When it comes to dirt bike performance, the engine receives the majority of the attention—but seasoned riders understand that the bars and controls are as important for achieving optimal handling, comfort, and rider safety. Frm the time you mount your bike, every touchpoint—bars, grips, levers, and pedals—influences how you manage your ride. The right parts may make the difference between dominating the track and battling to keep control in tough terrain.
In this detailed guide, we'll look at the key components of dirt bike bars and controls frm premium companies such as Polisport, TMV, Renthal, Twin Air, Blackbird, and Color-tech. We'll go over how each portion works, why it is important, and what to look for while upgrading.
1. Bar Clamps – The Foundation of Your Control Setup
Function:
Bar clamps secure your handlebars to the bike’s triple clamp. They may seem like a small part, but they influence vibration damping, bar positioning, and rider comfort.
Why They Matter:
A good bar clamp ensures stability under extreme pressure—whether you’re hitting jumps, landing hard, or riding aggressive trails.
Top Picks:
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Renthal Bar Clamps: Known for quality CNC machining and strength, Renthal manufactures clamps that are both lightweight and extremely durable.
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TMV Racing Bar Clamps: These clamps are ideal for riders that like customizable locations for a bespoke fit.
Upgrade Tip:
Look for clamps with several mounting locations so you may fine-tune the bar height and angle to fit your riding style.
2. Bars – The Steering Backbone
Function:
The handlebars are your primary control point, affecting balance, steering precision, and riding posture.
Why They Matter:
Handlebars are more than just a place to grip—they transmit feedback frm the terrain directly to your arms. The wrong bend or stiffness can cause fatigue and reduce control.
Top Picks:
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Renthal Handlebars: World-famous for their championship-proven aluminum bars with exceptional vibration resistance.
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TMV Bars: Offer great value with high-strength materials and varied bends for different riding styles.
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Color-tech Bars: Known for custom color options that add style without compromising performance.
Upgrade Tip:
Choose a bend that matches your riding posture—lower bends for aggressive track racing, higher bends for comfort on long trail rides.
3. Grips – Comfort Meets Control
Function:
Grips ensure a firm, non-slip hold on the bars, even in wet or muddy conditions.
Why They Matter:
The right grip reduces arm pump, improves control, and enhances comfort over long rides.
Top Picks:
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Renthal Grips: Available in multiple compounds (soft, medium, firm) for personalized comfort.
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Polisport Grips: Feature ergonomic designs and anti-slip patterns for all-weather performance.
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Color-tech Grips: Stylish designs and colors that complement custom builds.
Upgrade Tip:
Soft grips provide comfort and shock absorption, while firmer grips offer more durability for aggressive riders.
4. Brake Levers – Precision Braking Power
Function:
Brake levers controls the front brake, allowing you to modulate stopping power.
Why They Matter:
A responsive brake lever gives you precise control over braking force, which is critical for navigating tight corners and avoiding obstacles.
Top Picks:
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Polisport Brake Levers: Durable and ergonomically shaped for maximum rider comfort.
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TMV Brake Levers: Designed for quick response and smooth operation under pressure.
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Color-tech Brake Levers: Offer anodized finishes and a stylish edge to your cockpit.
Upgrade Tip:
Adjustable reach levers are great for customizing feel, especially if you wear different glove thicknesses in varying weather.
5. Clutch Levers – Smooth Power Control
Function:
Clutch levers engage and disengage the power frm your engine to the transmission, allowing smooth gear changes.
Why They Matter:
A well-designed clutch lever ensures less hand fatigue and better control during technical sections or in stop-and-go racing.
Top Picks:
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Polisport Clutch Levers: Lightweight yet strong, designed for consistent feel.
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TMV Clutch Levers: Built for competitive riders who need precise engagement.
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Color-tech Clutch Levers: Bring a blend of style and high performance.
Upgrade Tip:
Consider folding clutch levers to reduce breakage in case of a crash.
6. Clutch Perch – Lever Mounting & Adjustability
Function:
The clutch perch holds the clutch lever and often features adjusters for cable tension.
Why They Matter:
A quality perch allows fine-tuning of clutch engagement for different track conditions and personal preference.
Top Picks:
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TMV Clutch Perch: Offers easy adjustability for quick on-the-go changes.
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Renthal Clutch Perch: Known for robust build and smooth lever feel.
Upgrade Tip:
Choose a perch with a quick-adjust dial if you frequently ride in conditions where clutch cable stretch or temperature changes affect performance.
7. Clutch-Brake Lever Sets – Balanced Control Upgrade
Function:
These sets offer matching levers for clutch and brake, ensuring consistency in feel and style.
Why They Matter:
Balanced lever sets improve ergonomics and create a unified cockpit feel, enhancing comfort and aesthetics.
Top Picks:
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Polisport Lever Sets: Rugged, lightweight, and ergonomically matched.
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TMV Lever Sets: Designed for racers needing consistent performance frm both hands.
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Color-tech Lever Sets: Performance with personality—available in multiple anodized colors.
Upgrade Tip:
Invest in high-quality lever sets if you want matching style and consistent mechanical feel.
8. Throttle – Instant Power Delivery
Function:
The throttle controls engine speed, delivering power to the rear wheel.
Why They Matter:
Smooth, precise throttle control allows you to modulate power delivery in slippery conditions or launch hard on the track.
Top Picks:
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Polisport Throttles: Built for reliability, even in muddy or dusty environments.
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TMV Throttles: Offer smooth cable pull and reduced friction for quick response.
Upgrade Tip:
Consider a quick-turn throttle for racing, which requires less rotation to reach full power.
9. Brake Pedals – Foot-Operated Stopping Power
Function:
Brake pedals operate the rear brake, essential for controlling speed and stability in corners and descents.
Why They Matter:
A responsive brake pedal can mean the difference between maintaining traction and sliding out.
Top Picks:
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Polisport Brake Pedals: Strong, lightweight, and resistant to bending.
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TMV Brake Pedals: Feature replaceable tips for longevity.
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Color-tech Brake Pedals: Custom finishes and grippy surfaces for secure footing.
Upgrade Tip:
Choose a pedal with a wide, textured tip for better boot grip in wet or muddy conditions.
Brand Overview:
Polisport: Industry leader in high-quality, durable plastics and control components.
TMV: Known for affordable, race-ready parts that perform in demanding conditions.
Renthal: Synonymous with championship-winning bars and controls.
Twin Air: Famous for air filters, but also provides performance-focused control accessories.
Blackbird: Specialists in seat covers and graphics, enhancing rider comfort and style.
Color-tech: Perfect for riders who want performance without sacrificing visual appeal.
Conclusion
A dirt bike's performance is only as good as your ability to handle it. Investing in high-quality bars and controls not only improves handling, but also increases safety, rider confidence, and endurance. Whether you're a weekend trail explorer or a serious motocross racer, upgrading components frm reputable companies such as Polisport, TMV, Renthal, Twin Air, Blackbird, and Color-tech makes each ride smoother, quicker, and more pleasant.
When selecting the components:
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Concentrate on ergonomics for comfort.
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Prioritize durability for tough riding situations.
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Consider adjustability to improve your fit.
With the proper setup, your dirt bike becomes an extension of your body, responding instantaneously to every stimulus. And it is the fundamental secret to high performance.
Address: 1010 Anna Lane, Sellersville, PA 18960, United States
Telephone: 800-749-2890
E-mail: sales@dominuscorp.com
At Dominus Corporation, we are committed to providing premium products, outstanding customer service, and a seamless shopping experience. Join us in elevating your riding experience with the best powersports products in the industry.
Dominus Corporation—Where Quality Meets Performance!
