The start, stop, hi-lo, on/off, horn, indicator switch housings take up 4 inches of realestate on the handle bars. Has anybody found narrower switch gear in the aftermarket or from other models or makes?
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Handle Bar Switch gear.
- Thread starter Kevin Werner
- Start date
Motogadget. It will get rid of all the clunky stuff, but it ain’t cheap!
Any cheap ideas?
These will get ya under 3 inches.
https://speedmotoco.com/universal-black-alloy-motorcycle-control-switch-set-combo-fits-22mm-bars/
https://speedmotoco.com/universal-black-alloy-motorcycle-control-switch-set-combo-fits-22mm-bars/
Thanks Jim, this forum rocks.
I notice it looks like you still have the plastic spacer ring installed between the MC and switch housing. I always remove them. That would narrow down the amount of space used on that throttle side. I'm not sure why Yamaha fitted them, the clearance between the brake lever adjuster screw and the switch housing is fine without it because the housing is "dished" out there .....
And speaking of MCs, you might consider changing yours to a smaller one. It looks like you have the earlier round reservoir MC. Even the original later style with a 14mm bore is considered a bit too large for best brake modulation and "feel". That round one you have is even larger, 5/8" I think. Most of us change to something in the 11 to 13mm range. The one I pictured above is a 1/2" (12.7mm) unit off a Yamaha Vision. On my other 650, I have an 11mm unit. Both are an improvement over stock. I like to use stock Yamaha units from other models because they accept the same brake lever, use the original brake light switch, and have the reverse thread mirror mount like the original.
And speaking of MCs, you might consider changing yours to a smaller one. It looks like you have the earlier round reservoir MC. Even the original later style with a 14mm bore is considered a bit too large for best brake modulation and "feel". That round one you have is even larger, 5/8" I think. Most of us change to something in the 11 to 13mm range. The one I pictured above is a 1/2" (12.7mm) unit off a Yamaha Vision. On my other 650, I have an 11mm unit. Both are an improvement over stock. I like to use stock Yamaha units from other models because they accept the same brake lever, use the original brake light switch, and have the reverse thread mirror mount like the original.
Thanks 5Twins. I have discarded that spacer but moving my hands in that extra inch or so was still a stance too wide for me. If I am going through this exercise I may as well avoid compromises. In another thread some one mentioned, maybe you, that a 90 cm brake line works with these lower bars. I assume that means eliminating the two hose system originally fitted. Do the ends retain the 15 degree (?) angle on the banjo fitting? Also, is there any twist added or are the ends both facing the same way on the new brake line?
peterg
XS650 Addict
These are very minimal and lots of cheap knockoffs available.
https://www.shop.modernmotorcycleco.../switch-block-black-with-black-toggle-by-posh
The good thing about the XS650 right hand switch housing is that it houses the throttle as well as the switches. Replacing the stock switch housing means that you have to replace it with another switch housing plus a throttle housing.
https://www.shop.modernmotorcycleco.../switch-block-black-with-black-toggle-by-posh
The good thing about the XS650 right hand switch housing is that it houses the throttle as well as the switches. Replacing the stock switch housing means that you have to replace it with another switch housing plus a throttle housing.
Ducati Monster models have a narrow, free standing RH side kill/ run switch, plus starter button combo, which is just under 22 mm wide. (47 mm total with a Motion Pro throttle housing) So if you have a constant on, separate switch, or automatic on headlight, it is a good option.
The Ducatis have the headlight on/ off on the LH switch, together with hi/lo, pass, horn and indicator switches. However, that LH switch is 44 mm wide.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/283635928253
Also, a different handlebar bend may allow sliding the controls further in. Maybe a BMW bar from the R75/ R90 models? Also, a Brembo master cylinder may be more compact than most OEM japanese alternatives..
The Ducatis have the headlight on/ off on the LH switch, together with hi/lo, pass, horn and indicator switches. However, that LH switch is 44 mm wide.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/283635928253
Also, a different handlebar bend may allow sliding the controls further in. Maybe a BMW bar from the R75/ R90 models? Also, a Brembo master cylinder may be more compact than most OEM japanese alternatives..
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Left is 1.3"... Right is 1.5". I make that a total of 2.8"
That's 1.2" less than your 4".
I misread the dimensions, duh.
Yeah... I've never done that before...
When looking at your handlebar, it seems to have large radius/ swooping bends.
A handlebar with tighter bends should allow you to slide the controls a lot further in. Swapping out the handlebar would be a lot easier than swapping switches.
A handlebar with tighter bends should allow you to slide the controls a lot further in. Swapping out the handlebar would be a lot easier than swapping switches.
Yes those bars have "buyers remorse" written all over them for that exact reason. I have another pair of bars with tighter bends and 3 or so inches narrower. The new bars have a smidge more pull back also. I have my riser bases in the machine shop getting turned down to fit Virago risers. When I can dry fit it all back together and check ride position I will know if further work and or narrower switch gear is needed. I am very gratefull for all the constructive input.
The switchgear of off Intruders and Savages seems to be fairly compact.
A different way to skin this cat;
Radian handlebars, the rise has a tight bend, keeps the length short. Looks like there's room to take at least another inch off the width.
Radian handlebars, the rise has a tight bend, keeps the length short. Looks like there's room to take at least another inch off the width.
plus $28 shipping...
I MIGHT know of an extra set locally.
Could take a bit but I'll look, ask.
