Finding and Maintaining the Right Clutch Cable for 16 Inch Ape Hangers

Finding the Right Clutch Cable for 16 Inch Ape Hanger Handlebars

Installing 16 inch ape hanger handlebars on your motorcycle can provide a cool custom look, but it also requires adjusting your clutch and brake cables to accommodate the new handlebar height. One of the most important cables to replace is the clutch cable, as an improper fit can lead to poor clutch lever action and difficulty shifting gears.

Measuring Your Ape Hangers

When selecting a new clutch cable, you first need to carefully measure the height added by your ape hangers. While they are commonly referred to as "16 inch" bars, actual heights can vary:

• Some 16 inch ape hangers raise the handlebars 16 inches above stock height
• Others measure 16 inches from the riser mounting point to the handlebar center
• The additional handlebar rise may be anywhere from 12-18 inches

Determine the actual rise height on your motorcycle to choose the correct cable length.

Choosing the Correct Clutch Cable

Once you know the actual handlebar rise height, you can determine the optimal clutch cable length. As a general guideline:

• Add 3-4 inches if your ape hangers rise 12-14 inches
• Add 5-6 inches for a 16 inch rise
• Add 6-8 inches for an 18+ inch rise

So for true 16 inch handlebars raised above stock, look for a clutch cable that is 5-6 inches longer than your original cable. Common extended length choices include +4 inch, +6 inch, and +8 inch clutch cables from brands like Barnett and Motion Pro.

Installing Your Clutch Cable

When installing your new extended length clutch cable, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Typically you will need to:

1. Disconnect the stock clutch cable from the lever and clutch basket
2. Feed the new cable through all guides and brackets
3. Loosely connect both ends, adjusting slack
4. Tighten down cable brackets, locknuts and adjusters
5. Lubricate the inner cable housing
6. Check clutch lever freeplay and adjust as needed

Be methodical when making connections and adjustments to ensure smooth shifting performance.

Maintaining Your Extended Clutch Cable

Properly maintaining your clutch cable is key to keeping your custom bike shifting smoothly. Follow this maintenance checklist:

• Inspect ends for frayed wires every 1,000 miles
• Lubricate inner cable housing every 5,000 miles
• Check brackets and adjusters for loose connections
• Confirm proper clutch lever play and adjust as needed
• Replace cable every 20-30k miles or if damaged

Also be sure to avoid sharp bends or kinks when routing the extended cable. This can result in difficult shifting or other problems. With careful setup, 16 inch ape hanger clutch cables can deliver great function and aesthetics.

FAQs

How do I know if I need an extended clutch cable?

If you install taller ape hanger handlebars, you will likely need a longer clutch cable to connect the clutch lever properly. Measure how much higher your new bars sit compared to stock to determine what length to get.

Will a longer clutch cable affect performance?

If an appropriately extended clutch cable is installed and maintained properly, it should perform just like a stock length cable. Take care to lubricate it and avoid tight bends or kinks.

Can I install the longer cable myself?

With some mechanical ability, you can install an extended clutch cable on your own. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper routing, connections, and adjustments.

How often should I replace my clutch cable?

Inspect the ends of your extended length clutch cable every 1,000 miles and lubricate it every 5,000 miles. Plan to replace the entire cable every 20,000-30,000 miles to keep your custom motorcycle shifting smoothly.