When it comes to enhancing safety and comfort on Harley-Davidson touring models, one of my initial modifications involves swapping out the stock brake pedal arm for the Kuryakyn Extended Brake Pedal. Let me elaborate on why this change holds such significance for me. (See my detailed overview and installation video below)
Why replace your stock Harley brake pedal?
Over years and across extensive miles of testing, the Kuryakyn Extended Brake Pedal has earned my unwavering endorsement. The stock brake pedal's design, crafted by Harley engineers, poses significant discomfort. At 5′-8″ tall with a men's US shoe size of 9.5, I find the stock position terribly inconvenient. It's short, lacks forward extension, and sits at an uncomfortably high angle, resulting in poor ergonomic support for both touring and training scenarios.
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As a full-time police motorcycle officer engaged in routine course training, one critical exercise involves emergency braking. The stock Harley brake pedal's setup forces the rider's toe underneath it. During an emergency stop, precious time is squandered as the rider maneuvers their toe out from beneath the pedal to initiate braking—a delay that can be a matter of life and death.
Moreover, whether navigating training courses or daily riding, the stock pedal's rearward placement and excessive curvature demand unnatural foot positioning. This not only strains the inner thigh but also prompts inadvertent overuse of the rear brake due to constant pedal pressure, an issue echoed by numerous experienced riders. For those with greater height or larger feet, these problems are exacerbated further.
The Kuryakyn Extended Brake Pedal comes in black or chrome and there are options for Harley touring models with and without lower fairings.
What makes the Kuryakan brake pedal so different?
In stark contrast, the Kuryakyn Extended Brake Pedal offers a forward, lower, and flatter profile, significantly enhancing ergonomic functionality. With no toe interference during emergency braking and a more comfortable stance for maneuvers, it substantially reduces crucial response time in emergencies and alleviates discomfort during regular riding.
- See the torque wrenches we used in this video and recommend (affiliate link)
My final thoughts
My resounding recommendation stands: every Harley touring owner should consider this modification, not just for comfort but for paramount safety reasons. This seemingly straightforward alteration could genuinely be the difference between life and peril on the open road.
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