Harley Throttle Tube Install
Steve KnobleDescription
Steve Knoble has a beautiful 2022 Low Rider Softail on his lift, and he is set up to demonstrate the procedure for both hand grip replacement and Harley throttle tube install. Most hand grips are sold with a permanent throttle sleeve already fitted into the right side throttle grip by the grip manufacturer.
Some aftermarket grips, like the grips that Steve is installing, are sold without a Harley throttle tube or sleeve so that they can be used with either early- or late-style throttle sleeves. An early Harley throttle tube or sleeve is needed if the motorcycle has throttle cables. A later-style sleeve is used for Harley-Davidsons that have a twist grip sensor. This style is commonly known as “throttle by wire.”
*Tech Tip* When installing aftermarket grips with throttle cables, it is important to start with the right-side throttle grip first. If replacement grips have a specific design or pattern, this grip will have a specific resting place that cannot be altered. Its positioning is dictated by the throttle cables.
After the right-side grip is installed, you can match the design positioning on the left-side grip.
* It should also be noted: If installing genuine Harley-Davidson (throttle cable) grips, you do not need to worry about matching the grip positioning. Harley-Davidson takes care of this for you. Both left- and right-side Harley-Davidson grips have a designated or fixed positioning. They will match perfectly after installation.
Steve begins on the left side by removing the switch housing screws and lifting off the top switch housing. After the stock rubber grip is cut off, Steve takes the time to thoroughly clean any excess rubber remaining on the handlebar end. Steve lubricates the new grip with glass cleaner, which aids in sliding over the handlebar end. With the left-side grip set correctly, into position, Steve reassembles the switch housing. On the right side, Steve removes the upper switch housing and loosens the front master cylinder clamp in order to remove the stock grip.
Next, the replacement Harley throttle tube or sleeve is slid into position over the twist grip sensor and the handlebar end. Again, Steve uses glass cleaner to lubricate the new grip and slide it over the throttle sleeve.
Steve reassembles the right side controls and checks for proper free-moving function of the throttle grip before starting the motorcycle.