How to Install Handguards on a Dirt Bike

As you rev your engine and prepare to hit the trails, you can't help but feel the thrill of the open road coursing through your veins. But, before you embark on your off-road adventure, there's one essential step you need to take: installing handguards on your dirt bike.

These small but mighty accessories can provide valuable protection for your hands and controls, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable riding experience. But how exactly do you go about installing them?

Well, my friend, the answer lies in a few simple steps that will have your handguards securely in place and ready to take on whatever the trails throw your way.

So, let's dive in and discover the secrets to mounting these crucial pieces of gear.

Key Takeaways

• Use the necessary tools, including an Allen wrench set, screwdriver, pliers, and safety glasses, for the installation process.
• Properly prepare the handguards by removing the expanding nut, disposing of the small stock handguards, and adjusting the position to prevent pinching against the plastic tube.
• Carefully remove the stock controls by loosening the bolts, detaching the handguards from the handlebars, and keeping track of any small parts for later reassembly.
• Install the handguard mounts by positioning them on the handlebars, tightening the screws on the bar clamp, adjusting for interference with other components, and ensuring all screws and clamps are securely tightened.

Tools Needed

To begin the installation process, gather the necessary tools: an Allen wrench set, a screwdriver, pliers, replacement handguards, and safety glasses. These tools are essential for a successful installation of handguards on your dirt bike.

The Allen wrench set will be used to remove the existing handguards, if any, from your bike. Make sure to select the appropriate size Allen wrench for the screws on your bike.

The screwdriver is needed to loosen and tighten screws during the installation process.

Pliers are useful for gripping and holding small parts, such as bolts or nuts, while you work.

The replacement handguards themselves are obviously necessary for this installation. Choose handguards that are compatible with your dirt bike model.

Lastly, safety glasses are essential for protecting your eyes from any debris that may come loose during the installation process.

Preparing the Handguards

Remove the expanding nut with serrations to begin preparing the handguards. This step is crucial in ensuring a proper installation. Start by locating the expanding nut on the handguards and use a wrench or pliers to loosen it. Once loosened, carefully remove the nut and set it aside.

Next, dispose of the small stock handguards that came with your dirt bike. These handguards are often flimsy and provide minimal protection. By installing new handguards, you can enhance the safety and performance of your dirt bike.

Now, loosen the clamps on the connector piece. These clamps secure the handguards to the handlebars. Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to loosen the clamps, allowing for easy attachment of the new handguards.

As you prepare to attach the handguards, make sure they don't pinch against the plastic tube. This can cause damage to both the handguards and the handlebars. Adjust the position of the handguards if necessary to ensure a proper fit.

Removing the Stock Controls

Now that you have prepared the handguards by removing the expanding nut and loosening the clamps, it's time to move on to the next step: removing the stock controls.

This step is crucial in order to properly install your new handguards and improve your riding experience. Follow these step-by-step instructions to successfully remove the stock controls from your dirt bike handlebars.

1. Start by loosening the bolts on the stock controls. Use the appropriate wrench or socket to loosen the bolts, taking care not to strip them.
2. Carefully detach the stock handguards from the handlebars. Some models may have additional screws or fasteners securing the controls, so make sure to remove them as well.
3. Gently slide the stock controls off the handlebars. Pay attention to any small parts that may come off during the removal process. It's important to keep track of these parts for later reassembly.

Installing the Handguard Mounts

Position the handguard mount on the handlebars and align it with the desired angle. This step is crucial to ensure optimal protection and comfort while riding.

Here are the steps to install the handguard mounts on your dirt bike:

1. Tighten the screws on the bar clamp to securely attach the handguard mount to the handlebars. Use a suitable tool, such as a wrench or Allen key, to tighten the screws evenly. This will prevent any movement or slippage during your rides.
2. Adjust the mount to ensure it doesn't interfere with other components on the bike. Make sure there's enough clearance for the throttle, brake, and clutch cables. You want the handguards to provide protection without hindering the functionality of your controls.
3. Double-check the tightness of all screws and clamps to ensure the handguard mount is firmly in place. This step is crucial for your safety. Loose mounts can lead to handguards coming off during rides, leaving your hands vulnerable to debris and branches.

Attaching the Handguards

To attach the handguards, follow these steps:

1. Securely attach the handguard mount to the handlebars.
2. Secure the handguard using the provided bar clamp, tightening it properly for a secure fit.
3. Locate the clamps on the connector piece that will be used for installation.
4. Loosen these clamps to prepare for attaching the handguards.
5. Remove the expanding nut with serrations to create the necessary space for attaching the handguards.
6. Dispose of any small stock handguards, if present, to make room for the new ones.
7. When attaching the handguards, ensure they don't pinch against the plastic tube.
8. This will ensure a proper fit and prevent any interference with the bike's operation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing handguards on a dirt bike is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance both safety and riding experience. By providing increased protection for the hands and controls, handguards help reduce the risk of hand injuries and shield against debris and branches.

Interestingly, studies have shown that using handguards can reduce hand injuries by up to 50%, highlighting the significant impact this simple installation can have on rider safety.