If you’re upgrading a custom bike or building a new project, the right 7/8″ (22mm) handlebars can dramatically change handling, riding posture, and style. This guide highlights five top options for American riders, from cafe racer to dirt bike builds. Each choice suits specific riding needs, whether you want lightweight strength, easy installation, or classic aesthetics. Use the buyer tips below to pick the best match for your motorcycle type and riding goals.
Product Comparison At A Glance
| Product | Best For | Materials | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USTPO 7/8″ Cafe Racer Handlebar (Aluminum) | Cafe racers and bobbers needing light, strong alloy | 7075-T6 aluminum | Wide color option; durable and corrosion resistant |
| WEIYINGSI 7/8″ Dirt Pit Bike Handlebars | Dirt bikes and ATVs needing extra length and strength | 6061-T6 aluminum | Heat-treated for high strength; can be cut to length |
| AnXin 7/8″ Drag Handlebars (Universal) | Sportster and chopper builds needing classic drag style | High quality steel | Textured powder coat finish |
| YSMOTO 7/8″ Low Rise Bar | MX and dirt bike riders needing a robust low rise | 7005 aluminum alloy | Increased wall thickness for strength |
| Pro Taper SE Series 7/8″ Handlebar | Premium performance riders and severe riding conditions | Standard SE design | State-of-the-art design |
USTPO 7/8″ Cafe Racer Aluminum Handlebars
Best for: Cafe racer and bobber builds that require a lightweight yet strong bar. This 7/8″ 22mm handlebar uses 7075-T6 aluminum, offering high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to bending. The anodized finish helps prevent oxidation and adds color options to suit custom paint schemes. Suitable for riders who prioritize durability and steering precision without adding excess weight.
Why chosen: The alloy choice reduces weight while maintaining rigidity, which can improve front-end feel and control during aggressive cornering and braking. The wide application notes indicate broad compatibility with many 7/8″ setups, making it a versatile pick for various mono-block clamp systems.
Caution: Ensure clamp width and cable routing fit your specific frame, as some cafe racer configurations may require minor bar bending or replacement clamps. Color selection may influence how well it matches the existing aesthetic of your bike.
WEIYINGSI Universal 7/8″ Dirt Pit Bike Handlebars
Best for: Dirt bikes, pit bikes, and ATVs that need a robust platform with crossbar and foam pad protection. These handlebars are designed for 0.19″ thick walls, which contributes to durability in rough terrain. The 6061-T6 aluminum with HRC16 treatment offers resistance to bending under impact and improved longevity.
Why chosen: They support easy customization with length options and mounting versatility, making them a solid choice for riders who modify bars for different trail runs or pit bike racing. The crossbar adds additional stiffness to the front end, helpful in high-speed off-road scenarios.
Caution: Cutting or modifying the bar may affect structural integrity or warranty. Check your model’s compatibility with a crossbar and foam pad mounting points before installation.
AnXin 7/8″ Drag Handlebars Universal
Best for: Sportster XL 883/1200, Bobber, Chopper, and Softail models seeking a classic drag-bar look. The universal sizing makes it adaptable to many custom builds, where a lower, flatter stance is desired for aggressive riding posture.
Why chosen: The bars feature a sturdy steel construction with a textured powder-coated finish that withstands wear and corrosion while preserving a sleek, aftermarket appearance. They are easy to install on compatible clamps and provide good leverage for tight cornering.
Caution: Universal bars may require additional cable or wiring adjustments, and some bikes may need replacement risers or clamps to achieve the desired stance.
YSMOTO 7/8″ Low Rise Bar
Best for: Dirt bike and MX riders who prefer a low-rise profile for improved aerodynamics and lower center of gravity. The 7/8″ 22mm bar is designed to maintain strength under demanding riding conditions.
Why chosen: Built from 7005 aluminum alloy with multi-stage forging, the bar offers aerospace-grade strength while keeping weight in check. A thicker internal wall enhances rigidity, reducing flex during heavy braking or high-speed jumps.
Caution: Some riders may need to adjust controls and cables when switching to a lower rise, which could affect lever reach and throttle placement. Ensure clamps suit your model’s clamp width.
Pro Taper SE 7/8″ Standard Handlebars
Best for: Riders requiring premium performance and a proven SE design for aggressive riding styles on a variety of motorcycles. The SE line is known for refined geometry and consistent leverage across populations of bikes.
Why chosen: The Seven Eighths (SE) handlebar represents advanced design in 7/8″ category, offering optimized bend radii and stiffness. It’s a reliable option for riders seeking precise control and durability for track and street use alike.
Caution: Availability may vary by model compatibility; check clamp and crossbar compatibility with your bike’s mounting system before purchase.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting 7/8″ handlebars, consider riding style, bike type, and clamp compatibility. The right bar improves steering response, rider posture, and overall control. Durability and weight influence handling under hard cornering and rough terrain.
- Material matters: Aluminum alloys (6061, 7075) balance strength and weight; steel bars prioritize durability but add weight.
- Bar rise and width: A higher rise increases upright comfort; a lower rise lowers the rider’s weight distribution. Ensure width matches your riding stance and handle controls.
- End dimensions: Confirm clamp diameter (7/8″ / 22mm) and internal diameter to fit your forks and triple clamps. Some bars require spacers or risers.
- Finish and corrosion resistance: Anodized or powder-coated finishes shield against rust and chips, especially in wet or muddy environments.
- Compatibility: Some universal bars need modifications, crossbars, or additional pads for fitment on off-road bikes or older models.
FAQ: Quick Answers For Buyers
- What diameter are these handlebars?
7/8″ (22mm) is the standard diameter for most modern motorcycles with compatible clamps. - Can I install these on any bike?
Most are universal for 7/8″ clamps, but verify clamp width, cable routing, and riser compatibility with your model. - Do these bars require cutting to fit?
Some models offer length customization; cutting may be needed for a precise fit on smaller frames or custom builds. - Will a crossbar affect installation?
Crossbars add stiffness but may require mounting adjustments or pad placement depending on model. - Are there color options?
Anodized or powder-coated finishes are common, providing color options to complement bikes’ aesthetics. - Which is best for racing?
Pro Taper SE and alloy drag bars are often favored for performance, control, and consistent geometry under stress.