When you get on your motorcycle, it's not just to get from point A to point B, but you mainly rely on the feeling that the ride gives you. From the sound of the engine to the air hitting you. But what is at the center of this experience is that you control your motorcycle. However, this sensation is immediately affected as soon as your handlebars encounter problems. The condition of your handlebars is necessary in the safety of your motorcycle. It is important that it therefore remains straight in line with the wheel of your vehicle. Without this alignment, your brain will be unable to discern the direction of your motorcycle, you could lose your balance, and therefore have an accident. It is therefore necessary to find a solution to how to straighten the handlebars of a motorcycle. It is this solution that we are offering in this article. We explain what can cause your handlebars to twist, and we offer you some tips and advice on straightening it.
Motorcycles - general information
Do not hesitate to consult our guide on motorcycles to learn about the different types of motorcycles that exist, the characteristics of each and buying advice if you want to replace your motorcycle.
How can a handlebar twist?
First of all, be aware that in many cases the handlebars are not actually twisted and therefore there is no need to straighten them. In some cases, this feeling is just a psychological illusion. To be sure, walk a meter, turn the handlebars to the left and measure the distance between the reservoir and the end of the left handlebar. Do the same with the right end of the handlebar by turning it to the right. Then compare the 2 measurements. If the 2 digits have the same value, then your handlebars are not twisted, otherwise, it will have to be straightened. There are different factors that could have caused the handlebars to twist. For example, you have to pay attention to the wear and tear of the vehicle. Indeed, after several km and several years of use, various parts begin to fail. But the best known cause is of course an accident. While traveling at high speed, if your motorcycle hits an object, the power of the shock can easily twist parts of the vehicle, such as the handlebars. But then, is it possible to repair a bent handlebar, or does it have to be changed?
Can a bent handlebar be repaired?
When you notice that your handlebars are bent, it is possible to straighten it, but only if it is slightly bent. Otherwise, it is better to change the handlebars to avoid breaking another part when trying to straighten it. You should also know that when you notice a slight twist in your handlebars, you must check that the problem comes from the handlebars and not from the fork. If the fork is affected, you will notice oil flowing all the way down the tube. It is important to distinguish between the two situations since each one needs a precise repair technique.
What to do with a bent handlebar?
Before doing anything, you have to check the nature of this twist. Indeed, in some cases, the handlebars are not twisted, but simply moved at the level of the fixing brackets. If so, straighten it up and put the handlebars back online before tightening everything up. If you are sure that the twist is at the handlebars, then you can try straightening it out. Start by securing your motorcycle by putting it on its center stand, on a workshop stand, or by tying it to a tree or other solid structure. You can also get help from someone who will keep the motorcycle upright by sitting on it, for example. Keep the handlebars straight and perpendicular to the frame of the beast. Measure the distance between the left trigger guard and the frame, and then with the right trigger guard. We recommend that you slightly loosen the triple clamps pinch bolts. But you should not unscrew them completely. The principle is to leave a little space for the guide to be able to stand up. Next, chock the wheel with a piece of wood or with your legs, then straighten your handlebars slightly with your hands. After a few tries, your handlebars should become straight again. If it is too hard, it is possible to heat it a little with a torch. However, this technique will ruin your painting.
Motorcycle handlebars on Amazon
What to do with a crooked fork?
The problems with the fork are more apparent. Indeed, at its most fragile parts, when a fork is subjected to pressure, like the shock of an accident, it bends. When this happens, you may see some oil dripping all the way down the tube. If you notice that there are no kinks or cracks, this is already a good sign. This means that you can, like with the handlebars, straighten it out by chocking the motorcycle and applying light pressure.
The products recommended in this article
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The fork protector is easy to install and is made of durable aircraft grade dry carbon fiber.
