How to Install Cruiser Bicycle Handlebars

It's a sunny day, you have a cruiser bike, and the road is calling your name. But there is a problem. You need to replace your handlebars. Cruiser bike handlebars are closer to the seat than most types of bars and allow the rider to sit up straight while riding. They are easy to install with just a basic knowledge of bike mechanics, and you can be on your way in no time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cruiser handlebars
• Adjustable wrench
• Hex set

Get a good grip on how to install your handle bars.

1. 
    
   Bike stem

   Loosen the bracket on top of the bike stem. The stem is the rod that holds up the handlebars. On top of the stem is a bracket that clamps down and holds the handlebars in place. If the old handlebars are still mounted, then use a regular wrench or a hex wrench to loosen the bolts on the bracket. Most modern bikes will need a hex wrench.

2. Remove the old handlebars. Take off the top of the bracket and remove the handlebars. You'll need to hold the bars with one hand so they don't fall. Set the old handlebars aside.

3. 
    
   Cruiser handle bars

   Insert the new handlebars on the bracket. Be sure to have the top of the bracket ready to immediately place on top of the bars. An extra set of hands comes in handy right about now. Ability to hold the bike still during this process is key to doing this part of the job smoothly. Most people don't have a bike clamp stand so having someone hold the bike for you is very helpful. Use the hex wrench, or Allen wrench as some call it, to tighten down the bolts.

4. Adjust the handle bars. Do not tighten the bolt clamp all the way down. Tighten it just enough to give some resistance then place the bars in the desired position. The best way to adjust is to sit on the cruiser bike seat and hold the bars where they are comfortable then have someone tighten the bolt clamp down to keep them in place.

5. 
    
   Get on your bike and ride

   Go for a ride. Take your bike for a spin and see how the position of the bars feel. Hopefully they are perfect for you but if not, then adjust again until they're just right.

Tips & Warnings

• Some bike stems have a set screw instead of a clamp that holds the bars in place. In that case there isn't a clamp that comes all the way off. The handlebars slide through the hole and the set screw tightens them down. One quick look will tell you which type you have.
• Be sure that the bars are tightened all the way before riding the bike.

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