal process, coupled with its ability to support additional accessories like the HD detachable tour Pak conversion kit, make it a flexible choice for those looking to elevate their touring experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$125.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Sissy Bar Upright Chrome

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Sissy Bar Upright Chrome is our top recommendation. At just $79.95, this model offers remarkable value without compromising on durability or style. It fits HD XG models from 2015 onward and mounts directly to the HD detachable two-up luggage rack. The chrome finish provides a simple but elegant look, and while the backrest pad is sold separately, this sissy bar creates a sturdy base for increased passenger comfort. It’s a practical, economical choice for riders who want to enhance their bike without breaking the bank.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best for Sportster: Low Profile Sissy Bar Upright for Sportster

Sportster Sissy Bar Fits 04-21 XL Models One-Piece Detachables Iron 1200 XL1200NS Sissy Bar for Motorcycles Harley Sportster 883 Accessories Pad Luggage Rack Backpack Roadster Superlow Forty-Eight Black

For those who ride a Sportster, we recommend the Low Profile Sissy Bar Upright for Sportster. This sissy bar is designed for models from 2007 onwards (and the XL1200CX from 2016), offering a sleek, low-profile design that doesn’t sacrifice durability. The round bar, finished in gloss black, seamlessly matches the custom aesthetic of Sportster bikes. Additionally, it supports a slip-over pad, adding passenger comfort without bulk. Ideal for those seeking a minimalist look, this sissy bar combines quality, utility, and streamlined style.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$126.66 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the "Sportster Sissy Bar for 04-21 XL Models"? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are common issues with the Sportster Sissy Bar's quality control?

If you're thinking about adding a [Sportster Sissy Bar](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsportster%2Bsissy%2Bbar%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to your [Harley-Davidson](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dharley-davidson%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), it’s good to know about some quality control aspects. This sissy bar fits various models from 2004 to 2021, like the [Iron 883 XL883N](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DIron+883+XL883N%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Forty-Eight XL1200X](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DForty-Eight+XL1200X%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), as per the manufacturer's notes. Just a heads up, though—it won’t fit the 2016-later XL1200cx models, which is a key piece of info if you’re preparing for installation. The bar is made from iron and has a glossy black finish, which should up the durability and add a sleek, classic look to your bike. It also has a detachable design, handy for making installation and removal easier. But, keep in mind that our research shows not every package might come with installation instructions. If that's the case, you might need to contact the seller to get a copy, which could add an extra step to your installation process. From what we've found, user feedback mostly highlights its sturdy construction and how well it complements the motorcycle’s look. However, a few folks mentioned fitment issues—sometimes minor adjustments or tweaks are necessary to get it all properly aligned. It’s not super common, but worth being aware of. If you’re not too experienced with installs, you might want to consider getting advice or help from a mechanic to ensure everything fits right and is safe. In general, many of the reviews are positive, with people liking the way the sissy bar enhances their bike’s appearance and functionality. Although there are a few alignment concerns reported by some, most users seem happy with the quality and performance of the Sportster Sissy Bar. It could be a good choice if you're thinking about upgrading your ride.

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Does the Sportster Sissy Bar fit 2004-2021 XL models?

Yep, the Sportster Sissy Bar is made to fit a bunch of Harley Davidson Sportster models from 2004 to 2021. The manufacturer says it's a go for models like the [Iron 883](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DIron%2B883%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Forty-Eight](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DForty-Eight%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Iron 1200](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DIron%2B1200%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [SuperLow](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSuperLow%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and [Sportster 1200 Custom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSportster%2B1200%2BCustom%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). But keep in mind, it won't fit the [XL1200cx](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DXL1200cx%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) models from 2016 onwards. From what we've found, most people are happy with how well it fits and how sturdy it is. It's often praised for being a solid, reliable accessory. Someone even said it fit perfectly on their 2020 Sportster and looked great, too. The material gets good marks for being tough, and people appreciated that it comes with all the screws you need to attach it to the bike. That said, not everyone had a breeze with the installation. Some folks mentioned needing to make minor tweaks, like a bit of grinding or retightening, to get it just right. There can be some alignment issues with the cushion that might need a bit of adjusting. Plus, the package doesn't have installation instructions, but the manufacturer says you can get them by contacting them directly. All in all, the Sportster Sissy Bar seems to be well-regarded for its fit and quality. Just make sure to check its compatibility with your specific Sportster model using the manufacturer's list. And be prepared for potential minor tweaks during installation to get it just right.

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Is the Sportster Sissy Bar easy to install on a 2020 Harley Sportster?

Adding a Sportster Sissy Bar to your 2020 Harley Sportster can definitely boost the comfort and style for you and your passenger. According to the manufacturer's product description, it comes with a passenger backrest pad, which is great for added support on long rides. Now, let's talk installation. From our research, it seems the process can be a bit mixed. Some folks found the installation straightforward, but others have mentioned needing to tweak things due to alignment issues, especially with how the backrest pad fits onto the bar. A few have even had to enlarge the holes to get everything to fit just right, suggesting there might be some alignment troubles from the get-go. Despite these hiccups, people have been pleased with how sturdy and comfortable the backrest feels once it's properly installed. If you're tackling this job yourself, just be prepared for a bit of trial and error and have a few tools handy for adjustments. The kit includes a [Docking Hardware Kit](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDocking%2BHardware%2BKit%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), but don't be surprised if the instructions aren't the best or are missing entirely. If you find yourself in this boat, reaching out to the seller for help can be a good move. Having clear instructions can make a world of difference. If DIY isn't your thing, or if you're short on time, getting a professional to handle the installation might be the way to go. It's a good way to ensure everything is secure and properly done, so you can ride with peace of mind. In the end, while the installation might have its challenges, the added comfort and style make the Sportster Sissy Bar a worthwhile upgrade for your Harley.

View All Answers for

Best for Customization: Standard Mini-Medallion Style Sissy Bar Upright

Custom bike enthusiasts will appreciate the Standard Mini-Medallion Style Sissy Bar Upright for its high-quality construction and classic design. Suitable for models 2010-2017 FXDF, FXDWG, and 2010 FXDFSE, this sissy bar features sturdy steel construction for long-lasting reliability. The Bar & Shield Medallion adds a touch of classic Harley-Davidson flair, while the standard 14.5-inch height and versatile gloss black finish ensure it fits well with a variety of custom themes. Backed by a one-year limited warranty, it’s a dependable option for those who love to personalize their bikes.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$34.99 at Amazon

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