Ever found yourself shivering on a chilly ride, wishing you could feel your fingers again? You’re not alone. Many Harley touring enthusiasts face the same struggle when the temperature drops. Heated grips can be a game changer, keeping your hands warm and comfortable so you can enjoy every mile.
Key Takeaways
- Essential Tools: Gather the necessary tools including screwdrivers, wrenches, wire cutters, and a heat gun to streamline the installation of heated grips on your Harley touring bike.
- Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the battery and wear protective gear like gloves and goggles during installation to ensure safety and prevent electrical shorts.
- Grip Removal Process: Carefully remove existing grips by unscrewing them, ensuring not to damage the throttle, and clean the handlebars for optimal adhesion of new grips.
- Proper Wiring Connection: Connect the heated grips to the motorcycle’s wiring harness, ensuring secure positive and negative connections and protecting wires with electrical tape.
- Testing Functionality: After installation, test the heated grips for warmth and secure attachment, both with the ignition on and during a short ride to confirm performance.
- Monitoring Performance: Keep track of the heated grips’ operation over subsequent rides to ensure they continue to provide warmth and comfort as expected.
Tools And Materials Needed
To install heated grips on your Harley touring bike, gather the following tools and materials. Each item plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth installation process.
Tools Needed
- Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers assist in removing and securing screws.
- Wrenches: A set of metric wrenches helps with any nut adjustments on the grips.
- Wire Cutters/Strippers: Essential for cutting and stripping wires during the installation of heated grips.
- Heat Gun: Useful for softening adhesive and ensuring proper grip installation.
- Multimeter: Helps check electrical connections and ensure proper function.
- Heated Grip Kit: Choose a kit designed for your Harley model; it typically includes grips, wiring, and a switch.
- Electrical Tape: Use for securing wire connections and preventing shorts.
- Connectors: Get heat-shrink connectors to ensure waterproof and secure connections.
- Loctite: This threadlocker prevents screws from loosening due to vibrations.
- Clean Cloth: Essential for wiping surfaces before starting the installation process.
With these tools and materials on hand, you’ll significantly streamline your heated grip installation on your Harley touring bike.
Preparing Your Harley Touring
Preparing your Harley Touring for heated grips installation involves a few essential steps. Following these steps ensures a smooth process and helps maintain safety while working on your motorcycle.
Safety Precautions
Safety always comes first. Wear safety gloves and goggles to protect against dirt and debris. Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical shorts or shocks. If the bike has ABS, consult the owner’s manual for specific precautions related to your model. Working in a well-lit, organized area helps ensure all tools and materials are easily accessible.
Removing Existing Grips
Removing the existing grips is straightforward.
- Locate the Screws: Find the screws securing the old grips to the handlebars.
- Unscrew and Remove: Use the appropriate screwdriver to unscrew and gently pull the grips off, taking care not to damage the throttle or handlebar.
- Clean the Surface: Clean the handlebar surface with a cloth to remove residue. This ensures the new grips adhere properly.
With these steps, you’re ready to install the new heated grips.
Installing The Heated Grips
Installing heated grips on your Harley Touring enhances your riding experience during colder months. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful installation.
Connecting Wiring
- Locate the wiring harness for the heated grips. You’ll find it usually tucked under the fairing or near the handlebars.
- Connect the positive wire from the heated grips to the positive terminal on the harness. Ensure a secure fit for optimal performance.
- Connect the negative wire from the heated grips to the negative terminal on the harness. This connection is crucial for the heated grips to function correctly.
- Wrap any exposed wiring with electrical tape to prevent short circuits. Make sure no wires are pinched or stressed during reassembly.
- Align the grips with the handlebars. Ensure they fit snugly without any gaps.
- Tighten the screws on the grip’s clamps firmly but not excessively to avoid damaging the grips.
- Reconnect the battery. Double-check that all connections are secure before powering on.
- Test the heated grips by turning on the ignition and activating the heat settings. Verify they heat up properly at various settings.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy warmth and comfort on your rides, making long trips more enjoyable regardless of the weather.
Testing Your Installation
After installing heated grips on your Harley touring bike, testing their functionality ensures everything works as intended. Follow these steps for proper testing:
- Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect your bike’s battery. Ensure terminals are tightened for a secure connection. - Power On the Ignition
Turn the ignition key to the ‘on’ position without starting the engine. This activates the electrical system. - Activate the Heated Grips
Locate the switch or control for the heated grips. Turn it on and select the desired heat setting. Most heated grips offer multiple levels of warmth. - Check for Heat
After a short moment, check for warmth in the grips. Feel the grips with both hands to confirm even heating. - Inspect for Proper Installation
While testing, inspect the grips for any movement or looseness. Ensure they remain securely attached to the handlebars. - Test During a Ride
Take a short ride to verify functionality in real conditions. Pay attention to comfort levels and any unusual sensations while gripping the handlebars. - Monitor Operation Over Time
After installation, monitor the heated grips during multiple rides. Make adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal comfort.
By following these steps, you confirm that the heated grips are working correctly, enhancing your riding experience in colder weather.
Conclusion
Installing heated grips on your Harley touring bike can make those chilly rides much more enjoyable. You’ve taken the time to gather the right tools and follow the steps carefully. Now that you’ve tested everything and ensured your grips are working properly you’re ready to hit the road in comfort.
Remember to keep an eye on the grips during your rides to make sure they continue to perform well. With your new heated grips you can embrace the open road no matter the weather. Enjoy the ride and stay warm out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are heated grips and why do I need them for my Harley touring bike?
Heated grips are motorcycle handlebars with built-in heating elements. They provide extra warmth during cold rides, improving comfort and control. This can be especially beneficial for Harley touring enthusiasts who ride in chilly conditions.
How do I prepare my Harley touring bike for heated grips installation?
Before installation, ensure your bike is in a well-lit area. Disconnect the battery, wear safety gloves and goggles, and gather all necessary tools and materials. This will promote safety and protect your bike during the installation process.
What tools and materials do I need to install heated grips?
You’ll need a few basic tools, including a screwdriver, wire cutters, electrical tape, and possibly a heat gun. Additionally, ensure you have the heated grips kit specific to your Harley touring model for a successful installation.
How do I remove the existing grips on my Harley?
To remove existing grips, locate and unscrew any screws holding them in place. Carefully pull the grips off the handlebars and clean the surface to prepare for the new heated grips installation.
What is the installation process for heated grips?
The installation process involves connecting the wiring of the new grips to the bike’s electrical system, aligning the grips properly on the handlebars, and securing them. After that, ensure all connections are tight and in place.
How do I test if my heated grips are working properly?
After installing the heated grips, reconnect the battery and power on the ignition. Activate the heated grips and check for warmth. Additionally, take your bike for a ride to ensure they maintain functionality and provide the desired heat.
