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Spiegler LSL vs Heli bars

75 posts Started 10 Jun 2012 Last recovered post 9 Jun 2017 Wayback Machine snapshot 5 Jul 2017

#1

[image: 120h136mxn1sw.jpg]Hi

Has anyone considered using the Spiegler bar setup over the Heli bars, if so do you like them . Does anyone know the location differences between the two setups( higher,pull back). According to their website the Spiegler setup would include longer brake lines so I assume installation is a bit more difficult. I like the look too. This is the DCT version.

Thanks

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#2

I don't have either, but here's the advantage you would get with the Spiegler setup; you can choose the height and sweep of the bars bu simply changing the bars (it's the mounts and the longer brake lines that are the key ingredient from Spiegler. The bars are just your basic twin-wall styel dirt-bike bars and can be had in just about any configuration you can think of; height, sweep back, and width!

A lot of people love the Heli setup, but I'm not a fan of how they look, or the limited adjustability (granted, they *are* an improvement over stock).

It really comes down to which look you prefer, how much change do you need (like I said, Heli is significant, but a relatively subtle change, the Spiegler will be a much greater difference with more upright seating) ...and, of course, how much work do you want to do on install. Swapping the brake lines isn't hard, but it is somewhat involved, and you need to be sure to bleed them well (get a mighty-vac if you do it, you'll thank me later). :)

A local rider has the Spiegler kit and he loves it ...but he's a hooligan and I think he's just addicted to the added ease of doing wheelies! ;)

#3

I would think with either set-up you would need to change the lines. Or do the HeliBars not change the position of the bars enough to need new lines?

#4

I called Spiegler today and I was mistaken about the brake lines, the rep said they weren't needed. The rep also said that this was one of the easier installs since you don't have to remove the top bridge as the picture shows ( I thought I was going to have to remove the stock one), their parts go around the fork tubes and sit on top of the bridge. I don't think the crazy bar end weight set up Honda uses will fit this bar type though. I think I might give it a shot since he also said that I could return them if I didn't like the placement( 10% restock) which I think I will be able to get a pretty good idea where they will come to rest once I get them in my hands.

#5

mikep,

Did you end up going with the Spiegler bar? I would appreciate your observations on the differences between them and stock and/or Helibars. Thanks.

#6
Hvrnautmikep,Did you end up going with the Spiegler bar? I would appreciate your observations on the differences between them and stock and/or Helibars. Thanks.
Hvrnaut I just received the kit today so I plan on installing the bar this weekend so stay tuned. I don't know how they will compare with the Heilbars but I will try to take some pictures with the stock bars in place and the Spiegler bars overlaid to show the differences if possible. I'll take a few pictures of the kit before I attempt installation so you can see the pieces a little better. The quality looks to be top notch too. Edited June 19, 2012 by mikep
#7

I really appreciate what you can do to help me out. I have the Helibars on my bike! They are good, but I believe I'd really like the Spiegler bar better. Just trying to get this bike just right...

#8

I really appreciate what you can do to help me out. I have the Helibars on my bike! They are good, but I believe I'd really like the Spiegler bar better. Just trying to get this bike just right...


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#9

Wow... cool install idea. Figured it would replace the top of the tree... weird.

Wonder how this setup interacts with fairing clearance....

#11

[image: IMG_0442.JPG][image: IMG_0443.JPG][image: IMG_0444.JPG][image: IMG_0445.JPG][image: IMG_0446.JPG][image: IMG_0447.JPG][image: IMG_0448.JPG][image: IMG_0449.JPG]All done I think. I don't know how they got it to go together in my first post because there is no way that was going to work. The supplied bar seemed to wide to me, maybe you can see that in the pictures below, it measured 29" across where ours measures around 26.5 or so. I was debating to just return the thing since tech support was gone for the weekend but I pressed on since I already put some slight marks on the spacers doing a pre-fit. The instructions sucked so I ended up using the Helibars instructions as guide which worked out pretty good. First thing I did was chop 1.250 off each end of the bar then I had to locate the drill locations for the switch gear since this bar doesn't come drilled like the Helibars do. You also need new bar end weights since the bar is 14mm inside dia but I knew that going into the installation. It was a major pain clocking the rotations and lengths so the bar ends wouldn't stick past through the end of the grips or be to short.There is also some clearance issues toward lock to lock so I think a short brake lever might be my next purchase. I assume the clutch side might hit too but I have a DCT so no issues there. I also had remove and rewire my heated grips but that was not to bad since I put them on it the first place. I also needed to take off the side cover to adjust the throttle cables since they became to tight after relocation. That's the real short story, if anyone has questions I'll try to answer best I can. This comparison is against the stock bar not the Helibar. Back to work tomorrow so I can rest :)

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#12

Mike,

Looks pretty cool all done up though... Curious what you think of the new ergo's... Fill us in when you get some miles on it. :D

#13

How do those bars effect vibration, better or worse?

Is there any way to, take those motocross bars and reduce vibration at the same time?

Wonder if you could fill them with something heavy?

#14
Auron

How do those bars effect vibration, better or worse?

Is there any way to, take those motocross bars and reduce vibration at the same time?

Wonder if you could fill them with something heavy?

I have not had a chance to ride the bike yet. I did install the vibranator bar end since I needed new ones for this installation so we shall see how they work. You could probably inject anything you want into them as long as it's not to runny as it would leak through the holes I had to drill to into the bar to set the switches properly.
#15

Ok - it's called an "update please"

#16
Podman

Ok - it's called an "update please"

Just had a chance to ride the bike this morning since it's been about 100 here every day for the last two weeks and I'm a ATGATT type of guy so I don't ride much when it's over 90. Overall I like the change from stock, it puts the bars a little closer and a little higher which lessons the lean in a little bit. The vibrations I would say were a little less but I don't know if that was due to the vibranators or the new bar set up. I called up spiegler about the instructions which were very poor and the contacted LSL which to my surprise admitted the instructions were incorrect and apologized and sent me a re-write of their new instructions. For my troubles they also sent me a new bar which I'm not going to use since I already went through the process. I still don't know how this would be done without trimming the bar like I did in my install, I don't think there is enough slack in the throttle setup to move the grip out another 1.25". This is how the set up looks now with me on the bike on the center stand, I'm 5'11 200lbs to give you a reference.

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#17

Hey Mike, judging from that picture, you stil have some forward lean going on there. If you were to put some bars on there with some more rise, then you'd have to do the lines but would you have to extend anything else, or do you see any other problems that might show up?

#18

Auron

Yes, I do but its better then it was. Here's the problem you will encounter if you try to use a higher bar. I could have adjusted this bar a little higher in the clamps but as you can see it would have smashed the switch gear. This picture is at lock, so I got it as high and close to the fairing as I could without hitting the hazard button.

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#19

Nice. As a new Aprillia Tuono owner I have thought of putting super bike bars on my 5th gen VFR. Except I am happy with the heli bars right now.

#20

Thanks to this thread I have ordered, installed and am thoroughly enjoying my LSL bar riser conversion. My review is below:

Just had Honda pro technicians install the LSL bar kit from Speigler with the black bars along with the OEM heated grips and Throttlemeister throttle lock. NOTE: I did install the Helibars first, and found them to be a moderate change over stock for me - I removed them and returned them. For anyone who doubts - these LSL handlebars are a DRAMATIC change from stock and in my opinion made this motorcycle perfect. My VFR is now the long-distance tourer I hoped it could become. Higher, wider, further rearward. My seating position is now nearly upright, with zero weight on my palms/wrists. Control is dramatically improved - turning is instantly better, even on the first ride. This also dramatically changed the position of my backside on the seat - in a good way. It's as though this bike was intended to be fitted with these handlebars from the factory. The LSL bars work with the stock cables and the fit/finish is worthy of installation on a Honda. The OEM heated grips cost more than other brands, but the fit/finish is Honda perfect. I am now 100% certain this is my "forever" motorcycle. If you prefer sporty/low (as I did with every CBR I've owned), leave the stock grips on. If you are hoping you can somehow make the VFR 1200 more touring oriented, this modification will not disappoint.

You can see a video demostrating the riding position with the LSL riser bar conversion here:

[video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/ezos8S0fs0U?feature=oembed]

Pictures below:

[image: LSL bar riser w/ Throttlemeister]

[image: LSL bar riser - riding position, right]

[image: LSL bar riser - riding position, left]

[image: VFR In motion]

Edited October 14, 2014 by fasterpermits
#21

all you need now is some highway pegs....

#22

not sure how bars can/ will give you better riding positon vs helibars. (bars do look much cooler though) VFR has only so much room between tank and fearing. Unless one will install bars with a set of bar risers that have up/rear offset to them and extend throtte cables and brake/cluth lines, bars will be at about the same position where helibars are. Do you have any pics of your bars in their full righ/left angle?

#23

Looks like what I wanted. Are you using all the stock clutch, brake, throttle, and wiring harness? Have Helibars that are better than OEM.

#24

I just switched to helibars earlier this year. I was actually on the fence about the switch for the longest time. The stock bars were perfect for me on winding twisty roads, but a bit taxing on the long road to and from. The helibars did exactly what I expected. The bike is now all day comfort, but I do miss the stock positions when slicing and dicing. All in all, I like the compromise, but I would not want the bars any higher. That's just me, of course.

#25
Volfy

I just switched to helibars earlier this year. I was actually on the fence about the switch for the longest time. The stock bars were perfect for me on winding twisty roads, but a bit taxing on the long road to and from. The helibars did exactly what I expected. The bike is now all day comfort, but I do miss the stock positions when slicing and dicing. All in all, I like the compromise, but I would not want the bars any higher. That's just me, of course.

what I was trying to say before, there is only so much room on vfr12 for helibars or regular bars due to fearing/tank clearance. From what I understand, helibars and bars end up being at the same place anyway.

#26
andy

Looks like what I wanted. Are you using all the stock clutch, brake, throttle, and wiring harness? Have Helibars that are better than OEM.

Andy, all stock lines and hoses etc.

#27
zaq123

not sure how bars can/ will give you better riding positon vs helibars. (bars do look much cooler though) VFR has only so much room between tank and fearing. Unless one will install bars with a set of bar risers that have up/rear offset to them and extend throtte cables and brake/cluth lines, bars will be at about the same position where helibars are. Do you have any pics of your bars in their full righ/left angle?

Pictures at full lock, both left and right, below. They are higher, wider and further rearset than Helibars.

[image: LSL bar riser - Full lock left]

[image: LSL bar riser - Full lock right]

[image: LSL bar riser - Left grip full lock right]

[image: LSL bar riser - Right grip full lock right]

[image: LSL bar riser - Left grip full lock left]

[image: LSL bar riser - Right grip Full lock left]

#28

Thanks fr those pics. It looks like my helibars are at about exactly the same angle/position, although they are about 3/4" narrower on each side.

Edited October 15, 2014 by zaq123
#29

One thing about the helibars I wish they would've done differently is the reduction in downward angle. To me, those angles are what give it a sportbike feel. I would be fine with just the upward and rearward shift.

With the grip angles flat like that, it just feels more street fighter than sportbike. My S3R is like that. No right or wrong... just different.

#30
Volfy

One thing about the helibars I wish they would've done differently is the reduction in downward angle. To me, those angles are what give it a sportbike feel. I would be fine with just the upward and rearward shift.

With the grip angles flat like that, it just feels more street fighter than sportbike. My S3R is like that. No right or wrong... just different.

I think there is no way around it. Again thanks to fearing/tank clearance. The same angle will have to be dialed on dirt style bars. Look at OP's mock up pictures (page2), looks promissing. Then look at the angle of bars once installed. He had to rotate them way downwards to get the clearance from the fearing. Angle looks very similar to where OEM or Helibars are. LSL bars probably have a little more upright angle due to the fact that they are wider. Wider bars will allow to move controls a little further out from the fearing. Doesn't look like much.... but again, maybe that does all the difference.

I can see how LSL bar setup will get more range of adjustability if one will introduce offset style bar risers (like in the pic below). That will bring bars out of that fearing/tank range of clearance.

[image: 90002.JPG]

Edited October 15, 2014 by zaq123
#31
zaq123

Thanks fr those pics. It looks like my helibars are at about exactly the same angle/position, although they are about 3/4" narrower on each side.

Is yours DCT? The DCT Heli's seem quite a bit different from the non-DCT...

#32
fasterpermits
zaq123

Thanks fr those pics. It looks like my helibars are at about exactly the same angle/position, although they are about 3/4" narrower on each side.

Is yours DCT? The DCT Heli's seem quite a bit different from the non-DCT...

non-DCT. According to Helibars manual, non-DCT are only 1/4" taller that DCT helibars

#33

Old thread, but I thought I'd try to give it new life...

Today I finished installing the LSL handlebar conversion kit from Spiegler on my VFR1200 DCT. I had Helibars (look for them in the classifieds soon), but my back was telling me I need something more. I really love this bike, and so does my wife, but we want to do some longer distance touring and the aggressive riding position really wasn't all-day comfortable for me. I'm not sure how much higher the bar is than the Helibars, but it is definitely further back and wider.

The install was fairly straight forward, but I had a bear of a time with the throttle cables. Full lock tension had me re-routing, trial and error, many times until I got it to work. unlike the OP, I didn't have to modify the bar other than drilling index holes for the switchgear and throttle tube. Contrary to the instructions, I loosely installed the switchgear and throttle and then adjusted to my desired angle. No new brake lines are needed, but I did have to keep the shorty brake lever to prevent contact with the mirror at full lock.

I didn't get a chance to ride it yet, but just sitting on it in the garage, I can already tell it's going to be much better on my back than the Helibars. I'll post an update after a good long ride.

[image: Full]

[image: Left side]

[image: Right side]

[image: Bitte ein Bit]

Edited August 12, 2015 by Darrenk
#34
Darrenk

Old thread, but I thought I'd try to give it new life...

Today I finished installing the LSL handlebar conversion kit from Spiegler on my VFR1200 DCT. I had Helibars (look for them in the classifieds soon), but my back was telling me I need something more. I really love this bike, and so does my wife, but we want to do some longer distance touring and the aggressive riding position really wasn't all-day comfortable for me. I'm not sure how much higher the bar is than the Helibars, but it is definitely further back and wider.

The install was fairly straight forward, but I had a bear of a time with the throttle cables. Full lock tension had me re-routing, trial and error, many times until I got it to work. unlike the OP, I didn't have to modify the bar other than drilling index holes for the switchgear and throttle tube. Contrary to the instructions, I loosely installed the switchgear and throttle and then adjusted to my desired angle. No new brake lines are needed, but I did have to keep the shorty brake lever to prevent contact with the mirror at full lock.

I didn't get a chance to ride it yet, but just sitting on it in the garage, I can already tell it's going to be much better on my back than the Helibars. I'll post an update after a good long ride.

Yes I also had to drill the holes, I had the same problem as you with the front brake lever, I just ground off the knob at the end of the lever and it cleared the mirror. I think I had to rotate the bar down a little in the clamps too so everything cleared. I guess I didn't spent as much time as you with the cable routing since I didn't see how it could possible work, nice job. I almost cut to much off since there was just enough room to fit the parking brake on the right hand side. I bitched enough to whoever I bought this from since the instructions were very bad so they sent me a new handle bar which was nice of them. I didn't feel like changing it out since again since I have the factory heated grips which makes it more work then usuall.

#35

Hey Fasterpermits, How tall are you? The riding position looks comfortable but reminds me of my 71 750 almost for position in your video. I like my Helibars but I am short at 5'9 with I guess long arms??? Not sure but it helps this old back and still seems like a modern fun bike.

#36

Had same problems with handlebar like Darrenk. After change to LSL and zero gravity windshield, went to Montevideo from Rio and came back, Up to 6000 kms, smooth and no back pains!

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#37

Just installed the Helibars. I like them but have to say you better like the position, because there's only one!

Between the fairing, mirrors, and fuel tank, there's got to be less than 5mm of free space for the bars/controls.

Though that could be improved with the right replacement levers.

#38

Resurrecting an old thread here, for those who have installed the Spiegler / LSL bar kit, how did you deal with the clutch line?

The way the fitting is bent down and inward from the factory means it's pressing right into the mounting clamp, and it can't be rotated at all due to that, and the stopper that prevents it from rotating at the master cylinder.

Everything is installed and working well, but that clutch lever can't be rotated down to even flat, let alone slightly angled down as it should be.

...not sure I want to risk bending that fitting as it may crack, then I'd be hosed. lol

Any input / photos would be appreciated.

Thanks.

#39

I'm not exactly sure it's the same, as I have the DCT, but I encountered a similar issue with the throttle cables. They have a bent metal tube that kind of points the cable in the proper direction, and they really got in the way. I didn't bend them, but I was able to rotate them to better route the cables...

#40

Yeah, that was easy. The clutch line is pre-bent in and down, then has an anti-rotation spur that prevents rotating the line at all. Right now the line hits the top clamp (the part from Spiegler / LSL) and forces the clutch lever up at a 30 degree or so angle. ...not a good position for the clutch ...not even close!!! :(

The only option I can see, short of replacing the line, is to cut off the anti-rotation spur so I can rotate the line outward, allowing me to rotate the cluster forward and down.

#41

I just mounted my LSL's last weekend and my clutch lever is fine although maybe a little more of a downward position would be better. I am planning to get some SS lines now anyway because I don't like how tight the lines are. [image: d6afb0b5593004aacb27ce9bfd23c3c6.jpg]

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

#42
ZenMoto

Yeah, that was easy. The clutch line is pre-bent in and down, then has an anti-rotation spur that prevents rotating the line at all. Right now the line hits the top clamp (the part from Spiegler / LSL) and forces the clutch lever up at a 30 degree or so angle. ...not a good position for the clutch ...not even close!!! :(

The only option I can see, short of replacing the line, is to cut off the anti-rotation spur so I can rotate the line outward, allowing me to rotate the cluster forward and down.

Zen,

While I don't have either set up, I've encountered similar situations on many bikes I've owned through the years and have cut the anti- rotation dowls and or location spurs many times. Works like a champ..... Just use a hack saw and a file or dremel tool. Either way, you'll be happy when you get your set-up the way you want it.

#43

So I ended up doing just that ...cutting off the anti rotation pin. It allowed me to rotate the clutch line enough to angle things down to a proper level. I spent a couple hours fiddling with rotating the bars forward enough for the clutch reservoir to NOT hit the fork's preload a damping adjusters (would be a lot easier if I screwed those things all the way down, lol). Right now it is basically resting on top of that stack, and I'm still interfering with the fairing at full lock ...but if I rotate the bars back toward the rider, that same adjustment stack on the fork forces the clutch master cylinder up pushing the lever back into an upward angle ...I think I'll just have to deal with it like this.

I have a feeling that, after my neck surgery, if I can still tilt my head back enough, I will revert to the stock bars This is more comfortable for my messed up neck, but I don't really like the feeling of the bars like this when strafing canyons.

...gotta do what I gotta do to ride though. :)

Thanks for the feedback guys, it all helps!

#44

Anyone regret doing this modification? I have a non-DCT and now that I am doing longer rides, my left palm stays numb for a day after my ride. I don't want to cause permanent damage, and I think being a bit more upright will make me less fatigued at the end of the day. I'm alsoconcerned about the clutch lever/master cylinder clearance.....

#45
2016 at 10:26 AM, RC1237V, June 12

Anyone regret doing this modification? I have a non-DCT and now that I am doing longer rides, my left palm stays numb for a day after my ride. I don't want to cause permanent damage, and I think being a bit more upright will make me less fatigued at the end of the day. I'm alsoconcerned about the clutch lever/master cylinder clearance.....

No regrets at all on the LSL conversion- you lose a little steering lock, or at least I have where I have them positioned, but the riding position is way better for me anyhow. I prefer a more upright position yet it still affords you the ability to get into an attack mode position as well. I still want to get SS lines but for now the dremel tool took care of the little stoppers and I have no line issues. Too bad you were not close to Phx I would let you test it out. Maybe you can find someone in your neck of the woods with a conversion. 

#46

I think I'm going to try it, which bar ends did you use?

#47

I went with the LSL bar ends that are for the bars

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

#48

Just put my Spiegler LSL super-moto bar on and wow, the difference IS dramatic. Rode it around the block and it felt too high, so I tilted them a few degrees back. The first few miles felt a bit weird, like I was gonna fall off the back of the bike. After a few minutes I got used to it and it was awesome on the freeway! Not only totally relaxing, but I could look around easier, without moving around in my lane. Then I hit the twisties (highway 9) and a few turns in, I re-calibrated my steering inputs for the more leverage available. The bike feels much lighter and more controllable, in all situations. The bike feels less cramped, and I can move around easier, as well as my knees don't hurt - I wish I had done this awhile ago! Now I know why Tuono owners have the "Tuono Grin". 

The Spiegler adapters would not go all the way down since my fork tubes are raised quite a bit, and the bar hit my fork tubes. I also have the long billet levers, so I was worried about the clearance issues others have had. I ended up routing the brake and clutch lines on the inside of the fork tubes, as it seemed more natural, and doesn't rub. I took the top bridge (triple clamp) off, and never had to remove the throttle cables. It was a piece of cake, and only took a bit over an hour. 

No pics as it seems I have hit a limit on size? My pics are only 2.5....?????

You are only allowed to upload 15.79mb.
  • OK
#49

I am really thinking about doing this mod. For those that have already installed the LSL bars, any differences in the bad weather? Finding yourself outside the weather protection afforded by the plastic? I guess you can always bend down, and/or just get a higher screen...

#50

I'm so glad that I installed the LSL bar; totally changed the bike for me, in a good way, but I will be honest, I do now get some buffeting of my helmet.  It may be a combination of my taller Givi screen, but It's only at supra-legal speeds.  When my wife sees me crouch down, she knows she's probably going to have to reel me in...

#51

I notice less buffeting, although I am not very tall, and have the stock windscreen. I think I am above the turbulence now, whereas before it would hit me at forehead level. I can ride this bike all day now, and I can ride harder in the twisties. The only hindrance might be very high speed sweepers where you are really leaned over and pulling the ton(100+ mph), I think the extra leverage on the bars might make it a bit twitchy. For everything else, the bars are awesome.

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#52

The last picture (Side View) was incorrect, it was with the stock clip-ons - this one is with the LSL bars.

[image: 20160629_193719.jpg]

#53

WOW! So much has happened here.

I have the Helibars on mine but with I am reading here, it seems I might be heading to the LSL.

A question though....what bar ends can one use with the LSL option?

#54

Because I wanted a throttle lock of some type, and I was worried that the light bar and unique mounting position could introduce some vibration, I went with Throttlemeister heavy ends. I needn't have worried though, as it was vibe free even on the short test ride with no ends installed at all, and I so rarely use the throttle lock...

#55

I haven't put any on yet.................

#56

Hi folks. I am close to purchasing the lsl bar conversion. I am looking at a used set for a dct bike, however my bike is a manual. I see from the manufacturer website there are different part numbers for the kits. Will the bars for a dct bike fit and work ok for my manual ? Thanks

#57

So, I bought the LSL setup... What is this hole of which you speak you guys are drilling?  I'm only 1/2 way through install (have the bars on... no controls yet), and the only holes I've seen in the factory clipons are waaaay up near where the brake/clutch mount.  Am I missing something obvious since it's dark and I'm tired?  Thanks!  After mocking it up, is throttle bind just a positioning issue?

#58

Nevermind.  I'm an idiot. :goofy:

Found the pin for the locator hole.

Throttle cables though... input welcome

#59

Throttle cables are JUST long enough.......I did route the brake line the other way around the forks as it seemed more natural - need to clip the tang off, I used a pair of bolt cutter pliers from Knipex.

[image: 20160629_194405.jpg]

[image: Knipex.jpg]

#60

Many thanks for the photos.  I just got word that UPS is going to be delivering my fork springs tomorrow, so it looks like it will be a few days before full re-assembly.  I need to order bar ends as well.

C'est la vie.

#61
RC1237V, 7/7/2016 at 11:24 PM

[image: 20160629_193719.jpg]

Your 'Honda' emblem is bad ass.  I like it!

#62

Thanks!

I got pulled over by my house last Friday, and the first thing the two cops did was look at my bike, look at each other, then look at me and say, "The Punisher Huh?"

#63

RC1237V,

Which Cortech tank bag is that you have there?  The 12 liter strap bag?  Or the 18 liter bag?  The Cortech luggage looks pretty good on the big vfr.  I have the same saddlebags and tailbag but no VFR1200 yet.

#64
rocketman3, 9/23/2016 at 5:23 PM

RC1237V,

Which Cortech tank bag is that you have there?  The 12 liter strap bag?  Or the 18 liter bag?  The Cortech luggage looks pretty good on the big vfr.  I have the same saddlebags and tailbag but no VFR1200 yet.

The tank bag is 18 liter and the tail bag is 24 liter. I also have the saddlebags. The setup was perfect on my last 3-Day trip.........

#65
Hvrnaut, 6/19/2012 at 3:04 PM

I really appreciate what you can do to help me out. I have the Helibars on my bike! They are good, but I believe I'd really like the Spiegler bar better. Just trying to get this bike just right...

Did you ever get the Spieglers?  If so would you want to sell your Helibars?  

#66

I added the Helibars to my 2013 dct last year and it raised my torso sufficiently to make quite a difference to riding comfort. If I were to go to a lesser lean still, I think the extra wind exposure would become a problem for me. I also added a foot peg lowering kit (2") from Thurn Motorsport. That enabled a much more comfortable leg position. The Helibars plus the pegs resulted in a much better riding position for me (5'10", 195 lb).

#67

I am starting to think I need to raise the bars on my 1200F.

I ride a Crossrunner (VFR800X) on my daily 102-mile commute and the upright seating position is so comfortable and easy. I've ridden the 1200 a few times recently and find the more sporty position quite uncomfortable and causes numbness in my hands on occasion.

However, I think a similar position to the 800X would be too upright for the 1200 so I'm considering the Helibars which, from reading on here, appear to be a bit lower and seem a lot easier to fit than the LSL bars.

Am I correct? Any words on fitting and riding from those who have Helis on their 1200 already?

edit: been doing some more reading. The LH side grip needs removing and refitting to the new bars. I have OEM Honda heated grips fitted. Is there any issue with removing and refitting them? I don't want to have to fork out for a new set of heated grips £££££.

#68
34 minutes ago, Skids

Am I correct? Any words on fitting and riding from those who have Helis on their 1200 already?

The Helibars are easier to install. Less cable rerouting, less worry about windscreen and tank clearances. They work for many, providing just enough change in height and pullback. I noticed the difference, but didn't get the relief from upper back pain I was hoping for, so sold them and then went with the LSL bar. Every body is different, so only you will know if it will work for you, so give it a try. If it's not for you I'm sure you could recoup some of your $$ by selling them to someone else.,,

#69
3 minutes ago, Darrenk

The Helibars are easier to install. Less cable rerouting, less worry about windscreen and tank clearances. They work for many, providing just enough change in height and pullback. I noticed the difference, but didn't get the relief from upper back pain I was hoping for, so sold them and then went with the LSL bar. Every body is different, so only you will know if it will work for you, so give it a try. If it's not for you I'm sure you could recoup some of your $$ by selling them to someone else.,,

Thanks for the prompt response Darren.

An issue is they're selling them over here for the same price in £ as they are in $ over there. :angry:  Maybe need to check eBay etc.

#70

Just installed the Helibars. Mine are not indexed, therefore they can be adjusted fore and aft. The bars are definitely comfortable. They do sit me up a little more into the wind blast at speed. So....we'll see. I'm continuing to do my crunches and watching my weight.

MarkinReno 

#71
2017 at 4:10 AM, Skids, April 13

I am starting to think I need to raise the bars on my 1200F

edit: been doing some more reading. The LH side grip needs removing and refitting to the new bars. I have OEM Honda heated grips fitted. Is there any issue with removing and refitting them? I don't want to have to fork out for a new set of heated grips £££££.

Skids, I doubt you'll be able to remove the OEM heated grip if you used Honda grip glue, or any other cement for that matter.  At least not remove it and be able to reuse.  Don't ask how I know.  I ended up putting the OEM heated grips on my HeliBars with alcohol only and it still was an effort.  Maybe I can remove them with some compressed air assistance, but wouldn't count on it.  And Honda only sells the grips as a kit, so no chance to buy just the left.

That said, I like the HeliBars.  Pretty easy install, usual tweaking and adjusting needed.  On my DCT with OEM adjustable screen, the left bar needs to be a slightly different angle than the right.  Odd, but unnoticeable.  Definitely more upright than stock, but still sporty.

#72
Darrenk, 4/13/2017 at 6:55 AM

The Helibars are easier to install. Less cable rerouting, less worry about windscreen and tank clearances. They work for many, providing just enough change in height and pullback. I noticed the difference, but didn't get the relief from upper back pain I was hoping for, so sold them and then went with the LSL bar. Every body is different, so only you will know if it will work for you, so give it a try. If it's not for you I'm sure you could recoup some of your $$ by selling them to someone else.,,

I did not have to re route my cables with the LSL's

#73
Skids, 4/13/2017 at 6:10 AM

I am starting to think I need to raise the bars on my 1200F.

I ride a Crossrunner (VFR800X) on my daily 102-mile commute and the upright seating position is so comfortable and easy. I've ridden the 1200 a few times recently and find the more sporty position quite uncomfortable and causes numbness in my hands on occasion.

However, I think a similar position to the 800X would be too upright for the 1200 so I'm considering the Helibars which, from reading on here, appear to be a bit lower and seem a lot easier to fit than the LSL bars.

Am I correct? Any words on fitting and riding from those who have Helis on their 1200 already?

edit: been doing some more reading. The LH side grip needs removing and refitting to the new bars. I have OEM Honda heated grips fitted. Is there any issue with removing and refitting them? I don't want to have to fork out for a new set of heated grips £££££.

Forget the OEM heated grips.  I wasn't able to get mine off so I put on oxford grips.  I put on the touring model.  Lest than $100.  They have a little larger diameter and they are softer.  The control is also easier to use while riding. 

#74

Think i'll do the LSL bars so i can sit more upright... :happy:

#75

I recently went with the LSL kit. High quality machined parts, great finish and I love the end result.  You will have to buy some shorty levers as the stock ones will hit the mirrors.  It takes a lot of fussing around to get the sweet spot where the controls don't hit the fairings.  And you will need to add some packers to the steering stops, if not when you turn hard left it hits the kill switch and shuts the bike off.  But saying all this, totally worth it at the end.  Higher bars, closer to you equal a much more comfortable riding position, IMOO.

End of thread · 75 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 5 Jul 2017