Fitting New Handlebars

Best tyres, Suspension setup, Accessories...
Post Reply
User avatar
rodsquad
Direct Access
Posts: 34
Joined: Sat Aug 11, 2007 9:14 am
Current Ride: Kawasaki Z1000
Location: I'm from Cove min.

Fitting New Handlebars

Post by rodsquad »

This might be really stupid - But how difficult is it to replace bike handlebars? I fancy lower, straighter handlebars but i am worried that i might start the job and live to regret it.

I have found that i need 7/8" bars.

Can it just be as simple as fitting the bars to the existing mounts swapping over the levers etc and fitting new grips?

I doubt it somehow...

If any one has done such a job their advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks
User avatar
al
Mass Debater
Posts: 4768
Joined: Wed Sep 05, 2001 1:00 am
Current Ride: Space Hopper
Location: Uranus
Contact:

Re: Fitting New Handlebars

Post by al »

The most important thing to do before you start taking all the switchgear etc. off of the original bars is to make sure that the new bars fit the clamp and that in their new position they do not fowl against the tank etc. and restrict steering movement.

Big Kneed Al (master of the emergency stop & "stand up" comedian).
User avatar
RK6
Would you like a mushroom?
Posts: 1508
Joined: Thu Feb 01, 2007 2:30 pm
Current Ride: Hypermotard SP
Location: Aberdeen

Re: Fitting New Handlebars

Post by RK6 »

rodsquad wrote:Can it just be as simple as fitting the bars to the existing mounts swapping over the levers etc and fitting new grips?
It certainly can be that simple. . .

Should be easy enough if it's the ER-5 :cool

Make sure you buy the right diameter of bars, and that they will still allow reasonable full lock both ways. Other than that, not much can go wrong! :2up
User avatar
al
Mass Debater
Posts: 4768
Joined: Wed Sep 05, 2001 1:00 am
Current Ride: Space Hopper
Location: Uranus
Contact:

Re: Fitting New Handlebars

Post by al »

You will need a centre punch, hammer, drill, and a selection of metal drill bits (drill bits that will drill into metal before someone corrects me).

The controls/switch gear will have at least one "pin" on the inside surface of them to locate them on the bars. Your original bars will have a matching hole for the pin. You will have to locate the correct position for the hole on your new bars and carefully drill it yourself. Use a centre punch to mark the hole and to locate the small drill size you will use for the pilot hole (increase the size of drill bits you use untill you get to the diameter you require).

Big Kneed Al (master of the emergency stop & "stand up" comedian).
Post Reply