Handlebars, Levers and Grips for Motorcycles: How to Buy Without Mistakes
Handlebar diameter is the first thing to know
Motorcycle handlebars come with a 22 mm tube (the classic size) or 28.6 mm (fatbar). The levers, grips, switches and even the brackets depend on the diameter. So measure the tube or check the documentation. The bend and the height matter separately: they decide your riding position. For enduro it is one shape, for a cruiser another.
Levers, grips and switches
Clutch and brake levers are sold as left and right, and on some motorcycles they are hydraulic, on others cable-operated. These are different parts even for the same brand. For grips the length, diameter and throttle type matter. Switch blocks on the left and right differ in the number of buttons and connectors. Replace them with an original or an aftermarket one with the same wiring.
What to put in your request
- which part — handlebar, grips, clutch or brake lever, throttle grip, switch block, risers;
- bike model — for example KTM 250 EXC;
- handlebar diameter — 22 mm or 28 mm fatbar, bend or height;
- side — left, right or a pair;
- colour — for example black anodised;
- original or aftermarket — for example Renthal;
- condition — new, or used in working order;
- delivery city and budget.
Example: “I need a 28 mm fatbar handlebar for a KTM 250 EXC, black, Renthal or an aftermarket one of the same quality, with grips if possible as a set. New. Delivery to Vancouver, budget up to $67.”
What to look at in offers
- Material: aluminium is usually lighter and stronger than steel, but in a fall it can bend differently.
- Whether the handlebar has a crossbar or not: this affects compatibility.
- For a used handlebar: signs of bending, cracks near the mounts, the results of falls.
- For levers: whether the pivots and sliders are intact, and there is no play.
A bent handlebar is better not straightened or fitted: it is weakened. So take a used one only with clear photos and a guarantee that the part is straight. For motocross and enduro bikes also check whether the handlebar has a crossbar and whether the height and bend match your riding position: this decides how comfortable it is to stand on the footpegs.
It is faster through BlaBlaPrice
You describe the motorcycle and the part you need in one request, and sellers reply in the chat with price, condition and delivery. They see where their offer stands and often improve their terms. The site shows the best-value one first, with reviews of the seller beside it. Contacts are hidden until you choose a seller. More in “How it works”.
Changing the handlebar often needs longer cables and hoses, so measure them in advance. And if you are already updating your riding position, also look at the stands and pedals section: it is convenient to change the ergonomics all at once.
