Your Honda Grom’s handling and comfort start with choosing the right handlebar setup. Finding the Best Handlebars For Honda Grom can transform how your mini-moto feels on the street or track. The stock bars are fine for commuting, but they limit your riding position and control.
Upgrading your handlebars is one of the smartest mods you can do. It changes your reach, your posture, and how the bike responds to inputs. Let’s break down everything you need to know to pick the perfect set.
Best Handlebars For Honda Grom
When you search for the Best Handlebars For Honda Grom, you’ll find dozens of options. The key is matching the bar shape to your riding style. Are you a daily commuter, a weekend canyon carver, or a stunt rider? Each style demands a different bend and width.
Most aftermarket bars are made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum bars are lighter and reduce vibration slightly. Steel bars are stronger and cheaper, but they add weight. For most riders, aluminum is the better choice because the Grom is already light.
You also need to consider the bar diameter. The stock Grom uses 7/8-inch bars. Many aftermarket options are also 7/8-inch, but some are 1-inch. If you go with 1-inch bars, you’ll need different clamps or adapters. Stick with 7/8-inch for a direct swap unless you want a major change.
Pro Taper SE Contour Handlebars
Pro Taper is a trusted name in the dirt bike world, and their SE Contour bars are popular on Groms. These bars are made from 2014 aluminum, which is strong but light. The SE Contour bend offers a slightly taller rise than stock, which opens up the cockpit.
You get a more upright riding position with these bars. This reduces strain on your wrists and shoulders during long rides. The crossbar pad gives it a classic motocross look that many Grom owners love.
Installation is straightforward. You’ll need to drill a small hole for the throttle housing pin. The bars come pre-drilled for a bar pad, but not for controls. Take your time and measure twice before drilling.
Renthal Fatbar 7/8 Handlebars
Renthal is another premium brand that makes excellent bars for the Grom. Their Fatbar 7/8 model is a direct fit with no modifications needed. The bend is similar to the stock bars but with a slightly wider grip area.
These bars are made from 6061 T6 aluminum, which is very durable. They also come with Renthal’s signature grip texture, which helps your hands stay planted. The black finish looks clean and resists scratches well.
One downside is the price. Renthal bars are more expensive than some competitors. But if you want quality and a perfect fit, they are worth the investment. Many riders say these bars improve cornering feel immediately.
Biltwell Tracker Handlebars
Biltwell makes some of the coolest looking bars for the Grom. Their Tracker bars have a classic flat track style with a slight pullback. The rise is about 4 inches, which is lower than stock but still comfortable.
These bars are made from 0.120-inch wall steel, so they are very strong. The steel construction does add weight, but it also reduces vibration. The bars come with a black powder coat finish that holds up well.
If you want a more aggressive, leaned-forward riding position, the Tracker bars are a great choice. They put your weight over the front wheel, which improves steering response. Just be aware that the lower position can be tiring on long rides.
ODI Podium Flight Handlebars
ODI is famous for their grips, but they also make excellent handlebars. The Podium Flight bars are made from 2014 aluminum and come in multiple bends. The CR High bend is popular for Groms because it offers a tall rise.
These bars are designed to reduce vibration through their proprietary damping system. The crossbar pad is included and looks aggressive. The bars also have a knurled section on the left side for better grip clamp hold.
Installation requires drilling for control housings, but it’s simple. The bars are pre-drilled for the bar pad only. Make sure you have a sharp drill bit and a center punch to avoid slipping.
Woodcraft Clip-On Handlebars
If you want a sportbike feel on your Grom, clip-on handlebars are the way to go. Woodcraft makes a set specifically for the Grom that mounts directly to the fork tubes. These bars put you in a low, aggressive tuck.
Clip-ons are not for everyone. They drastically change your riding position and can be uncomfortable for long rides. But for track days or spirited canyon riding, they offer unmatched control.
Woodcraft clip-ons are machined from billet aluminum and come with adjustable risers. You can fine-tune the angle and height to suit your preference. They are expensive, but the quality is top-notch.
How To Choose The Right Handlebar Height
Handlebar height is the most important factor for comfort. A bar that is too low will make you hunch over. A bar that is too high will make you feel like you’re reaching up.
Your ideal height depends on your torso length and arm length. A good rule of thumb is to sit on the bike and relax your arms. Your elbows should have a slight bend, and your shoulders should not be shrugged.
If you feel stretched out, you need a bar with more rise or pullback. If you feel cramped, you need a flatter bar. Most Grom riders prefer bars with 3 to 5 inches of rise over stock.
Measuring Your Current Setup
Before buying new bars, measure your current setup. Use a tape measure to find the height from the top of the triple clamp to the center of the grip. Also measure the width from grip end to grip end.
Write these numbers down. Then, compare them to the specs of the bars you’re considering. Most manufacturers list rise, width, and pullback on their websites.
If you are unsure, go with a bar that has slightly more rise than stock. You can always lower them by adjusting the bar clamps or using riser plates. It’s harder to add height later.
Handlebar Width Considerations
Width affects leverage and control. Wider bars give you more leverage for turning, which is helpful on the Grom’s small chassis. Narrower bars make the bike feel more flickable.
The stock Grom bars are about 28 inches wide. Many aftermarket bars are 30 to 32 inches wide. This extra width helps with steering authority, especially at low speeds.
But if you lane split or ride in tight spaces, wider bars can be a problem. They might hit car mirrors or other obstacles. Consider where you ride most often before choosing width.
Cutting Bars To Fit
Most aftermarket bars come longer than needed so you can cut them to your desired width. Use a pipe cutter or a hacksaw with a fine blade. After cutting, file the edges smooth to avoid cutting your grips.
If you cut the bars too short, you can’t undo it. Start by cutting a little at a time. Test fit the grips and controls before making the final cut.
Also, remember that cutting bars removes the knurled section on the left side. This knurling helps the grip stay in place. You may need to use grip glue or safety wire if you cut past it.
Handlebar Material And Weight
Aluminum bars are lighter and absorb vibration better than steel. They are also less likely to bend in a crash. Steel bars are heavier but cheaper and more durable.
For the Grom, weight is a big factor. The bike only weighs about 225 pounds. Adding heavy steel bars can make the front end feel sluggish. Aluminum bars keep the bike nimble.
But if you are on a tight budget, steel bars work fine. They will last a long time and can handle abuse. Just be prepared for a slightly heavier feel.
Vibration Damping
Some bars have built-in vibration damping features. For example, ODI bars use a rubber insert in the crossbar. Pro Taper bars have a tapered wall design that reduces vibration.
If you ride long distances, vibration damping is important. It reduces hand fatigue and numbness. You can also add bar end weights or gel grips to further reduce vibration.
Test ride different bars if possible. What feels smooth to one person may feel buzzy to another. Your hands will tell you what works.
Installation Tips For Your New Handlebars
Installing new handlebars on a Grom is a simple job. You need basic tools: Allen wrenches, a socket set, and a drill. Plan for about an hour of work.
Start by removing the old bars. Loosen the bar clamps and slide everything off. Take note of how the cables and wires are routed. Take a photo before disconnecting anything.
When installing the new bars, don’t tighten the clamps fully until you have everything positioned. Sit on the bike and adjust the angle to your liking. Then tighten the clamps to the manufacturer’s torque spec.
Cable And Wire Routing
New bars can change the length of your cables and wires. If the bars are much taller or wider, you may need to reroute cables. In some cases, you might need longer throttle or brake lines.
Most Grom aftermarket bars work with stock cables. But if you go with very tall bars like the Pro Taper CR High, you might need to reroute the throttle cable under the tank. Check for binding before you ride.
Use zip ties to secure loose wires. Make sure nothing catches on the steering stops. Turn the handlebars lock to lock and check for tension.
Torque Specifications
Over-tightening bar clamps can crush the bars or strip the bolts. Use a torque wrench if you have one. The typical spec for Grom bar clamps is about 12 to 15 foot-pounds.
If you don’t have a torque wrench, tighten the bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern. Stop when you feel resistance and then give a quarter turn. Check the bars don’t move when you push on them.
Also, don’t forget to torque the control housing bolts. These are usually 6 to 8 foot-pounds. Overtightening can crack the plastic housings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best handlebars for a Honda Grom for tall riders?
Tall riders need bars with more rise and pullback. The Pro Taper SE Contour or ODI Podium Flight CR High are good choices. They give you extra room to stretch out without feeling cramped.
Can I install clip-on handlebars on my Grom?
Yes, you can install clip-on handlebars from Woodcraft or similar brands. They mount to the fork tubes and give a sporty riding position. Be prepared for a more aggressive stance that may not be comfortable for long rides.
Do I need new cables with aftermarket handlebars?
Most aftermarket bars work with stock cables. But if you choose bars that are much taller or wider, you may need to reroute or replace cables. Always check for binding before riding.
Are aluminum or steel handlebars better for the Grom?
Aluminum bars are lighter and reduce vibration, making them better for most riders. Steel bars are stronger and cheaper but add weight. For performance, go with aluminum.
How do I know what handlebar height is right for me?
Sit on your bike and relax your arms. Your elbows should have a slight bend. If you feel stretched, get taller bars. If you feel cramped, get flatter bars. Test different heights if possible.
Final Thoughts On Upgrading Your Grom’s Handlebars
Choosing the Best Handlebars For Honda Grom comes down to your riding style and body type. Don’t just pick the coolest looking bar. Think about how you ride and what feels good.
Start with a bar that has a little more rise than stock. This gives you room to adjust. You can always lower them later with different clamps or risers.
Take your time during installation. Route cables carefully and torque everything properly. A well-installed handlebar setup makes your Grom feel like a new bike.
Remember, the stock bars are fine for basic riding. But upgrading opens up a world of comfort and control. Your hands and shoulders will thank you on long rides.
If you are still unsure, visit a local Grom meetup and ask other riders. Most people are happy to let you sit on their bike and feel the difference. That hands-on experience is invaluable.
Invest in quality bars from reputable brands. Cheap bars can bend or break, putting you at risk. Spend a little more for safety and performance.
Your Honda Grom is a fun, versatile bike. With the right handlebars, it becomes even more enjoyable. Make the upgrade and feel the difference on your next ride.