Right hand switch assembly

[1310]

Okay, I hate to keep asking questions, but here goes:

I got this bike on a salvage title to learn on, and I am learning quite a bit as I try to fix things as well as learning to ride it!  The handlebars were bent, so I decided to replace them.  At the suggestion of the wiki, I used the Bikemaster Superbike handlebars along with the guide over at http://www.everydayriding.org/2010/06/gs500-handlebar-replacement.html .  I couple hints for anyone using this guide - when you drill the hole, I did both at 6.5 inches as suggested, but found that the right side should have been ~1/8 further in and the left side ~1/8 inch further out, but I made it work and didn't look too bad.  First question:  My dad was concerned that there is no knurling on the handlebars for the clamps to really grab onto like there is on the stock handlebars.  Does anyone think this is something to be concerned about?  This leads to my second question:

Handlebars felt tight, but and were great while I rode it around for a while, but when I came back and went to put it on the center stand from seated position (Push down hard with left foot while picking up on handlebars), the handlebars twisted in the clamps.  No big deal, I thought, I need to tighten them some more, after all, that is a lot of force on them.  Unfortunately, when I went to turn the handlebars back, I grabbed hold of the right switch assembly (dumb!), and the small plastic knob that sits in the drilled hole of the handlebars sheared off.  I got the knob out, disassembled the switch assembly, and glued it back together best I could, but I'm not real thrilled with doing it this way.  I would like to replace the top plastic half of the assembly which holds the knob.  I could get a whole new assembly for ~40 bucks on ebay, but can't just buy the top half.  I just need something solid to sit in the drilled hole to keep the switch assembly, and the attached throttle in place.  Anyone run into a situation like this or have suggestions?  If I just need to buy a new assembly, so be it, but I thought I would ask first.  Here's the bike



I bought a sissy bar and added it today, also

[1310]

I also wanted to add that I was able to get the old grips off with carb cleaner as suggested.  I was able to get them back on using an air hose to put some air between the grip and the handlebar.  If you're struggling to get some grips on, give it a shot, as it makes it a lot easier.

[adidasguy]

Grips: put on with some glue, hair spray or paint. It lets them slide then sticks them on after an hour or so.

Switchers: Often happens or people remove the nib just to rotate them. Add a layer of electrical tape in there and tighten them down. They'll be OK without that little nib.

See video on my way of putting on center stand. Some people find this really easy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWi7zgBYEsU&list=UUfopOgFUP9aRZNHRZ8GAXeg&index=7&feature=plcp

[1310]

Wow, I can't thank you enough for the quick reply.  I think I am going to replace the grips anyway, so I will try the hair spray next time.  I will tighten the switch assembly down with electrical tape, thank you so much!  I was worried about there being play in the assembly.  I actually watched your video already, and it is easier, but I was seated on the bike when I pulled it in, so I just put it on the center stand that way.  I'm guessing that the lack of knurling on the superbike handlebars won't be an issue either, just tighten the clamps down enough.  Thank you again!

[adidasguy]

The lack of knurling can be it. Simply add something in there - like some tape or a small sliver of metal tape or something just to get more friction as you tighten the clamps and your bars will stay in place.

[k.rollin]

Another option would be to stipple the are of the bars that is held in the clamps. Stippling would be a bit more time and work though, and you'll need a hammer and punches.