As an avid dirt bike rider, having properly functioning clutch and brake levers is crucial for control and safety. However, the stock levers that come on most bikes tend to be flimsy and prone to breaking. In this article and accompanying video, I'll be giving a step-by-step overview for replacing your clutch and front brake levers with upgraded versions like the twenty flex clutch lever.

Installing high quality aftermarket levers that have built-in flexibility will dramatically improve lever feel and durability in the event of a crash or accidental impact. Preventing broken levers saves you money over time and ensures you can keep riding with full control of your machine.

Removing the Old Clutch Lever

To remove the old clutch lever, you'll need a 10mm socket and wrench.

• First, remove the cover bolt and rubber boot protecting the clutch cable adjuster. This exposes the system so you can access the parts.

• Next, peel back the rubber boot covering the clutch lever to reveal the clutch cable nipple. You'll need to detach this cable from the lever so it can be fully removed. Use the 10mm wrench to hold the nut on the backside of the perch, while loosening the mounting bolt with the 10mm socket on the top.

• Once loosened, fully remove the mounting bolt and detach the stock clutch lever. The cable nipple and clutch cable itself can remain installed in the perch for now.

With the lever removed, you'll be ready to clean and install the new upgraded replacement. This process ensures no damage occurs from trying to force the lever out while still connected. Overall, swapping the clutch lever requires just a few basic tools and steps for a straightforward install.

Installing the New Clutch Lever

Before installing the new Twenty flex clutch lever, I thoroughly cleaned the perch area to ensure smooth operation. Using the A9 Racing all-in-one degreaser spray, I removed any old residue, dirt or grease that could interfere with the lever action.

With the area cleaned, I inserted the clutch cable nipple firmly into the bottom of the new lever, lining it up properly in the allocated slot. I then slid the lever back into place on the perch, making sure the mounting hole was aligned.

After finger tightening the mounting bolt, I reinstalled the rubber boot around the base of the lever and bolt. Lastly, I put the protective cover bolt back on top. The upgraded Twenty flex lever is much more substantial and durable than the stock lever. The flexibility built into the design helps prevent snapping by allowing the lever to bend and rotate when impacted, rather than just cracking under pressure like cheaper levers would. This improves safety as you can avoid losing control of the clutch.

Removing the Old Brake Lever

Removing the old brake lever is the next step in the process. And it's pretty much the same as the replacing the other. Again, you'll need a 10mm socket to tackle this job. Start by peeling back the rubber boot covering the lever mount. This boot prevents dirt and debris from getting inside, so remove it carefully without tearing. Underneath, you'll see a 10mm mounting bolt. Use your socket to loosen and remove this bolt.

As you pull the lever out, be aware that there is likely a spring connected behind it. Gently take out the lever, spring and bolt together, making sure the tiny spring doesn't go flying off somewhere. With the hardware removed, you now have access to clean the mount area and prepare it for the new brake lever installation. Taking your time on removal prevents losing any small pieces or damaging other components.

Cleaning Parts Before Installation

Before installing the shiny new brake lever, it's important to thoroughly clean the related parts to ensure proper functioning. I grab my trusty can of A9 Racing All-In-One spray to tackle the dirt and grime buildup. First, I generously apply the degreaser to the lever perch and let it soak for a bit to break down the grit and residue inside. Then I give the mounting bolt and return spring a good spray down as well, washing away the years of oily muck covering them. Proper cleaning allows the new brake lever to move freely without getting caught up on any debris inside the perch. It also enables smooth operation of the brake cable. After all parts have had time to fully dry, I do a quick final inspection to confirm no traces of contaminants remain before moving onto installing the beautiful new brake lever. Taking this important step helps guarantee crisp brake responsiveness and reliability for miles to come!

Installing the New Brake Lever

Installing the new brake lever is straightforward once the old one is removed and the perch is cleaned. First replace the spring in the perch hole, making sure it lines up properly and sits flush. Then insert the cleaned mounting bolt through the new 20 flex brake lever. Tighten the bolt securely using a 10mm socket. With the lever mounted firmly in place, reinstall the rubber boot around the base to prevent dirt and debris from entering. The key benefit of this upgraded brake lever is the flexibility it provides. If the bike falls or you hit something, the lever can bend rather than snap off completely. This durability prevents further damage and costly repairs. Overall, taking the time to replace clip-on levers with these flexible alternatives is well worth it for any dirt bike rider pushing their limits on rough terrain.

Final words

To summarize, replacing your dirt bike's clutch and brake levers is a relatively straightforward process. It simply involves removing the old levers, thoroughly cleaning the perch areas, and installing new, upgraded levers. Just be sure to use the proper 10mm tools to detach the mounting bolts and don't lose any small hardware like springs in the process.

Author information

My name is Charlie Frost, and I'm no stranger to the adrenaline-fueled world of extreme enduros. Starting my journey at 19, I seamlessly blended trials and enduro racing, honing my skills through youth events and extreme races like the Tough One and Erzberg. When I'm not tearing through rugged terrain, you can often find me in front of the 24MX camera, sharing my passion and insights with fellow riders, as we delve into the exhilarating world of off-road racing.