6 Steps to Installing New Motorcycle Handlebars

Updating your bike does not have to be complicated, or expensive at all. Replacing simple things like your motorcycle handlebars can help you achieve a statement with your bike.

Step 1 – Find the Comfortable Spot

Before you replace your handlebars, you will need to experiment and find which type of handlebars feel most comfortable to you. To do this, hold your existing handlebars and move your grip from the higher, lower or wider parts of the bar. If you feel that the current handlebars that you have is comfortable enough for you, check if the height of the handlebars are to your liking. If the height does not work for you, you can raise or lower them using risers. Also keep in mind the measurements of your existing handlebars, especially when selecting the measurements of your new handlebars. Be careful with wide bars because they are notorious for making turns difficult.

Step 2 – Remove the Parts

The very first part that you should remove is the brake lever, which is sometimes called as the master cylinder unit. Also remove the switch housing and the throttle control. You will be able to locate these parts using your motorcycle’s manual. Be very particular about clamps and other wiring harness that you will be detaching. Once you have removed the throttle control, you will need to remove the brass ferrules. The ferrules are found at the ends of the cables. Proceed to removing the hand grip and clutch lever assembly. Also remove any accessories that you may find that are attached to the bar. Put all the parts in rags to prevent losing any of them.

Step 3 – Remove the Left Hand Grip

Unlike the right hand grip, the left hand grip is usually immovable hence making it difficult to remove. Using a sharp knife cut through the hand grip.

Not all motorcycles have riser covers and riser clamps but if yours do, make sure to remove them first before removing the handlebars. You can install a new set of risers if you want.

Step 4 – Install New Handlebars

Place a new set of handlebars and make sure that the handlebars are positioned at the very center of the risers. Once you have done so, place the riser clamps and riser cover. After installing the new handlebars, try turning the bars left and right to make sure that there is enough clearance.

Step 5 – Reinstall the Removed Parts

Replace the switch housing that you have removed in the left handlebar. Apply a film of glue on the bar and attach the new hand grip. Also reinstall all the other accessories that you have removed in the first few steps.

Also reinstall the brake lever and master cylinder on your bike’s right handlebar. Before attaching the switch housing, make sure the reattach the brass ferrules on the cables. Secure the throttle control on the bar and secure the switch housing tightly.