I've read several threads about fitting different bars to XT's so I'm keen to hear peoples' opinions.
The bike is a 2004 XT, I'm slim, 5'10" (1.78mtrs), with an inside leg of 31/32 (79/81cm) so would be interested to hear from those who've tied different bars, whether raised or not, and what the advantages or disadvantages were. Particularly if you're a similar build to me. I'm planning adventure style trips with a mix of on and off road.
Thanks in advance,

Geoff

Hi,

I've put the standard braced renthals on mine (gold, of course). They have improved the riding position on and off road, especially off. I have not used bar-risers at the fork, but the bars are shaped so as to be slightly wider and higher than the originals. I'd definately replace the standard bars simply because they are made of cheese and bend in a strong wind.

I'm 5' 10" with a 30" - 31" inside leg.

Matt

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*Disclaimer* - I am not saying my bike is better than your bike. I am not saying my way is better than your way. I am not mocking your religion/politics/other belief system. When reading my post imagine me sitting behind a frothing pint of ale, smiling and offering you a bag of peanuts. This is the sentiment in which my post is made. Please accept it as such!

Got a Alloy bar from FLY racing on my Moto.....


I'm 6'-0"....with a 32" inseam.....fits me perfect!

Hi, If you've still got the standard bars I'd definitely recommend changing them, the Yamaha bars are made of monkey metal and very prone to bending if dropped. Lots of XT s have the Renthall High Dakar bars fitted, these add height which is useful if you ride standing on the pegs ( offroad) with no changes to the cable length, they are also very tough and will survive rough treatment, you also should consider brushguards as the levers are very prone to damage even on low speed drops.



Good Luck

Mike

I've been looking at the Dakars and they seem to be a good choice - even come in blue.
I'm inclined to think that for tarmac comfort, risers might not be a good idea? Comments welcome on that aspect.

Geoff

I've now ordered the Renthal Dakars, in silver, and I'll post again when I've had a chance to try them.

Geoff

Geoff, The Dakars are higher than the standard bars anyway - so you wont need bar risers, I'm 6ft 1" and the bars are just slightly low when I'm stood up on the pegs - they should be perfect for your height. Grant did a great presentation on bike ergonomics down at the Malage HU meet last year, might be worth trolling around the site to see if you can find some more details on that. Don't forget that you can adjust reach and height , to a degree, by turning the bars in the yokes, just sit on the bike and move the bars until it suits you.
Mike

Thanks Mike. Sound advice and I'll experiment to get the right position. Sitting on the bike in standard trim, I do get the impression that risers are unlikely to be needed.

Geoff

Well, I've finally got around to fitting the Renthals and very nice they look too.
This now brings forth some further questions:
1. The bar end weights from the Yamaha don't fit the Renthals as the internal diameter is 4mm less so is there a way of fitting the original weights?
2. I haven't ridden it yet but I'm wondering what others have found with regard to vibration. Is it worse without the bar end weights or do the Renthals absorb it somehow? In other words, are the weights needed?
3. I am interested in fitting Barkbusters, as suggested. If I do, will I be able to fit weights as well or, again, will they be needed anyway?
I know some of you have made these mods so your thoughts will be appreciated.

Cheers all,

Geoff

Geoff, the bar end weight thing is purely a matter of "suck & see" matey

As you've changed the h/bars, the resonance/frequency will alter from stock, and vibes may be better (or worse) and odds on, at a different rev range

As covered on some previous threads, fitting bark-busters will act like bar weights, by altering the resonance pitch. SO I'd fit them first and go for a blast.

If they still vibe, try whacking some lead weights (or zinc roof flashing.. etc) in the bars, this will have the same effect as bar weights, and be cheaper. Just make sure they are a snug fit, and you can get them out again if needs be

Thanks for that Pigford. The Renthals have some kind of red plug about 50mm into the bar. I've no idea what it's for but it could be useful in preventing anything I put into the bars from traveling.
Now, where did I leave that leftover lead flashing?

Geoff

I was considering a set of these for my 1VJ: it's was fitted with a pair of low rise Renthals which were far too low when on the pegs, so I refitted the standard bars, which are about the right height for me (5' 11' and 32" leg, blue eyes, Leo...) but of course going from alloy back to steel my bark buster inserts no longer fit - Doh! Anyone recommend a supplier of Dakar bars?

Bob, I got mine at intobikes.co.uk :: the motorcycle parts and accessories store
They were 34.99 plus some postage.

Regards,

Geoff

Thanks - that seems about the going rate.
Guess I'll bung the low ones on Fleabay to offset the cost, but I think I'd be wise to go alloy before heading off to Morocco in the Spring: a full Tenere tank will put a lot of force into the standard bars if (no, when!!) I drop it...

I finally rode the bike today and had no problems with vibration at all. In fact, it seemed to be less than before. They also make the riding position very comfortable. I'll be fitting some heated grips soon and I think the extra thickness will make them even better.
Barkbusters next, just to top the job off. Luvverly!

Geoff