How to Measure Throttle Cables on a Harley Davidson

Measuring the proper length for your throttle cables is fairly easy.

When changing out the handlebars on your Harley-Davidson, it is important to correctly measure the length of the new throttle cables. If the cables are too short, you won't be able to hook the throttle cables up. But even if you can, there is a possibility that the cables will pull out, leaving you with no control. On the other hand, you can have too much throttle cable, which could get caught on something and create a situation in which you can't steer. Fortunately, there's a fairly simple way to determine the proper length for your Harley throttle cables.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Thin gauge wire
• Tape measure

1. • 1

     Route the wire the same way you'd run the throttle cables.

   • 2

     Turn the handlebars all the way to the left and to the right to ensure that you will have enough cable to cover the full turning radius.

   • 3

     Measure the wire. Cable and brake lines are measured by the casing length only. Do not include the cable itself or the fittings at each end.

   • 4

     Subtract the length of your stock cables and brake line to find out how many inches over stock you will need.