Throttle, Idle, Cruise Control Cables & Linkages
About Throttle, Idle, Cruise Control Cables & Linkages
A throttle cable links the thumb lever or twist grip to the throttle body or carburetor, so every change in engine speed passes through it. When a cable sticks, frays or is slow to close, it needs replacing before the next ride, because a throttle that stays open is a safety problem.
The first decision is the machine, since cables are built for a particular model and routing. After that, check length. The listings here show stock length for some models and specific lengths for others, from about 23 inches on a Can-Am to 44 and 47 inches on Polaris models, and a cable that is too short can bind the steering while one that is too long can loop and catch. Most are black vinyl-covered pull cables, and choke cables are listed separately, along with throttle covers. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and set the free play after fitting as your manual describes.
Brands here include Parts Unlimited, Motion Pro, BikeService and Moose Offroad. Related groups are Carburetors and Carburetor Parts. The whole group is Air Intake & Fuel Delivery.
FAQs on throttle and choke cables
How do I know when a throttle cable needs replacing?
Replace a throttle cable that sticks, feels rough, frays, kinks or does not snap back when you let go of the lever. A cable that cannot be adjusted back to the correct free play is also worn out. A sticking throttle is dangerous, so fix it before riding.
Does throttle cable length matter?
Yes. Use the stock length unless your machine has changed, such as taller bars. A cable that is too short can pull when the bars turn, and one that is too long can loop into moving parts. Turn the bars lock to lock after fitting to confirm the idle does not rise.
What is throttle free play?
Free play is the small amount of slack at the lever before the throttle starts to open. Too little can hold the throttle open or raise idle, and too much feels sloppy. Your manual gives the setting, and an adjuster at the lever or carburetor end sets it.
Is a choke cable the same as a throttle cable?
No. A choke cable works the cold-start choke, not the throttle, and is listed separately by machine. The two can look alike, so check which cable the listing is for and the machine it fits. Choke cables are listed here for Polaris and Honda machines.
