Hi all,

Replaced the handlebars on my '05 today with cheapy Bikemaster Superbike bars as the bars I got it with were rusted and looked awful (pics at http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=53366.msg737525#msg737525).

As I was removing all the switch gear I discovered that PO had filed off the nubs inside of the controls that would otherwise slot into holes in the bars to keep them from moving around.

I ALSO discovered that whoever did it had also stripped both screw threads on the clutch side controls so it doesn't do up tight enough. So, they had put a bit of glue on the grip flare and glued it to the controls so they didn't move.

After putting everything back together, I discovered even on the throttle side with the screws as tight as possible it still moved freely as the bars are shiny and smooth, so nothing to bite into.

I did what I had to get everything back to ridable: superglued a bit of balled up tin foil to where the nub should be and that got me enough purchase on the throttle side to keep it solid - the same treatment on the other side still wasn't good enough due to the stripped threads, so I glued it to the grip like the PO had (still moves a bit but not enough to bother me when riding).

Not 100% happy with the final situation. So, questions:
1. Is there a way to make the stripped threads bite better without new controls? It still screws up, just not tight enough, anything I can put on the screws or in the threads?
2. Is there a less MacGyver way to make the controls bite into the bar surface instead of the tinfoil on the nubs without getting new controls?

Obviously new controls + drill a couple of holes = win, but would rather not get more parts just yet, spent enough money on it for the moment!

Thanks

Johan

The Mcgyver way to stop your controls moving around is to wrap the bar where the controls will sit with electrical tape. This should give you a bit of packing and help when you tighten the screws up.

Quote from: Twisted on January 12, 2013, 03:07:49 AM
The Mcgyver way to stop your controls moving around is to wrap the bar where the controls will sit with electrical tape. This should give you a bit of packing and help when you tighten the screws up.

Dammit that's a great idea, shoulda thought of that.

Doesn't help with stripped threads though (which was a long shot, guessing the answer will be "get new controls").

You can replace the controls. Often $15-$25 each at Pinwall cycles on ebay. I buy a lot from them and they are very honest.

Remember: right control can only be 2004-2005 because the connector changed in 2006 to route the headlight through the starter button.

Left control can be 2004-present as that didn't change.

You can post a WTB in the for-sale section. parts whores on the board probably have extras and can give you a good deal.

I would opt for replacements and not bother trying to fix and band-aid the stuff the previous owner did. In the long run, your bike will be more reliable and be back to stock OEM non-farkled parts.

Quote from: adidasguy on January 12, 2013, 03:36:48 AMparts whores on the board probably have extras and can give you a good deal.

Hint Hint?

Good advice, thanks adidasguy.

I just bought a centre stand from Pinwall (mine was mysteriously missing), if I'd known about the controls when I ordered it I would've got them then under the same $50 postage and 10 day wait to get anything useful delivered to Australia. There's stuff all parts locally, some guy in Sydney wanted to charge me $65 + $20 postage to get a used centre stand delivered to Brisbane - no thanks!

Quote from: codajastal on January 12, 2013, 03:46:09 AM

Quote from: adidasguy on January 12, 2013, 03:36:48 AMparts whores on the board probably have extras and can give you a good deal.

Hint Hint?

Are you saying you have some for an '05 you'll sell me for cheap?

oversized wood screws and electrical tape :p