Have you ever felt your hands slipping on your Harley’s grips during a ride? It’s a common annoyance that can take away from your biking experience. Changing your grips can not only improve comfort but also add a personal touch to your ride.
In this article, you’ll learn how to easily swap out your old grips for new ones. Whether you’re looking for better traction or simply want to refresh the look of your bike, we’ve got you covered. With just a few tools and some straightforward steps, you’ll be back on the road in no time, enjoying the ride with a grip that feels just right.
Key Takeaways
- Importance of Grip Replacement: Changing grips can enhance comfort and prevent slipping, improving your overall riding experience on a Harley Davidson.
- Essential Tools: Key tools for grip replacement include an Allen wrench set, screwdriver, grip removal tool, heat source, and adhesive, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
- Step-by-Step Process: Proper steps involve warming the old grips, removing them without damage, cleaning the handlebars, and correctly installing new grips for optimal performance.
- Material Matters: Choose grips based on material preferences—rubber, foam, gel, leather, or plastic—as each offers distinct advantages for comfort and control during rides.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Be mindful of applying too much adhesive and ensure correct alignment of the new grips to prevent handling issues and ensure a comfortable grip.
- Personal Preference: Select grips based on diameter and thickness to match your hand size and style, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable riding experience.
Tools Needed For The Job
You’ll need a few essential tools to successfully change grips on your Harley Davidson. Having these tools on hand simplifies the process and ensures a smooth grip replacement.
Essential Tools
- Allen Wrench Set: Fits the screws for the grip mounts.
- Screwdriver: A flat-head or Phillips head screwdriver helps with removing screws and covers.
- Grip Removal Tool: Eases the process of taking off old grips without damage.
- Cleaning Supplies: Rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth ensure a clean surface for the new grips.
- Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: Softens adhesives for easier grip removal.
- Torque Wrench: Ensures bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Electrical Tape: Provides extra grip if the new grips are slightly loose.
Step-By-Step Guide
Changing grips on your Harley Davidson enhances comfort and style. Follow these steps for a smooth process.
Removing Old Grips
- Gather Tools: Ensure you have all essential tools ready, including the grip removal tool, heat gun or hair dryer, Allen wrench, and screwdriver.
- Warm the Old Grips: Use the heat gun or hair dryer to warm the grips. Heat softens the adhesive, making removal easier.
- Pry Off the Grips: Insert the grip removal tool under the grip. Gently pry it off, working your way around until it slides off completely.
- Clean the Handlebar: Use a clean cloth and appropriate cleaning supplies to remove any residue left from the old grips. A clean surface ensures better adhesion for the new grips.
- Choose the Right Grips: Select grips compatible with your Harley model for a proper fit.
- Apply Adhesive: If needed, apply grip adhesive to the inside of the new grips. This adhesive enhances grip stability.
- Position the New Grips: Slide the new grips onto the handlebars. Ensure they’re positioned correctly and aligned with your controls.
- Secure with Electrical Tape: Use electrical tape around the ends of the grips to prevent any movement. This step adds extra security.
- Torque the Clamps: Reinstall any clamps or bolts that secure the grips. Use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications for safety.
With these steps, you can change your grips efficiently and enjoy the upgraded feel on your Harley.
Tips For Choosing The Right Grips
Choosing the right grips for your Harley Davidson enhances comfort and control during rides. Consider the following factors when selecting grips.
Material Considerations
- Rubber Grips: Rubber is popular for its softness and shock absorption. It provides excellent traction, especially during rainy conditions.
- Foam Grips: Foam grips offer lightweight cushioning. They can decrease vibrations, making long rides more enjoyable.
- Gel Grips: Gel grips conform to the hand, providing a comfortable fit. They can reduce hand fatigue on longer journeys.
- Leather Grips: Leather provides a classic look and comfort. It typically offers good grip but might need maintenance to keep it looking good.
- Plastic Grips: Durable and low-maintenance, plastic grips can be molded into various shapes and styles, but they might not offer the same comfort level as softer materials.
- Diameter: Measure the diameter of your handlebars. Choose grips that fit snugly without being too tight or loose. A correct fit ensures better control and comfort.
- Thickness: Thicker grips can fill the hand better, reducing the chances of fatigue. However, thinner grips provide more sensitivity, allowing for more precise handling.
- Personal Preference: Test various sizes before purchasing. Comfort and grip preference can vary with hand size. Your choice should feel natural, as this impacts ride quality.
Make your selection based on these considerations for a comfortable and personalized experience on your Harley Davidson.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Changing grips on your Harley Davidson can enhance your riding experience, but certain mistakes can lead to issues down the line. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.
Over-Application of Adhesive
Using too much adhesive can create unnecessary complications. Excess glue can ooze out when you install the grips, making a mess and potentially affecting their performance. Apply adhesive sparingly to ensure a neat finish. A thin, even layer on both the grip and the handlebar provides sufficient bonding without the clutter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adhesive recommendations for your grips.
Incorrect Grip Alignment
Alignment of your new grips is crucial for comfort and control. Misaligned grips can lead to uncomfortable handling and uneven pressure on your hands, resulting in fatigue. When installing, ensure the grips are straight and positioned correctly. Hold the handlebars level and check alignment from different angles. Adjust as necessary before the adhesive sets. Taking the time to align properly leads to a better riding experience with improved handling.
Conclusion
Changing grips on your Harley Davidson can make a world of difference in your riding experience. It’s not just about looks; it’s about comfort and control too. By following the right steps and avoiding common pitfalls you can ensure a smooth installation.
Take your time when selecting grips that suit your style and needs. Whether you prefer rubber or leather the right choice will enhance your ride. Enjoy the process and ride safely knowing you’ve customized your bike just the way you like it. Happy riding!
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to replace Harley grips?
To replace Harley grips, you will typically need a pair of new grips, a screwdriver or Allen wrench, adhesive (if required), a utility knife, and cleaning supplies like rubbing alcohol. Having these tools handy will help streamline the process.
How do I remove old Harley grips?
To remove old Harley grips, first, use a utility knife to cut through the grips’ material carefully. Then, twist and pull the grip off the handlebar. Clean the handlebar surface with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue before installing new grips.
How do I apply adhesive to new grips?
When applying adhesive to new grips, use a thin, even layer on both the grip’s interior and the handlebar. This ensures a secure fit without excessive adhesive oozing out when the grip is positioned.
What should I consider when choosing new grips?
Consider materials like rubber, foam, gel, leather, or plastic for comfort and durability. Diameter and thickness should align with your hand size and riding style. Personal preference plays a crucial role in the overall feel of the grips.
What are common mistakes to avoid when changing grips?
Avoid over-applying adhesive, as it can lead to messy handling and discomfort. Also, make sure to align the grips correctly; improper alignment can affect control and comfort while riding.
How can proper grip alignment improve my ride?
Proper grip alignment enhances comfort and control over the motorcycle, resulting in a better riding experience. It allows for more precise handling, which can improve safety and overall maneuverability on the road.
