If you’re an avid mountain biker, you know how important it is to have the right handlebars. The right handlebars can make a massive difference in your ride, helping you to navigate through rough terrain with ease. But with so many options available, it can be tough to choose the best mountain bike handlebars that meet your unique needs. In this article, we’ll be sharing the top 13 best mountain bike handlebars, providing a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed purchase. So, let’s dive in and explore the best options available!
Get ready for our reviews on the best mountain bike handlebars, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Mountain Bike Handlebars
Mountain Bike Handlebars: A Beginner’s Overview
Mountain bike handlebars are an essential component of any mountain bike. They serve as the primary point of contact between the rider and the bike, directing the rider’s movements and enabling them to maneuver the bike through various terrain. There are several different types of mountain bike handlebars available, each offering unique features and characteristics.
The most common types of mountain bike handlebars include flat bars, riser bars, and drop bars. Flat bars are the most basic type of handlebar and are commonly found on beginner-level mountain bikes. Riser bars are similar to flat bars but have a slight upward curve, providing a more upright riding position and greater control over technical terrain. Drop bars are typically found on cross-country mountain bikes and offer a more aerodynamic position for faster riding. Ultimately, the type of handlebar a rider chooses depends on their riding style, terrain, and personal preference.
Why is it Important to Consider Buying Mountain Bike Handlebars?
Mountain Bike Handlebars can play a crucial role in the overall performance and comfort of your ride. If you’re looking to upgrade your bike or improve your riding experience, here are some key reasons why you should consider investing in new handlebars.
To improve our grip while riding
Mountain Bike Handlebars are an essential component of your bike that ensures your safety and comfort while riding. Having the right grip on your handlebars helps you to maintain control and balance on rough terrains and during steep descents. It also reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
Mountain Bike Handlebars come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. You can choose one that suits your riding style, height, and preference. A comfortable handlebar ensures that your palms and fingers can hold on effortlessly, reducing hand fatigue and discomfort. The right handlebar also helps to adjust your riding posture, making it possible to ride longer and faster without discomfort or strain. Therefore, investing in a high-quality mountain bike handlebar is essential for your safety, comfort, and satisfaction while riding.
To increase our control and stability on rough terrain
Mountain biking is an adrenaline-pumping and exciting activity that involves riding on rough terrains, steep hills, and trails. When we ride on rough and uneven terrains, we need to maintain proper control and stability to avoid accidents and injuries. In this scenario, the handlebars of the mountain bike play a crucial role in providing the rider with the required control and stability.
A good pair of mountain bike handlebars can help in improving our riding experience by providing a comfortable grip, better shock absorption, and better maneuverability. The handlebars are the primary point of contact between the rider and the bike, and hence, it is essential to choose the right handlebars that suit our personal preferences and riding style. Investing in a good set of mountain bike handlebars can significantly enhance our performance and make our mountain biking experience smooth and safe.
To customize our bike for a better fit and comfort level
Mountain bike handlebars play an important role in determining the fit and comfort level of the bike. The right handlebars can make a significant difference in the overall ride experience of the bike. Different handlebars have different shapes, widths, and rises, and these attributes can be adjusted to fit a rider’s body shape, riding style, and personal preferences.
For example, a rider with a longer torso may find wider handlebars more comfortable, while a rider with shorter arms may prefer narrower handlebars. Similarly, a rider who prefers a more upright riding position may want handlebars with a higher rise, while a rider who wants to be more aerodynamic may prefer handlebars with a lower rise. By customizing the handlebars to fit their body and riding style, a rider can optimize their comfort level and performance on the bike.
What Things to Consider when Buying Mountain Bike Handlebars?
When it comes to mountain biking, every component of your bike plays a crucial role in your overall performance. The handlebars are no exception. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when deciding on the best mountain bike handlebars for your needs.
Material
Material is an important consideration when buying mountain bike handlebars because it directly impacts the weight, stiffness, and durability of the handlebars. The most common materials used for mountain bike handlebars are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel. Aluminum is a popular choice as it is lightweight, strong, and affordable. Carbon fiber is even lighter and stiffer than aluminum, but it is also more expensive. Steel is the heaviest option but provides exceptional durability and strength.
Choosing the right material for your mountain bike handlebars can have a significant impact on your riding experience. The weight and stiffness of the handlebars can affect your control and maneuverability on the bike, which is particularly important when riding over uneven terrain. Additionally, the durability of the handlebars can affect their ability to withstand impact and prevent injury in the event of a crash. Therefore, it is essential to consider the material when purchasing mountain bike handlebars and choose one that is suitable for your riding style and preferences.
Length
The length of mountain bike handlebars is a crucial factor to consider before making a purchase. The length of the handlebars has a direct impact on the handling and comfort of the bike. Longer handlebars offer more control and stability, especially on technical terrain and unpredictable trails. On the other hand, shorter handlebars provide increased maneuverability and better responsiveness. It’s essential to choose handlebars that fit your riding style and preference.
Moreover, handlebar length can also affect your riding position and posture. A handlebar that is too wide or too narrow can put unnecessary pressure on your shoulders, arms, and back, causing discomfort and fatigue. It’s important to select handlebars that match your shoulder width and allow you to maintain a comfortable riding position throughout your ride. Therefore, carefully consider the length of the handlebars before making a purchase to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
Rise
Rise is an important factor to consider before buying mountain bike handlebars because it can greatly affect the rider’s overall comfort, control, and performance. The rise refers to the height of the handlebars above the bike’s stem and can range from flat to high-rise options. A higher rise handlebar can provide a more upright riding position, which is ideal for riders who prefer a more comfortable and relaxed ride or those with back problems. Meanwhile, a lower rise handlebar can lead to a more aggressive riding position, which is beneficial for better control and maneuverability.
It’s also essential to consider the type of terrain and riding style you’ll be doing before choosing the handlebar rise. For more technical and challenging trails, a lower rise handlebar may be better suited as it allows for more precise control and weight distribution. In contrast, a higher rise handlebar can be suitable for cross-country riding and long distances. Ultimately, considering the rise of the handlebars before purchasing can lead to a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
Sweep
It is essential to consider Sweep before purchasing Mountain Bike Handlebars because it determines the angle at which the bars extend from the stem. Sweep influences the bike’s handling and the rider’s position on the bike. A handlebar with a significant sweep typically positions the rider closer to the bike for a more aggressive riding style, whereas a handlebar with a minimal sweep provides a more upright riding position for less aggressive riding. The sweep’s shape and angle are also crucial in wrist and hand comfort, reducing the risk of numbness and fatigue on long rides.
Another reason to consider Sweep before buying Mountain Bike Handlebars is that it affects the bike’s steering response. Sweep influences how the bike turns, particularly in technical terrain. A handlebar with a higher sweep angle will require more effort to initiate a turn but provides better control at high speeds and technical terrain. On the other hand, a handlebar with a lower sweep angle initiates turns swiftly but may lead to unstable control at high speeds. Therefore, understanding the sweep’s effect on steering response is essential in making an informed decision when selecting Mountain Bike Handlebars.
Clamp diameter
The clamp diameter is an essential factor to consider before purchasing mountain bike handlebars because it determines whether the handlebars will fit your bike stem. Different bike manufacturers use various sizes of stem clamp diameters, so it’s crucial to make sure the handlebars you choose have the same clamp diameter as your bike stem to avoid compatibility issues. A wrong diameter size could lead to instability or even more severe problems like frame damages or injuries.
Another reason to consider clamp diameter is that it affects the overall stability and comfort of your bike’s handling. Mismatched clamp diameter could result in loose handlebars or unwanted movement when you’re riding, affecting your control over your bike. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose handlebars that have a proper clamp diameter to ensure a comfortable and stable ride, especially when maneuvering technical terrains and challenging descents.
FAQs
What is the difference between a flat handlebar and a riser handlebar?
A flat handlebar is a handlebar that is straight and has no rise or sweep. It typically has a narrower width than a riser handlebar and is often used for XC (cross-country) riding or for riders who prefer a more aggressive and aerodynamic position while riding.
A riser handlebar has an upward sweep or rise from the stem to the grips, which provides a more upright riding position and greater control over the bike. It is often used for enduro or downhill riding, as well as for riders who prefer a more comfortable and relaxed position while riding. The wider width of a riser handlebar also allows for more leverage and stability when riding on technical terrain.
How can I determine the right width for my mountain bike handlebars?
The right width for your mountain bike handlebars entirely depends on your body type and the type of riding you do. Generally, wider handlebars provide greater stability and control for technical terrain and downhill riding, while narrower bars offer more agility and maneuverability for cross-country riding. To find the right width, first measure the distance between your shoulder blades and subtract 2-4cm to allow for comfortable arm movement.
If you are a beginner, start with a narrower handlebar, and gradually work your way up to a wider width as you get more comfortable with the bike. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure. Ultimately, the most important factor is to choose a width that feels comfortable and natural to you.
You can also consider your riding style when determining the right width for your mountain bike handlebars. For example, if you like to ride aggressively, you may be more comfortable with wider bars that provide better control. If you ride primarily on technical trails, wider bars can also be helpful in negotiating tight turns and obstacles. However, if you prefer faster, smoother terrain, you may prefer narrower handlebars that offer better aerodynamics and greater speed. Be mindful that the handlebar width should also be proportionate to your frame size, so take into account the overall size of your bike when making your selection.
Can I adjust the angle of my mountain bike handlebars? If so, how?
There are no specific restrictions or permits required for mountain biking in Denver, but riders are still subject to general rules and regulations. Mountain bikers must yield to hikers and horseback riders on multi-use trails and are not allowed to ride off-trail or create new paths. There may also be restrictions in certain parks or open spaces, such as seasonal closures or designated bike-only trails. It’s important for riders to check with local authorities or park managers to ensure they are following all rules and regulations.
What is the benefit of using carbon fiber handlebars over aluminum ones?
The best time of year for mountain biking in Denver is generally from late spring to early fall, which is between June and September. During this time, the weather is dry and pleasant with temperatures ranging between 60 and 80 degrees, making it perfect for outdoor activities like mountain biking. However, one should always check for weather conditions and trail closures before heading out for biking as the weather can be unpredictable in Colorado.
Final Words
To sum it up, choosing the best mountain bike handlebars not only improves your riding experience but also ensures your safety and comfort on the trails. With a wide range of handlebars available in the market, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. However, we hope our list of the top 13 best mountain bike handlebars along with the buying guide helps you make an informed decision.
Remember to choose the handlebar that suits your riding style, preference, and budget. Most importantly, consider the material, width, rise, and sweep to get the perfect fit. Happy riding with the best mountain bike handlebars!