Worn, cracked or greasy grips are not just a cosmetic issue. They hold a gloved hand less securely, especially in the rain, transmit more vibration and tire your wrists. Precise throttle and brake control depends on a firm grip, so worn grips should be replaced in good time.
The job takes about half an hour. The key is to remove the old rubber without damaging the bar or the throttle tube, and to fit the new grips so they never twist while riding.
What you will need
- new grips for your bar diameter (left, and right for the throttle)
- flat screwdriver
- spanners or hex keys for the bar end weights
- WD-40 Smart Straw with the thin straw, or WD-40 Multi-Use
- alcohol for degreasing
- clean dry cloth
- grip glue if the manufacturer recommends it
Important: The right grip sits on the throttle tube: after the job the throttle must snap back fully and freely in every handlebar position. If you have heated grips, switch off the ignition and unplug their connector first.
Step 1
Remove the bar end weights and old grip
Unscrew the bar end weights or plugs. Lift the inner edge of the left grip with the screwdriver and spray WD-40 Smart Straw underneath through the thin straw. Push the screwdriver further in and twist the grip off the bar.
Remove the right grip the same way, but carefully: it is bonded to the plastic throttle tube, so do not lever against the tube itself or flood the throttle mechanism. Old rubber that tears into pieces can be trimmed off with a knife, without touching metal or plastic.
Step 2
Clean the bar and throttle tube
Wipe the bar and throttle tube dry and remove any old glue and dirt. Then degrease both surfaces with alcohol: not a trace of lubricant may remain, or the new grip will twist.
Step 3
Fit the new grips
Wet the surface and the inside of the grip with alcohol, or apply grip glue if the manufacturer recommends it, and quickly push the grip on with a twisting motion. Once the alcohol evaporates, the rubber holds firmly on the bar.
Slide the right grip fully onto the throttle tube, leaving a 1-2 mm gap to the switch housing so it does not rub.
Step 4
Refit the weights and check the throttle
Refit and tighten the bar end weights. Turn the handlebar from lock to lock and make sure the throttle returns to closed every time without sticking. If you have heated grips, plug them back in and test them.
Before riding, allow the glue or alcohol the time stated by the manufacturer and check that neither grip twists under hand pressure.
Tip: If the throttle cable feels sticky, service the throttle mechanism separately according to your bike's manual, but never put lubricant on the surface the grip sits on.
What next
Protect switches, cables and other metal parts that often get wet from moisture and corrosion with WD-40 Multi-Use, keeping it off the grips, brakes and tyres.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».