I have a question regarding handlebars and barkbuster hand guards.

I know I will eventually need to replace the handlebars because they will get bent. I do, however, like the geometry of the stock '12 handlebars. What aftermarket handlebars are closest in geometry to the stock bars?

Also, I am looking at getting Barkbuster hand guards. I am wondering what mounting kit will fit both the stock bars and the aftermarket bars that will eventually replace them.

Basically, I am trying to avoid replacing the stock bars before they need to be replaced and I also don't want to end up buying two mounting kits for the hand guards.

Thanks for any help or suggestions.

 

Because of the weights in the ends of the stock bars that are a PAIN when installing the hand/lever guards you might as well get the new bars now.

 

Agree... that, added to my desire for something higher and a bit more forward motivated me to make the change shortly after getting the bike. Then finding guards that worked around the brake line became the bigger challenge, found the Moose Racing guards fit the bill.

 

New bars with Barkbusters is probably cheaper in the long run.
If you bend the stock bars, you'll probably need to replace a lever and control pod too...and mirror, if you don't remove them for dirt riding...all that adds up to a lot more cash than just new bars and Barkbusters.
I used a ProTaper SE CR high bend and the cables just work with some rerouting. They are similar to stock but much wider.
I do have a brake line rubbing issue on the Barkbusters. I use electrical tape. I will eventually get a longer line to accommodate bar risers.
I also recommend getting the larger plastic covers, if you ride in cool/rainy weather, they provide good protection.

 

After looking at the Barkbuster website it looks like the BGH15-01 mounting kit is kind of the standard for 7/8in bars and the VPS hand guards.

If this is the case I can get the hand guards now and ask for handlebars for Christmas . (I'm thinking Renthal CR Mid bend)

As far as I can tell the BGH15-01 mounting kit will work on the Renthal bars as well. Has someone here tried this setup with the stock cables? Thanks for the help.

 

That's what I have w/ my stock bars. Pics in my thread.

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Right on. I appreciate the feedback.

 

Where did you guys buy your barkbusters at? It looks like only one site sells them in the US and they don't have the BHG15-01 model, unless you want to buy it in a package for a Versys 650. I don't want all the other stuff that's included in that.
I have a sneaking feeling that I'm not looking in the right place...

 

Twisted Throttle is the US importer.

Might try Sporttour.com


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Try ProCycle. If you don't see it on the web, call and talk to Carl, dude knows his stuff and can get far more than what they have up on the site.