Customizing the handlebar setup on your Everyday Motorcycles adventure model can transform your riding experience by enhancing control, comfort, and overall bike handling. Whether you’re navigating challenging off-road trails, enduring long-distance highway stretches, or simply commuting through varied terrain, the handlebars serve as your primary interface with the motorcycle. A tailored handlebar configuration not only improves maneuverability but also reduces rider fatigue and can even add a personalized touch to your bike’s appearance.

Why Customize Your Handlebar Setup?

While factory-installed handlebars are designed to suit a wide range of riders and riding conditions, they often represent a compromise rather than an optimized solution. Customizing your handlebars allows you to fine-tune your motorcycle to fit your unique body dimensions, riding style, and the specific demands of your riding environment. Here are some critical reasons to consider customization:

  • Enhanced Control in Technical Terrain: Adventure riding frequently involves technical maneuvers on rough, uneven surfaces. Custom handlebars with the right width, rise, and bend can provide better leverage and precise steering input, making it easier to navigate obstacles like rocks, roots, and tight switchbacks.
  • Improved Ergonomics to Reduce Fatigue: Long rides can place strain on your wrists, shoulders, and back. Adjusting the handlebar height and angle to match your natural posture helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing discomfort and the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
  • Adaptation to Rider Physique: Riders come in all shapes and sizes. Taller riders may benefit from higher handlebars to prevent hunching, while shorter riders often prefer narrower and lower bars for better reach and control. Customization allows you to tailor the setup for your body.
  • Optimized Positioning for Different Riding Styles: Whether you prefer an aggressive standing posture for off-road sections or a relaxed seated position for highway cruising, your handlebar setup can be adjusted to support these positions comfortably.
  • Personalized Aesthetics: Beyond functionality, custom handlebars can elevate the visual appeal of your adventure bike. From sleek anodized finishes to unique bends and styles, your motorcycle can reflect your personality and taste.

Understanding Different Handlebar Types

Choosing the right handlebar type is foundational to customization. Each style offers distinct advantages suited to various riding needs:

Riser Bars

Riser bars feature a vertical rise from the mounting clamp, raising the grips higher than standard bars. This design is popular among taller riders or those seeking an upright riding posture. The increased height reduces stress on the lower back and improves visibility in traffic.

Tapered Bars

Tapered handlebars have a thicker center section for added strength and thinner ends for reduced weight. Their robust construction makes them suitable for aggressive riding and off-road use where durability is critical. The slight flex in tapered bars can absorb some road vibrations, enhancing comfort.

Bend Bars (or Bend Style Handlebars)

Bend bars come in various shapes, including low, medium, and high bends that affect wrist angle and reach. Choosing the right bend helps maintain a natural wrist position, reducing fatigue and improving control.

Clip-On Handlebars

Though less common on adventure models, some riders prefer clip-on bars for a sportier, lower riding position. However, they generally offer less leverage and comfort for off-road use.

Key Factors to Consider When Customizing Your Handlebars

When modifying your handlebar setup, several important factors must be evaluated to ensure the changes enhance your riding experience without compromising safety or functionality.

Width

The width of your handlebars directly affects your steering leverage and control. Wider bars provide increased leverage, making it easier to steer through rough terrain and maintain balance at low speeds. However, excessively wide bars can be cumbersome on narrow trails or urban environments. A typical width range for adventure motorcycles is between 28 and 36 inches, but personal preference and intended riding conditions should guide your choice.

Rise and Pullback

The rise is the vertical distance the bars lift above the mounting point, while pullback refers to the horizontal distance the bars bend back toward the rider. Higher rise handlebars promote an upright riding posture, which is comfortable for long-distance touring and standing on pegs. Pullback affects wrist angle and reach; more pullback can ease wrist strain but may reduce leverage in technical riding. Balancing these dimensions is key to achieving ergonomic comfort and responsive handling.

Material

Handlebars are commonly made from aluminum or steel, each with pros and cons. Aluminum bars are lightweight, reducing overall bike weight and improving responsiveness. They are also corrosion-resistant but can be less durable under extreme impact. Steel handlebars are heavier but offer superior strength and durability, making them ideal for aggressive off-road riding where impacts are frequent. Some riders opt for reinforced or chromoly steel bars for the best strength-to-weight ratio.

Grip Diameter

The diameter of the handlebar tube at the grip area affects comfort and control. Standard diameters are typically 7/8 inch (22 mm) for the grip area, but some adventure motorcycles use 1-inch (25.4 mm) bars for increased strength. Ensure that your grips and throttle tubes are compatible with your chosen bar diameter to avoid installation issues.

Compatibility with Controls and Cables

Before purchasing new handlebars, verify that your clutch cable, brake lines, throttle cables, and wiring loom lengths are sufficient for the new bar dimensions. Larger risers or wider bars may require longer cables or hydraulic line extensions. Inadequate cable length can lead to restricted steering or premature wear. Some riders use aftermarket longer cables or hydraulic line kits designed for handlebar upgrades.

Grips and Control Placement

Upgrading your grips can dramatically improve comfort and reduce hand fatigue. Consider ergonomic designs, gel padding, or heated grips for cold weather riding. Additionally, repositioning controls such as the clutch lever, brake lever, switches, and mirrors can optimize your hand positioning and accessibility. Adjustable levers allow fine-tuning reach and angle to suit your hands.

Step-by-Step Guide to Customizing Your Handlebar Setup

Embarking on a handlebar customization project requires careful planning and execution. Below is a systematic approach to ensure a successful upgrade:

1. Assess Your Current Setup and Riding Needs

Begin by evaluating your current handlebar configuration. Identify discomfort points, control limitations, or style preferences. Consider the type of riding you mostly do—technical trails, touring, commuting—and your physical stature. Document your ideal handlebar characteristics including preferred width, rise, bend, and material.

2. Research Compatible Options

Explore aftermarket handlebar options specifically designed for your Everyday Motorcycles adventure model. Many manufacturers offer custom bars with detailed specifications. Check forums, reviews, and rider groups for recommendations. Pay attention to bars that come with matching risers or clamps if required.

3. Verify Cable and Control Compatibility

Measure your current cable lengths and check if the new bar dimensions will require longer cables or hydraulic line extensions. Consult your motorcycle’s service manual or a professional mechanic if uncertain. Order any necessary cable extensions or new control components ahead of installation.

4. Choose Quality Grips and Accessories

Select grips that complement your new handlebars and enhance comfort. Consider heated grips if you ride in cold environments. Also, plan the repositioning of levers, mirrors, and switchgear to optimize ergonomics.

5. Prepare Tools and Workspace

Gather necessary tools such as torque wrenches, Allen keys, screwdrivers, and cable lubricants. Work in a clean, well-lit area with enough room to maneuver your motorcycle safely.

6. Remove Existing Handlebar Assembly

Carefully detach the grips, levers, switches, mirrors, and cables from the existing handlebars. Loosen the handlebar clamps and remove the bars. Keep track of all small parts and fasteners.

7. Install New Handlebars and Components

Mount the new handlebars onto the clamps and loosely tighten bolts to allow minor adjustments. Slide on the grips and reposition controls to your desired angles. Ensure cables and wiring are routed without kinks or excessive tension.

8. Adjust and Tighten Everything Securely

Fine-tune the handlebar position while sitting on the bike to confirm comfort and control. Once satisfied, torque all fasteners to the manufacturer’s specifications. Double-check cable slack and steering clearance.

9. Test Ride and Make Final Adjustments

Take your motorcycle for a controlled test ride to evaluate handling, comfort, and control accessibility. Pay attention to any pressure points or restricted steering. Make any necessary adjustments after the ride.

Additional Tips and Considerations

  • Consider Bar Pads and Guards: For added safety during off-road riding, installing handlebar pads or handguards can protect your hands from branches and impacts.
  • Use Quality Fasteners: Replace worn or rusted bolts with stainless steel or high-grade hardware to ensure durability and corrosion resistance.
  • Mind Vibration Dampening: Some handlebars come with internal vibration dampening features or you can add aftermarket bar-end weights to reduce fatigue and numbness.
  • Professional Installation: If you’re unfamiliar with motorcycle mechanics, seek professional assistance. Incorrect installation can lead to dangerous handling issues.
  • Legal and Warranty Implications: Check that your modifications comply with local vehicle regulations and understand how customizations could affect your motorcycle’s warranty.

Several manufacturers specialize in quality handlebars ideal for adventure and dual sport motorcycles. Here are a few reputable brands worth considering:

  • ProTaper — Known for durable tapered bars designed for off-road performance.
  • Renthal — Offers a wide range of bend and riser handlebars favored by professional riders.
  • Trail Tech — Provides ergonomic grip options and accessories tailored for off-road adventure.
  • RG Racing — Specializes in high-quality aluminum handlebars with various bends and rises.
  • Cycra — Known for robust handguards and bars designed for extreme durability.

Case Study: Customizing an Everyday Motorcycles Model for a Rider with Back Pain

Consider a rider who frequently embarks on long-distance adventure tours but suffers from lower back pain and wrist fatigue. The stock handlebars on their Everyday Motorcycles model were too low and narrow, forcing a forward-leaning posture that exacerbated discomfort.

After consultation, the rider chose to install aluminum riser bars with a 2-inch rise and 10-degree pullback to promote a more upright position. Wider bars (34 inches) were selected to increase leverage for off-road sections. Ergonomic gel grips and adjustable brake and clutch levers were added to reduce hand strain.

The result was a marked improvement in comfort and control. The rider reported less fatigue during extended rides and improved confidence when tackling technical terrain. This example underscores how thoughtful handlebar customization can address specific rider needs effectively.

Final Thoughts

Customizing the handlebar setup on your Everyday Motorcycles adventure model is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to tailor your bike to your personal riding preferences and physical requirements. By carefully selecting the right handlebar type, width, rise, material, and accessories, you enhance both control and comfort, making every ride more enjoyable and safer. Remember to consider cable compatibility, ergonomics, and installation quality when undertaking modifications.

Whether you are a weekend trail rider, a long-distance adventurer, or a daily commuter, investing time and effort into optimizing your handlebar setup will pay dividends in rider confidence, reduced fatigue, and overall satisfaction on the road or trail. For those unsure about the process, seeking advice from professional mechanics or custom shops specializing in adventure motorcycles can ensure you achieve the best results without compromising safety.

With the right handlebar configuration, your Everyday Motorcycles adventure bike will be perfectly poised to handle whatever journey lies ahead, offering you superior control, comfort, and a personalized riding experience.