Bar end plugs protect the bare ends of your handlebars and seal the bars against dirt and moisture. Plugs are removed when installing new grips or replacing damaged plugs and grips. A degree of diligence is needed when you plan to reuse the plugs. Steps are taken to prevent scarring the grips or scratching the handlebars when you remove damaged plugs. Bar end plugs come in two basic types: compression and push-in. Identifying the type ensures that you remove the plugs successfully.
Step 1
Identify compression plugs by the textured end cap. Attempt to remove compression plugs by turning the caps counterclockwise by hand. Continue to turn the caps until the plugs release and come out. Proceed to the next step if this method was not successful.
Step 2
Protect the ends of the handgrips with several wraps of masking tape. Wrap the outer surface of compression caps or push-in plugs with two layers of masking tape if you plan to reuse the plugs.
Step 3
Attach adjustable pliers or large locking pliers perpendicular to the bars on the cap or end of a plug. Rotate the plug counterclockwise as you pull it out of the bars.
Step 4
Remove stubborn push-in plugs using a 1/4-inch diameter lag screw as a puller. Set up a power drill with a 1/8-inch drill bit. Drill a pilot hole in the end of the plug.
Step 5
Thread a 1/4-inch lag screw at least 1 inch into the pilot hole using a socket wrench. Grip the head of the screw with adjustable pliers and pull out the plug.
Things You'll Need
- Masking tape
- Adjustable pliers
- Power drill and 1/8-inch drill bit, optional
- 1/4-inch lag screw, optional
- Socket wrench, optional
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