Well, call it bad luck or the stupid crash push-button that I must be keep hitting but I need to replace the handlebars in my 2010 TE250. Do any of you have any brand/style preference? I've never replaced a handlebar before so I have no preference other than it being oriented towards woods riding and it being able to fit my Cycra Pro-Bend Center Reach Clamp handguards that I have on it right now. I also want to keep the the two cluster controls on each side (ignition/electric start on right and lights on left). Last but not least I'd like a stronger handlebar without it being made of solid steel.... I am average height/weight (5.9/185) Thanks in advance for your feedback!
I have the "Pro Taper EVO" with a Windham/RM Mid Bend: Width 31.50", Height 3.9", Pull Back 2.13" those seem pretty close to the Stock Husky's but a little taller and a little less pullback. I really like them. I have had CR-Highs (which is a commonly liked bend) but I developed some pain in my forearms from those-not arm-pump but pain... I think (for me) they had too much pull back- hense why I tried the Windham/rm mid bend. perfect- the Protaper EVO's seemed to transfer less vibes and have taken some abuse well. I have Cyrca CRM handguards- all require some bending it seems for proper fit. ps- I cut about 3/4" off each side of the bars making them a bit narrower. everyone is a little different- just make sure you can fit all your controls on.
i like the evo's also. best bars made in my opinion. as to which ones, that all depends on what you like. i prefer the woods hi bars myself.
I really like the Trailtrech woods bars. Very comfortable bend, somewhat higher and narrower than stock. Have them on three bikes and have yet to bend a set (but i do not crash much). Cheap too. http://trailtech.net/motorcycle_x-bars.html
I have the Pro Taper EVO 1 1/8" on both the TXC250 and DRZ400. Haven't bent them yet and the TXC has taken some hard hits. I also think the Cycra's have helped in keeping the bars straight.
Ive had EVOs in the past and I liked them, but now Im running Renthal fat bars in the KTM factory bend. I grew accustomed to them from my SXF, and so I decided to put a set on my SMR. I have Cycra pro bend guards on, but they require a different mount than OEM Husky bars. there are a ton of choices out there, and its hard to settle on your favorite bend unless you buy 5 different kinds and try them out. tho if you crash a lot, just buy a different bend each time until you find what you like
Thanks for all your great feedback. I ended up buying the EVOs and plan on putting them on this weekend. We'll see how it goes.
I bought the Windham/RM Mid Bend which has the highest rise at 99mm. The Pastrana units have actually the lowest rise at 74mm...
These do look nice. At 6'1" standing up on my 510 is not confidence inspiring. I fell way to bent up to feel safe for any more then a moment to clear something.
Well I finally installed the new EVO bar Friday night and went for a ride on Saturday. The bend felt nicer than the stock bar but in the rise department they still came short of expectations....Plan B is to put the bar risers that came stock with the bike and I feel confident that will put me in the sweet spot (or hope so....)