Do the bar end weighted inserts really work?

I've recently picked up a 2006 VFR to replace my 2003 VFR. The bike came with a set of LSL risers and pards as well as the stock bars. I kind of like the stock riding position so am going to go back to the stack set up, however the stock bars do not have the bar ends or weighted inserts that go in the bars. So my question is do they make a noticable difference? As a follow up to the question does anyone know where I can get a set of inserts and bar ends?
Thanks

 

I did have some aftermarket bar ends on my last 800 and can't say I noticed much difference to the stock ones. Aftermarket parts often use an expanding plug to secure to the bars, where the OEM set-up has some specific sleeves and inserts that lock into the drilled holes in the bars and stops the end weight from rotating.

I lost an end weight off my inline 4 RF900R while riding and did not notice it was gone until I arrived home, which maybe means I am just insensitive...

 

It's a shame they still don't make the Vibranators. Stupid name, but they really do work. Standard weights will work some, but how much I can't say.

 

Fill the bars with lead shot??

 

We used to fill some customer's cruiser bars with silicone. Worked pretty damn good.

 

is it possible that the weights function to dampen any tendency to wobble into instability like the periodic oscillation of a tank-slapper ?

 

Personally I think that would be very unlikely, unless your front tire is worn very badly, and then I don't think any weight in the bars would help. JMO of course.

 

Short answer: No

Long Answer: Nah. They are designed to dampen vibration.

 

This is on a cosmic level I am not sure I want to go to.

 

You already have just by contemplating it. Whoa dude, the colors...