I can go as high as I want in my API, I feel very secure with the hand rails on either side, even when I swing the front bar out of the way. My hang on is another story. Nothing to hold on to, small platform, etc. I thought I was okay with it but this past weekend it was VERY windy and the tree was rocking pretty good. I sat down and when I heard a gust of wind on its way, half the time I grabbed the bottom of my seat just for insurance