Swapping out the handlebars on your mountain bike can make a world of difference to your riding experience. Installing a new set of BMX handlebars can give you a wider grip and provide a more aggressive riding position, making it easier to maneuver through rough terrain. However, handlebar installation can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the world of mountain biking.
Fear not, as this guide will walk you through the easy steps to successfully install a set of BMX handlebars on your mountain bike. Whether you’re upgrading your current bike or building a new one from scratch, this guide will help you get started and get you back on the trails in no time.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you start installing BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, gather all the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll need a hex wrench or Allen key, a torque wrench, a hacksaw, electrical tape, and possibly a long socket wrench.
In terms of supplies, make sure you have the appropriate replacement parts, such as new handlebars and stem. You may also need new bolts or a shim if the sizing is different from your existing parts. It’s important to double-check the compatibility of all components before beginning the installation process. Once you have all the tools and supplies on hand, you’re ready to start installing your new BMX handlebars.
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Remove Old Handlebars and Accessories
Before installing BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, you must remove the old handlebars and accessories. This process is essential to ensure a seamless and safe installation of the new handlebars.
First, remove your bike’s grips. You can do this by using a flathead screwdriver to pry the grip away from the handlebar. Once you create some space, spray some rubbing alcohol under the grip to make the removal process easier. Then, slide the grip off the handlebar.
Next, loosen the stem bolts with an Allen wrench and remove the old handlebars. Make sure to keep track of any spacers or shims that were used to adjust the stem height. Keep these in a safe place as you will need them between the stem and new handlebar. Finally, remove any old mounting hardware for accessories such as brake levers and shifters. Once all the old handlebars and accessories are removed, you can now proceed with the installation of your new BMX handlebars.
Measure and Position the New Handlebars
Before installing the new handlebars, it is important to get the measurements right. Measure the width of the new BMX handlebars and compare it to the width of your current mountain bike handlebars. If the new handlebars are wider, you may need to cut them down to size. Use a hacksaw or pipe cutter to trim off any excess length. It is important to measure twice and cut once. Make sure you only cut off a little bit at a time and test fit the handlebars on your bike after each cut.
Once you have the handlebars at the desired width, position them on your bike. Start by putting the new handlebars in the stem and finger-tighten the bolts. Move them to the position you want them to be and then tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Make sure that the handlebars are straight and even with the front wheel. Test ride the bike to make sure the handlebars feel comfortable and that you have good control of the bike. If the handlebars feel too far away or too close to you, you can always adjust their position by loosening the bolts and moving them forward or backwards until you find the ideal position.
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Secure the Handlebars to the Stem
Once you have aligned your handlebars to the desired angle, it’s time to secure them to the stem. This is a crucial step in the handlebar installation process to ensure that the handlebars are fixed in place and won’t move around while you ride your bike.
To secure the handlebars to the stem, first, tighten the stem bolts until they are snug. Do not tighten them too much, or you may damage the bolts or strip the threads. Next, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. This will ensure that the bolts are tightened adequately, but not too much, which could create a problem in the future. Finally, double-check to make sure that the handlebars are still aligned properly and that they are securely attached to the stem. With this done, you can now move on to the final subheading and complete the installation of your BMX handlebars on your mountain bike.
Install Grips and Brake Levers
Installing grips and brake levers on your BMX handlebars is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and safe ride. To begin, slide the grips onto the ends of your handlebars, making sure they are evenly spaced and snug against the edges.
Once the grips are in place, you can install the brake levers by threading the cables through the lever and tightening the bolt to secure them in place. Make sure the levers are at a comfortable angle for your hands, and adjust the tension on the cables as needed to ensure your brakes function properly. Once everything is in place, test your brakes and grips to ensure they are secure and functioning correctly. Taking the time to properly install your grips and brake levers will not only improve your riding experience, but also enhance your safety on the trails.
Adjust and Test the Handlebars
Once you have successfully installed the BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, it is important to adjust and test them properly to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience. Firstly, adjust the height of the handlebars according to your preference. Keep in mind that the handlebar height should not be too high or too low, as this can affect your control and balance on the bike. A good way to gauge the proper height is to sit on the bike and make sure that the handlebars are at a level that is comfortable for your riding position.
Next, test the brakes and gears to ensure that they are functioning properly with the new handlebars. Take your bike for a short ride to get a feel for the new handlebars and to see if any further adjustments need to be made. If you notice any discomfort or difficulty while using the handlebars, adjust them until you find the perfect fit. A properly adjusted and tested BMX handlebar will make your mountain biking experience more enjoyable and comfortable.
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Tips and Tricks for a Successful Install
Tips:
When installing BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, it’s important to take your time and make sure everything is properly aligned and tightened. One tip is to use a torque wrench to ensure that the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Another tip is to double check the alignment of the handlebars and make sure they are straight before tightening everything down.
Tricks:
One trick for a successful installation is to use a bit of grease on the bolts and inside the handlebar clamp to prevent rust and make it easier to tighten everything down. Another trick is to use a rubber mallet to gently tap the handlebars into position if they are not lining up correctly. It’s also a good idea to have a friend help you with the installation to hold the bike steady and offer an extra pair of hands.
The Conclusion
To sum it up, if you want to put BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, it’s possible and can offer a unique and more comfortable riding experience. However, it’s important to ensure that the new handlebars are compatible with your bike’s stem and brake levers to prevent any safety issues.
By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can safely and easily replace your old handlebars with BMX ones. Remember to also consider your riding style and needs before making the change, as BMX handlebars may not be the best choice for every type of mountain biking. With the right tools and patience, you can elevate your riding game and enjoy a more customized and personalized feel on your mountain bike.