How do you remove the cable from the handlebar controls?
Is there a special tool?

 

No special tool needed
Just run in the adjuster all the way in so you will have slack in the cable's. The push cable is the hardest, usually no adjustment other than on the drum under the tank..
I usually disconnect the cables at the drum first and then the handle bar perch. Makes it a lot easier. They are just aggravating to get off.

 

I'm fighting one now...just won't come out! One did like it should..the other is stuck and I haven't found a way to make it come out...I hate it when things don't go as they should...really bad start to a project.
anyone with words of wisdom on the topic?

 

Do you want to remove the cable from the controls completely?

You are not so clear as what you want to remove.

Are you changing hand grips or changing cables?

If changing cables a drop of oil down on the where the cable enter the hand controls and then a good hard pull to get it out.

 

Check out the shop manual. A little oil and wiggle, wiggle, wiggle and it pops right out. I remember fighting one of these for hours years ago when I thought I had to pull out the little C ring. $60 for a shop manual saves a lot of agravation.