Top 7 Bike Handlebar Types & Ideal Riding Styles
For a cycling enthusiast, choosing the right handlebar depends on various factors such as riding purpose, comfort, personal preferences, and the type of terrain you typically ride on. The handlebar is one of the most important components of a bicycle, with each type serving a different purpose. But, selecting the appropriate bike handlebar type is often an overlooked aspect. despite its significant impact on a rider’s posture, comfort, riding efficiency, and bike handling performance. Whether you’re cycling daily or participating in races, choosing the right handlebar is a crucial decision.
In this article, I will guide you through the top 7 bike handlebar types. highlighting their features, advantages, and ideal riding styles. This will help you quickly find the bicycle handlebar type that best suits your needs.
Which Bike Handlebar is best?
When you are talking with your friends about which brand is the best? First of all, we should discuss the possibility of a friendly breakthrough in understanding the actual source of bicycle parts. and here I recommend Falcarbon Bike, which is a new brand but is committed to providing every rider with speed, and precision. and high-quality carbon fiber handlebar types. Their team has developed many bicycle accessories. combining the highest quality carbon fiber materials with cutting-edge technology to create the necessary parts for you. including bicycle handlebars, seats, handlebar stands, pedals, and many other parts for you to choose from.
Falcarbon Bike is more than just a brand, it also offers a wealth of resources such as guides and blog posts for like-minded cycling enthusiasts. These resources provide space for learning and exchanging ideas. especially for beginners and riders looking to solve problems related to components. If you’re not sure which bike handlebar type to choose, don’t worry! Visit Falcarbon and they will recommend the best carbon fiber handlebars for you. Next, I will recommend several different types of bicycle handlebars for your reference.
Bike Handlebar Types:
There are many types of bicycle Handlebars, and the two categories we commonly use are Carbon Road Bike Handlebars and Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike Handlebars. Each style and type has its unique design and function. as it affects not only the rider’s posture and comfort but also riding efficiency and bike handling performance. Only by understanding different bicycle handlebar types and characteristics can riders be helped to choose the right handlebar type according to their own needs and riding environment.
To find out which of the two materials is better, click here: Carbon vs Aluminum Handlebars.
Our common handlebars include:
- Flat Bar: suitable for urban commuting and leisure cycling;
- Drop Bar: for road and race riding;
- Butterfly Bar: Ideal for long trips;
- Bullhorn Bar and Aero Bar: Rides for acceleration and reduced wind resistance, respectively.
- Carbon Bike Handlebars: Take advantage of all of the above.
- And more…
Different handlebar types have their characteristics. and riders should choose the right handlebar according to their own needs to improve the riding experience.
Related Articles: How to Measure Bike Handlebar Sizes.
Click here for more types of bikes: Realize the Different Type of Bikes: Buying Guide.
Top 7 Bike Handlebar Types Table（Bicycle Handlebar Types)
Here is my roundup of the 7+ best Bike Handlebar Types, as well as riding styles, a brief introduction, and other related content. so that you can quickly understand the difference between them.
| Bike Handlebar Name | Bike Handlebar Types | Riding Style | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat Bar | Hybrid Bikes, Mountain Bikes, Dual-Sport Bikes | Off-road Mountain Biking, Leisure, Fitness | The flat bar design offers predictable and precise steering, making it versatile and straightforward for various uses. |
| Drop Bar | Road Bikes, Gravel Bikes, Vintage Bikes | Road, Gravel | The classic drop bar features a straight middle section similar to a flat bar, with ends that curve downward and towards the rider. |
| Butterfly Bar | Touring Bikes | Long-distance/Endurance, Freeride | Designed with hand comfort in mind, the butterfly bar is ideal for touring, allowing gear shifters to be positioned in the most accessible spot for the rider’s hands. |
| Riser Bar | Mountain Bikes | Off-road, Freeride, Downhill | Typically wider than a flat bar, the riser bar is characterized by a slight rise from the center clamp area. |
| Bullhorn Bar | Triathlon, Time Trial | Long-distance/Endurance, Aerodynamic, Racing | The bullhorn bar is a bike handlebar that curves upward and forward, designed for those seeking improved aerodynamics. It is not meant for sharp turns or quick maneuvers. |
| Aero Bar | Triathlon, Time Trial, Road Bike, Gravel Bike, Cross-Country Mountain Bike | Long-distance/Endurance, Aerodynamic, Racing, Bike Touring, Cycling Travel | Aero bars, or triathlon bars, are primarily used in time trials where riders race against the clock. With two elongated bars placed close together, riders can grip the hand rests, allowing their forearms to rest and reducing air resistance. |
| Carbon Bike Handlebars | Mountain Bike Handlebars/Road Bike Handlebars | Long-distance/Endurance, Aerodynamic, Racing, Bike Touring, Cycling Travel/Road, Gravel | Lightweight, high strength, and good absorption of vibration have become the first choice of many cyclists, especially road and race riders. |
It can be viewed here:
Here, I will provide you with a detailed introduction to the best Bike Handlebar Types and their specific features.
Top 7 Bike Handlebar Types List for 2024
Bike Handlebar Types include the following:
1. Flat Bar (Flat Handlebar)
What is a Flat Handlebar?
Flat Handlebar originated in the early days of cycling and was popularized by the rise of mountain biking in the 1970s. Today, it is widely used in mountain bikes, urban commuter vehicles, and mixed-use vehicles. and its conventional data range includes a width of 500-820mm and a rear Angle of 5°-12°. and an upward Angle of 0°-6°, the material is mainly aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. and the weight is about 150-300 grams, providing excellent handling and versatility.
The Flat Handlebar allows you to maintain a more upright position on the bike by simply lifting your head and straightening your back. This bike handlebar type does not have much flexibility, and the design is simple and widely used. Flat Handlebars are generally wide and provide a wide range of control for the rider. Often the best choice for mountain bikers, this type of Handlebars can also be called Carbon MTB Handlebars.
Pros:
The Flat Handlebar provides good stability and control for the rider and is relatively upright in the riding position. suitable for beginners and urban cyclists. This Bike Handlebar type has a wide grip area that makes the rider safer during the ride. Ideal for climbing hills and improving leverage and tire grip on rough terrain. It’s great for off-road mountain biking.
Cons:
The user of this bicycle handlebar types needs to maintain a relatively upright posture. The flat Bar can cause back and wrist fatigue during long rides. It also increases wind resistance and reduces your riding efficiency.
Suitable Scene:
The Flat Bar is ideal for off-road mountain biking, urban commuting, and recreational riding. especially for road conditions requiring frequent maneuvering. such as complex city streets or unpaved surfaces.
Click here to see the benefits of Straight Bike Handlebars.
2. Drop Bar (Drop Handlebar)
What is a Drop Handlebar?
The Drop Bar/Drop Handlebar originated at the end of the 19th century. and became popular with cyclists for its aerodynamic advantages and diverse grip during the week of road cycling. Nowadays, the Drop Bar is mainly suitable for road vehicles, and station wagons. and some off-road vehicles and the conventional data range includes a width of 360-460mm. bending depth (Drop) of about 120-160mm, and forward extension (Reach) of about 70-100mm. The material is mainly aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. but the carbon fiber material is more cost-effective for road riding, and its weight is 200-400 grams.
Drop Bar/Drop Handlebar Its shape is a handlebar that curves downward at both ends, usually taking on a curved structure in a “C” shape. It offers a variety of grips, from straight grip to bottom grip, where you can place your hand on the straight grip (the curl part), the handlebar cover (the top of the brake), or the top of the handlebar (the top, of course!). Up. It can meet the needs of different riding positions. Its beautiful appearance and versatility make it popular among traditional bike enthusiasts.
Pros:
Drop Bar/Drop Handlebar allows you to place a variety of hand positions on the handlebar. including the flat handlebar (the upper part of the handlebar). the brake hood (the most upright and neutral position for easy control of the brake/shift lever). and the handlebar (tilted down in a more aggressive position to reach the lower part of the handlebar).
It allows riders to make the correct adjustments based on road conditions and wind resistance. This type of handlebar is suitable for high-speed and long-distance riding. and its aerodynamic design significantly reduces wind resistance and increases riding speed and efficiency.
Cons:
This bicycle handlebar types is more difficult to control because of its complex grip and forward riding posture. It is not suitable for beginners or in complex terrain, and the posture of leaning forward for a long time can easily cause physical fatigue.
Suitable Scene:
The Drop Bar is widely used for road cycling, long-distance riding, and racing, making it ideal for cyclists looking for speed and efficiency.
Related articles: Gravel Handlebars: Features and Best Picks.
3. Butterfly Bar (Butterfly Handlebar)
What is a Butterfly Handlebar?
Driven by the need for long-distance travel, the Butterfly Bar was originally designed in the late 20th century to provide a variety of grip positions and comfort for long rides. The Butterfly Bar is often used in estate cars and mixed-purpose bicycles, the width of the handlebar is between 500-700MM. the bending Angle of the grip area inward or outward is about 30°-50°, the material is mostly aluminum alloy, and the weight is about 400-600 grams.
Butterfly Bar is most common on long-distance bicycles because Butterfly Bar can improve the grip of many kinds of riding postures. which is a kind of comfort from the inside out, with excellent comfort. Its shape is like the wings of a butterfly, and the two sides of the handlebars are complicated to form many holding positions. It is designed to provide a variety of hand position options to adapt to the needs of different positions during long periods of riding.
Pros:
This Bike Handlebar type allows riders to freely switch hand positions during long rides. reducing wrist and shoulder fatigue and improving riding comfort. Suitable for long-distance riders who maintain a stable posture for a long time.
Cons:
Butterfly bars are typically much heavier than other handlebars and are complex in construction. requiring more time and skill to install and adjust. And its wide structure is not suitable for downloading the riding environment.
Suitable Scene:
The butterfly handle is ideal for long-distance trips and long-distance adventure rides. especially for riders who need to ride for long periods and emphasize comfort.
4. Riser Bar (Riser Handlebar)
What is a Riser Handlebar?
The Riser Handlebar originated in the 1970s, and its biggest feature is that the handlebar center has a certain upward Angle, mainly used in mountain bikes and some city bikes. The handlebar range is between 650-800MM, and the Rise is 10-50mm. The back Sweep is 5°-12°, the material is mainly aluminum alloy and carbon fiber, and the weight is about 200-400 grams. Because its shape is like the wings of a butterfly, the two sides of the handlebars are complex. forming a variety of holding positions, aiming to provide a variety of hand position options to adapt to the needs of different positions during long-term riding.
Pros:
The Riser Bar provides a higher hand position, allowing riders to maintain a more comfortable upright position while riding. while increasing their field of view and helping them better observe their surroundings. The wider the handlebars, the more leverage and control the rider can enjoy. It is easy to turn and is suitable for many twists and turns in rough terrain. It also enhances control on steep slopes and difficult terrain. The raised part of the bar allows the rider to sit further back, thus reducing the weight on the front, which is a good way to reduce the pressure on the wrist.
Cons:
The shape of the Riser Handlebar is not conducive to aerodynamic design, and if you ride at high speeds. you may suffer from wind resistance, which will affect your speed.
Suitable Scene:
Riser Handlebar is ideal for mountain biking, city commuting, and recreational cycling.
5. Bullhorn Bar (Bullhorn Handlebar)
What is a Bullhorn Handlebar?
The Bullhorn Handlebar was originally modified in the mid-20th century by competitors to improve aerodynamic performance and sprint control. It features a forward extension and upward curve, like the shape of a bull horn, providing a variety of grip and strong handling power. Nowadays, it is mainly used for single-speed cars, venue cars and some urban commuter cars. the speed of the handlebars is 380-440mm, the forward extension (Reach) is about 80-120mm, the material is mainly aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. and the weight is about 200-400 grams. The benefit of this handlebar is that it gives you more leverage in competitive racing, allowing you to balance speed with stable handling.
Pros:
The Bullhorn Handlebar enhances the rider’s handling when climbing hills and accelerating. making it ideal for riding environments that require fast shifts and flexible handling. It keeps you leaning forward and reduces wind resistance.
Cons:
Bullhorn Handlebars can cause wrist and shoulder fatigue during long rides.
Suitable Scene:
The Bullhorn Handlebar is commonly used in single-speed cars, and time trial bikes. and city riding, and is especially suitable for riding scenarios that require frequent shifts and fast starts.
6. Aero Bar (Aero Handlebar)
What is Aero Handlebar?
The Aero Handlebar originated from triathlons and time trials in the 1980s to meet the needs of riders to reduce wind resistance and improve efficiency in high-intensity races. Key features include integrated arm support and extension rods to optimize aerodynamic performance. Today this type of handlebar is used in triathlons, road time trials, and some long-distance cycling. The handlebar is 380-420mm wide, the extension rod is 200-300mm long, and the material is mainly carbon fiber. and the weight is about 400-800g, both lightweight and wind resistance optimization. providing a significant advantage for the pursuit of speed riders. One thing to know is that the Aero Bar lets you reach a more aerodynamic position by lowering your upper body and aligning your arms with your torso. What sets it apart from the other five is the position of the handlebars. And the handlebars are equipped with handrails, which can reduce the pressure on the wrists and hands during riding. Let you quickly control the aerodynamic positioning, and quickly master the comfortable riding balance. It can be said that it is a special type of bicycle handlebar. It is also one of the types of bicycle handlebars suitable for highway use.
Pros:
The main function of the Aero Bar is to reduce wind resistance. The design of this bicycle handlebar Types is simple and clear. which can greatly improve the riding speed, especially on long and straight roads. The rider leans forward to make his body parallel to the handlebars, thus achieving the best aerodynamic effect.
Cons:
The Aero Bar has poor handling due to the rider’s forward-leaning posture and concentrated hand position. The Bike Handlebar Types are not suitable for sharp turns and complex terrain, this type of handlebar is suitable for straight road riding. but not suitable for beginners or need to frequently control the riding environment.
Suitable Scene:
The Aero Bar is mainly used in events such as triathlons and time trials that must have high speed. and low wind resistance and is suitable for experienced cyclists who seek speed.
Carbon Bike Handlebars
What is a Carbon Bike Handlebars?
Carbon Bike Handlebars are handlebars made from carbon fiber. a composite material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. These handlebars are usually used on high-performance bicycles, they are lightweight, and shock-absorbing. and solid and rigid, so they are more expensive than ordinary handlebars. and must be careful installation and patient maintenance.
Pros:
Carbon Bike Handlebars are lighter and more versatile than other types of handlebars. Carbon fiber materials have extremely high strength and rigidity, can withstand high loads, and are not easily deformed. It can reduce the shock absorption of the road surface and is highly customizable. and uses an aerodynamic design to minimize wind resistance. thereby improving the riding speed and riding efficiency.
Cons:
The material of this Bike Handlebar Types is much more expensive than other handlebar materials. Carbon fibers tend to break rather than bend when hit hard. Carbon fiber handlebars must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure there are no hidden cracks or damage.
Suitable Scene:
Carbon fiber handlebars with their excellent performance and lightweight design are widely used in road racing. long-distance riding, and competitive riding, although there are shortcomings such as high cost and vulnerability. for the pursuit of high performance and riding comfort users, it is still an irreplaceable choice.
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- Road Bike VS Mountain Bike.
Are Carbon Bars Worth it?
Because of my high riding requirements, I thought it was worth using carbon fiber handlebars. Because it has significant advantages over other types of handlebars, it is lightweight. has good shock absorption, and better aerodynamic performance. which is the ideal choice for competitive cyclists and long-distance cyclists. Compared with aluminum handlebars, although the cost is high, if you are a person with high requirements for riding. then the use of carbon fiber handlebars is the best. So which Bike is better for off-road riding, Gravel Bike or Mountain Bike? Check out the comparison here: Gravel Bike VS Mountain Bike.
How to choose Bicycle handlebar types?
Choosing the right Bike Handlebar Types depends on your riding style. comfort preferences and other relevant factors, you can consider from the following points:
- Riding style.
- Road cycling: Focus on efficiency and speed. Then the Drop Bar is ideal.
- Mountain biking: For off-road trails and technical terrain, flat bars or risers provide better control and stability. allowing for a more upright position and easier handling on rough terrain.
- Travel and long-distance riding: Choose from butterfly or straight handles that offer a variety of hand positions and comfort.
- City commuting: Wide view and easy to handle, you can choose flat or horn.
- Consider comfort and artificial stereoscopy.
- Handlebar grip position: The optimal hand position of the handlebar allows you to change your grip strength. If you are on a long ride, the correct and comfortable hand grip position can relieve pressure points. The bend and butterfly handlebars provide a variety of comfortable hand positions and are also suitable for decompression and relief on long rides.
- Body posture: Everyone likes different riding postures. and the style of handlebar selection will be different now. Riser bars and Flat bars generally support a more upright position and are suitable for urban, leisure, and commuting riding. The handlebar bends the body forward to improve speed and aerodynamic performance.
- Handlebars match each type.
- Mountain bikes: flat bars or riser bars are typical handlebars needed specifically for off-road terrain.
- Road bikes: The first handlebar is the standard choice, it provides aerodynamic and versatile balance, suitable for straight roads. and riders with high-speed requirements.
- Touring bike: This hand position has special requirements to provide comfort, butterfly handlebars. and horn handlebars are more suitable.
- Hybrid bike: Must be suitable for mixed terrain riding and requires an upright riding position. flat bars or risers bars are suitable.
- Consider specific requirements.
- If you want to choose the right handlebars for a time trial or triathlon. you should first consider handlebars that reduce wind resistance. And then based on the monitoring of the terrain to see which handlebars are most suitable.
- Budget Cost:
- If you have high riding requirements, then carbon fiber handlebars are relatively high in cost. but its performance advantages are much better than other handlebar materials. The cost budget needs to be determined according to their own needs.
Related Articles:
- How to Choose Mountain Bike Handlebar
- How to Remove/Replace Bike Handlebar Grips
- Best Mountain Bike Grips: 8 Top Picks For 2024
FAQ
Conclusion
Through the above summary of the top 7 bike handlebar types. understanding the different bicycle handlebar types and their corresponding riding styles is essential. whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist. From flat bars to drop bars, and even more specialized carbon fiber handlebars provided by the Falcarbon Bike brand. each handlebar has its unique features, advantages, and suitable scenarios. I hope this article has provided valuable insights to help you make informed decisions in your cycling journey.
