Lubrication under throttle tube?

[StillKickin]

I just put some Renthal bars on my XR4 and was wondering if it's normal to lube between the throttle tube and handlebar. I didn't see anything in the service manual about doing so, and it seemed pretty dry when I took off the stock bars, so right now there's no lubricant (and it seems perfectly OK). Years ago I replaced lots of bent handlebars on my MX bikes, but my old brain can't remember whether lubing the tube was normal so I'm hoping my fellow TT'ers will enlighten me on this.

[dirtsquirt101]

I just put some Renthal bars on my XR4 and was wondering if it's normal to lube between the throttle tube and handlebar. I didn't see anything in the service manual about doing so, and it seemed pretty dry when I took off the stock bars, so right now there's no lubricant (and it seems perfectly OK). Years ago I replaced lots of bent handlebars on my MX bikes, but my old brain can't remember whether lubing the tube was normal so I'm hoping my fellow TT'ers will enlighten me on this.

No, lube will attract dirt and grime and you will be worse off. I do remember hearing about some people applying graphite powder (not sure, never used it) under there.

[Ed@Ford]

Graphite powder works. Can be messy, but doesn't attract dirt like lubriplate.

[4strokeridertt]

A shot of white lithum grease in a spray can seems to work the best for me. just clean it every once in a while.

[Westie]

I'll grease her up but, I'm a clean addict too. Soon as it binds I clean it and grease it.

[redrider1]

I'll grease her up but, I'm a clean addict too. Soon as it binds I clean it and grease it.

I don't lube and have never had a problem. It does attract dirt and is just not needed for proper operation...

[xrmarty]

Never lube it either. Just blow compressed air every time I change my grips.

[shane89]

i read some were that they suggest brake cleaner don't no if it attracks dirt or not?

[cmanno]

I have used Permatex Anti seize compound or a high quality grease works well. A little goes a long way.

[buddha43]

i just did this, i used TriFlo greese. i will report after my next 2 rides, usually to the Gie and HH

[porterdog]

This is a perfect application for a dry lube; I used an industrial product by dow corning, but there are others which are readily available, like the Teflon lube by the people that make PB Fabulous Blaster....

[Gw Pahrump]

I just read an artical on this in dirt rider. the mech. said to do this very thing , but to stuff paper towels in the inside of the bars on both sides so dirt can't get under neth the throttle tube . sounds good i was thinking about triing it

[biketrdr]

this is a good place to try the dry lube. have used no lube for 25+ years. tried the dry lube reacantly seem to notice a differance. not sure.

[kelsey]

I saw that in Dirt Rider too. The only problem with their pro mechanics tips (sometimes), is that these guys go over the bike top to bottom every week. I'm thinking that a smear of grease, a right sided tipover, and barkbusters (so open ended grips), would do plenty of grinding before I ever got around to pulling the throttle tube.

I've only ever used a pinch of graphite. Maybe I'll try the dry lube.

[buddha43]

quick report, first ride out on a dry dusty day w/ Lube in throttle tube. felt very smooth and nice, dumped it a few times, no ill effects all day, 50+ miles at Carnigie. So far i like it!