How to Measure Motorcycle Handlebars

Motorcycle handlebars come in many shapes and sizes and can be customized if desired.

Changing a motorcycle’s handlebars alters both the look and feel of the bike. Regardless of whether you plan to buy stock or custom handlebars, it is important to get bars of the correct size and shape. Handlebars must be able to accommodate some electrical wiring and allow the switch box housing to be seated properly. If a motorcycle’s handlebars are not measured properly, there is a chance that the replacement bars will not fit on the bike.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler or tape measure
• Helper
• Table or other flat surface

Instructions

1. Start at the tip of the left handlebar and measure straight across to the tip of the right handlebar. This will tell you the width of the bars.

2. Place a ruler along the bottom, flat area of the handlebars to determine their center width. Do not measure beyond the flat area; going too far and measuring into the curved portion of the bars will result in an inaccurate measurement.

3. Determine the height, or rise, of the handlebars by standing them on a flat surface and measuring from that surface vertically to the bars’ highest point. You may need a friend to help hold and stabilize the bars while you measure.

4. Measure the pullback of the handlebars by starting at the center of the bars. From the center, travel along a straight line to the point on the handlebars that are closest to the rear of the bike.

5. Lay a ruler against both of the risers on the center of the flat, bottom part of the handlebars to gauge the distance between them. This is known as center spacing.

References

• J&P Cycles: How to Measure Bars
• Cruise Customizing: How Handlebars are Properly Measured