Oxford + Pro Taper = NO GOOD

[avc8130]

I decided to tackle my Pro Taper handlebar and Oxford heated grip install today. The handlebar install went well, but the grip install was a failure.

The Oxfords say in the instructions that the clutch side is good for 22mm handlebars. I tried to put the clutch side on, but it simply wouldn't go over the Pro Taper with the knurling for a rubber grip. Sure enough, I pulled out my caliper and the Pro Taper is ~22.75mm.

Now I need to figure out a solution. I can try to sand down the handle bar with some emery cloth I guess.

Anyone else run into this?

ac

 

[avc8130]

55 views, no experience or suggestions?

ac

 

[Havok]

I would try a heat gun to the grips.
or even a hair dryer. Then use Windex to assist with slipping them on. Windex dries and does not leave a film. You should not need any glue.

keep us posted. :exclaim:

 

[avc8130]

I'm debating a path forward right now. The inside of the Oxfors is hard plastic. I think I could find a large enough reamer at work to make the ID a tad bigger.

I may just scrap the whole project as I'm not sure I like how HARD the Oxford grips are.

ac

 

[Obrianmcc]

Not sure how a hard grip is supposed to adhere to the bar?.....I was going to recommend grip glue or hair spray

 

[BaldKnob]

I'm not sure how the Oxfords will work after you hog them out but turning down the bar end doesn't look fun either. Soooo, scrap the Oxfords and go with these, http://www.amegrips.com/motorcyclestreetheated/sport-bike-heated-chicane-grip

 

[avc8130]

Not sure how a hard grip is supposed to adhere to the bar?.....I was going to recommend grip glue or hair spray

There is a tube of grip glue in the package. I guess they usually slip over the bar and they expect glue to hold them.

No one has complained about them spinning or slipping, and there are a lot of happy customers, so it must work.

I think the reason I am running into an issue is because the bars I have are made for "ATV". They have a very aggressive knurl on the clutch side to hold a rubber grip on very well.

ac

 

[EricV]

You could just buy a Kimpex or Symtec kit and use what ever grips you want.

 

[Swagger]

You know that the grip tubes are split along their length don't you. If you heat them I suspect that you'll be able to persuade them to fit ... I doubt that you'll be able use the adhesive though. Failing that I'd ream the blighter out.

 

[scott123007]

Personally, I'd sand off the knurls. Easy as crap with a roll of Emory cloth. I tried a set of Tusk ATV bars that had the knurled left side and, believe it or not, the grip rotated at will, which it did not with the stock bars, even after removing and installing it without adhesive. Disclaimer: I did not use ANY type of adhesive or safety wire on either of the bars.

 

[avc8130]

Hmm...

I was about to say I would throw the grips in the oven at 200F to warm it and then I thought of something:

I wonder if just plugging the grip in would heat it up enough to make it fit?

ac

 

[Swagger]

... I wonder if just plugging the grip in would heat it up enough to make it fit? ...

That'll probably suffice .... it doesn't need to be hot .... just malleable. I warmed mine with the wifes hair dryer. Ya know I use that thing more than she does for applying/removing decals, TechSpec material etc.

 

[snakebitten]

That'll probably suffice .... it doesn't need to be hot .... just malleable. I warmed mine with the wifes hair dryer. Ya know I use that thing more than she does for applying/removing decals, TechSpec material etc.

You make me laugh. I suspect you are having a good life. Your posts sound like it.
Cheers

 

[Swagger]

.... I suspect you are having a good life ....

Gotta make the best of it really .... we only get one shot at it

 

[macca]

Wierd No issues with Oxford heated grips (tho oldish superbike ones; had them a couple of year now) slipped on no problems on my pro tapers. One slight difference is I have the Evo bars so maybe some tolerance differences between the various pro taper versions.

 

[Tobers]

I have Pro Taper bars and Oxford grips. The clutch side was v tight but I just twisted (hard) and rammed the grip on. Its a snug fit for sure. I used some washing up liquid as lube.

 

[avc8130]

I have Pro Taper bars and Oxford grips. The clutch side was v tight but I just twisted (hard) and rammed the grip on. Its a snug fit for sure. I used some washing up liquid as lube.

Maybe I'll give it another go this weekend if I have some time. I'll try to heat it up and get some windex on it for lubrication.

When I tried the 1st time the interference was pretty severe.

ac

 

[Taz1209]

I have the pro tapers on my Vstrom and cold not get the oxfords to fit either... Tried shaving a bit off the bars but still just too tight... I needed the bars more than the grips so scrapped the project...I just ordered some warmer gloves