Throttle Controls
About Throttle Controls
The throttle connects your right hand to the engine, and it has to open smoothly and snap shut every time you let go. Riders shop this category to replace a stiff, frayed or stretched throttle cable, to fit a new throttle tube, or to change how quickly the engine responds to a twist of the wrist.
Cables are the common wear part. On Harley-Davidson models the listings show throttle and idle cables as separate parts, so check which you need, and bars taller than stock need longer cables. Throttle tubes must match both the bar diameter and the throttle system, and throttle-by-wire touring models have their own. For response, variable-rate kits and cams change how far the grip turns for a given throttle opening, and the kits in the samples cover dirt bikes, sport bikes and ATVs. Whatever you fit, the throttle must open fully, close on its own with the bars turned both ways and keep the free play your manual specifies.
Brands in this category include DOMINO, HardDrive, CIRO, Mikuni and ODI. Throttle tubes work with Grips, Covers & Pads and Handlebars, and Clutch Levers cover the other side of the bar. The whole group is Handlebars, Grips & Controls. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page for parts made for it.
FAQs on throttle cables, tubes and kits
How much free play should a throttle have?
Most bikes need a small amount of slack before the throttle starts to open, so that turning the bars does not rev the engine. The correct amount is in your owner's manual, along with how to adjust it. Check it with the bars straight and again with the bars turned both ways.
What does a throttle cam or variable-rate kit do?
A throttle cam changes the relationship between how far you turn the grip and how far the throttle opens. Which feels better depends on the bike and your riding. Kits are made for specific models, in some cases for quads, so choose the one listed for your machine.
What should I do if my throttle sticks or does not close?
A throttle that does not close by itself is a safety problem, so stop riding until it is fixed. Common causes are a dry, kinked or frayed cable, poor cable routing, dirt in the throttle housing or a grip rubbing the housing. Inspect the cable and housings and replace a damaged cable.
Do I need new throttle cables with taller handlebars?
Usually yes. Taller or more pulled-back bars stretch the stock cables, which can pull on the throttle or open it as the bars turn. Choose cables listed for your model and the bar height you are fitting, and check the throttle at full lock in both directions.
What is the difference between a throttle cable and an idle cable?
Some cable-throttle bikes use two cables on the throttle grip: one that opens the throttle and one that helps close it. The Harley-Davidson listings here show throttle and idle cables separately, so check which one your bike needs, or whether you need both.
