Cycling Handlebars and Grips Buying Guide
Handlebars and grips of bicycles offer space to rest your hands and also assist in steering and weight distribution. They are very essential for the proper functioning of bicycles. Handlebar grips are created using various types of materials including hard or soft thermoplastic, rubber compounds and rubber foam (lofted). Many cotton layers or vinyl-padded tape are also used for certain applications. Plastic grips, foam grips and plastic and foam sleeves are some of the types of handlebar grips.
Different Kinds of Handlebars
Various kinds of handlebars are designed and produced for different riding conditions. Some of them ensure good steering and power control, while some others provide different grip positions to reduce arm and hand fatigue during long rides.
- Standard handlebars are designed to provide a pleasure ride. They enable an upright and comfortable riding stance with the ergonomic position of grips at the handlebar ends.
- Mountain bike handlebars or straight bars offer great power and steering control for turning and are meant for off-road riding. The elbow-out posture is used in riding cycles with these bars.
- Drop handlebars offer four gripping positions. These have been traditionally used for road bikes.
- Raised handlebars feature one gripping position and are ideal for short-distance rides. They are commonly used in hybrid bicycles.
- Trekking handlebars are also known as butterfly or euro bars. They offer various gripping positions and enable riders to stretch in the forward direction.
- Moustache handlebars look similar to trekking handlebars, but with a slight difference. These bars enable a great upright position for riding.
Tips for Selecting Bicycle Handlebars and Grips
- The size of the handlebar should be appropriate to the shoulder length of the rider for maximum comfort and performance.
- Rubber handlebar grips can be used for protection against vibration and traction.
- For longer rides, choose thick handlebar grips.
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