That's what's known as the "clamshell", which is a problem that stems from the forward pegs/floorboards. When you're used to gripping the tank with your thighs, it seems like all your weight is on the butt, and you're stretching to hold the grips.
I bought a set of mid-mount pegs for my first springer, but they were placed exactly where I put my feet down at stops. After some ankle-twisting missteps, I took them off.
Your solution, getting the grips closer by swapping the bar, is a better one. Now your torso is tilted into a more natural sitting position, and the feet-forward design makes more sense.
Another way to move the bar closer is more difficult. Longer risers are hard to find, and expen$ive. I'm glad the new bar worked for you!