KZ550 Handlebars

  • nickleo373
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KZ550 Handlebars

15 Apr 2014 21:08
#629197
Hey everyone
I want to change the huge LTD handlebars for some bars that will feel less cramped. I want to do this without needing to change the sizes of cables and brake lines. Would the handlebars from a non-ltd kz550 fit without needing any adjustments?
1981 KZ550C LTD
"If you ain't first, you're last"

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  • lightitup
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 00:38
#629203
all i did was get new bars and rerouted were the cables and brake lines go. as long as u get a 7/8th handle bar you should be fine
81 kz 550 ltd

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  • 83KZ750LTD
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 07:25
#629210
I know what you mean about the HUGE LTD bars. The stock bars killed my wrists - I hated them.

I bought superbike bars and first tried to reroute my cables and brake lines. However, the rerouting caused issues when making a complete right turn so I broke down and bought new cables as well as a shorter brake line. But now the bike feels much better for me.

You might try a European bend or maybe a Renthal bar.
1983 KZ750-F1 LTD - 8000 miles - 2/2015 - Head gasket time!

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  • Tumbleweeds
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 08:39
#629214
Are you guys just drilling into aftermarket (renthal etc) bars for the wires?

I want to do a bar swap but am uneasy about the strength of the bars with a big oval cut right in the middle of them.
On the hunt...
4/2/14-1977 KZ650 B1 17k miles

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  • martin_csr
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 08:59 - 17 Apr 2014 05:49
#629215
A good match for the Ltds are the BMW Med Tall Street Bars. The Fr Br mc will remain level.
The cables & Br line may be a little too long, which is kind of unavoidable when you replace the bars.
However, the riding position isn't the greatest as it is upright. It's fine around town & for speeds up to about 60mph. Any faster or long trips... not so good.

1981 KZ650-CSR w Flanders bmw-style mentioned. 550-Ltd wheels. 750E mufflers.
Last edit: 17 Apr 2014 05:49 by martin_csr.

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  • DoctoRot
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 13:53
#629237
Tumbleweeds wrote: Are you guys just drilling into aftermarket (renthal etc) bars for the wires?

I want to do a bar swap but am uneasy about the strength of the bars with a big oval cut right in the middle of them.

not a problem. guys have been doing this for years. just don't cut out more than you need.

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  • Tumbleweeds
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Re: KZ550 Handlebars

16 Apr 2014 23:25
#629376
Ok, but if it fails I hope you are a real doctor! I'm coming for you!! Lol
On the hunt...
4/2/14-1977 KZ650 B1 17k miles

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