Aftermarket motorcycle levers are comfortable to use and have many useful features compared to the factory-fitted standard levers. Many riders think that they are just fancy items to enhance the looks, but in reality they offer some benefits over the standard levers. But you need to be careful and select high-quality aftermarket levers for your motorcycle and not just some CHEAP Chinese ones. I have capitalized cheap because not all Chinese levers are bad. But you need to be careful about cheaper ones. Cheap and ill-designed levers are dangerous.
Here are some useful tips for choosing perfect aftermarket brake and clutch levers for your motorcycle and the benefits and drawbacks of using them.
Comfort – Standard levers are comfortable but they are mostly non-adjustable. So if you have really big or small hands, you might find difficult to operate them. Aftermarket levers are adjustable. You can adjust them to get better position for a comfortable ride. You can also choose shorter or longer levers to suit your riding style. If you only use one or two fingers to use clutch and brake, then you will find short levers like Heran Short Levers more comfortable than the standard levers.
Safety – Good aftermarket levers are made of very high-quality materials. Most of them are usually milled out of a single piece of solid aluminium block. So they are very safe while riding as well as in case of an unfortunate crash. The short levers are shorter than the handlebar end, so in case of a crash, there is less chance of them touching the ground and breaking.
Breakaway Piece – Factory fitted levers usually bend or break completely when they take a hit. Some aftermarket motorcycle levers feature a break away piece that snaps in case you fall in a crash. Remaining lever allows you to continue the ride, so you are not stranded anymore because of a broken or bent control lever. Some levers also pivot during impact.
Also read How to choose best Motorcycle TPMS
Quality – Choose high-quality aftermarket levers. Control levers are very important part of the motorcycle. You don’t want them to crack or snap while you use them. Cheap levers may crack if you pull them really hard in case of an emergency. Cheap levers are made of low-grade aluminum and are more likely to snap or bend if you press them really hard.
Compatibility – Most aftermarket levers are universal, that means you can use them on any type of motorcycle. Universal motorcycle levers can be used on most motorcycle. But make sure the levers are compatible with your motorcycle. Most manufactures mention the compatible motorcycles on the packing or on their website. Check it and then buy.
Style – Aftermarket motorcycle levers are available in a variety of colors, most of them have dual tone finish. So aftermarket clutch and brake levers are a great addition to any motorcycle. Choose wisely and have a great ride.