Triumphrat

DezynGuy · 12-12-2012, 03:37 PM

So, I've been riding my 2012 T100 for a year now, have put on 4800 miles. It's been an ongoing process to modify this ride, as you can all relate to, I'm sure.

The latest mod has been regarding handlebars. I've recently acquired the stock Thruxton bars, (had 'em powder coated black), and am considering going with the cafe look.

My (very experienced) buddy cautioned me against doing this. Aside from his quote in the subject line, he also added, "you'll put it down, for sure."

So, now I'm wondering if perhaps I need more time in the saddle before "dropping my posture."

Anyone have experience going from cruise posture to cafe posture? (I'm not considering rear sets, just yet.)

zelatore · 12-12-2012, 04:00 PM

Let me guess, your buddy rides a cruiser and has also told you not to touch the front brake or 'you'll put it down' as well?

In short, he may have good intentions but doesn't seem to have any idea what he's talking about.

jonkster · 12-12-2012, 04:05 PM

If it concerns you, why not book an advanced riding course and build up your skills and confidence?

There is nothing intrinsically more difficult or dangerous about riding with lower bars. If it makes you nervous though, the best solution I think is to boost your experience and confidence.

A course could do this very quickly and you would have a lot of fun at the same time.

Just a thought.

illmonk · 12-12-2012, 04:09 PM

No idea why your buddy thinks you'd "put her down, for sure", that logic would seem to indicate that every Thruxton made is unsafe and a wreck waiting to happen, unless of course it's a comment to your maniacal riding habits.

d00dge · 12-12-2012, 04:13 PM

I recently put some Norman Hyde M bars on my Bonneville SE. I had them set up so they were very low. I found that not only did it alter the riding position dramatically, it also made the bike uncomfortably hard on my wrists. It looked very cool and cafe racerish, but I had to adjust them back to a slightly more upright position.

jonkster · 12-12-2012, 04:23 PM

FWIW I would recommend when riding with lower bars it is best to avoid "leaning" on the bars.

This requires using some other muscles in the core and bum and legs to support the body so there is no real weight carried through your arms down onto the bars. Your arms should still be slightly bent at the elbows not straight.

That may take a little practice and it is not comfortable for everyone. I prefer lower bars except for long periods of straight highway riding. It may not suit everyone. Most people I think can adapt pretty quickly though (my opinion)

Papa Weeley · 12-12-2012, 04:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zelatore

Let me guess, your buddy rides a cruiser and has also told you not to touch the front brake or 'you'll put it down' as well?

In short, he may have good intentions but doesn't seem to have any idea what he's talking about.

^Ditto - Exactly!

gripperod · 12-12-2012, 04:31 PM

"FWIW I would recommend when riding with lower bars it is best to avoid "leaning" on the bars. "

................alternatively his can simply achieved by violent acceleration and keeping your speed above 100MPH at all possible times

Funkbyte · 12-12-2012, 04:32 PM

I have yet to cafe' my Bonneville, but I did cafe my first bike which was a 75' Honda CB550. The bike was a rebuilt salvage which had a set of bars similar to the Bonneville's on it. I rode that was for about 3 months and then switched to clubmans. I am not going to say the change was drastic, but it was noticeable. The steering response was quite a bit quicker and it did get a little twitchy every once in a while. If you switch your bars I would suggest returning to a parking lot and do some basic MSF course drills to understand the change in characteristics.

Cburt · 12-12-2012, 04:41 PM

Wonder if the same logic applies to ape hangers.

Never thought they were safe, looked stupid and to my complete amazement have stuck around for over 40 odd years.
Still see them around. I still think they look really stupid.
Now, back on topic, lower bars will not cause you to go down.
They look nice and are functional.