Handlebar bolts cover removal

[raito]

I am in the process of deciding which RAM Mounts components to get, and for the base I kinda like the handlebar clamp base. But first I'd like to know how to remove the bolt cover the proper way without damaging anything.

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[iceman]

Myself and others asked this - someone said you could place sticky tape over them and pull them off - not sure how you would remove the cat, that can be even more tricky

[homie]

Yes, get the very stickiest duct tape or buy a small roll of gorilla tape. Work the tape over each cosmetic cap getting into the outer edges with your finger nail as deep as possible... rip off. Then be prepared for some of the tightest hex drive bolts on the PCX. Use a top quality drive and extended leverage (impact wrench) perhaps to loosen. I did this to push up the bars for a more comfortable riding position and the caps are a snap but the bolts are a BEAR!

Nice little Russian grey

[raito]

Nice, I will try that.

One more thing, the description on Ram mount says "Have an M8 by 25, 30, or 35mm handlebar bolt?". Is it safe to assume the ones in my PCX are M8 bolts in one of those lengths?

[Jge64]

They are a pia to get off, I used a jewelers flat screwdriver to pry off easily.

[homie]

Nice, I will try that.

One more thing, the description on Ram mount says "Have an M8 by 25, 30, or 35mm handlebar bolt?". Is it safe to assume the ones in my PCX are M8 bolts in one of those lengths?

My SM does not mention handle bar removal, fastener sizes or torque values for the 4 bolts. The instruction above was trial and error. I think people destroyed the caps before asking for assistance or using tape. Good use of this forum to ask.

[WhiteNoise]

Hi raito
Yes, use pieces of sticky tape and apply as mentioned. But first fold a corner down on each piece so you can use it to pull each cap off. A quick pull at that

Once you've exposed the for bar bolts try using this set-up. It worked easy peasy for me.
I used a 6mm hex drive head and ratchet. "Before" you're ready to set those bolts back in, apply a dab of loctite to their threads. Good luck!

Sorry the pics are so big

[honkerman]

I like that socket set. It's shiny.

[raito]

That was easy. I first tried using cheap ordinary tape (not sticky enough), and then tried to pry using bicycle tyre lever (not thin enough). So before trying to find a stickier tape, had to try prying with a sharper object: cutter knife.

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No luck with bolt though. Only had my bicycle multi-tools with me, that would just break apart if I turned strong enough. Anyways, good news is that it seems we have M8 bolts if I got my info right..

6mm hex size means M8

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[raito]

"Before" you're ready to set those bolts back in, apply a dab of loctite to their threads. Good luck!

Not sure if I can find this loctite here.. What problems would I get if I don't loctite? You got nice clean tools set!

[Jge64]

You don't face any problems if you don't use the Loctite, it's a good idea, but just check them every couple months to see that they're tight .

[relic]

Be care full with that loctite stuff it can cause more problems than it is worth
I don't think those bolts-four of them are going to fall out
if you want to dink around with your handlebars leave the caps out -anti-seize the four bolts
and give them a twist if you think they need it
I looked into those ram mounts and gave upon the idea
I think you will end up with with problems with your cables being too short

[homie]

Is it time for the video of cap removal again? Don't peal it, pull straight up I don't know where you will get shiny new caps if you pry this out people. The tape works every time if its tacky enough. I did not use lock tight and the bars have not moved since they were moved up. Merciless next time with lock tight. Since the failure of under tightening would be a slight movement in your handle bars I think that's easily corrected without thread lockers.

[WhiteNoise]

Help's here with buying Shiny caps
http://www.bikebandit.com/oem-parts/201 ... #sch909772

Honda fixes the bolts tight.
Use some Blaster PB. Carefully spray a bit around the bolts. Watch Out for overspray! Cover The surrounding area. Let liquid sit around them for awhile. I sprayed at night and they were Easily removed by morning.

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Love all Me Tools! Nice day, Clean work area, clean tools (some new) and a phone to call for help (well....ya never know!) And a few swigs H2O
Oh...and bug spray! Those skeeter's are a biatch!

[easyrider]

I would not use any fastener glue . Manufactuers like to use it do avoid liability when assembling critical components. Not really necessary on re assembling but many like the security. Heat is utilized to break the bond if overly tight.Use a heat gun (be careful) then loosen.. Should help.

[homie]

Help's here with buying Shiny caps
http://www.bikebandit.com/oem-parts/201 ... #sch909772

Good work WN, you are like the parts manager or a supply Sargent. Ye can pry away now go get some new ones. 10.00 plus shipping that's not how precious and I roll

It is the perfect Indian summer Chicago day! Already put 40 miles this morning and now a sponge bath, wax and Chief says "all day should be Indian day"

[you you]

It is the perfect Indian summer Chicago day! Already put 40 miles this morning and now a sponge bath, wax and Chief says "all day should be Indian day"

Same for the bike I hope..?

[homie]

It is the perfect Indian summer Chicago day! Already put 40 miles this morning and now a sponge bath, wax and Chief says "all day should be Indian day"

Same for the bike I hope..?

Very funny youyou, Hey I'm about to retire the crash list with the next off. That's 50 accidents too many and i'm sure the victims will second that motion but before we wipe the history how about a poll How many crashes were incurred on joy rides verses business?

[ScottDR]

Once again, a great post that can really help people. This is not covered in service manuals! Cheers all!