Cross-country bikes are more likely to be at the narrower end of the scale, though the latest XC bikes come with increasingly broad bars, while trail bikes, enduro bikes and downhill bikes are more likely to feature wider handlebars. Yes, different types of bikes might need different stems. For instance, a mountain bike might need a shorter, wider stem for better control on rough terrains, while a road bike might need a longer, narrower stem. Aside from this unique – and successful – way of doing the bar sweeps, this second generation Horizon bar has plenty of other things going for it. From a practical and safety point of view, the denser 3K carbon weave placed at the control clamp areas is a good idea. So too is the use of a type of ‘gritty’ particle paint where the bar gets held by the stem, to prevent any undue bar rotational slip. I asked a question over in my other thread about Chinese carbon handlebars and one poster was of the opinion that they would have been of poor quality and likely to fail.

The RaceFace Next R was the lightest handlebar we tested at 215-grams. Despite being the least expensive carbon model in the test, the OneUp Carbon was the next lightest model at 223-grams. The Santa Cruz Carbon Riser slid right into the third spot at 227-grams, with the Enve M7, Deity Speedway, and SQlab 30X Carbon close behind. The Ibis Adjustable weighed 254g with the inserts at 800mm, and 236 without the inserts at 750mm wide. Here’s a thing I love about this stem: it’s durable. The Funn Equalizer Bike Stem is made of a rugged aluminum alloy that can take a beating, whether cycling on a tough trail or just riding around town. Plus, it’s designed to disperse heat effectively. This means your stem stays cool under pressure, reducing wear and tear over time. For riders who love to tailor their setup, the Wake MTB Stem 31.8 is a dream come true. This stem is available in 90mm and 110mm sizes and can adjust to an angle range of 0 to 60 degrees. Currently, this stem is highly regarded as one of the most versatile options. Plus, it’s made of a high-quality aluminum alloy, so it’s lightweight and sturdy. Carbon bars, on the other hand, are lightweight, stiff, and absorb lots of vibration. But, they are expensive. And though they are light, they are more robust, so instead of bending or denting during an impact, they just snap and break without warning. Clamp diameter (31.8mm vs 35mm)

Aluminum vs. carbon fiber is a debate that will never end in the bike industry, but to be honest, modern races have been won on both materials, whether frame or components, making the whole point seem rather moot when it is truly the rider that makes the difference in terms of speed. There are significant differences in the weight, feel, and price of carbon fiber, however, when compared to their aluminum counterparts. Carbon Fiber

But remember, this stem’s adjustable design might not be compatible with all riding styles or bike setups. And some riders might prefer a fixed stem for added control and stability. But if you’re looking for a lightweight, adjustable bike stem to enhance your ride, the 31.8 Bike Stem Adjustable 0-60 Degree Bicycle is worth considering. 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem Wake Mountain Bike The BW Riser Handlebar doesn’t skimp on comfort, either. Its 720mm width and 30mm rise promote a comfortable riding position and improved control, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking a smooth, safe ride. Bicycle handlebars come in all shapes and sizes. Drop bars, flat bars, riser bars, bullhorns, butterfly bars, and even the adventure handlebar for those off-road escapades. What’s the difference between drop bars and flat bars? If a new mountain bike handlebar is on your shopping list, the Wake 31.8mm MTB Mountain Bike Handlebar might be worth considering. It’s an excellent choice for folks wanting to upgrade their standard handlebar.

Prime Primavera Aero Carbon Road Handlebar

This is the newer addition to the Hope handlebar range, an oversize 35mm carbon bar. It bears the same sweep angles as the 31.8mm version, and also the single rise option (20mm) but Hope has been generous enough to extend its width to the full 800mm modern standard. On top of that, the stem clamp is another crucial factor. It can affect the bike’s handling and comfort, so choosing the right clamp size that fits your bike and riding style is important. The best handlebars for your bike will depend on your riding style and personal preferences. For example, drop bars might be your best bet if you’re into racing or long-distance rides. Flat or riser bars could be your go-to if you prefer a more upright position. How do I know what size handlebars to get? The 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem Wake Mountain Bike is also easy to install. You don’t need special tools or knowledge to get it onto your bike. Plus, it’s compatible with most mountain bikes’ handlebars. Get a handle on things with the awesome bike handlebars at Chain Reaction. Premium bicycle handlebars make steering sharper and we have epic brands on offer include Zipp, Vision, Ritchey and Most, with aero handlebars for roadies, and flat and riser handlebars for those who enjoy MTB. Mountain Bike Handlebars

Dillon was joined by Jeremy Benson, OutdoorGearLab's Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor, for this handlebar test. Benson is a full-time mountain bike reviewer with decades of product testing experience in both the ski and mountain bike industries. An obsessive rider and racer, Benson is tough on gear and acutely aware of the often subtle differences in the performance of the equipment he uses. The Aero Road Bar Handlebar provides a smooth and comfortable grip. Its ergonomic design and cushioned grip can reduce fatigue and discomfort during long rides like an invisible hand massaging your palms. You’ve got to love that. Finance is subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. Performance Cycling Limited FRN: 720557 trading as Tredz are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker not a lender – credit is subject to status and affordability and is provided by Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply. Mountain bike handlebars tend to be made from either aluminium or carbon fibre. You can also get titanium handlebars, but they’re much less common. On the other hand, it might also make it harder to lift the bike over any obstacles on the trail and lead to greater arm fatigue on steeper terrain.Reasons to avoid: Not the lightest carbon bar. Only available in 35mm rise in e-bike version. Difficult to see markings. Slight trade-off in steering accuracy. One of the standout features of the BW Riser Handlebar is its toughness. Made from a robust aluminum alloy, this handlebar can withstand the rigors of regular use. So you won’t need to stress about bending or breaking under pressure. Carbon fibre bars also tend to weigh less, making them a good choice for riders where weight is a real concern. Choosing the right handlebars or stem for your bike can be daunting, especially with the huge variety available on the market. Don’t sweat it, though. I’ve got you covered. What types of handlebars are there for bicycles? Choose between bespoke aero bars or clip-on aero bars from Wiggle's wide choice of quality options. TT handlebars offer that transition to pure speed, and at Wiggle you'll find a wide range of pro-performance TT bars featuring lightweight materials and durable construction. Flat Handlebars