What is a motorcycle clip-on handlebar? Explaining its pros and cons, how to replace it, custom examples, and recommendations

What are clip-on handlebars?

Source: https://bikeman.jp/

"Clip-ons" (sepa-han) is an abbreviation for "separate handlebars," referring to handlebars that are separated on the left and right sides.
Unlike "bar handlebars," where the left and right handles are connected by a single bar, clip-ons have independent left and right handles that are not connected.
Bar handlebars are common on naked bikes and off-road models, while clip-ons are often found on sport bikes, such as racer-type models that prioritize performance.
Installing clip-ons results in a forward-leaning riding posture, which helps reduce wind resistance on the body, making them a common choice for sport-type motorcycles.

Cafe racer style with clip-ons

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/BC-2365645/

When customizing a motorcycle into a cafe racer style, clip-on handlebars are almost always installed.
The cafe racer originated from modifications made to production bikes, inspired by racing bikes, to make them faster on public roads.
Cafe racers are a customization style that originated in the UK, where rockers who gathered at popular cafes in the 1960s would compete to see "who could ride fastest on public roads" or show off their bikes.
Clip-on handlebars were commonly used to reduce air resistance and give the bike a sleeker, cooler appearance. Even today, the cafe racer style is associated with clip-ons.
What are the advantages of installing clip-ons, even for bikes other than cafe racers?
Let's look at the pros and cons.

Pros and cons of switching to clip-on handlebars

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photosA1-932690/

The main advantages of installing clip-ons are their appearance and riding position.
Let's examine the advantages in detail first.

【Pro】Improved aesthetics

Installing clip-on handlebars lowers and narrows the handlebar position, which improves the bike's appearance.
This gives the impression that the front of the bike has a lower center of gravity, making the bike look sportier—a key advantage of installing them.
Some riders prioritize appearance to the extent of choosing extreme angles and narrowing, even if it sacrifices comfort, demonstrating the significant impact on visual aesthetics.

【Pro】Adjustable handlebar position

By replacing bar handlebars with clip-ons, you gain the ability to adjust the handlebar angle.
Bar handlebars are integrated, allowing only minor height adjustments, but clip-ons have independent left and right handles, enabling more precise adjustments to both angle and height.
Motorcycle handlebars are typically adjusted to an average body type to make them comfortable for most people, but they won't be a perfect fit for everyone.
Therefore, adjusting the angle and height with clip-ons allows you to find a position that suits you better.

【Pro】Improved sport performance

Clip-on handlebars lower the handlebar position, which enhances the bike's sportiness.
The riding position becomes more forward-leaning, lowering the center of gravity and reducing wind resistance on the body, which also improves stability.
Adjusting the handlebar angle to suit your physique can also help reduce stress on your upper body.
While clip-ons improve appearance and sport performance, what are their downsides?
Next, let's look at the disadvantages.

【Con】Increased fatigue

One disadvantage of installing clip-on handlebars is an increased tendency for fatigue.
With bar handlebars, the position is higher, allowing for a natural, seated riding posture. However, clip-ons often lead to a forward-leaning posture with a rounded back.
This means the body is supported by the back muscles, which tends to increase fatigue.
Additionally, the forward-leaning posture lowers the field of vision and can lead to a wider range of eye movement, such as looking upward.
Compared to the natural position of bar handlebars, clip-ons are more likely to cause fatigue due to both riding posture and restricted vision.
This fatigue will be especially noticeable on long rides, such as tours.

【Con】More difficult to maneuver

With clip-on handlebars, the handlebar position is lower, making it more difficult to maneuver the bike, such as when pushing it.
Generally, lighter bikes are easier to maneuver, but even a lightweight bike with clip-ons can feel more challenging to handle than a heavier naked bike with bar handlebars.
Depending on the angle adjustment, your hands might get pinched when turning the handlebars, so you need to adjust the angle with maneuverability in mind.

【Con】Risk of denting the tank in a fall

If a bike with clip-on handlebars falls, depending on the installation angle, the handlebars might hit and scratch or dent the fuel tank or frame.
One disadvantage of clip-ons is that they are more prone to damaging the tank or body, or even spinning, in the event of a fall.
Older types of clip-ons, especially those fixed by wrapping around the front fork, can rotate upon impact in a fall and damage the tank.
Extreme installations that prioritize aesthetics, such as a sharp angle, also increase the risk of tank damage during a fall. It's best to install them with a slight clearance when the handlebars are fully turned.

Is it illegal to replace with clip-on handlebars? Will it pass inspection?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/84-1283299/

Here, we discuss the laws surrounding clip-on handlebars: whether it's illegal to install them and if they'll pass vehicle inspection.
While installing clip-ons was once considered illegal, what is the situation as of February 2021?

Is it illegal to switch to clip-on handlebars?

Replacing handlebars with clip-ons is not illegal, but you must adhere to installation rules.
Current clip-on handlebars are typically secured to the top bridge to prevent rotation during a fall. However, older clip-ons often wrapped around the front forks and were merely bolted in place, which could be deemed a violation of safety standards.
Clip-ons that attach by wrapping around the front forks can easily rotate in a fall, and from a safety perspective, they may be considered illegal, potentially resulting in a ticket.
Furthermore, even with clip-ons secured to the top bridge, if the handlebars are turned to full lock and obstruct hand access to switches, making operation impossible, it could also be considered a violation. Therefore, avoiding extreme angles during installation is crucial.
The exact angle that constitutes illegality is a grey area, often left to the discretion of the police officer.
It's safe to assume that overly prioritizing aesthetics, leading to an extreme installation where the handlebars almost touch the tank when turned, is highly likely to be considered illegal.

Will clip-ons pass vehicle inspection?

While clip-ons can be illegal depending on their installation angle and type, they can still pass vehicle inspection.
However, some installation methods might prevent them from passing. Let's understand when clip-ons pass and when they don't.

When a custom bike with clip-ons passes vehicle inspection

Vehicle inspection checks not only that each part functions correctly but also that the dimensions (total length, total width, seating capacity, etc.) listed on the vehicle inspection certificate are maintained.
For width and height, the following conditions must be met:
• The width must be within ±2 cm of the width listed on the vehicle inspection certificate.
• The height must be within ±4 cm of the height listed on the vehicle inspection certificate.
If the clip-ons fall within these specified ranges, the vehicle will pass inspection without any special application.
However, when switching from upright handlebars to clip-ons, the height difference will likely exceed 4 cm.
If the permissible width or height is exceeded, the vehicle will not pass inspection as is, and a separate procedure will be required.

When a custom bike with clip-ons does not pass vehicle inspection

When replacing with clip-on handlebars, if the width exceeds ±2 cm or the height exceeds ±4 cm compared to the vehicle inspection certificate, a "structural modification inspection" is required.
A structural modification inspection is a procedure performed when there is a change in the details listed on the vehicle inspection certificate (such as dimensions, displacement, or seating capacity). This involves bringing the motorcycle to the relevant transport branch office or vehicle inspection and registration office.
It's important to note that regardless of the remaining days on the current inspection, the inspection expiry date will be two years from the application date.
To make the most of the remaining inspection period, many people perform the structural modification inspection simultaneously with their regular vehicle inspection. However, if a customization requiring a structural modification procedure is made, it is generally required to complete the modification procedure within 15 days.
Furthermore, if a structural modification inspection is performed before the expiry date of the current vehicle inspection, attention must be paid to the validity period of compulsory liability insurance and other policies.
If you replace the handlebars with clip-ons within 15 days of the date you intend to undergo vehicle inspection, you can meet the notification deadline and maintain the regular inspection cycle.

How to replace and install clip-on handlebars

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/81-4668290/

The general steps for replacing bar handlebars with clip-ons are as follows:
Remove parts attached to the handlebars, such as mirrors, switches, and the brake master cylinder.
Remove the bar handlebars.
Remove the top bridge.
Install the clip-on handlebars.
Install the top bridge, attach the switches, and adjust the brake cable position.
Check for any looseness in the handlebars and for any strange noises when turning them.
(The exact procedure may vary slightly depending on the motorcycle and the clip-on handlebars being installed.)
1. The process begins with removing parts around the handlebars, such as mirrors. Be careful not to damage them by turning them the wrong way, as some mirrors may have reverse threads depending on the model.
3. To remove the top bridge, after loosening the bolts, gently tap it from below with a rubber mallet to gradually remove it.
4. The main methods for installing clip-ons are either fixing them to the top bridge or clamping them to the front forks.
Depending on the motorcycle model and the clip-ons being installed, drilling holes in the clip-ons may be necessary to attach the switches.

Main tools required for replacement

Replacing clip-ons primarily requires the following tools:
Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
Socket wrenches, box-end wrenches, and other types of wrenches
Stem nut wrench (often around 30mm)
Hex keys
Rubber mallet (for removing the top bridge)
Parts cleaner
Drill (needed when installing switches on universal clip-ons)
Utility knife
Parts cleaner, lubricant spray, etc.
Needle-nose pliers
These tools, along with the clip-on handlebars themselves and new grips, will be necessary.

Points to note during replacement

Replacing clip-on handlebars is not a particularly difficult task and can be done yourself, provided you have the necessary tools.
During handlebar replacement, you might accidentally scratch the fuel tank. To prevent this, remove the tank or cover it with a thick towel for protection.
While it adds an extra step, removing the tank is recommended as it protects against scratches and improves ease of work.
The replacement process itself isn't very difficult, but if you're replacing with universal clip-ons, you'll need to drill holes for the switches, which is an irreversible task if done incorrectly.
If you're unsure about the work or if bolts are too tight to remove, it's better not to force the process and instead ask a motorcycle shop to perform the replacement.
Forcing parts off can lead to damage and unexpected costs.
If you're uncertain about replacement or assembly, consult a motorcycle shop.

How much does installation cost if I ask a professional?

The average cost for professional installation of clip-on handlebars at a motorcycle shop ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 yen.
The cost varies widely because it depends on the time required for the work, which differs according to the motorcycle model and the specific clip-on handlebars being installed.

Examples of custom bikes with clip-on handlebars

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/1149389/

Here, we introduce motorcycles that have been fitted with clip-on handlebars.
This might give you an idea of what your bike could look like after the change, so please take a look if you're considering the switch.

American Cruiser × Clip-ons

Source: https://twitter.com/steedgoodlife/status/1018915216183050240

This is a combination of popular American Steed 400 with clip-on handlebars.
The lowered handlebar position gives the impression of a lower center of gravity for the entire bike.

Harley × Clip-ons

Source: https://twitter.com/siwitake/status/336662873579331584

These two examples show a Harley, a quintessential American cruiser, equipped with clip-on handlebars.

Source: https://twitter.com/hiroronRR/status/1150885967538077696

Harleys, which usually conjure an image of leisurely straight-line cruising, can take on a sporty and agile appearance when fitted with clip-on handlebars.
In both cases, the clip-on handlebars make the handlebar area look neat and tidy.

SR400 x Clip-on Handlebars

Source: https://twitter.com/CASCADASR/status/1137603667916275713

Here's an example of an SR400 with clip-on handlebars.
Clip-on handlebars are often said to be essential for cafe racers, and fitting them to an SR400 certainly gives it a strong cafe racer vibe.
The clip-on handlebars pair well with the SR400's classic look.

CB400SF x Clip-on Handlebars

寒いけど走りに🤮
セパハンはいいぞ〜#cb400sf #セパハンネイキッド pic.twitter.com/CRb5Cc2gfN

— やと@cb400sf (@yatosaan__) October 26, 2020

Source: https://twitter.com/yatosaan__/status/1320691155411988480

This is an example of a CB400SF with clip-on handlebars.
The CB400SF is known for its ease of riding, even used in driving schools, but by daring to install clip-on handlebars, you can assert your individuality and achieve a riding position that suits your physique.
It's a curious thing how a naked bike can look sporty just by having clip-on handlebars.
Handlebars are a small part of the body, but changing them can significantly alter the visual impression of the bike.

Z900RS x Clip-on Handlebars

Source: https://twitter.com/imanishi_mt/status/1210049813057720320

This is an example of a Z900RS with clip-on handlebars. The poster commented that it was surprisingly easy to ride in practice.
While clip-on handlebars give a forward-leaning and tight impression, if the position suits you, they aren't difficult to ride.
Clip-on handlebars allow for angle adjustments to match your body type and preferences, so finding your ideal riding position can also be part of the fun.

ZRX400 x Clip-on Handlebars

Source: https://twitter.com/_____ZRX__CROWN/status/1072300035138830336

This ZRX400 with clip-on handlebars gives the impression of being quite low and angled.
The clip-ons blend well with the body of the bike, emphasizing the cool look that is one of the benefits of clip-ons.
This ZRX400 has a tough image.

Z250 x Clip-on Handlebars

Source: https://twitter.com/z250vtr1000f/status/1050297425833877505

Here is a Z250 equipped with clip-on handlebars.
It gives a sporty, well-integrated impression, as if the center of gravity has been lowered.
This is a great example of well-adjusted narrowing as well.

【High Cost-Performance】Top 5 Recommended Clip-on Handlebars!

Here are our recommended clip-on handlebars.
Find your favorite clip-ons and install them on your beloved bike.

1．POSH Faith: Machined 35mm Silver Universal/SR400/SR500

URL: https://bikeman.jp/
These 35mm clip-on handlebars are for the SR400/500.
They are made from machined aluminum with an anodized finish, giving them a high-quality feel.
You can choose between a drop angle of 15 or 25 degrees, and a fork angle of 0 or 10 degrees.

2．HURRICANE: Separate Handlebars Gold Type I GB250 Clubman

URL: https://bikeman.jp/products/hr-hs3302

These are for the GB250 Clubman from Hurricane, long known as a classic clip-on handlebar manufacturer.
These gold clip-on handlebars have a luxurious feel, providing an even greater dress-up effect.

3．HURRICANE: Separate Handlebars Chrome Plated Type I SR400/500.CB400SS

URL: https://bikeman.jp/

These are Hurricane's Chrome Plated Type I handlebars for the SR400/500 and CB400SS.
They feature a beautifully finished chrome plating, and the joint between the handlebar and holder uses advanced serration processing.
This completely prevents displacement of the joint during impact, making them clip-ons with both high aesthetics and functionality.

4．POSH Faith: Machined 39mm Silver ZEPHYR400

URL: https://bikeman.jp/
These are POSH Faith's Machined 39mm clip-on handlebars for the Zephyr 400.
They are made from machined aluminum, with a choice of 15 or 25 degrees for the drop angle, and 0 or 10 degrees for the fork angle.
The drop angle can be adjusted with a single hex wrench.

5．HURRICANE: Black Type 3 Rebel 250 (MC49) Rebel 500 (PC60)

URL: https://bikeman.jp/products/hr-hs4121b

These are Hurricane's handlebars for the Rebel 250 (MC49) and Rebel 500 (PC60).
They are a 1-inch (25.4mm) mounting type with freely adjustable angle.
You can adjust the handlebar angle to better suit your preferences.