1972 S2 350 handlebars

[BobHenry999]

Hi chaps,

My recently purchased 1972 S2 has the correct flat, narrow handlebars that would have been fitted from new. However, as I am now getting on a bit (62 years old), I’m finding the riding position a little, how shall we say, “challenging”.
So I’d like some advice on a solution.
I don’t want the look of the US bikes with their high chopper style bars, but something more like the S2A that I bought from Dave Higgs a few years ago that would be a little more comfortable for me.

Can anyone give me a suggestion please as to where I could get a set of bars, and what cables would I need to replace if any ?

Thanks,

Bob

[g6mow]

http://www.kawasakitripleparts.com/inde ... Handlebars

Most people go for standard European KH250/400 2.5”

[Goalhanger]

Hi Bob , I have the high 6” rise US bars and would like to try the flat bars. So if you do replace yours I’d buy them off you ?
Thanks
Phil

[BobHenry999]

Chaps,

Thanks for the advice, I’ve ordered a set of the UK KH250 2.5” bars from Tripleparts.

When they arrive I’ll have to see if I need longer throttle, brake and clutch cables.

Phil, if all goes well I’ll let you know and you can try the flat bars.

Bob

[Goalhanger]

Thanks Bob. It’ll be a while before I get my engine and frame back etc ……although hoping I’m up and running for next summer 🏍

[BobHenry999]

I’m going to fit the KH 250 bars over the Xmas holiday and was just wondering if I’d have to change the cables for longer ones ?
Any ideas?

Bob

[Milly S1]

You should get away with the throttle and choke cable by just re routing them
The front brake cable you may be better with a S1b/c cable ending 54005-070 there slightly longer for the raised bars.

[Craig T]

You'll have Neil the Don after you if you take off the 'Vincent flats"

[BobHenry999]

I know there are some who say that I should retain the flat bars but they are just a little too uncomfortable for me. I have finally managed to find the longer S1 brake cable as suggested by Milly S1, so I can finally change the bars over in time for the much awaited spring.

Bob

[Milly S1]

Glad you got sorted with the brake cable
if you decide to sell the o.e flat bars
I would be interested in purchasing
Cheers Lee

[Goalhanger]

Hi Bob.
How’s it going with the new bars?
Have you got a photo of the flat bars on your bike and the new ones ?
I’m still not sure whether to go 2” rise or lower on my S2A.
You also mentioned your standard flats are narrow, do you know what that is in mms as I think I’d like around 800mm width.
I get my frame back soon and want to get cracking on the rebuild for Spring/summer……
Thanks
Phil

[Treeman]

Just a note on the flats for an S2A - The front brake lever etc. does limit your choice as it gets in the way if you have a slight bend in the bars. I gave up in the end and kept the originals

[Goalhanger]

So Treeman, it sounds as if I’d better stick with getting 2” rise bars. When you say gets in the way is it the indicators mounted on the headlamp ?
I see early flat bar bikes had indicators mounted lower on fork brackets .
Phil

[Triple Parts]

So Treeman, it sounds as if I’d better stick with getting 2” rise bars. When you say gets in the way is it the indicators mounted on the headlamp ?
I see early flat bar bikes had indicators mounted lower on fork brackets .
Phil

I don't think that the cable for a '72 drum brake is a problem. On a disk brake model you need to turn the banjo on the master cylinder around, so the hose angles away from the clocks, or it clashes.
.

[Goalhanger]

Ah that’s good info , thanks Tony

[Treeman]

Sorry - been away for a while - like Tony says, its the master cylinder / brake lever that gets in the way - they foul the clocks and the slight bend in some 'flat' bars prevents their use.