Replacing handlebars on your Victory Cross Country can significantly enhance comfort and style. However, many riders worry about the complexity of cable routing and the necessity of purchasing new cables. While it's often recommended, it's not always required. This guide details how to install new handlebars on your Victory Cross Country without necessarily replacing all your cables, focusing on the challenges and providing solutions for a successful installation.
Can I Install New Handlebars Without Replacing Cables?
This is the most frequently asked question, and the answer is: sometimes, but it's tricky. The feasibility depends heavily on the type of handlebars you choose. If the new handlebars are very similar in height, sweep, and pullback to your originals, you might be able to get away without new cables. However, significant changes in these dimensions will almost certainly necessitate new cables to prevent stretching, binding, or kinking, potentially leading to dangerous situations.
What are the Potential Problems if I Don't Replace Cables?
Several issues can arise if you don't replace cables when installing new handlebars:
- Binding or Kinking: A different handlebar position might cause cables to bind against the frame or other components, restricting their movement and potentially causing them to snap.
- Stretching: If the cables are stretched too far, they can weaken, leading to erratic throttle response or brake failure.
- Reduced Cable Life: Even if the cables initially function, the excessive stress can drastically shorten their lifespan, requiring replacement sooner than expected.
- Throttle or Brake Issues: Malfunctioning throttle or brakes are extremely dangerous. Insufficient cable length or excessive tension can lead to these critical problems.
How to Assess if Cable Replacement is Necessary?
Before you begin, carefully compare your old and new handlebars. Measure:
- Height: The vertical distance from the handlebar clamp to the grips.
- Sweep: The horizontal angle of the bars.
- Pullback: The rearward angle of the bars.
If these measurements are drastically different, replacing cables is strongly recommended. Even a small difference can cause problems. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Steps for Installing Handlebars Without (Possibly) Replacing Cables:
- Disconnect the Cables: Carefully disconnect all cables from the old handlebars, paying close attention to how they are routed. Take pictures or make detailed notes. This is crucial for reassembly.
- Remove the Old Handlebars: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing the existing handlebars.
- Install the New Handlebars: Mount the new handlebars, ensuring they are properly tightened and aligned.
- Reconnect the Cables (Carefully!): Reconnect the cables to the new handlebars. This is where you need to pay close attention. Ensure there's no binding or excessive tension. If you encounter resistance, STOP. Don't force it.
- Test the Cables: Before riding, carefully check the throttle and brakes. Ensure the throttle returns smoothly to idle, and the brakes engage properly. Any hesitation or binding is a clear sign you need new cables.
- Test Ride (with Caution!): Perform a short test ride in a safe, controlled environment to confirm everything functions correctly.
When is Cable Replacement Absolutely Necessary?
If you experience any binding, stretching, or difficulty routing the cables during reinstallation, you need new cables. Compromising on safety is never advisable.
Conclusion:
While installing new handlebars on your Victory Cross Country without replacing cables might be possible, it carries significant risks. Always prioritize safety. If you have any doubts, replace your cables. The small extra cost is far outweighed by the potential consequences of a cable failure. Take your time, be meticulous, and prioritize a safe ride.
