Why Do Dirt Bikes Have Twist Throttles? (Answered)

There are two main reasons why dirt bikes have twist throttles as opposed to thumb throttles.

Unlike most ATVs, snowmobiles, and Jet skis, which have thumb throttles.

The two main reasons for the twist throttle on dirt bikes are comfort and precision.

This is because dirt bikes lean with the rider while ATVs do not.

The dirt bike’s lean allows the rider’s arm angle to be in line with the bars. Which makes accelerating and decelerating during turns more comfortable with a twist throttle.

The lean of the bike also allows for the handlebars to stay stationary and not turn as much.

A twist throttle on a dirt bike is also much more precise compared to a thumb throttle. Which is important when you are on two wheels!

The throttle is one of the most important components of the motorcycle, therefore it needs to be finely adjustable and easy to control.

The twist throttle makes the most sense on a dirt bike, as it allows for fine rotational control.

The topic of twist throttle compared to thumb throttle has been discussed for years though. As it seems everyone has an opinion on the topic.

However, most agree there isn’t a better option for a dirt bike other than a twist throttle.

That isn’t the case for every all-terrain vehicle though, such as ATVs and snowmobiles.

For an in-depth explanation of the different throttle options available and which is best for each all-terrain vehicle, continue reading.

Twist Throttle vs. Thumb Throttle

The twist throttle is almost exclusively used on dirt bikes and two-wheel vehicles. Whereas thumb throttles are used on almost all other power sports vehicles including; ATVs, snowmobiles, and jet skis.

The twist throttle is probably the simplest to use as the throttle is placed directly where your hand is, on the handlebars. All the rider needs to do is twist towards their body to accelerate and release the throttle, or twist away from their body to decelerate.

There are many complaints about the thumb throttle. The top complaint being that it’s uncomfortable on the wrist and thumb on long rides.

As people find it difficult to keep continuous pressure on the spring-loaded thumb throttle and find the twist throttle more comfortable.

The thumb throttle is also considered to be less precise when it comes to acceleration and deceleration while in turns. It’s also more difficult to maintain the throttle position with a thumb throttle.

With all the advantages of the twist throttle, why isn’t it used on all other power sports vehicles? ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis?

The reason being is that the advantages severely decrease when you add width to the vehicle. This doesn’t allow the vehicle to lean into turns as motorcycles do. The lean allows for the handlebars of the vehicle to remain fairly unchanged during turns. Since there is no lean on an ATV or snowmobile that causes the handlebars to do all the turning.

Without the lean of the vehicle, the handlebars play a much larger role in turning. This makes the twist throttle more difficult to operate.

Turning is made simpler with a thumb throttle when there is no lean to the vehicle.

Can a Thumb Throttle be changed to a Twist Throttle?

Some dislike the thumb throttle so much that they want to change their thumb throttle for a twist throttle on their ATV or snowmobile, is this possible?

Should it be done?

Yes, it is possible however the verdict on whether you should convert your ATV to a twist throttle is still out.

Conversion kits are sold to make a quad or snowmobile a twist throttle as opposed to the stock thumb throttle.

However, this may not be the best idea due to the differences between motorcycles, which typically have twist throttles, and ATVs which typically have thumb throttles.

Twist throttles on ATVs and snowmobiles are usually only used by experienced riders that know how to handle their all-terrain vehicle in many difficult situations.

Some disadvantages of a twist throttle on a vehicle that doesn’t lean into turns are as follows. The twist throttle offers less throttle control on an ATV or snowmobile where the rider has to shift their weight in difficult terrain or while turning.

A twist throttle is more likely to cause unwanted acceleration or deceleration while turning the handlebars in either direction.

Also, while riding in rough terrain the rider of an ATV has to maintain a firm grip on the handlebars to avoid being thrown off. It is more difficult to hold on with a twist throttle due to the twist throttle being mounted on the handlebars.

The consensus is that motorcycles operate better with twist throttles and ATVs, snowmobiles, and jet skis operate better with thumb throttles.

Both twist throttles and thumb throttles have their advantages and disadvantages.

However, the vehicle the throttles are mounted to is the biggest determining factor as to what type of throttle it should have.

Thumb-Throttle Thumb Fatigue

It seems simple enough to hold down a small spring-loaded lever.

However, after extended periods of time, the thumb throttle can lead to severe thumb fatigue. This includes; soreness, numbness, and limited range of motion of the thumb and wrist.

Thumb fatigue is so common there are several aftermarket products sold for this.

You can install these products on your ATV or snowmobile, which will help prevent thumb fatigue.

A thumb throttle extension is sold for ATVs. This shortens the distance between the thumb and the throttle. Another company makes a throttle flare. The flare makes the thumb throttle wider and offers more space for the thumb to press on the accelerator.

The third option to help prevent thumb fatigue from a thumb throttle is a wrist brace specifically made for thumb fatigue. These braces offer support to the ligaments and provide warmth to the joints.  

How to Convert a Thumb Throttle to a Twist Throttle

Depending on your ATV you will most likely need to remove some combination of parts to access the throttle body.

The seat, gas tank, and or fenders may need to be removed.

Once located, remove the throttle body assembly. While removing it take note of the cable routing to make putting everything back together easier.

Now, remove the stock cable and route the new one. Remove the old thumb throttle body as well as the handlebar grip on the throttle side.

Install the new twist throttle assembly and put the cable in the new housing making sure the cable does not bind. Also, make sure that the throttle closes and opens all the way.

Then install the screws on the throttle body just tight enough not to allow dirt and debris inside the assembly.

Can a Twist Throttle be changed to a Thumb Throttle?

Some experienced ATV riders may change their thumb throttle for a twist throttle.

But can you change a twist throttle to a thumb throttle on a dirt bike or motorcycle?

The majority of motorcycles and dirt bikes come with twist throttles however there are a few manufacturers that offer a thumb throttle.

In addition, there are also companies that sell twist-throttle-to-thumb-throttle conversion kits.

However, even though conversion kits are available and there are a few bikes sold with a thumb throttle, the overwhelming consensus is that thumb throttles are best for ATVs and snowmobiles while twist throttles are best for motorcycles and dirt bikes.

Also, while a thumb throttle is okay for slow riders, you will never see experienced riders with a thumb throttle on their bike.