DIY Guide: How to Make a Jockey Shifter for Your Bike

Are you looking for a unique and fun way to change gears on your motorcycle? If so, a jockey shifter might be just what you’re looking for! This type of shifter is a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts who want a different way to shift gears. A jockey shifter can make your riding experience more exciting and personalized.

Making your own jockey shifter is not as difficult as you might think. With just a few basic tools and some common materials, you can easily create your own custom shifter and enhance your riding experience. In this article, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions on how to make a jockey shifter. So, let’s get started!

Things You’ll Need to Make a Jockey Shifter

To get started on making a jockey shifter, you’ll need to have a few tools and materials at your disposal. Below are some of the things you’ll need:

Welding Equipment

As you can imagine, welding equipment is essential for this project. You’ll need a welding machine, MIG or TIG welder, depending on your skills, and a grinder for finishing the welds.

Steel Tubing

You’ll need steel tubing with a diameter of around 1 inch to serve as the shifter’s base. This tubing should be thick enough to endure the stress of gear changes.

Billet Aluminum or Steel Rod

The rod should be the length of your desired shifter lever. You can get it in either billet aluminum or steel, but the aluminum rod is lighter and generally easier to cut.

Drill Bits

You’ll need some drill bits that are large enough to create holes for mounting the shifter onto the bike’s frame.

Measuring Tape

It’s essential to measure accurately and align parts correctly. Having an accurate measuring tape on hand will help you ensure that everything is straight and even.

Hex Tool

You’ll need a hex tool to tighten all the bolts on your jockey shifter tightly. Make sure to get a reliable one for the best results.

Bushings and Bearings

You’ll need bushings and bearings to help with the movement of the shifter. These should be high-quality and durable so that they can withstand repeated use.

Cable and Cable Adjusters

A cable will connect the shifter to the bike’s gearbox. You’ll need a cable adjuster to ensure that there is the right amount of tension and slack.

Electrical Tape and Zip Ties

Electrical tape and zip ties will come in handy for holding cables in place and hiding them to give your jockey shifter a clean look.

Dust Covers and Lubricant

Finally, you’ll need a dust cover to keep dirt and dust from getting into the shifter mechanism. Lubricant is also essential for keeping everything moving smoothly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making a jockey shifter isn’t rocket science, but it does require some know-how and a few tools. If you’re confident with your welding and fabrication skills – then go ahead and give it a try. With the right materials and a good set of instructions, you’ll be shifting gears with ease in no time.

Section Two: Steps to Make a Jockey Shifter

Now that we have gained an understanding of what a jockey shifter is and the benefits of using one, it is time to learn how to make one. In this section, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to build your own jockey shifter. Follow these simple steps to create a unique shifter that will add an extra level of style to your motorcycle.

Step One: Gather the Required Tools

Before beginning the process, you will need to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Some of the required tools include a welder, a grinder, a drill press, a saw, and a set of wrenches. You will also need a jockey shifter kit, which typically includes a shifter knob, a linkage rod, and a shifter lever.

Step Two: Remove the Primary Cover

The first step to building the jockey shifter is to remove the primary cover from your motorcycle. This will allow you to access the transmission and the clutch assembly.

Step Three: Remove the Shifter Assembly

Next, remove the shifter assembly by disconnecting the shift rod and removing the bolts that secure it to the transmission.

Step Four: Cut the Shifter Rod

Using a saw, cut the existing shifter rod that connects the shifter lever to the transmission. This will allow you to install the new jockey shifter linkage rod.

Step Five: Install the Jockey Shifter Kit

Install the jockey shifter kit by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Attach the linkage rod to the shifter lever on one end, and to the transmission on the other end.

Step Six: Fabricate the Shifter Knob

Now, it’s time to get creative. Use your grinder and drill press to fabricate a unique shifter knob that matches your style and personality. You can use materials such as aluminum, brass, or wood to make your custom knob.

Step Seven: Weld the Shifter Knob

Once you have created the shifter knob, use your welder to attach it to the shifter lever.

Step Eight: Reconnect the Clutch Assembly

Reconnect the clutch assembly and ensure it is working correctly before continuing to the next step.

Step Nine: Reinstall the Primary Cover

Reinstall the primary cover to the motorcycle and ensure it is securely in place.

Step Ten: Test the Jockey Shifter

Finally, it’s time to test out your custom jockey shifter. Make sure it shifts smoothly and efficiently, and adjust any linkage that may be required. Once you have confirmed that everything is working correctly, you can enjoy riding with the added style and functionality of your new jockey shifter.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, creating a jockey shifter is not only a fun and rewarding project, but it also adds an extra element of personality and style to your motorcycle. By following these simple steps and using your creativity, you can build a custom jockey shifter that you can be proud of.

Tools and Materials Required

Making a jockey shifter is not a complex task, but you need to have the right set of tools and materials to get started. Here are some of them:

Steel Pipes and Rods

The most important part of making a jockey shifter is to choose the right steel pipe and rod. For the shifter lever, you need a steel pipe of about 20 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter. For the linkage, you can use a steel rod of the same diameter and length as the shifter lever. You can use stainless steel or chrome-moly steel for better durability and strength.

Shifter Knob and Springs

The shifter knob is the part that you will be holding onto while shifting gears. You can use a knob of your choice, but it should be durable and non-slippery for a smoother operation. You can also use a spring to provide tension and resistance to the shifter lever for better control.

Welding and Grinding

Once you have all the parts ready, you can start welding and grinding them together. Use a welding machine and TIG welding filler rod to join the parts firmly. After welding, use an angle grinder with cutting and grinding discs to smoothen the rough edges, and make it look neat and tidy. Ensure that the welds are strong and visually appealing.

Drilling and Assembly

After welding and grinding, drill holes at the ends of the shifter lever and linkage rod for attaching rubber grommets. Also, drill a hole in the shifter knob for connecting the shifter lever. Insert the rubber grommets into the drilled holes and bolt the parts together. You can use a ratchet and socket set for tightening the bolts and nuts.

Priming and Painting

After the assembly, prime the shifter with a rust inhibitor primer and let it dry for a few hours. Once it dries, you can paint it with a coat of paint of your choice. Ensure that you follow the instructions on the paint can for better results. Let the paint dry for a few hours before using it.

In conclusion, making a jockey shifter is an interesting and rewarding project. With the right tools and materials, you can make a shifter that suits your style and needs. Follow the above instructions and start building your jockey shifter today!

That’s it!

Now you know how to make a jockey shifter. It might seem overwhelming at first, but with a little patience and effort, you can do it yourself. I hope this article has been helpful! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to check back for more DIY projects and tips!