Straighten handlebar?

[ThreeDawg]

Had an off the other day, unfortunately putting a bit of a bend in the handlebars at the point where the bush is, next to the switchgear. This is the second time it's been bent there - first time I straightened it up.

Question is, can I straighten it again without weakening the bars?

 

[theoneandonly]

can you ride the bike using just your left hand, to steer ? ( assuming rhs bent/broken off )

 

[ThreeDawg]

Ha, well I would have been able to ride it but for the smashed rocker cover and broken footrest mount (and torn tendons in my shoulder) but the bike was recovered and is now home anyway. Just pondering the wisdom of putting a bit of scaff pole over the end and tweaking it straight.

 

[robc76]

You might be better off applying some heat before bending it back. It it has been bent a couple of times already then it is already weaker. Heat can help restore some strength and make the bending easier.

RobC

 

[ThreeDawg]

Not sure about heat - isn't there a rubber bush in there?

 

[robc76]

Not sure about heat - isn't there a rubber bush in there?

Not sure, but if I were doing this I'd be stripping down the bars anyway. If there is a bush inside of the bars then heat may not be your friend in this case. Someone more knowledgeable than I will need to answer this.

RobC