Winter can be a daunting season for motorcyclists, especially in the UK where conditions can be exceptionally harsh. Snowy roads, freezing temperatures, and icy winds are not only uncomfortable but can affect your riding performance or worse, your safety. Heated grips can be your lifeline in such scenarios, keeping your hands warm and your steering steady.
This guide will walk you through a simple but effective way to install heated grips on your sport bike. Let’s brave the winter together, one heated grip at a time.
Evaluate Your Bike’s Electrical System
Before you dash to the store to buy your heated grips, you need to consider your bike’s electrical system. Heated grips draw power from your bike’s battery, and you need to ensure your battery can handle the additional load.
To determine if your bike’s electrical system can support heated grips, you must calculate the available wattage. You can do this by subtracting the wattage used by your bike’s current electrical components from the alternator’s total output. If your bike doesn’t have enough power to spare, you may need to consider an upgraded battery or generator.
Another point to consider is whether your bike has a 12-volt system, which most modern bikes do. This is essential because the majority of heated grips are designed for 12-volt systems. If your bike does not have a 12-volt system, you might need to get a converter.
Choosing the Right Heated Grips
Choosing the right heated grips can make or break your winter riding experience. The market is flooded with different types, styles and brands of heated grips. From grips with variable heat settings to those with inbuilt switch controls, the variety can be overwhelming.
When choosing heated grips, look for the ones that offer multiple heat settings. Riding in the cold UK winter requires different levels of heat at different times, and having the option to adjust the heat can be very useful.
Also, consider the material and design of the grips. The material should be durable and able to withstand the UK’s harsh winter conditions. The design should be ergonomic, providing a comfortable grip and reducing hand fatigue during long rides.
Lastly, consider the installation process. Some heated grips come with a plug-and-play design, which makes installation easy even for beginners. Others might require professional installation.
Installing the Heated Grips
Installing the heated grips involves several steps. While it might seem like a daunting task, with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can complete the installation on your own.
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools. You will need a set of screwdrivers, a wire cutter/stripper, electrical tape, and possibly a drill if your bike’s handlebars are not pre-drilled for wires.
The first step is to remove the old grips from your bike. This can usually be done by loosening the screws on the grips and sliding them off. Once the old grips are removed, clean the handlebars thoroughly to ensure a good fit for the new grips.
Next, carefully follow the instructions provided with your heated grips. Most heated grips come with a wiring harness that needs to be connected to your bike’s electrical system. This usually involves connecting the wires to your bike’s battery and running the wires through the bike’s frame to the handlebars.
Once the wiring is in place, slide the heated grips onto your handlebars. Make sure they are fitted securely and that the heating elements are evenly distributed. Finally, connect the grips to the wiring harness and test the system to ensure everything works correctly.
Maintenance Tips for Heated Grips
Maintaining your heated grips is crucial for their longevity and your safety. Regular checks and proper care will ensure they function optimally during the cold UK winters.
Always inspect your heated grips before going for a ride. This includes checking the grips for any visible damage and testing the heat settings to ensure they are working correctly.
Keep the heated grips clean. Dirt and grime can build up on the grips, reducing their efficiency and potentially damaging the heating elements. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean the grips regularly.
Lastly, monitor your bike’s battery. Heated grips can reduce your bike’s battery life, especially if used frequently or at high settings. Regularly check your battery’s health and recharge or replace it as necessary.
In conclusion, installing heated grips on your sport bike for comfortable winter riding in the UK is a straightforward task that can immensely enhance your riding experience during winter. With the right grips and proper maintenance, you can enjoy your rides, no matter how cold it gets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Heated Grips
It’s essential to be aware of common issues that might arise with heated grips and how to troubleshoot them. This helps maintain the functionality and lifespan of the grips, ensuring the most comfortable winter riding experience.
One common issue is that the heated grips may not heat up at all. This could be due to a wiring problem, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning heating element within the grips. Firstly, inspect all the wiring connections to make sure they’re secure. If everything appears to be in order, check the fuse. If it’s blown, replace it. If the problem persists, the heating element in the grips might be defective, and you may need to replace the grips entirely.
Another common problem is uneven heating. This can be due to improper installation, where the heating elements inside the grips aren’t evenly distributed. To solve this, reinstall the grips, ensuring the heating elements are evenly spread throughout.
Excessive power drain on your bike’s battery is also a common issue, especially if you’re using the heated grips frequently or at high settings. If your battery keeps dying, consider using the heated grips at a lower setting or investing in a more powerful battery.
Finally, the heat setting control may become unresponsive. This could be a sign that the control switch is faulty. In most cases, it’s best to replace the switch to ensure optimal performance of your heated grips.
The Impact of Heated Grips on Your Winter Riding Experience
While the installation process and troubleshooting may seem daunting, the benefits of heated grips on your sport bike during winter in the UK are significant. They not only provide comfort during cold rides but also potentially increase your safety.
Cold hands can lead to stiffness, reduced dexterity and slower reaction times, all of which can be dangerous when riding a bike. By keeping your hands warm, heated grips help to alleviate these issues, improving your ability to control the bike.
Moreover, heated grips can contribute to a more pleasant overall riding experience. You can enjoy your winter rides without having to worry about your hands freezing, allowing you to focus more on the road and the environment around you.
In conclusion, while winter in the UK can be harsh for riders, heated grips offer an effective solution to keep your hands warm, enhancing both comfort and safety. Remember, regular maintenance and timely troubleshooting are crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your heated grips. So, install them, take care of them, and ride comfortably, no matter how cold it gets.