1996 XV1100 - new handlebars that won't require new cables?

[CrashAlpha]

Are there are non-buckhorn replacement handlebars that won't require replacing the cables? I am assuming the ones I have are stock.

My bike's previous owner was 5'8 and slight build. I'm 6'1 and XL shoulders. I find myself gripping the throttle at the very end of the bars, and the angle causes wrist pain over time. Tilting the bars forward helped a bit but the throttle angle still feels wrong and the cockpit feels cramped.

My bike shop and the mechanic told me that replacing the handlebars would require new cables to match the bars to my height, saying parts and labour would start around CA $1500 (US $1200 US). But I get the impression that he thinks the bike requires a pretty high grip. I am not concerned so much about having a comfy, cruiser ride. Safety and control are my top concerns.

Is he right, or has anyone swapped what I assume are stock buckhorns for something straighter suited for a taller rider with a wider grip without having to replace the cables?

[faffi]

I do not have the best picture to show you of mine, but other than the brake hose (replaced due to age) and brake master cylinder (since I went to a horizontal set of handlebars) cables are stock and fit well enough. I know mine is the older chassis, but the throttle cable on mine is off an 1100.

[CrashAlpha]

I do not have the best picture to show you of mine, but other than the brake hose (replaced due to age) and brake master cylinder (since I went to a horizontal set of handlebars) cables are stock and fit well enough. I know mine is the older chassis, but the throttle cable on mine is off an 1100.

Nice build!

Can you tell me why the horizontal bars required the master cylinder to be replaced? It's a new topic to me, I can only guess that the mounting angle was wrong.

[faffi]

You CAN retain the stock master cylinder, but it will look weird what with it being angled downwards at the hose end once the handlebars are straight. And since mine was old and abused already, it made more sense to just replace it rather than overhaul the old one. After all, I consider brakes to be the most vital part of any vehicle, and I have witnessed master cylinders working fine one stop, then have zero pressure on the next. Not what you want in an emergency.

This is the brake fluid in my system when I bought the bike, and shows why I always strip the brake system on every neglected vehicle I buy


And this is inside the caliper

[CrashAlpha]

After all, I consider brakes to be the most vital part of any vehicle

Agree! Since I have no experience servicing hydraulic brakes I won't mess with a DIY replacement.

[faffi]

Brakes are simple once you get over your initial fears and are alert and meticolous about cleanliness, but it is not for the inexperienced.

I forgot to mention that I also had to switch the clutch/mirror holder to a straight one, but IIRC, I could retain the clutch and brake levers.

[OmenBackwards]

I do not have the best picture to show you of mine, but other than the brake hose (replaced due to age) and brake master cylinder (since I went to a horizontal set of handlebars) cables are stock and fit well enough. I know mine is the older chassis, but the throttle cable on mine is off an 1100.

I really like your build may I ask what exhaust you’re using, if they’re slip one that’s easy and those look sick!

[faffi]

Thank you for the compliment. The exhaust is an OEM 1981-83 XV750 Virago system that I have opened up by sawing out the inner exit pipe and drilling extra holes in the baffles.



Here is a picture lifted from ebay that show the system in its whole