Removing the OEM bar end weights can be a little tricky but it is covered in the
instructions that come with the Barkbusters and elsewhere on this forum and the Internets.
https://hondatrail125.com/index.php?threads/removing-bar-ends.540/
https://hondatrail125.com/index.php?threads/bar-weight-removal.720/
The Barkbusters mount to the handlebar so they take up some real estate there which is something to keep in mind if you plan on attaching other accessories, though they can also be used as an attachment point for some accessories. I've got an
Oxford Heated Grips Controller attached to the left one, and more recently a Garmin Zumo GPS mount attached to the other.
View attachment 8291
Other potential downside is if you're working on something like replacing the grips you have more parts to disassemble first.
I am very happy with them. They were an early crash protection mod to my CT and they've doing their job in tip overs, riding through brush, general comfort of reducing the cold wind and rain hitting my gloves, and they allow me to run Hippo Hands bar mitts in the winter.