The handlebar is an integral part of a bicycle, playing a crucial role in steering. There are many variations: from simple straight ones to complex curved shapes, with various coatings and additional features.

The main requirements for a handlebar include: ensuring cyclist comfort, adjustability, and the use of high-quality and soft materials. Let’s consider what characteristics a road bike handlebar should have.

Criteria for Choosing a Road Bike Handlebar

When choosing a handlebar, several key factors should be considered:

1. Presence of a handlebar position adjustment system
2. Comfort and ease of use for the cyclist
3. High quality and reliability of manufacturing materials
4. Ability to install additional accessories
5. Ergonomic design that doesn’t cause tension in the back, shoulders, and arms during prolonged use

Handlebar Width

For road bikes, the handlebar width should correspond to the cyclist’s shoulder width. On medium and difficult routes, handlebars with a width of 27 inches are usually used. Acceptable deviations in size should not exceed 6 centimeters. A grip that’s too narrow is undesirable as it can lead to breathing problems and increased stress on the cardiovascular system. A simple way to check is to place the handlebar against your back and compare it with your shoulder width.

Handlebar Shapes

The modern market offers a wide range of handlebars in various shapes, each designed for a specific riding style:

1. Mountain handlebar: Ideal for maneuvering and performing tricks. Belongs to the sports type. Exists in two variations: flat and riser.
2. Vertical handlebar: Suitable for leisurely rides. Adjustable at a distance of 10, 15, or 20 centimeters. Often installed on cruiser and children’s bicycles.
3. “Ram’s horn” handlebar: Distinguished by original curves. Well-adjustable and helps reduce strain on shoulders and arms. Used on road and touring bikes.
4. “Butterfly” handlebar: Shape resembles butterfly wings. Suitable for road models. Allows installation of various accessories such as phone holders, speakers, or bags.
5. “Mustache” handlebar: Lightweight, suitable for long rides. Recommended for installing gear shifters and brake levers.
6. “Bull horns” handlebar: Notable for its comfort and convenience. Chosen according to shoulder width. Most often used on track models.

Manufacturing Materials

1. High-strength steel: The most common material for road and recreational bike handlebars. Advantages: easy maintenance, ability to dampen vibrations. Disadvantage: heavy weight.
2. Lightweight aluminum: Often used in sports bicycles. Advantage – low weight, disadvantage – poor vibration absorption. Cost is higher than steel counterparts.
3. Carbon: Modern material combining lightness and excellent shock-absorbing properties. Produced using innovative technologies. Price is somewhat higher than steel or aluminum products.

Handlebar grips can be covered with various materials: rubber, natural or artificial leather, polystyrene foam. These soft coatings protect hands from injuries and are easily replaceable when necessary.

Adjusting a Road Bike Handlebar

The main task when adjusting the handlebar is to correctly regulate its height. The efficiency of riding and cyclist comfort depend on this. The handlebar should not be too high or too low in relation to the arms and shoulders.

Beginners are recommended to set the handlebar slightly above or at the level of the saddle. This helps to properly distribute body weight and reduce the load on the suspension, which decreases the sensation of vibration and tension in the hands.

With proper adjustment, the angle at the elbows when holding the handlebar should be about 45 degrees, and the angle between the handlebar and the seat should be approximately 90 degrees. This position ensures optimal speed and maneuverability while maintaining cyclist comfort and proper distribution of load on the suspension.

Conclusion

Experts advise selecting a handlebar taking into account individual characteristics. Some bicycles are sold with handlebars already installed, but before purchasing, it’s important to familiarize yourself with all its functions and definitely test the bicycle to ensure the comfort of the chosen model.