How Does Forward Control Work on a Motorcycle?

What Are Forward Controls?

Forward controls are a common addition to cruiser styled motorcycles. They allow the rider to operate the controls of the bike with his feet placed in a more forward position than the stock pegs allow for. These controls are the shift lever on the left and the rear brake on the right. A set of forward controls replaces the stock foot pegs and control levers on a motorcycle.

The Connections

Many forward control sets will bolt directly to the stock peg mounts, utilizing an extension arm to reach forward. The actual operating mechanism (the levers) connect to the same places that the originals connected to as well, each of course using a longer extension arm to connect it. This allows the same motion to be applied to the new controls and with the same effect as with the old ones.

The Benefits

Forward controls are installed on a motorcycle to allow riders of different sizes to fit better on a bike. Some riders prefer more leg room than a bike allows, but like everything else about the bike. In this way, forward controls function the same way as rear sets on a sport bike, which sets the controls further back and higher up. It's all in the name of comfort for most, though some install forward controls for aesthetic purposes.