How to Fix a Sticky Dirt Bike Throttle – Do you know how to handle your dirt bike throttle? The first thing to know about the dirt bike throttle is that it is a key component of your bike. It is essential for controlling your bike’s speed off-road. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, knowing how the throttle works is crucial. Located on the right-hand grip, you control it by twisting, and adjusting your speed. Being precise with the throttle ensures a smoother and faster ride, protecting your bike from excessive wear and tear and promoting its longevity.
However, like any other part of your bike, a throttle can still face issues. Most commonly, it can end up being stuck. If your dirt bike’s throttle gets stuck, it can be annoying and spoil your ride. However, if you’re not careful, it can also lead to danger for you as a rider.
Why is a Sticky Throttle Dangerous and What Causes it?
A stuck throttle on a dirt bike is dangerous as it controls the speed, and if it gets stuck, it can lead to sudden acceleration, increasing the risk of accidents on the track. While some bikes have safety kill switches, not all do, leaving riders vulnerable and unable to quickly stop their bikes, potentially causing collisions.
The usual problem is dirt and grime in the carburetor, causing parts to stick together and impede throttle movement. This makes it hard to control your speed. To fix this, identify the affected carburetor parts and clean them well. Using the right tools and getting expert advice, if needed, is essential to get your dirt bike back to its best performance.
What You’ll Need to Fix a Sticky Throttle
Fixing a sticky throttle on your dirt bike is a straightforward task, and you don’t need to worry. All you require are some shop towels, a Scotch-Brite Pad, a light grease like WD-40, and a few wrenches. While the owner’s manual may recommend a torque wrench for specific bolts, it’s often not strictly necessary. With these basic tools and supplies, you can easily address the issue and get your dirt bike’s throttle working smoothly again.
How to Fix a Sticky Dirt Bike Throttle: The Steps
Remove Throttle Tube: Start by taking off the throttle tube and cleaning both the handlebar and inside the tube. Remove the two bolts clamping the tube to the handlebar, detach the throttle cables, and slide off the tube.
Wipe Down Handlebar and Throttle Tube: After removing the throttle tube, wipe down the handlebar and inside the tube. Clean the handlebar with a shop towel and use a towel-wrapped tool to clean inside the tube. Note any cracks for potential replacement.
Scotch-Brite Handlebar and Throttle Tube: Use a Scotch-Brite Pad after cleaning to wipe down the handlebar and inside the throttle tube. This ensures a smooth surface by removing any burrs, sand, or debris.
Apply a Small Amount of Grease: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of grease or WD-40 to the handlebar and inside the throttle tube before sliding it back on.
Tighten Bolts and Test: Reassemble the components after cleaning and applying grease. Tighten bolts to specifications if a torque wrench is available. Ensure the throttle tube isn’t slid on too tightly against the handlebar for smooth rolling on and off.
Safety Tips When Fixing Your Throttle
While the steps are not overly difficult to follow, it helps to have the following tips in mind when working on the throttle:
- Disconnect the Battery: Ensure safety by disconnecting the bike’s battery before attempting any repairs to prevent accidental starts or electrical mishaps.
- Remove Filters and Intake Systems: Facilitate access and simplify the repair process by taking out any filters or intake systems present on the dirt bike.
- Drain Carburetor and Fuel Lines: Prevent water retention by draining the carburetor and fuel lines. Remove components holding water for a clean and effective repair.
- Remove Throttle Cable Restrictors: Address a stuck throttle by using a screwdriver to eliminate restrictors on throttle cables. These restrictors may hinder cable movement during acceleration and deceleration.
- Beware of Springs: Exercise caution with springs inside the throttle components, as they may forcefully release when opening restriction screws. Replace any ejected springs with new ones from your local hardware store.
- Use WD40 for Lubrication: Enhance overall performance by generously applying WD40 to various engine parts. Ensure it reaches areas where air is redirected, such as coolant hoses and intake tubes, for effective lubrication.
Tips to Preventing a Sticky Throttle
- Inspect throttle cable and housing for dirt or corrosion regularly.
- Clean throttle area post-ride with a damp cloth, mild soap, or a scotch Brite pad.
- Store the bike indoors to prevent exposure to moisture or dust when not in use.
- Lubricate all moving parts regularly for smooth throttle operation.
- Check accelerator pump for leaks or wear; replace seals if necessary.
If you want to prevent other issues with parts connected to the throttle, it’ll help to know when and how to replace your dirt bike clutch and grips to prevent things like slipping. It can also help to know things like fixing your radiator to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. You can also explore different throttles like twist throttles VS thumb throttles. Or you can learn to handle related parts like the clutch. Generally, there is a lot you can do to ensure your bike remains in peak performance and learn about different parts.
