Motorcycle Control: A Guide to Replacing Handlebar Grips for Adventure Touring
For adventure motorcyclists tackling long-distance routes—from the rugged Outback of Australia to the winding mountain passes of the Rockies—maintaining a secure point of contact with the bike is paramount. Handlebar grips are not just about comfort; they are a critical safety component that absorbs vibrations and ensures precise throttle and brake control. Worn-out grips can lead to hand fatigue and "arm pump," significantly increasing the risk of accidents on technical terrain.
| Adventure Moto: Grip Maintenance Facts | |
|---|---|
| Critical Function | Vibration damping and throttle precision. |
| Replacement Signs | Sticky texture, smoothed tread, or visible tears. |
| Terrain Impact | Off-road dust and moisture accelerate wear. |
| Installation Goal | Zero-slip adhesion to the throttle tube and bar. |
1. Why Grip Integrity Matters on Extreme Routes
On long-haul motorbike journeys, engine vibrations (especially on single or twin-cylinder adventure bikes) can cause numbness in the rider's hands. Quality grips act as a primary dampener. If your grips have become smoothed or "slick" due to weather exposure, your ability to modulate the throttle on gravel or loose sand is compromised. Refreshing your grips is a simple DIY task that restores the ergonomic safety of your cockpit.
2. Removing Weather-Hardened Grips
Adventure bikes exposed to the Australian sun or harsh mountain environments often end up with grips that are practically fused to the bars. To remove them, first remove any bar-end weights or handguards. If the grips aren't the "lock-on" type, you can carefully slice them with a utility knife (avoiding the plastic throttle tube) or use compressed air to break the adhesive bond. For stubborn rubber, a heat gun can help soften the material for easier removal.
3. Preparing the Bars for Optimal Adhesion
Once the old rubber is removed, the surface of the handlebars and the throttle tube must be meticulously cleaned. Any residue of old grip glue or dirt will prevent the new grips from adhering correctly. Use isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag to ensure the surface is de-greased. A clean base is the only way to prevent the dangerous "throttle slip" that can occur in wet or high-temperature conditions.
4. Technical Installation Steps
When installing new grips, many riders use specialized grip glue or hairspray as a lubricant that later sets as an adhesive. Step-by-step: Apply a small amount of lubricant inside the grip and on the bar. Slide the grip on with a steady motion. If you are installing heated grips—highly recommended for high-altitude touring—ensure the wiring harness is positioned to allow full throttle rotation without binding or pulling on the wires.
5. Securing for Off-Road Reliability
For bikes that see heavy off-road use, safety-wiring the grips is a common practice among professional riders. This involves wrapping a thin stainless steel wire around the grip in two or three places and twisting it tight. This ensures that even if water or mud gets under the grip, it will not rotate or slip off the bar during an emergency maneuver.
Maintaining your motorcycle's controls is a vital part of trip preparation. With fresh grips installed, you’re ready to tackle Australia’s diverse landscapes or any of the world's most challenging roads with improved comfort and total control.
Pic: https://blygo.com.au/product-category/handle-bar-control-cable/hand-grips/