Guide to Reducing BMX (or MTB) Handlebar Length

Guide to Reducing BMX (or MTB) Handlebar Length

Trimming bike handlebars may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it's easier than you think. This article will guide you through the process of using a pipe cutter, a versatile and efficient tool for the job.

Using a Pipe Cutter for Precise and Safe Handlebar Trimming

The Knipex TubiX Pipe Cutter stands out as a recommended tool for trimming bike handlebars. Its lightweight and easy-to-use design, coupled with its four guide rollers and hardened steel cutting wheel, ensures smooth, precise, and safe cuts.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to safely and efficiently trim bike handlebars using a pipe cutter:

1. Measure and Mark: Use a ruler or tape measure to determine the exact spot where you want to cut the handlebar. Mark the cut line clearly with a permanent marker for precision.
2. Choose the Right Pipe Cutter Size: Ensure your pipe cutter fits the diameter of the handlebar tube. Most mountain bike handlebars come in standard diameters such as 31.8mm or 35mm, so choose a cutter that accommodates that size.
3. Secure the Handlebar: Clamp the handlebar firmly in a workbench vice or a stable holder to prevent movement while cutting.
4. Position the Pipe Cutter: Place the pipe cutter's cutting wheel accurately on the marked line of the handlebar.
5. Rotate the Cutter Slowly and Evenly: Tighten the cutter just enough to press the cutting wheel into the handlebar without deforming it. Rotate the cutter around the handlebar smoothly, tightening the screw after each full rotation. This gradual tightening avoids crushing or bending the handlebar.
6. Cut Through the Handlebar: Continue rotating and gradually tightening until the handlebar is fully cut.
7. Deburr the Edge: After the cut, use a metal file or deburring tool to smooth any rough edges inside and outside the handlebar tube. This prevents injury and ensures proper fitment of grips or bar ends.

If your handlebar is made of carbon fiber, consider using a specialized carbon fiber cutting saw guide or blade instead of a traditional pipe cutter to avoid damaging the material. Metal pipe cutters work best on aluminum or steel handlebars.

This process helps avoid crushed ends or uneven cuts and keeps the handlebar structurally sound while saving time compared to sawing alone.

For more visual guidance, videos on cutting bike tubes with proper tools and guides are available for reference.

Remember, the Knipex TubiX Pipe Cutter requires maintenance, such as keeping the cutting wheel clean and lubricating the adjustment screw, to ensure its longevity and performance.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to trimming your bike handlebars with ease and confidence. Happy trimming!

1. Once you've mastered handlebar trimming with a pipe cutter, you might find it useful for managing the cords of your gadgets, providing a more organized workspace with technology.
2. After honing your handlebar trimming skills with a pipe cutter, you could apply the same precision when preparing high-tech gadgets for sports activities, such as cutting Velcro straps for fitness devices.

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