When it comes to riding in cooler weather, having heated grips on your Suzuki DR650 can make all the difference. Whether you’re an adventure rider or simply use your bike for commuting, heated grips can enhance your comfort and extend your riding season. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to install heated grips on your Suzuki DR650, ensuring you ride comfortably in all conditions.
Installing heated grips can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can accomplish it yourself. Heated grips work by providing a warming element through the grips of your bike, making those chilly rides more enjoyable. This guide will help you through the process, covering necessary tools, wiring, and mounting. We’ll also provide you with tips and tricks used by forum members to ensure a smooth installation.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before beginning your installation, you will need to gather some tools and materials. Here’s a comprehensive list:
- Heated grips kit: Such as Oxford heated grips, which come with all necessary components including the throttle tube, controller, and wires.
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Allen wrenches
- Electrical tape
- Zip ties
- Wire strippers
- Battery terminals
- Heat shrink tubing
- Rubbing alcohol
Having these tools ready will save you time and make the installation process straightforward. Always ensure you have the proper safety gear before starting.
Removing the Old Grips
To start, you need to remove the existing grips on your bike. This step can be a bit tricky but is essential for a clean installation of your new heated grips.
- Loosen the bar ends: Using an Allen wrench, remove the bar end weights from both sides of the handlebars.
- Remove the old grips: You may need to use a flathead screwdriver and some rubbing alcohol to help slide the old grips off. Insert the screwdriver under the grip to break the adhesive bond, then spray some rubbing alcohol to make it easier to slide off.
- Clean the handlebars: Once the old grips are removed, clean the handlebars thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. This ensures that the new grips will adhere properly.
Forum members often suggest using compressed air to help remove old grips. Simply insert the nozzle under the grip and blow air to expand and slide off the grip easily.
Installing the New Heated Grips
Now that the old grips are removed and the handlebars are clean, it’s time to install your new heated grips.
- Fit the throttle side grip: Start with the throttle side. Insert the new throttle tube from your heated grips kit. Ensure it moves smoothly and doesn’t bind.
- Install the left side grip: Apply an adhesive suitable for heated grips to the left side handlebar, then slide the left side grip into place. Ensure it is aligned correctly before the adhesive sets.
- Connect the wiring: Most heated grip kits come with a wiring harness that needs to be connected to the bike’s battery. Route the wires neatly along the handlebars and frame, securing them with zip ties. Make sure they do not interfere with any moving parts.
- Connect to the battery: Securely connect the wiring harness directly to the battery terminals, ensuring a solid connection. Use heat shrink tubing to protect the connections from the elements.
- Mount the controller: Find a suitable location on your handlebars to mount the controller. Most Oxford heated grips kits come with a mount that fits various bar sizes. Ensure the controller is easily accessible and visible while riding.
- Test the grips: Before securing everything completely, turn on the heated grips to ensure they work correctly. Check both grips for even heating and ensure there are no loose connections.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with careful installation, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:
- Uneven heating: If one grip heats more than the other, check for proper installation and connections. Ensure the grips are fully adhered to the handlebars.
- Grips not heating: Recheck the wiring connections and the fuse. Ensure the controller is receiving power from the battery.
- Interference with throttle movement: Ensure the throttle tube is not binding. It should move smoothly without any obstruction.
Forum members often share pictures of their installations. You can find these helpful, as they provide visual guidance. Look for posts with “jpg views” to see detailed images.
Final Adjustments and Maintenance
After confirming that your heated grips work correctly, it’s time for some final adjustments and ongoing maintenance tips.
- Secure all wiring: Use zip ties to secure all wiring neatly along the frame and handlebars. Ensure no wires are dangling or at risk of being snagged.
- Adjust the controller: Make sure the controller is in a comfortable and accessible position. You don’t want to be fumbling with it while riding.
- Regular checks: Periodically check the connections and wiring for wear and tear. Exposure to the elements can affect the longevity of your heated grips.
- Battery maintenance: Heated grips draw power from your bike’s battery. Ensure your battery is in good condition and check it regularly to avoid being stranded.
Forum members often recommend checking the battery terminals and connections before long rides. Keeping the battery in peak condition ensures that your heated grips will function reliably.
Installing heated grips on your Suzuki DR650 is a project that you can handle with a bit of preparation and careful work. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will have a set of heated grips that will make your rides more comfortable in cold weather. From removing the old grips to wiring and testing the new ones, each step is crucial for a successful installation.
In summary, heated grips provide warmth and comfort, making them an invaluable addition to your riding gear. With the right tools, a little patience, and the shared wisdom from forums, you will be able to install your heated grips efficiently. Enjoy your rides, no matter the weather, with your new heated grips on your Suzuki DR650.