If you've been riding motorcycles for a while, you've likely come across one of the most debated upgrades among riders—short vs long brake and clutch levers. Some swear by the precision of shorties, while others won’t ride without the extra leverage that full-length levers provide.
So, which one is actually better?
Well, like many motorcycle mods, the answer depends on your riding style, hand size, and what kind of feedback you want from your controls. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the pros and cons of both short and long levers, explore which type suits different riding styles, and help you make the right choice for your bike and preferences.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2014–2016 High-Performance Parts
What Are Short and Long Levers?
Before we jump into performance differences, let’s clarify the physical characteristics.
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Short levers are typically two to three fingers long, ending around halfway down the full length of a traditional lever. They’re compact, lighter, and often preferred by aggressive riders who only use two fingers on the clutch or brake.
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Long levers, on the other hand, extend fully across the handgrip and allow for four-finger use. They resemble stock levers on most motorcycles and offer a familiar, comfortable feel for many riders.
The Case for Short Levers
Why Many Sport Riders Love Shorties
If you've ever watched MotoGP, WorldSBK, or local track-day warriors, you've probably noticed short levers dominating their handlebars. That’s no coincidence.
Short levers shine when precision and fast engagement are key. They offer a sharper, more direct feel because you’re pulling from closer to the pivot point, which some riders say gives better feedback and modulation. They're also more compact, which reduces the risk of them snapping off in a crash—a major plus for track riders.
Pros of Short Levers
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Better clearance: Great for stunt riding or racing where bar space is tight.
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Less risk of lever damage: If you drop your bike, short levers are less likely to bend or snap.
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Faster reaction time: Perfect for two-finger braking or clutch work during spirited riding.
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Sleek aesthetics: Many riders prefer the look—cleaner and more minimal.
But There Are Trade-Offs
Short levers aren’t for everyone. If you’re not used to two-finger operation or have larger hands, they can feel awkward. Riders who experience fatigue during longer rides may also find them less comfortable due to the reduced leverage.
Why Long Levers Still Have Their Place
Comfort and Control for Daily and Touring Riders
Long levers offer a more forgiving experience. They’re easier on your hands over long distances and give you maximum control with minimal force, thanks to the greater mechanical advantage.
Let’s say you’re riding through city traffic on a clutch-heavy commute, or navigating mountain switchbacks on a fully loaded touring bike—long levers will let you engage the clutch or brake gently and progressively. This reduces hand strain, especially for riders who use all four fingers or ride with gloves that limit dexterity.
Pros of Long Levers
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Increased leverage: Less effort needed to engage the brake or clutch.
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Comfortable for new riders: Easier to modulate without stalling or locking the brake.
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Ideal for larger hands: More surface area means better grip and control.
Downsides to Consider
The size of long levers can make them more prone to bending or breaking in a fall. They also take up more space on the handlebars, which can be a hassle if you’re running additional controls like heated grips or bar-end mirrors. In performance scenarios, some riders feel they’re not as snappy or direct as shorties.
Which One Suits Your Riding Style?
Here’s where it gets personal. There’s no universal “best” option—just what works best for you.
Let’s break it down by riding style:
1. Track and Performance Riders
If you ride hard, hit the twisties on weekends, or do track days, short levers might be your best friend. They allow quick, decisive inputs, which can be crucial when late-braking into a corner or rapidly downshifting.
2. Commuters and City Riders
In stop-and-go traffic, long levers offer fatigue-free operation. You won’t get the same performance sharpness, but the ease of use pays off after a 45-minute rush-hour slog.
3. Touring and Adventure Riders
If you’re out for multi-day road trips or tackling rugged terrain, long levers provide that soft, progressive control necessary for comfort and traction management. That extra leverage helps when you're tired, cold, or dealing with slippery conditions.
4. Stunt Riders and Off-Road Enthusiasts
Short levers are a go-to in this category too. Not only are they harder to break, but they allow more freedom for bar tricks or aggressive inputs on uneven terrain.
A Real-World Example: The Two-Rider Test
We once had two riders—let’s call them Jake and Matt—test both lever types on the same sportbike.
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Jake is a track-day junkie. He rides fast, leans low, and brakes late. When he switched from long to short levers, his feedback was instant: “I can modulate the brake better and it feels more connected to the road.” He stuck with the shorties.
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Matt, a touring enthusiast with big hands, found the short levers annoying. “I need more surface to grip—especially with gloves on,” he said. He found the long levers more confidence-inspiring, especially during long descents on mountain roads.
Moral of the story? Same bike, different riders, different preferences. Test both if you can.
One Last Thing: Don’t Overlook Adjustability
Whether you choose short or long, the real game-changer might be adjustability. Many high-quality aftermarket levers—like those from ASV, Pazzo, or CNC Racing—offer span adjusters that let you fine-tune the distance between the lever and your grip.
This is especially helpful for riders with smaller hands or those looking to reduce reach fatigue.
KTM 390 Duke 2017 Performance Upgrades
Final Thoughts: What’s Right for You?
Choosing between short and long motorcycle levers is less about what’s “better” and more about what fits your riding style, hand ergonomics, and goals. Think about how you ride most often:
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If you're after quick shifts, track-level control, and don’t mind a more aggressive feel—go short.
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If comfort, long rides, and ease of use matter more—stick with long.
Pro tip: Try swapping just one lever (say, the brake) to test the difference without a full commitment.
In the end, the best lever is the one that makes you feel more confident and connected to your machine.