loose handlebar riser

[JerryC]

I didn't see a thread on this, so here goes: if I pull up on my left grip, i can see and feel the left riser move. It doesn't move much, but it does move. My understanding is that it should not move. What would cause this and how do I service this?

 

[alhall88]

some movement is normal as there are rubber bushings inside the top tree. It is possible your bushings are worn and need replaced and its also possible that the bolt itself is loose. Just look under the top tree directly onder the handlebar locations you'll see 2 -9/16 bolt heads.

 

[barhopper]

The stock rubber wear's out. They (Bigdog) make a harder plastic replacement bushing.

 

[JerryC]

Thanks, guys. So, I should check the bolts and if they are tight, then remove them and check the bushings? Sounds like if the bolts are tight, then the bushings need to be replaced with BDs hard plastic replacements. Sorry for repeating this stuff, but this is a first for me. Bike is a2002 Mastiff w/ 2500 miles. It sat for awhile before I bought it.

 

[alhall88]

yep but here is something to think about. The softer bushings will wear out quicker but give you less vibration in the handlebars. The harder polyurethane bushings will last much longer and make the mount much stiffer but again will transfer much more vibration to the handle bars. Its all your preference. There are many choices out there you don't have to buy them from big dog.

 

[Gas Man]

Yeah I tend to prefer the rubber and have to change them every few years just cause I wear my vageen on my hands and don't want the added vibes... personal preference... but who wants more vibes in your hands or feet? Not all hardcore like Alhall with no bushings!!! :2thumbs:

 

[kickstart]

I just went through this at HD today, BD only has the hard plastic now and most of HD is the same.

We did manage to find the rubber busings for the dog and the Parts Man told me they are for a 99 soft tail the HD part number is 53156-86. They are $2.00 each.

 

[LDO]

Wild one Chubby has the hard and soft mounts.

Wild 1, Inc. - Chubbys, custom handlebars for harley davidson + parts & accessories

The hard mounts are just as advertised...HARD AS HELL and just like Al said, they will vibe the shit out of your hands and good luck looking thru your mirrors.

I picked up a set of the hard ones and had to replace them with the softer ones...much better ride.:2thumbs:

 

[HOOLIGAN]

I replaced mine last year with the soft ones and can still barely see shit out of my mirrors. I cant imagine what would happen if i got the harder ones!