Handlebar swap

Discussion in 'Mechanics Garage' started by ESAK HADLEY, Mar 3, 2019.

  1. ESAK HADLEY

    ESAK HADLEY New Member

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    For those wanting to change their handlebars on a VFR, please take a few minutes and read this. It might help.

    I bought a new handlebar setup for my VFR, not a clip-on setup like most aftermarket companies sell. This is actual 7/8” handlebars that use the same mounting location as the OEM clip-ons. Before anything else, I took some measurements and gathered tools.

    When done, the new setup measured about 2.5” up and 2” back over the OEM clip-ons, which matches the manufacturers’ claims (below). This puts less weight/stress on the wrists, as the riding position is more upright. When using proper riding technique – tight core and squeeze with your knees – this new riding position also slightly lessens stress on the lower back, as well. All of this together equals a more pleasurable riding experience (according to my body, so far).

    The same OEM hoses and cables are used – nothing changes there. (see below or go to their website and read it there)

    For proper lever/master cylinder placement after installation, small tabs on bottom of master cylinders must be cut off (where it contacts top of fork leg). I used my Dremel with a cutting disc, and it worked great."Proper placement" is what each rider prefers, so rotate according to your desire.

    New bar ends will be needed with this new setup, if desired. The OEM bar end weights will not work. I do not know what size you need, because I have not bought anything yet!! 13mm maybe?! To play it safe, buy something that offers two different size inserts. I found some on www.CycleGear.com but have not bought any yet. The small amount of vibration has not been an issue for me.

    If you have all the tools, the job takes about one hour.

    Tools needed – Phillips screwdriver; 8mm & 12mm socket (plus ratchet); long, thin flat screwdriver (or similar tool – to slide under & remove grips); Allen wrench (to remove bar ends); H6 bit drive & driver (to install new handlebars); clean shop towels


    Manufacturer website & quote

    https://japan.webike.net/

    “It is possible to mount STD Cable/Hose -- Handlebar Switch Hole Drilled -- Position 60mm Up/50mm Back“

    Item I purchased for my 2000 VFR 5th Gen:

    https://japan.webike.net/products/2076546.html


    There are 6th & 8th Gen products available.

    Some other nice options and/or advantages of 7/8” handlebars over OEM clip-ons:

    -Different handlebars can be used later, if desired. Different hoses/cables typically needed for these other bars (usually sold as a kit). Check the website link above for some options.

    -GoPro-style action cameras have accessory mounts for 7/8” handlebars (mine does)

    -Open handlebar areas allow for other accessories to be mounted, as desired (phone, GPS, etc)


    For me, this product was pretty easy to install and wonderful to use. My shakedown run was 2hrs long. No stops, 40 degrees, and windy the whole time. It was great!!

    **Several rides later… I am loving the riding position more and more as I go. Two thumbs up!!


    Total cost – less than $200

    Total time – less than one hour

    Non-stop grin while riding– priceless



    Installation details included below. I hope this helps some.
    Refer to pictures for reference on positioning of parts/pieces.


    REMOVAL

    # 1 – Prepare work area, gather all tools, put bike on center stand.

    # 2 – Remove bar ends and grips.

    # 3 – Remove switches & levers.

    # 4 – Remove retaining clip from groove at top of fork leg.

    # 5 – Loosen 12mm pinch bolt on each OEM clip-on, then remove clip-on. Repeat for other side.


    REPLACEMENT – (** Do not tighten all the way until everything is together. **)

    #1 – Install both fork leg mounting plates. Slide down to triple tree clamp & position correctly.

    #2 – Install throttle tube to handlebars before mounting to bike. Using top clamps & bolts, mount b IMG_20190210_104832342.jpg IMG_20190210_113355510.jpg IMG_20190210_114145345.jpg IMG_20190210_114215990.jpg IMG_20190210_125359166.jpg IMG_20190210_111923174.jpg IMG_20190210_104832342.jpg IMG_20190210_113355510.jpg IMG_20190210_114145345.jpg IMG_20190210_114215990.jpg IMG_20190210_125359166.jpg IMG_20190210_111923174.jpg ars to bike.

    #3 – Install switches, levers, retaining clips, grips, & bar ends.

    #4 – Tighten everything. Tighten it again.

    #5 – Go ride.
     
  2. ESAK HADLEY

    ESAK HADLEY New Member

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    How in the world... did my pictures get put in halfway through my storyline... ?! WTF, over?!
     
  3. Billy Jack

    Billy Jack New Member

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    Thanks for your post on the Hurricane handlebar with the great photos. I’ve been riding my 6th gen with the stock bars for over a decade now and I’m ready to try the Hurricane set up. Been thinking about it for years, looked at the gen mars, Heli risers and lsl but the hurricane looks like the best way to get what I want. The price has gone up since the original post but it looks to be worth it.
     

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