Sorry if this is a bit of a lame question - just put the bike up for the winter and am looking to replace handlebars and levers as a fun little winter project. One of the previous owners dropped it and so the handlebars are bent pretty noticeably and half the clutch lever has been chopped off. 2002 if it matters?

I know the handlebars are 7/8 - worth replacing with OEM ($$$) or should I look for an aftermarket replacement? I haven't ridden for long enough to be (potentially) bothered by the riding position but it's a touch more aggressive than I thought it'd be. Also, I've been reading a ton of posts and it looks like the clutch levers are difficult/problematic to replace with different styles, while the brake levers are fairly universal. Am I correct in this? I was thinking of getting differently styled ones (maybe like this https://www.ebay.com/itm/165925771334 ?) but OEM might be better/simpler.

Is there any input or suggestions on best handlebars and/or levers? If it matters, my goal is just to have something fun + reliable to ride and moderately aesthetically pleasing. This is my first bike and I'm trying to do everything myself, but it's certainly a bit of a learning curve so I just wanted to ask for a sanity check here !!! Thank you !

I'm using Honda bars from the CB400f (70's) along with a set of BarBack risers and I like that set-up. I'm thinking of going with the Honda CB550 bars for a little more height and width. Check out Emgo, as they have repros of many classic bike/styles. I felt the stock bars were a little too much of a reach, but my main gripe was the wrist angle--I like a flatter bar. A lot depends on you and your height, but the Emgo catalog is a good starting point. 

Quote from: chris900f on November 11, 2025, 11:38:23 AMI'm using Honda bars from the CB400f (70's) along with a set of BarBack risers and I like that set-up. I'm thinking of going with the Honda CB550 bars for a little more height and width. Check out Emgo, as they have repros of many classic bike/styles. I felt the stock bars were a little too much of a reach, but my main gripe was the wrist angle--I like a flatter bar. A lot depends on you and your height, but the Emgo catalog is a good starting point. 

Aw thank you so much!!!! I'm 6'0 so the bike in general isn't too bad, but I'll definitely have a look since what you mention sounds pretty ideal. Thank you for the direction !