If you’ve ever tried to remove a grip that is molded into a throttle tube, you know what a huge chore you’re facing. Some manufacturers (Kawasaki and Suzuki in particular) sell bikes with the throttle-side grip basically impregnated into the tube, and without the proper tools and know-how you could be up against with quite a mess. However, if you are good with sharp blades and confident in your mechanical ability, then removing a stock throttle grip from a Suzuki RM-Z or Kawasaki KX-F will not be that hard.The one thing you need to do this is a lot of is patience, because if you are not careful, you can and will cut yourself. You can start from the throttle body side or the grip end side, but it is easier if you have some grip to pull on while you cut the layer between the throttle tube and the rubber grip. Make sure your blade is sharp so you can cut it like butter and if you place it from the throttle body and firmly cut slowly to the grip end, the cut will be clean and not so messy.Try to cut off as much as you can so your final surface is nice and smooth because you don’t want your new grip to be placed on an uneven surface; believe me, it will not only feel weird, but it will look weird.
Finally, put a small amount of glue on your grip and slide it on. Too much glue on your grip will slide in through the throttle tube end hole and it will create a mess that can leave your throttle tube glued on to your bar.This can take up to one hour and if you want to avoid this crazy procedure, I recommend you buy a new throttle tube (without a grip on it) and save the old one with the grip on it in case you need it in an emergency.Remember, don’t stress, be careful not to cut yourself and when you are done, take your bike out to the track and ride it like you stole it!Stay tuned to www.dirtrider.com for more web exclusive tips and tricks.
