Rubber handlebar grips provide cushioning and protection for motorcycle riders. When these grips begin to wear down, riders may develop painful blisters, or even lose some of their ability to comfortably control the bike. Yahama offers dozens of grip designs for the Roadstar bike, with styles ranging from basic black rubber to advanced materials that allow owners to customize even the smallest details. Before you install new grips, take the time to safely remove existing grips without damaging the handlebars or other bike components.
Step 1
Remove the metal caps at either end of the handlebars using a screwdriver. If you see screws at each end, remove these screws with a screwdriver then pop the caps off by hand. If no screws are visible, use the tip of the screwdriver to pop the cap off the end of the bars.
Step 2
Slide the tip of a flat-head screwdriver under the edge of the grip. Wiggle the screwdriver around so you can slide it as far as possible between the grip and the handlebars. Move the screwdriver within the grip around the entire perimeter of the handlebars to loosen any glue or adhesive.
Step 3
Hold the screwdriver in place below the grip. Spray brake cleaner under the grip to dissolve glue or solvents. Keep working the screwdriver around to distribute the cleaner under the grips.
Step 4
Insert a spray nozzle onto the hose of your air compressor. Hold the grip away from the handlebar with your screwdriver, then insert the needle under the grip. Turn to the air compressor to 75 psi to apply pressure between the grip and handlebars.
Step 5
Pull the needle and screwdriver out from under the grip. Twist the grip around the handlebars by hand, sliding it slowly off the end of the handle. Keep twisting as you wiggle the grips completely off the bike.
Step 6
Apply a small amount of mineral spirits or acetone to a rag and use the rag to clean any remaining glue off the handlebars. Wipe the bars clean and allow them to dry before installing new grips.
Tips and Warnings
- If your grips were glued in place, you may not be able to remove them using these methods. If you're unable to remove the grips using compressed air, use a razor knife to cut them off the handlebars.
- Never use mineral spirits or acetone in a confined space. Work in a well-ventilated area to protect yourself from dangerous fumes when using these products.
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Brake cleaner spray
- Air compressor
- Nozzle attachment
- Rags
- Mineral spirits
- Acetone
References
- Yamaha YZF & WRF Performance Projects; Ken Faught and Eric Gorr; St. Paul; 2005
- Baggers Magazine; "Motorcycle Hand Grips Removal"; Frank Kaisler; August 2006
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