Would you prefer slightly long handlebar for bikepacking?, TourDivide

Asked by: Chris Herrera

Is Wider handlebars better?

If you change your handlebar’s width, then you’ll also change how your bike rides. Making the switch to a narrower handlebar will wake up the front end of your bike making it more twitchy and easier to maneuver; while a wider bar will increase the stability of your front end and provide a calmer feel than before.

How does handlebar width affect reach?

The general rule of thumb with handlebar width is that the wider you go the further out your reach becomes, especially in the drops. The only way to compensate for this is to shorten your stem which, of course, has an impact on the handling as well.

How wide should a handlebar be?

Handlebar width should purely depend on the size of the rider and more importantly the width of their shoulders. The most common mountain bike handlebar widths range from around 710mm to 780mm. However, shorter riders may require much narrower bars, and very tall riders may require a full 800mm handlebar.

What are alt bars?

Quote from video: Sections. Number two alt bars are typically designed for flat bar shifters and brakes in other words you can run powerful mountain bike brakes.

Are shorter 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 height should my bike handlebars be?

The general rule for adjusting handlebars is that they should be set above the height of the seat for a more upright and comfortable riding position, and below the height of the seat for a more forwarding-leaning, performance oriented position.

Why are handlebars so wide?

This is a result of the infamous “elbows out” advice that was born in the days of super narrow handlebars and elbows collapsing into the rib cage as a result. Wider bars made it easier to keep the elbows out and, in typical human fashion, the industry thought if a little wider is good then really wide must be better.

How do I know if my mountain bike bars are too wide?

When standing, the longer stem pulls your center of mass forward on the bike. If the bars paired with that stem are too wide, the steering will feel even slower, you will be bent over too much at the hips, and a strong riding position will be compromised.

Why are road bike handlebars so low?

Bike handlebars are low because the design allows you to lean forward. This is called an aerodynamic position and will make you much more efficient when you ride your bike. The fact that your arms and legs have the least amount of wind resistance in this position explains why it is so effective.

How do I know what size handlebars to get my bike?

Quote from video: So traditionally you would choose a handlebar that is the same width as the distance between your AC joint so that's the knobbly bit and your shoulders there.

How do you choose stem length?

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.

What is the standard length of MTB handlebar?

The current trend of handlebars follows these sizes: 600-650 mm in XC 26′ 660-710 mm in XC 29′ 690-740 mm Enduro / All-Mountain.

Why drop bars are better?

Drop bars are ideal for long-distance on-road riding where you don’t have to turn or brake often. Riders who maintain an average speed of over 15-20 miles per hour or those who often face headwinds will benefit most from the aerodynamic advantages that drop bars offer.

Are carbon handlebars more comfortable?

Instead of feeling each and every vibration, carbon handlebars can help absorb and damp that chatter. When you are out on a long ride, that might make the difference in more comfort for your hands. + Flex Pattern.

Why do road bikes have curved handlebars?

Road bike handlebars are curved to help the rider enter a more aerodynamic position, thus reducing drag. These handlebars also support an assortment of hand positions, ensuring full control and comfort while riding. The design also helps the rider pedal more effectively.

Are wider handlebars better motorcycle?

A wider handlebar will tend to allow for more stable handling, especially if it has handlebar weights, while a narrower bar will tend to be faster and twitchier, as you can go from side-to-side steering lock in less distance.

Why are handlebars so wide?

This is a result of the infamous “elbows out” advice that was born in the days of super narrow handlebars and elbows collapsing into the rib cage as a result. Wider bars made it easier to keep the elbows out and, in typical human fashion, the industry thought if a little wider is good then really wide must be better.

How wide should my road bars be?

For maximum comfort, the position of your arms needs to be as relaxed as possible. This means that your arms need to be straight forward. For this position, the handlebars should have the same width as your shoulders. You measure your shoulder width as the widest point of your shoulders that consists of bone.

How do I know if my mountain bike bars are too wide?

When standing, the longer stem pulls your center of mass forward on the bike. If the bars paired with that stem are too wide, the steering will feel even slower, you will be bent over too much at the hips, and a strong riding position will be compromised.

What handlebar size do I need?

The rule of thumb when selecting the correct handlebar width is to measure the distance between the two bony bits on your shoulders – in more scientific terms the distance between your two acromioclavicular (AC) joints. This measurement gives you a baseline – if it’s 38cm, look for 38cm bars – and so on.

What is the standard length of MTB handlebar?

The current trend of handlebars follows these sizes: 600-650 mm in XC 26′ 660-710 mm in XC 29′ 690-740 mm Enduro / All-Mountain.