Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Discussion specific to the 1995 - 2006 KDX200 (H Series) and 1995 - 2005 KDX220R (A Series) models sold in the USA
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VTMTcowboy
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Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by VTMTcowboy »

Just wondering what everyone is using for aftermarket handlebars? I am trying to make a decision between the Renthal 1-1/8" fat bars (no cross bar) and the Renthal Twin Wall 1-1/8" bars. I like the look of the cross bar, but also have read that the Twin Walls are pretty stiff both due to the construction of the bars and addition cross bar. Really wanted the green anodized bars so that is why I narrowed it down to those two options. Has anyone had experience with cross bar handlebars being overly stiff? Also don't want to spend the money on the Flexx Bars even though they seem like a good option for the slower (dictated by both the terrain and me haha), rocky, technical terrain that I ride. Any direction is much appreciated as usual. Thanks!
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by KDXGarage »

Are you looking for more comfort or more strength?

Do you need a handlebar without the crossbar for mounting stuff (steering damper, etc.)?
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by VTMTcowboy »

The Renthal 1-1/8" Fat bar should be plenty strong, especially compared to the 7/8" stock bars, so not too worried about the bars being incredibly strong. No steering damper or anything that would impede in the way of the cross bar. I've just read reviews and there seems to be a good amount saying the Twin Walls are quite stiff, but all have been in reference to other bikes, not the KDX. Just wondering what other members here use and what their thoughts are on the subject, if any at all haha.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by targetman »

I run Pro Taper Contour 1 1/8 and they survived a spill that my Barkbuster did not. We just installed the Tusk Chub bar on my son's bike. The chub fells every bit as strong as the Pro Taper. No cross bar on either.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by VTMTcowboy »

Sounds like the Fat Bar will be the choice and it’s about $30 cheaper which is a good thing!
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by Slick_Nick »

I run a Pro Taper Contour on my MX bikes and a Renthal 7/8” CR High bend on the KDX. The extra flex on the 7/8ths bar is way less fatiguing for those long trail rides. Not to mention it allows me to use 7/8 clamps, those who are running KLX forks are stuck without an adapter because the lower bar clamp is cast into the top triple.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by KDXGarage »

One can get a top clamp from a KX to fit the KLX forks. I don't know the KLX offset, but it is 1991 KX or mid-90's KX (like the 1992 - 1995 125/250)

1991 KX125 / 1991 KX250 / 1991 - 1993 KX500 is the same part. The offset is greater than the:

1992 - 1995 KX125 / KX250.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by treelimb »

KDXGarage wrote: 08:02 pm May 01 2019 One can get a top clamp from a KX to fit the KLX forks. I don't know the KLX offset, but it is 1991 KX or mid-90's KX (like the 1992 - 1995 125/250)

1991 KX125 / 1991 KX250 / 1991 - 1993 KX500 is the same part. The offset is greater than the:

1992 - 1995 KX125 / KX250.
I am pretty sure i have a KX top clamp on my KLX front end. So,what that being said,what type bars can i use on my bike? I am trying to follow the thread but got lost in the translation perhaps. I'll read again tomorrow when i can dig it. comprehension. it isn' t too important unless it is applicable.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by KDXGarage »

You have the stock KLX clamp, so 7/8" is stock.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by John_S »

You'd have to run something like this if you want the 1 1/8" bars on the KLX triple clamp.
image.png
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by javjacob »

I run Renthal twin wall bars on my KDX220 with KX forks. Strongest bars out there. No complaints about them.
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Re: Handlebar Choices (cross bar or not?)

Post by VTMTcowboy »

John_S wrote: 06:00 am May 03 2019 You'd have to run something like this if you want the 1 1/8" bars on the KLX triple clamp.

image.png
Yes sir. I ordered those and I ended up going with the Renthal Fat Bars. Also ordered some lock on grips. I have never used them before but read enough positive reviews, so figured they were worth a go.
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