The Ultimate Guide to Choosing road bicycle handlebars
Road cycling is one of the most popular and rewarding activities that one can partake in. The physical and mental benefits of cycling are plentiful and varied, and cycling can be done year-round in almost any location. Many riders choose to invest in road bicycles specifically for their low maintenance, light weight, and high performance. Along with these traits, having the right handlebars can make all the difference when it comes to a cyclist’s comfort, performance, and overall experience on the bike.
In this ultimate guide to choosing road bicycle handlebars we will discuss the various types of road bicycle handlebars, how to pick the right one, and the important factors to consider when making your selection.
Types of road bicycle handlebars
Before selecting the perfect handlebar, it is important to first understand the different types of road bicycle handlebars available on the market today. Generally speaking, road bicycle handlebars fall into one of four categories: Drop Bars, Flat Bars, Riser Bars, and Trekking Bars. Each of these handlebar styles brings something unique to the ride, and each works best in specific circumstances. Let’s explore each type in turn.
Drop Bars
Drop bars are the traditional type of handlebar seen on most road bikes. Their design is inspired by old-timey road bikes and consist of two horizontal bars connected by a curved stem. This shape provides a very aerodynamic riding position and allows the cyclist to reach various hand positions during the ride, making drop bars one of the most comfortable and efficient handlebar styles. Thanks to their slim design, drop bars can be quite narrow and can not accommodate large shifters or the use of bar ends.
Flat Bars
Flat bars, as the name implies, are handlebar designs that feature no drop section or “rrack” and instead consist of one simple flat bar. This type of handlebar is great for those who enjoy a more upright riding position and who want to keep their hands closer to the body without having to bend too far down. Like drop bars, flat bars are also designed to provide a comfortable ride by allowing riders to switch between different hand positions on the go. An added bonus of flat bars is that they can accommodate the use of bar ends, thus providing more leverage when cornering and climbing.
Riser Bars
As the name implies, riser bars are handlebars that rise up an inch or more above the stem. Risers are a great option for those who want a more upright riding position, as their extra length and vertical orientation will keep the bars significantly higher than they otherwise would be. Risers typically consist of two horizontal bars connected by a riser stem, similar to that of a drop bar, however, the riser stem can be more of a straighter design moving up instead of backward like a traditional drop bar. Risers are a great option for anyone who wants an upright riding position but also wants to maintain the general ergonomics of their handlebars.
Trekking Bars
Trekking bars, sometimes referred to as “North Road” bars, are fairly new additions to the world of road bicycle handlebars. Unlike drop, flat, or riser bars, trekking bars are designed for those who want to stay upright on the bike while also having a range of hand positions that can be achieved from the handlebars. Trekking bars feature a unique design where the handlebars are split into two sections and connected via swivel joints. This gives the handlebars a great degree of flexibility, allowing the rider to move their hands from one side of the bars to the other as needed. Trekking bars are becoming increasingly popular among road cyclists who might want to ride in an upright posture for the majority of the ride but still have the extra grip and control of traditional road bicycle handlebars.
How to Choose the Right road bicycle handlebars
Once you’ve decided on the type of handlebars that best suit your style of riding and preferences, you need to determine what size and shape are right for you. The shape of the handlebars you choose will largely depend on the type of riding you’ll be doing. As a general rule of thumb, if you plan to do a lot of long-distance riding, you’ll likely want to choose a drop bar, as they are more aerodynamic and give you the most control when it comes to steering and shifting. If you’ll be doing a lot of hill climbing or riding around town, then flat or riser bars might be better suited to your needs.
In addition to choosing the right style of handlebar, you also need to consider the hand-width and stem length that will best fit your body size. The hand-width of a handlebar is typically proportional