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Different kinds of Handlebars

5 min read

Asked by: Carl Surabhi

What are the types of handlebars?

Control is defined how much lift and turning capability it gives you.

  • FLAT BARS. Flat handlebars are the standard type of bars for most bikes. …
  • RISER BARS. Riser bars are essentially flat bars that rise from the center clamp area. …
  • BULLHORNS. …
  • DROP BARS. …
  • AERO BARS. …
  • CRUISER BARS. …
  • BUTTERFLY BARS. …
  • HONORABLE MENTIONS.

What is the difference in bike handlebars?

Handlebars that don’t offer much rise and require you to lean forward will increase pressure on your hands and wrists, which can cause numbness and tingling for cyclists over longer rides. On the other hand, bicycle handlebar types that provide an upright riding position are more comfortable over long distances.

What are the different types of motorcycle handlebars?

10 Different Types of Motorcycle Handlebars You Must Know

  • Ape Hangers. With their heights generally between 12 to 16 inches, these ape hanger handlebars are mostly found on choppers. …
  • Beach Bars. …
  • Buchhorn Bars. …
  • Clip-on Bars. …
  • Clubman Bars. …
  • Cruiser Handlebars. …
  • Drag Bars. …
  • Motocross Bars.

What kind of handlebars do road bikes typically have?

3. Drop handlebars (classic handlebars) Drop handlebars are most common on road bikes. These handlebars allow for a wide variety of hand positions, unlike flat handlebars.

How do I choose handlebars?

Choose a handlebar that most closely matches the width of your shoulders. On drop and carbon fiber flat bars, you’re stuck with the width you choose. On aluminum or chromoly flat bars you can cut the ends down for a narrower grip.

What are butterfly handlebars for?

So what are Butterfly bars? They are a type of bicycle handlebar, that are often referred to as trekking bars. They are commonly found on touring bikes. As they are designed for comfort and efficiency on long rides.

Why flat bars are better?

Flat Bars Offer Better Bike Handling



With a wide flat bar, you can expect better bike control at high speeds, as the additional leverage helps to counter the ground forces that are constantly nudging your handlebar, and at low speeds, as you can make small adjustments to help keep your balance.

Do aero bars make you faster?

After installing aero bars, riders typically find that they’re going 1 to 2 mph faster at the same level of effort.

Do all handlebars fit all bikes?

Yes, they are interchangeable, but the process is not simple. There are dozens of handlebar types to suit different rider needs, leverage on the bicycle, and diameter measurements will vary for each. The standard handlebar diameter is 25.4mm on mountain bikes, often upwards of 30mm+ on road bars and cruisers.

Are t bars comfortable?

They are very comfortable, they do not hurt my neck and back. The wrist angle is much better than stock. I am not bending down and forward to reach the bars, so my back doesn’t hurt. My hands when on the bars are about 2 inches below my shoulders.

What are high handlebars called?

Ape Hangers

The Ape Hangers are the tallest variety of handlebars and are named so as sometimes the rider is has to reach up to them, or hang on to them like an ape.

How do I choose motorcycle handlebars?

Quote from video: The width and height of the handlebar are pretty self-explanatory. One often overlooked. Area is the control length this is particularly. Important with a clip on style handlebar.

Do handlebars make a difference?

In terms of overall fit, the height of your handlebar can have an impact on your road bike position. Raising the handlebar will reduce reach, while lowering it will increase reach and put you in a lower, more aggressive riding position.

Are wider handlebars better?

Over the years, mountain bike handlebars have got progressively wider, because increased width can improve control of the bike. Some also believe it can open up your chest and improve breathing. The wider the bar, the more leverage you can apply to the front wheel to force the bike onto more aggressive lines.

Are narrow handlebars better?

Narrow handlebars can speed up handling and decrease steering accuracy, which isn’t what you want when riding off-road, or if you’re a less experienced rider. Because of this, Koop recommends narrow handlebars are “best suited to a more steady riding style” and more experienced riders.

What is the point of curved handlebars?

The design allows the rider’s hands to shift in different spots based on the riding situation. You’ll also find the curved position gives you better access to the brake levers at the front part of the handlebars. You’ll need access to those handlebars to ensure you have more control, especially when going downhill.

How do I choose a bike stem?

Put simply, if you want a racy, aggressive and aerodynamic position, a longer stem will provide a more stretched out riding position. If comfort is your top priority, a shorter stem length will bring the bars closer to the saddle and put you in a more upright position, placing less strain on your back.

Can I put straight handlebars on a road bike?

And some of the positions are more aerodynamic, for times when you want to ride faster. But it’s still perfectly ok to ride a road bike that has flat handlebars. You’ll get the advantages of a bar that gives you a steady grip like a mountain bike, which can help give beginner cyclists more confidence.

Are all bike handlebars the same size?

There are only two current standard sizes: Flat bars have a 22.2 mm (7/8″) grip area diameter. Road (“drop”) bars have a 23.8 mm (15/16″) grip area diameter.

Are narrow handlebars better?

Narrow handlebars can speed up handling and decrease steering accuracy, which isn’t what you want when riding off-road, or if you’re a less experienced rider. Because of this, Koop recommends narrow handlebars are “best suited to a more steady riding style” and more experienced riders.

How much does it cost to change handlebars on a bike?

A good bike handlebar can actually cost as little as $15 to to $20 to replace if you are willing to put in the work to install the handlebars on your own. If you don’t want to install them yourself, then you are looking to add another $50 for a bike tech to do it for you.