ProTaper: The Edge in Motorcycle Control

In the exhilarating world of motorcycling, where precision, comfort, and control are paramount, certain brands rise above the rest by pushing the boundaries of innovation. ProTaper is undoubtedly one such name, having carved out a formidable reputation for revolutionising how riders interact with their machines. Since its inception, ProTaper has been synonymous with high-quality, performance-enhancing components, particularly their groundbreaking handlebars and meticulously developed grips. This article delves into the core of what makes ProTaper products stand out, exploring the engineering marvels behind their designs and how they contribute to an unparalleled riding experience.

What Exactly is a ProTaper Grip?

When it comes to maintaining a firm yet comfortable hold on your motorcycle, the grip plays a far more critical role than many riders initially realise. A ProTaper grip is not just a standard rubber sleeve; it's the culmination of extensive research and development aimed at optimising rider comfort, reducing fatigue, and enhancing control. The design philosophy behind ProTaper grips focuses on several key attributes that set them apart from conventional options.

One of the most notable characteristics is their incredibly soft and cushioned feel. This isn't merely about luxury; it's a functional design choice. The softer material allows for better absorption of minor shocks and vibrations transmitted from the road or terrain, providing a more forgiving interface for the rider's hands. This leads directly to reduced hand fatigue, especially during long rides or aggressive off-road sessions where constant gripping can take a toll.

Furthermore, ProTaper grips are engineered with superior vibration dampening properties. Engine vibrations, road imperfections, and impacts can all contribute to a phenomenon known as 'arm pump' and general discomfort. The advanced material compounds used in ProTaper grips are specifically formulated to dissipate these unwanted vibrations more effectively than standard grips. This means a smoother ride, better blood circulation in the hands, and ultimately, more sustained control over your bike.

Adding to their sophisticated design is a gel-like surface. This isn't just for a tactile sensation; the gel-like quality helps to keep hands relaxed on the bars. A relaxed grip is a controlled grip. When your hands are tense, your ability to react quickly and precisely is compromised. The unique surface texture and pliability of ProTaper grips encourage a lighter, more relaxed hold, which in turn enhances steering input and overall manoeuvrability. This combination of softness, vibration dampening, and a gel-like feel creates a truly ergonomic interface between rider and machine, making every twist of the throttle and turn of the bar more intuitive and less strenuous.

The Genesis of ProTaper Handlebars: A Revolution in Design

The story of ProTaper truly began in 1991, and it wasn't with grips, but with a revolutionary change to a fundamental component: the handlebar. Prior to ProTaper's intervention, the motorcycle industry largely adhered to a standard 22mm (7/8 inch) attachment dimension for handlebars. This standard had been in place for decades, but ProTaper saw an opportunity for significant improvement.

In 1991, ProTaper introduced the world to their 28.6mm Taperwall handlebars. This was a seismic shift. The larger 28.6mm (1 1/8 inch) diameter at the clamping area, tapering down to the traditional 22mm at the grip ends, offered a host of advantages that quickly made it the industry benchmark. The core idea behind the Taperwall design was to increase strength and flexibility without adding excessive weight.

The larger diameter at the clamping area provides significantly increased strength and rigidity where it's most needed. This means handlebars are less prone to bending or breaking in a crash, offering a crucial safety advantage. Moreover, the increased diameter allows for a more robust connection to the triple clamps, reducing unwanted flex and improving steering precision. This added strength is particularly vital in demanding motorsports like motocross and enduro, where riders frequently subject their bikes to extreme stresses.

However, strength alone isn't enough. Handlebars also need a certain degree of flexibility to absorb impacts and vibrations, contributing to rider comfort and reducing fatigue. The Taperwall design ingeniously achieves this by varying the wall thickness along the bar. The thicker wall at the clamp area provides strength, while thinner sections in other areas allow for a controlled amount of flex. This engineered flex helps to dampen vibrations and absorb harsh impacts, working in tandem with the grips to create a more forgiving ride. Since its inception, this innovative design has been revered across the motocross world for its impeccably high-quality products, setting a new standard that many other manufacturers have since attempted to emulate.

Why ProTaper's Innovation Matters to You

The combined innovation of ProTaper grips and handlebars offers a tangible advantage to riders of all disciplines. Whether you're a casual weekend rider, a seasoned off-road enthusiast, or a competitive racer, the benefits are clear:

• Enhanced Comfort: The soft, cushioned, and vibration-dampening grips, coupled with the engineered flex of Taperwall handlebars, drastically reduce arm pump and hand fatigue.
• Superior Control: A relaxed grip and precise steering feedback from a robust handlebar translate into better control over your motorcycle, allowing for more confident manoeuvres and faster reactions.
• Increased Durability: ProTaper handlebars are built to withstand the rigours of aggressive riding and potential crashes, offering greater longevity and peace of mind.
• Improved Performance: By reducing rider fatigue and enhancing control, ProTaper products indirectly contribute to improved overall riding performance, allowing you to ride harder and longer.

Choosing Your ProTaper Setup

ProTaper offers a diverse range of grips and handlebars, each designed with specific riding styles and preferences in mind. When selecting your setup, consider the following:

• Handlebar Bend: ProTaper handlebars come in various bends (rise, sweep, width) to suit different ergonomic preferences and rider heights. It's crucial to choose a bend that positions you comfortably and allows for optimal control.
• Grip Compound: While all ProTaper grips prioritise comfort and dampening, some may feature slightly different compounds for varying levels of softness or durability. Consider your typical riding conditions and how much wear and tear your grips will endure.
• Compatibility: Ensure that your chosen handlebar diameter (28.6mm) is compatible with your bike's triple clamp mounts. If your bike has 22mm clamps, you will need to purchase adapters.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation is key to maximising the benefits of your ProTaper components. For handlebars, ensure they are correctly aligned and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications. For grips, a good quality grip glue or wire tie method will secure them firmly, preventing slippage which can be dangerous and distracting. Regular inspection for wear and tear is also advisable, particularly for grips, as their performance can degrade over time with heavy use. Replacing worn grips ensures you maintain optimal comfort and control.

ProTaper vs. Standard Components: A Comparison

To truly appreciate the advancements ProTaper brings, it's helpful to compare their offerings against more traditional or standard motorcycle components.

Handlebar Comparison

Grip Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions About ProTaper

Are ProTaper handlebars stronger than standard handlebars?

Yes, ProTaper Taperwall handlebars are generally much stronger than standard 22mm handlebars, especially at the clamping area. The larger 28.6mm diameter at the clamps provides significantly increased rigidity and resistance to bending or breaking under stress, which is a major advantage in demanding riding conditions.

Do I need special clamps for ProTaper handlebars?

If your motorcycle originally came with 22mm (7/8 inch) handlebars, you will need to purchase handlebar adapters or new triple clamps designed for 28.6mm (1 1/8 inch) handlebars to fit ProTaper Taperwall bars. Some bikes, particularly newer models designed for more aggressive riding, may already come with 28.6mm clamps as standard.

How often should I replace my ProTaper grips?

The lifespan of ProTaper grips depends heavily on how often you ride, your riding style, and the conditions you ride in. As a general rule, you should inspect your grips regularly for signs of wear, tearing, or hardening. Once they lose their original soft, gel-like feel or show significant damage, it's advisable to replace them to maintain optimal comfort, grip, and vibration dampening properties. For competitive riders, this might be every few months, while casual riders might get a year or more out of them.

Can ProTaper grips really reduce arm pump?

While ProTaper grips cannot entirely eliminate arm pump, they are specifically designed with features like enhanced cushioning, a soft feel, and superior vibration dampening to significantly reduce the factors that contribute to arm pump. By absorbing more vibrations and encouraging a relaxed grip, they help to lessen fatigue in the forearms and hands, thereby mitigating the severity and onset of arm pump for many riders.

Are ProTaper products only for off-road motorcycles?

While ProTaper gained its initial fame and reputation in the motocross and off-road community, their innovative handlebars and grips are now widely used across various motorcycle disciplines. Many street bikes, adventure bikes, and even some custom builds benefit from the enhanced strength, comfort, and control that ProTaper products offer. The principles of reduced vibration and improved ergonomics are beneficial for any type of motorcycle riding.

What does 'Taperwall' mean in ProTaper handlebars?

The term 'Taperwall' refers to the unique design of ProTaper handlebars where the wall thickness of the tubing varies along its length. It's not just the diameter that tapers, but also the internal wall thickness. This engineered variation allows for optimal strength where needed (like the clamp area) and specific flex characteristics in other sections, creating a handlebar that is both incredibly strong and surprisingly forgiving, absorbing impacts and vibrations more effectively than a uniform tube.

Conclusion

ProTaper has undeniably left an indelible mark on the motorcycle industry. Through relentless innovation and a deep understanding of rider needs, they have transformed fundamental components like handlebars and grips into highly engineered instruments that enhance performance, comfort, and safety. From the revolutionary 28.6mm Taperwall handlebars that redefined strength and flexibility to the meticulously developed grips with their soft, cushioned, and vibration-dampening properties, ProTaper continues to equip riders with the confidence and control needed to conquer any terrain. Investing in ProTaper components isn't just an upgrade; it's an investment in a superior riding experience, allowing you to push your limits with greater comfort and precision.

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