Custom Bar Pad Covers - Complete Guide to Types, Sizing, Installation & More

Introduction to Bar Pad Covers

Bar pad covers are an important accessory for many types of motorcycles and ATVs. They provide comfort and protection for both the rider and the machine. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about bar pad covers, from materials and sizing to custom options and installation.

What Are Bar Pad Covers?

Bar pad covers, also sometimes called handlebar pads, are protective sleeves that go over the handlebars of motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, snowmobiles, and other recreational vehicles. They pad and cushion the handlebars to make them more comfortable for the rider to grip over rough terrain or long rides.

Bar pad covers also help protect the handlebars themselves from scrapes, scratches, and damage. Without protection, handlebars can get easily dented or scraped when bikes inevitably take a spill. Quality bar pad covers provide an extra layer of durable material to help prevent this type of damage.

Benefits of Using Bar Pad Covers

There are several key benefits that make bar pad covers a useful accessory for most riders:

• Comfort - Bar pad covers provide padding for a more comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue and numbness on long rides.
• Protection - They protect handlebars from dents, chips, and scrapes in the event of a crash or drop.
• Traction - Rubberized covers give better traction and grip, especially in wet conditions.
• Noise reduction - Padding helps reduce vibrations for a quieter ride.
• Customization - Riders can choose colors and designs that reflect their personalities.
• Affordability - Bar pad covers are relatively inexpensive compared to other upgrades.

For most riders, the comfort and protection factors are the primary benefits. Having a more comfortable grip allows you to ride harder and longer without hands getting numb or tired. And protecting your handlebars saves you money and trouble when it comes to potential repairs down the road.

Types of Bar Pad Covers

There are a few main types of bar pad covers riders can choose from:

Standard Foam Covers

The most basic and affordable option is a simple sleeve made of foam padding. These typically have an outer nylon or microfiber shell with a softer foam rubber interior. They slide right over the handlebars and can be secured with velcro straps. Standard foam covers provide basic padding for comfort and protection.

Gel Padding Covers

For additional comfort, many riders opt for gel padding covers. They offer the same outer sleeve protection but with a gel layer inside that better absorbs vibrations and contours to the rider's grip. Gel pads feel great, especially on longer rides, but they do cost a bit more than basic foam.

Heated Handlebar Covers

For riding in cold weather climates, heated handlebar covers are fantastic. They have electric heating elements inside that connect to your bike's battery to generate gentle warmth right where you grip the bars. Heated covers keep your hands from getting painfully numb when riding in cold temps.

Custom Printed Covers

For riders and racers looking to stylize their bikes, custom printed bar pad covers are a great option. These allow you to upload any graphics or designs you want which then get printed on durable materials. Custom covers let you show off team logos, colors, slogans, or photos.

How to Choose the Right Bar Pad Covers

With the different types and options available, it's important to choose bar pad covers suited to your specific bike and needs. Here are some tips for selecting the right ones:

Measure Your Handlebars

The first step is to measure the diameter of your handlebars where the covers will fit. This ensures you get the proper sized covers - they should slide on snug but not be painfully tight. Take the measurement in millimeters to compare against sizing charts.

Consider Your Riding Style & Conditions

Think about the type of riding you do most. Long distance and highway riders will appreciate gel covers for comfort on extended rides. Motocross or off-road riders need covers that can take a beating from crashes and drops. Cold weather riders will love heated covers for warmth.

Match Your Bike's Look

Choose cover colors and designs that integrate well with your motorcycle's overall style. Match black covers on black bikes or chrome on chrome. Go bold with colorful graphics if you have a flashy motocross bike. Get creative with custom covers that show off your personality.

Read Reviews & Compare Brands

It's always smart to read reviews from other riders to gauge the quality and durability of different bar pad cover brands. Well-reviewed covers that hold up ride after ride are worth the investment. Shop around for sales and deals to get the best bang for your buck.

Consider Price vs. Value

You can find cheap foam covers for under $20 or spend $100+ on custom printed gel pads. In general, mid-range covers around $40-60 provide excellent protection, comfort, and durability for most riders. Focus on value over rock bottom pricing.

Installing Your New Bar Pad Covers

Putting your new bar pad covers on your bike is a quick and easy process. Here are some tips for proper installation:

Clean the Handlebars

Start by cleaning your handlebars with soap and water or alcohol wipes. Remove any dirt, grease, or debris so the covers fit cleanly into place.

Slide the Covers On

Carefully slide the new covers onto each handlebar, making sure they are oriented correctly. Pull them on just past the controls until they are centered on the middle of the bars.

Adjust & Secure

Adjust the fit so the covers are centered and smooth. Use the velcro straps or closure tabs to gently secure them in place. You don't want them loose but they shouldn't be painfully tight either. Just snug enough not to rotate or slide is perfect.

Check your Grip & Controls

With the covers installed, grip your handlebars and test the feel. Make sure you still have easy access to brakes, shifters, and switches. If anything feels obstructed, re-adjust the covers as needed. Then you're ready to ride in comfort and style!

Maintaining Your Bar Pad Covers

With proper care and maintenance, quality bar pad covers can last for years of riding enjoyment. Here are some tips for keeping yours in great shape:

Hand Wash & Air Dry

Periodically use mild soap and water to wash away dirt and grime buildup from your covers. Let them air dry thoroughly before reinstalling to prevent moisture damage.

Check for Damage

Inspect covers for wear and tear or damage after any spill or crash. If torn or heavily damaged, they may need replacement for both safety and aesthetics.

Re-Secure Straps & Velcro

Make sure straps or velcro are holding covers tightly in place. Re-secure as needed if they become loose over time.

Consider Renewing Gel Pads

For gel padding covers, the gel may compress and break down over years of use. Replacement gel insert kits can renew the comfort of worn pads.

Protect Your Investment

Don't leave expensive gel or custom printed covers on bikes exposed to harsh weather and elements when not riding. Remove and store them properly between uses.

Shop Custom Bar Pad Covers

In addition to all the standard bar pad covers available, many vendors offer fully customizable printed covers as well. Here are some tips if you're looking to design your own:

Pick Your Materials

Look for durable synthetics like vinyl that will hold up on rides plus vividly display your designs in vibrant color.

Consider Size Limits

Know the maximum print size your covers can accommodate - you may need to shrink or tweak complex designs to fit.

Explore Design Options

Browse the vendor's templates and design lab to get creative with colors, fonts, graphics, and photography content.

Preview Before Purchase

Order proofs and samples before finalizing orders to ensure the prints come out as vivid as you envisioned.

Share Your Passion

Use custom covers as a canvas to share your passion. Display favorite photos, memories, inspirational quotes or anything meaningful.

With limitless customization, you can create truly one-of-a-kind bar pad covers perfect for your bike and personality. They make awesome gifts too!

Ride Safely with Quality Bar Pad Covers

Upgrading to quality bar pad covers is one of the best investments you can make to improve comfort, performance, and protection on your motorcycle, ATV or other recreational ride. With so many types and options to choose from, you can dial in the perfect set of covers suited for your specific bike and handling preferences.

Don't settle for cheap covers that will fall apart quickly. Spend a little more for durable pads that provide long-lasting padding, vibration dampening, and abrasion resistance ride after ride. Your hands will thank you!

So get ready to ride longer, harder and happier by equipping your bike with fresh new bar pad covers today. Your next epic adventure awaits!

FAQs

What materials are bar pad covers made from?

Most are an outer sleeve of durable nylon, microfiber or vinyl, with inner foam or gel padding. Custom printed covers use synthetics like vinyl that can display designs and graphics.

How do I clean bar pad covers?

Use mild soap and water to hand wash covers occasionally. Let them air dry fully before reinstalling to prevent moisture damage and mildew.

How often should I replace my covers?

With proper care, quality covers can last several riding seasons. But if heavily damaged or worn out, replace them for continued protection and comfort.

Can I put bar pad covers on any motorcycle or ATV?

Covers are very universal but always measure your specific handlebar diameter first. Sizing charts ensure you get a proper snug fit.

Is there a warranty on custom printed designs?

Reputable vendors will guarantee printed designs for accuracy and vibrancy. Know policies in case prints fade or peel over time.