The Throttles.

Here's how I've decided to setup my throttles. I decided on a full twist for the right, and a thumb throttle for the left/Regen braking.

As we all know, the plastic throttles are very cheaply made, and I really wanted some throttles that are softer, better in rain, and more durable.

The problem with the original twist throttles, is that the sleeve that goes over the handlebars is bigger, so it tends to leave the grip with a bit of wiggle, which is destined to eventually break from cranking on it while pushing hard, or standing and climbing.

So, I went with a nice set of Oury rubber grips. Here's how I modified them.

1. First, one needs to assemble the proper tools. A screwdriver to take the end cap off, a box cutter, a file for making the sleeve fit snugly over the bars, and a drill using a 1/2" bit.



2. Now, the screw for the end cap is inside the grip, so a long screwdriver will be needed. After removing the end cap, use the box cutter to slice and gently peel off the cheap grip. It's glued on, so it takes a little effort. Clean off excess glue on the sleeve with some lacquer thinner if needed.

3. Then, drill a good sized hole in the end of the throttle sleeve, so you can get your half round file in there for finishing the inside diameter of the sleeve to fit smoothly over your bars.

4. Now, BE CAREFUL!!!! File away just enough of the sleeve so it gently slides over the bars, but not too much so that it wiggles. The objective here is to get it to rotate easily, but have no radial movement/wiggling, which could add to weaking of the sleeve/potentiometer joint.



5. Install the grip over your throttle. You may need some soap or other means to slide it on. Use very little dish soap. Less than a drop rubbed over the sleeve is all that's needed. Once that Oury grip goes on and dries, it ain't comin' off. So, twist it where you want it right away. I set mine up with the Oury lettering facing forward.

6. Now, your aftermarket grip will most likely be longer than the original by a good 1/2". Mine were. So, any handlebar that sticks out of the end of your throttle will rub/grab the end of the grip when installed. However, this can be easily alleviated into a smooth action by simply applying some thick axle grease to the very end of the handlebar where it rubs the grip. I used some Liquid Wrench Dry Teflon lube. It works perfectly.

7. The installed grip will be one heck of a thick monster for a grip, which I prefer. I hate skinny grips. I like to really be able to grab onto it. The left side will obviously be skinnier. So, what I did, was wrap several layers of electrical tape to the handlebars on the left side, to make the grip close to the right. They match up much better now.



I also got my new tires in the mail. The 700x32c Michelin City tires look like they will do more than adequate for the job I need.