How to Install Handlebar Risers on a Motorcycle

Motorcycle handlebar risers mount the handlebars to the triple-clamp. Risers come in a variety of shapes and heights. Changing the handlebar risers can dramatically change the feel of the handlebars and the amount of control the rider has over the front end. Clearance issues, such as big fuel tanks and instrument consoles, may be addressed by changing risers as well as comfort issues. Switching from buckhorn or pullback type handlebars to drag bars, for instance, will require a much different riser in order to mount the bars properly.

Things You'll Need

• Shop rags
• Blue Loctite
• Ratchet
• Socket
• 1/2-inch torque wrench

Instructions

1. Cover the fuel tank(s) with clean shop rags to protect the finish. Insert the upper riser mount into its recess on top of the triple-clamp. Insert the riser bolts through the riser from the top, down into the hole in the riser mount. Slip the lower riser mount onto the riser bolt under the top triple-clamp. Nest it into its recess in the triple-clamp.

2. Start the riser lock nuts onto the riser bolts by hand. Apply Blue Loctite at this time unless you are using Nylock nuts. Tighten the riser nuts down with a ratchet and socket. Tighten them lightly so that you can rotate the risers slightly.

3. Install the handlebar and the handlebar clamp. Follow the bolt pattern in the clamp to locate and align the risers and tighten the clamp bolts fully.

4. Put the final torque on the riser nuts. Torque the nuts with a socket and 1/2-inch torque wrench. Refer to factory specifications for your year, make and model bike for the recommended torque.

Tips & Warnings

• Riser mount types may be changed during this process. Hard mounts may be swapped with rubber mounts and vice-versa. Rubber mounts will help isolate your hands and arms from vibration, and hard mounts will give more positive control and feedback.