To drill or to grind...that is the question

[Nico]

I am getting ready to install the new chrome switch covers onto my new handlebars and noticed something. There is a small round "pin" that is part of the casting that fits into a hole in the stock handlebars. I am assuming this is to align the switch housings and to keep them from rotating.

But if the housings are tightened down completely, is this pin completely necessary?

Would it be acceptable to grind off the pin instead of drilling holes in the bars?

Your thoughts?

Nick

[John U.]

Hey Nico,
I sure wouldn't want to drill holes in new bars. If the issue is just switches, grinding the pins off would probably not be a problem. You could use an adhesive like RTV (which can be easily removed) to help hold them in place. The master cylinder/brake or clutch lever assemblies would be a different story. Just MHO

[Grandude]

They are pinned for a reason. The last thing you want is your controls moving around. When I changed bars I drilled them. When I switched back to stock bars the pins on my controls were still there.

[Black Dog]

I'm using Wild1 Chubby, aftermarket bars, and ground down the pins.  The controls get tight enough, using the screws, that they do not move.

The controls are just the start button, kill switch, turns, horn, and throttle sleeve.  Other than the throttle, there is not too much force on the switch housings.  Maybe try the clutch side first (grinding down the pin), to see if it will stay put.

Understand, this worked on the bars I use...  Maybe it will work for yours.  I'd sure hate to drill new bars 

Black Dog

[Master Blaster]

Grind em down, switch housings will stay where you putem when you tighten them down. No problem at all.