Building a Club Style Harley: Essential Parts, Bars, and Fairings
Owning or riding a Harley-Davidson in Europe requires not only a passion for motorcycles but also an understanding of regional laws. From emissions and noise limits to lighting and registration, every Harley customisation must comply with local regulations. Whether you're modifying your bike or importing parts, Harley regulations in Europe vary by country, affecting the compatibility of parts, modifications, and even the homologation process for your Harley build.
At Legendary Parts, we specialise in offering OEM and aftermarket Harley parts that comply with European regulations, ensuring you can enjoy your performance Harley build without the hassle of legal complications. As Harley enthusiasts across Europe look to upgrade their bikes, we provide the high-quality parts you need to build the perfect Club Style Harley.
Read our detailed guide on European Standards for Motorcycles!
What Makes a Harley “Club Style”?
The Club Style Harley is a distinct build that draws heavily on West Coast motorcycle style and is rooted in Harley's performance-focused culture. Originating from the FXR and Dyna models, this style emphasizes handling, braking, and rider control, all while maintaining a unique aesthetic.
Club Style Harleys are recognized for their tall handlebars, FXRP fairings, tall shocks, and 2-into-1 exhaust systems. These components not only enhance performance but also boost visual appeal, making them the perfect choice for riders who prioritize both style and function.
One significant reason for the popularity of these builds is that they combine the benefits of traditional touring bikes—such as wind protection, luggage capacity, and comfort—with the handling and performance characteristics of lighter cruiser bikes like the Dyna and its predecessor, the FXR.
As Harley customization continues to rise in popularity, Dyna Club Style and FXR Club Style builds are at the forefront of performance and rider control. These bikes offer versatility, making them ideal platforms for riders seeking a more powerful ride or one that can handle sportier maneuvers.
Furthermore, Sportsters are also a great option for "Club Style" builds, especially for shorter riders or those on a budget, as they provide an affordable, adaptable base for customization.
Essential Cockpit Setup — The Heart of Club Style Control
T-Bars vs Moto Bars — Which Is Right for Your Riding Style?
The cockpit of your Club Style Harley is essential for both comfort and control. T-bars are a staple of Club Style handlebars, thanks to their leverage and stability, making them perfect for aggressive Harley riding. If you're after more modern, dirt-bike-inspired handlebars, Moto bars are a great option.
Common heights for tall handlebars Harley range from 10” to 14”, and you'll need the right risers to accommodate your preferred setup. Whether you choose T-bars or Moto bars, these handlebars significantly impact your rider ergonomics and control.
T-bars are the "original" setup for Club Style because they offer some of the best possible handling ergonomics. Unlike ape-hangers (of the same height), which swing outward and upward, the T-bar, just as the name implies, looks like a T - with the spine of the handlebar in the middle, connecting to the triple trees directly (through the risers).
That, in combination with a short, straight handlebar, usually around or just below shoulder level, offers a much more precise handling feel than any other type of raised or tall handlebar.
Moto bars also offer very good handling (for many of the same reasons T-Bars do), and are preferred by riders who do not want tall handlebars and prefer a lower riding profile.
Browse our T-bars, risers, and Moto bars for Harley models.
Choosing the Correct Risers for a Solid Cockpit
To achieve a solid, rigid cockpit setup, 1-piece risers, Harley, or billet risers are a must. These risers ensure rigidity, reducing vibrations and offering greater stability during aggressive riding. Fitment varies by Sportster, Dyna or FXR model, so it's important to consider model-specific differences when selecting risers.
Upgrading Controls — Levers, Grips, and Throttle Tubes
Responsive controls are crucial for both safety and comfort in aggressive riding setups. Upgrading to performance levers and easy-pull clutch systems reduces hand fatigue, while quick-turn throttles provide more precise control.
These are standard upgrades for more precise control - derived from motorsports. Harley stock (OEM) or aftermarket upgrades are characterised more by functionality and form than by performance. As a result, for someone who aims for a sport/performance/race-oriented build, these controls are vague and slow to respond.
Easy-pull clutch systems, adjustable brake levers, dual-disc brake setups, and quick-turn throttles offer a level of customization that is not aesthetic but performance-oriented, allowing tailor-made adjustments for each rider's needs. These are all extensions of already existing engine/brake/suspension upgrades, enabling the rider to have more precise control over these upgraded systems.
Billet and forged aluminum materials are ideal for durability and performance. These are the most commonly used materials, yes. Some performance brands take it a step further by using titanium in some applications. Titanium is much lighter and more durable than aluminium.
Must-Have Fairings for the Club Style Look & Performance
FXRP Fairing — The Club Style Icon
The FXRP fairing is an iconic part of West Coast-style motorcycles, providing both wind protection and improved stability at speed. It's the hallmark of the Club Style Harley, offering a blend of aesthetic and performance. Proper mounting hardware and bracket requirements must be considered when installing this fairing on Dyna and FXR models.
T-Sport, Bullet style fairings & Quarter Fairings — Lighter Alternatives
For those seeking lighter alternatives to the FXRP fairing, the T-Sport, Harley, or quarter fairing is an excellent choice. These fairings provide similar benefits but with weight, aesthetics, and cost advantages that may appeal to Dyna Low Rider or FXR builds.
Lighting Upgrades That Complete the Setup
Upgrading to Harley LED headlights is a crucial part of completing your Club Style Harley. LED lighting improves nighttime visibility and safety, while bullet turn signals or low-profile LEDs add to the bike’s aesthetic. FXR wiring considerations should be kept in mind when installing these upgrades.
Because the FXR predates this type of turn signal, complete conversion kits are readily available for purchase, including for European-spec Harleys. Many different plug-and-play alternatives don't require changing the original wiring. Riders can do their own research.
Suspension Upgrades — The Foundation of Club Style Handling
Tall Rear Shocks (13”–14”) for Cornering & Stability
Tall shocks Harley are a must for Club Style builds, providing the necessary cornering clearance and improved ride comfort. Ohlins Harley shocks or other performance rear suspension systems enhance handling and stability, ensuring your bike is ready for any aggressive riding scenario. Öhlins, Progressive, and Foxx are among the most popular.
Progressive springs are a must in these builds. Raising the rear suspension is not enough. Front suspension upgrades with stiffer/progressive springs are also necessary for peak stability and control when cornering. All of these upgrades, it is important to note, can come at the expense of comfort on bumpy roads due to the characteristic stiffness of performance shocks.
Front-End Upgrades for Better Balance
To match your rear suspension, front-end suspension upgrades such as fork cartridge kits and upgraded fork springs are essential for a balanced ride. These upgrades reduce front-end dive and improve overall bike stability, making them a crucial part of any Club Style Harley build.
Brake Upgrades — Stopping Power for Aggressive Riding
Dual Disc Conversions & Big Rotor Kits
For riders seeking increased braking power, dual-disc Harley conversions and big rotor kits are a significant upgrade. These parts are essential for aggressive riding and ensure your bike can handle the demands of performance-inspired Harley setups. Keep in mind that FXR fitment limitations may require additional modifications.
Many such upgrades also imply the brake calipers. Harley stock calipers come with 1 or 2 pistons (FXR, for example/early Dynas), which are insufficient in most cases for optimal braking performance. There are also a lot of different types of brake rotors, which emphasize stopping power, or ventilation/cooling, etc., and different types of brake pads (for performance applications, it's usually sintered or semi-sintered).
Pads, Lines & Calipers for High-Performance Control
Upgrading to sintered brake pads, braided steel brake lines, and performance calipers improves brake feel and heat resistance. These upgrades are essential for enhancing control and performance, especially for aggressive riders.
Upgrading master cylinders and brake pumps to match the upgraded brake lines and calipers, which often require higher pressure to operate.
Exhaust & Performance Mods — The Club Style Sound & Power
2-into-1 Exhaust Systems
A 2-into-1 exhaust Harley is the Club Style standard for maximizing torque gains and reducing weight. These exhausts are ideal for improving overall performance, especially in Sportster, Dyna, and FXR builds. Popular models from brands like Vance & Hines and Screamin' Eagle offer the perfect fit for Club Style builds. Bassani, Supertrapp, Rinehart Racing, and Two Brother Racing are also worth mentioning.
Air Intake & Tuning Upgrades
To complement your exhaust system, a Stage 1 Harley upgrade with a high-flow air cleaner is a must. This upgrade increases airflow, while tuning options like ECU tuning and dyno tuning optimize performance, ensuring your Harley build is truly performance-inspired.
Seats, Bags & Protection — Comfort and Practicality for Daily Use
Step-Up Seats for Stability
Step-Up seats are the Club Style seat of choice, providing enhanced back support during hard acceleration. Saddlemen Step-Up seats are designed for rider stability, making them perfect for both aggressive riding and long-distance comfort.
Crash Bars & Engine Guards
For protection, engine guards, Harley-Davidson crash bars, and other crash bars are essential. They not only protect your bike in the event of a fall but also contribute to the Harley-Davidson stunt-protection aesthetic that many Club Style Harley riders seek.
Club Style builds don't use the typical crash bars you see on any other regular Harley (or cruiser bike, for that matter). They're inspired by racing/street bike engine guard applications - usually a straight bar with rubber cushions on each end, welded to the frame at the top where conventional crash bars are mounted.
The reason for this choice is to provide protection without interfering with lean angles, because conventional crash bars are often restrictive and compromise lean angles, thus impeding aggressive driving.
Saddlebag Options for Club Style Builds
Whether you choose T-Sport, Dyna, or FXR saddlebags, saddlebag options provide practical storage without compromising your bike's aesthetic. Quick-detach options and reinforced mounting systems offer convenience and durability.
Choosing the Right Parts for Your Club Style Harley
When planning your Harley build, it's crucial to prioritize parts based on performance and fitment. Start with suspension upgrades, then move on to bars and controls, and finally to fairing, brakes, and exhaust upgrades. Ensure you check model-year fitment before purchasing to avoid compatibility issues.
FAQ's
What handlebars are best for a Club Style Harley?
T-bars and Moto bars are the top choices for Club Style handlebars. They provide the right balance of leverage, stability, and modern aesthetics. T-Bars are for a higher stance, whereas moto bars are for riders who prefer a lower profile.
How do I improve the braking on my Dyna or FXR?
Consider upgrading to dual disc conversions, floating rotors, and braided brake lines for improved braking performance.
What is the best exhaust system for a Club Style build?
2-into-1 exhaust systems are a must-have for any Club Style Harley. They improve torque and reduce weight, boosting performance.
Final Verdict - Building a True Club Style Harley
Building a Club Style Harley is about more than just aesthetics—it's about creating a bike that combines performance and style. From the tall handlebars of Harley to the FXRP fairing, every part of your Club Style Harley build contributes to your bike's overall performance and visual appeal. At Legendary Parts, we provide the parts you need to make your Harley Club Style build a reality.