Handlebars are undoubtedly one of the most critical components of a motorcycle. They are not only essential to the bike’s ergonomics, but they also add style to the bike. Getting the right set of motorcycle handlebars will improve the ride’s comfort and how well an individual rides the bike. People that want to customize their handlebars must get the correct information on how to measure motorcycle handlebars.
There are simple ways to measure a motorcycle handlebar. One can use a caliper or use a simple measuring tape. They’d have to wrap around the bar when they want to attach the Oi to get the circumference size. The biker can divide the circumference size and divide it by pi. This article will provide readers with the necessary information on measuring motorcycle handlebars.
Types Of Motorcycle Handlebars
Various motorcycle handlebars in the market will suit each person’s style. Choosing the right motorcycle handlebar will improve the bike’s outlook and help the biker maintain a good riding posture.
1. Ape-Hangers
Ape-Hangers have 12 to 16 inches and are mostly found on choppers. Ape-Hanger handlebars require the motorcyclist to keep their hands at shoulder level. However, people must double-check their brakes, clutch, and other mounted components on the handlebar.
2. Beach Bars
Beach Bars are similar to Ape-Hangers. The only difference is that the beach-bar curves backward to the rider. This position allows the hands of the bar to be in a much more relaxed position.
3. Clip-on Bars
Clip-on handlebars are attached to the front forks of the motorcycle. They are fitted either below or above the bike’s triple tree, making them more accessible for the biker to adjust. Clip-on bars are mounted on the triple tree, which makes them adjustable. They are found on a sports bike and are unsuitable for long rides because the rider will need to lean forward when using the handlebar.
4. Clubman Bars
Clubman Bars is a one-piece handlebar mounted on the triple tree of the motorcycle. The handlebar leans forward while the ends angle backward. Clubman handler bars allow the biker to sit in a low crouched position while leaning forward.
5. Drag Bars
Drag Bars are excellent one-piece handlebars. Their structures are straight with a backward bend. The form of drag bars will cause the rider to lean forward. The bike’s system becomes more aerodynamic due to this. Drag bars are found in most racing motorcycles.
6. Motorcross Bars
Motorcross bars have a recognizable cross-brace in the middle of the handles. They are straight, one-piece handlebars with a slight curve in the middle. Motorcross handlebars are found on off-road and dual-sports motorcycles.
7. Z-Bars
Z-Bars are rightly named after the shape they look like, which is Z. They are found on little motorcycles and are angular and broad. Z-Bars are popular amongst custom bikes.
How To Measure Motorcycle Handlebars?
There are six primary motorcycle measurements, and the dimensions are used across all brands of motorcycles. The following paragraphs will explain how to measure motorcycle handlebars.
Diameter
Most handlebars have a diameter of 1″. However, some older metric bike’s have a diameter of ⅞. 1″, which has since 1990 become standard on most bikes. There are diameter handlebars thicker than the 1″, such as the one ¼.” It is important to note that 1 ¼” has a 1″ clamping area. This is so one can use risers made for 1″.
Width
This dimension is the measurement of the total width of the handlebars at the widest point from end to end where the grips have been installed. People need to choose a handlebar that matches the shoulder width for a comfortable ride. Depending on the style of the motorcycle, the width may vary. A large vintage motorcycle may have wider handlebars than a skinny chopper.
The Center Width
The center width is the distance between the curved area of the bar, while the overall width is the total width of the bar, with the center width included. This measurement is a significant factor in determining comfort in a bike. Therefore, one needs to make sure that the overall width matches your shoulder, or else this might give the rider a posture and numb the hands. The center width is measured using a meter rule or a measuring tape.
Rise
Rise is the most common measurement that people refer to when discussing handlebars. Rise is measured from the bottom of the handlebar to the top where the biker’s handgrips.
Pullback
One can measure a pullback by measuring a straight line across the front of the handlebars. The line can then be calculated from the line to the tip of the handlebar. The pullback is significant for riders that have short stature.
Riser spacing width
Another motorcycle handlebar measurement to take note of is riser spacing width. It is the measurement where the bars clamp onto the motorcycle. It is also measured with the meter rule.
How To Choose Handlebars For A Motorcycle?
There are a few factors to consider when one is choosing a handlebar. The first thing to check is the bike’s diameter. Sports bikes have 22mm bars, and Japanese cruisers have 25mm. If one chooses the wrong size, the grips and risers won’t fit. Below are some of the ways one can select a handlebar.
- Height of the rider: The rider’s height is an essential consideration when choosing a motorcycle handlebar. Tall handlebars, such as the ape bar, may not suit shorter people.
- Age of the rider: Old age may come with back problems and slight posture changes to the senior. If one is buying a handlebar for an older person, a handlebar that curves forward may be the best bet, as it would reduce the strain of having to lean on for the older adult.
- By region: Some places find bars just like the ape-bar illegal because of their structure. So, before one invests in their motorcycle handlebar, it is essential to ask for the local laws that guide motorcycle handlebar modifications.
- Health: If the rider has a health disorder that has to do with the spine or vertebral column, handlebars such as motocross bars will be suited well for them. Motorcross bars are straight with only a slight curve in the middle.
Conclusion
Knowing how to measure motorcycle handlebars is essential, especially for people who like to customize their handlebars. Depending on the style preferences of the motorcyclist, handlebars such as beach bars, ape-hangers, and drag bars are available choices for motorcyclists. This article has provided readers with adequate information on the various types and dimensions of motorcycle handlebars.
