How to Bend Dirt Bike Handlebars
So you’ve decided that you want to change the reach on your dirt bike? You’re in luck because it’s a pretty easy process with the correct tools. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to bend dirt bike handlebars without ruining them. You only need a heat gun, some vice grips, and a Flathead screwdriver. Let’s get started!
What Is a Dirt Bike Handlebars?
A dirt bike handlebars are specially designed for motocross racing. They are made of lightweight aluminum or steel tubing and have a crossbar for added strength. The bars are usually about 28 inches wide, which gives the rider more leverage when making turns. In addition, the crossbar helps to protect the rider’s chest in case of a fall.
Dirt bike handlebars also have special grips that are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. These grips are usually made of hard rubber or plastic and have a knurled surface to prevent the rider’s hands from slipping.
Why Should You Bend Dirt Bike Handlebars?
You might want to bend the handlebars on your dirt bike for several reasons. For one thing, it can help to improve your riding position, making it easier to control the bike and helping you to avoid fatigue. Additionally, bent handlebars can also provide greater leverage when cornering, making it easier to take tight turns.
Finally, many riders simply prefer how bent handlebars look, and they can give your bike a more aggressive appearance. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to bend your dirt bike’s handlebars is up to personal preference. However, there are several potential benefits that you may want to keep in mind.
7 Steps to Follow on How to Bend Dirt Bike Handlebars
Step 1: Select the Right Bar
There are many different types of dirt bike handlebars available on the market, so it is important to select the right one for your needs. Most handlebars are made from either steel or aluminum, so keep this in mind when making your selection.
Step 2: Measure the Width of the Handlebar
Once you have selected the right handlebar, you will need to measure its width. This is important because you will need to know how much material you will need to remove to make the bend.
Step 3: Make a Mark on the Handlebar at the Desired Bend Point
After you have measured the width of the handlebar, you will need to make a mark at the desired bend point. This will give you a reference point to work from when bending the handlebar.
Step 4: Place the Handlebar in a Vise
Once you have made your mark, you must place the handlebar in a vise. Make sure that the vise jaws are lined up with the marks you made earlier. This will ensure that the handlebar is bent in the correct spot.
Step 5: Begin Bending the Handlebar
Once the handlebar is secured in the vise, you can begin bending it. You will need to apply even pressure to avoid creating any kinks or bends in the wrong spot.
Step 6: Check the Handlebar for Symmetry
After you have finished bending the handlebar, you will need to check it for symmetry. Make sure that both sides of the handlebar are evenly bent before proceeding to the next step.
Step 7: Repeat Steps 4-6 on the Other Side of the Handlebar
Once you have checked the handlebar for symmetry, you will need to repeat steps 4-6 on the other side of the handlebar. This will ensure that both sides of the handlebar are evenly bent.
That’s it! You’ve now learned how to bend dirt bike handlebars. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be able to customize your bike to suit your riding style better.
What You Need to Know Before Bending a Dirt Bike Handlebar
You need to keep a few things in mind before bending your dirt bike’s handlebars. First, you’ll need to check the bike’s owner’s manual to see if there are any specific instructions or warnings about handlebar modifications. Next, you’ll need to remove the bike’s grips and end caps. Once the grips are off, you can start heating the handlebars with a heat gun. The goal is to get the bars hot enough so that they’re pliable but not so hot that they’re actually starting to melt.
Once the bars are heated, you can start bending them to your desired shape. Keep in mind that it’s best to make small adjustments at a time so that you don’t overdo it. Once you’re happy with the shape of the bars, let them cool before putting the grips and end caps back on. With a little bit of careful planning and attention to detail, you can easily customize your dirt bike’s handlebars to suit your riding style better.
The Different Types of Bends You Can Make on Dirt Bike Handlebars
Dirt biking is a thrilling sport that requires both balance and control. To be successful, riders need to be able to make quick adjustments to their body position and weight distribution. One way to do this is by using the handlebars to make bends. Riders can make three main types of bends on their handlebars: outer, middle, and inner. Each type of bend has a different effect on the bike, so riders need to experiment and find the one that works best for them.
Outer bends are made by gripping the handlebars with your hands close together and then turning your wrists outwards. This type of bend keeps the bike stable and is often used when riders need to make sharp turns. Middle bends are made by gripping the handlebars in the middle and turning your wrists inwards.
This type of bend helps riders maintain control when going over rough terrain. Inner bends are made by gripping the handlebars near the end and turning your wrists inwards. Inner bends are often used when riders go downhill because they help keep the front wheel from lifting off the ground.
No matter the bend you use, always ensure that your grip is firm and your wrists are locked. This will help you maintain control of the bike and prevent you from getting thrown off if you hit a bump. Keep reading for more information about how to bend Dirt Bike handlebars.
When Should You Bend Dirt Bike Handlebars?
Dirt bike handlebars should be bent when the rider feels uncomfortable with the stock position. For example, riders often bend the bars back slightly to put them in a more natural position. This allows for more leverage when steering and body positioning while cornering. Other dirt bike riders will bend their handlebars up slightly to give them more room to move around on the bike. Ultimately, it is up to the rider to decide what is most comfortable for them.
If the rider feels like they need to make a change, then they should go ahead and bend the bars accordingly. There is no right or wrong answer regarding dirt bike handlebar positioning. Some riders prefer a more upright position, while others like to be tucked in closer to the bike. It really depends on personal preference and what works best for the individual rider.
Is It Worth Bending Your Dirt Bike Handlebars?
When it comes to dirt bike handlebars, there are a few things to consider before making any changes. One is the width of the bars. Standard bars are usually between 22 and 28 inches wide, but some riders prefer narrower or wider bars depending on their riding style. Another thing to consider is the height of the bars. Taller bars give the rider more leverage, making it easier to steer the bike, while shorter bars may provide more control in tight turns.
Finally, you’ll need to decide on the bend of the bars. There are a variety of bends available, from mild to extreme, so it’s important to choose one that will best suit your riding style. For example, some riders find that bending their dirt bike handlebars gives them better control and a more comfortable ride; others prefer the stock configuration for its stability.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether bending your dirt bike handlebars is worth it. Experiment with different configurations until you find one that works best for you.
How Do You Know When You’ve Bent the Handlebars Enough?
You know you’ve bent the handlebars when you can no longer see the front wheel. This is because the handlebars are now in the way. You will also feel a difference in how the bike handles. It will be harder to turn and may feel unstable. The only way to fix this is to straighten out the handlebars.
This is done using a wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the handlebars. Once they are loose, you can straighten the handlebars and tighten the bolts back up. Be sure to check that the handlebars are level before you ride off. Otherwise, you’ll end up going in circles!
Conclusion
By following the steps above, you can easily bend your dirt bike handlebars to suit your riding style better. This simple process can help improve your control and comfort while riding, so it’s definitely worth taking the time to do it right. Thanks for reading our post about how to bend Dirt Bike handlebars. Be sure to double-check all of your work before heading out on the trails, and enjoy the ride!
Darren Matlock
Hi, I'm Darren. I love dirt bikes and everything about the off-road lifestyle. I'm passionate about motorbikes, cars, racing sports and going on adventures. If you're like me and enjoy extreme sports, you've come to the right place! I like to write articles about dirt bikes to help beginners get started. Whether you're interested in buying a dirt bike, ATV, motorcycle or want to ride for hobby, I hope my articles will inspire you to learn more about how this machine can be used to ride.
