Harley-Davidson Big Twin Motorcycle Handlebar Throttle Controls

Type of Motorcycle Handlebar Throttle and Buying Guide

What is the throttle on a motorcycle?

You would think everyone on the planet would know what a motorcycle handlebar throttle is and how it works, but a quick search on the internet and you will see videos with thousands of views explaining how to use a motorcycle throttle.

Your motorcycle handlebar throttle control is part of the mechanism that delivers fuel to your motorcycle. Simply put, you twist your throttle back and a cable pulls on your carburetor slide or actuates a fuel injection sensor which delivers more fuel to your engine. 

Your motorcycle handlebar throttle control can get you in trouble at times, and can also get you out of trouble. Learning proper throttle control is something that comes with practice and ride time.

Types of Motorcycle Handlebar Throttle Controls

Single cable throttle 

Handlebar throttle controls have changed over the years. Single cable throttle controls would now be considered a universal motorcycle throttle. Single cable motorcycle handlebar throttles were transitioned to dual cable throttle function around the mid-eighties. Single cable throttle controls work just fine for most applications, but in the 80’s it was determined that a push-pull throttle cable was needed for safety reasons. 

Dual cable throttle

The push-pull dual throttle cable uses two springs and two cables instead of one to help return the throttle to a closed position when released. The function is the same for single cable motorcycle throttle, but the secondary cable and spring help to ensure the throttle returns to the closed position.

Electronic Throttle Controls

Another handlebar throttle control is the electronic throttle control found on Harley Davidson® motorcycles. This throttle control system is sometimes referred to as the Throttle-by-wire or the Fly-by wire system. This system uses a spline found in the end of the throttle to control an electronic device that controls the fuel injection system. Handlebars designed for this system have a notch cut in the end of the handlebar on the throttle side. This allows for the installation and function of the Fly-by-wire system.

Buying a Throttle Control at Lowbrow Customs

If you need to buy a motorcycle throttle control, check out the selection here at Lowbrow Customs. We carry both single cable motorcycle throttle controls, and dual cable motorcycle throttle controls. We have replacement throttle sleeves and billet throttle grips with the cable pulls already built-in. We also carry the throttle housings for numerous custom applications.