measuring motorcycle handlebars

Measuring Motorcycle Handlebars A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to customizing or maintaining a motorcycle, one of the most critical components to consider is the handlebars. Handlebars significantly influence the overall riding experience, from comfort to control. Proper measurement of motorcycle handlebars is essential if you're looking to replace or upgrade them. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you choose the right size and style for your bike.

Understanding Handlebar Measurements

Before diving into the specifics of measuring handlebars, it's essential to know the components that need measurement. Primarily, you will focus on three key measurements width, rise, and pullback.

1. Width This measurement is taken from the end of one handlebar to the end of the other. Handlebar width significantly affects your control over the motorcycle. Wider handlebars provide more leverage and can improve handling, particularly in off-road conditions, while narrower ones can allow for a more agile maneuverability in urban environments.

2. Rise The rise of handlebars refers to how high the handlebars sit in relation to the motorcycle’s triple tree (the part of the motorcycle’s frame that holds the fork tubes). This measurement is usually taken vertically from the mounting point to the highest point of the handlebars. The rise impacts your riding position and comfort; higher handlebars create a more relaxed, upright stance, while lower ones may lean you forward into a sportier riding position.

3. Pullback Pullback is the distance that the handlebars extend back towards you. This measurement affects your reach and comfort. Too much pullback can put unnecessary strain on your arms and shoulders, while too little can create a tight and uncomfortable riding posture.

Tools Required for Measurement

- Tape Measure A flexible measuring tape works best for getting around curves and angles. - Level or Carpenter's Square This is useful for ensuring that your measurements are straight and true, especially when measuring rise. - Marker To mark any critical points during the measuring process.

The Measuring Process

Here’s a step-by-step method to measure your motorcycle handlebars correctly

1. Preparation Start by securing your motorcycle on a stable surface. It’s best to have the bike upright to get accurate measurements. 2. Measure the Width Use the tape measure to determine the total width of the handlebars from end to end. Ensure you are measuring parallel to the ground for accuracy.

3. Measure the Rise With the help of a level, measure from the mounting point on the triple tree straight up to the highest point of the handlebars. Make sure the level is completely vertical to avoid discrepancies.

4. Measure the Pullback Measure from the mounting point straight back to the point where the handlebars are furthest extended towards you. Again, ensure the measurement is accurate by keeping the tape straight.

Conclusion

Understanding how to measure motorcycle handlebars is not just a technical task; it is a vital part of ensuring a comfortable and safe riding experience. Whether you're upgrading for better aesthetics or seeking improvement in control and comfort, accurate measurements will guide you in choosing the right set of handlebars. By following these steps, you equip yourself with the knowledge necessary to enhance your motorcycle's ergonomics and performance. Take the time to measure correctly, and you will reap the benefits each time you ride your motorcycle down the open road.