Table of Contents
What is a compact drop handlebar?
In recent years, compact handlebars have become more popular: these feature a straighter shape, which means the lower section of the drop is higher up. In the middle, are ergonomic bars: rounder than traditional bars, but they have a flat section in the centre which is ideal for hand positioning.
Do drop handlebars hurt your back?
If you already have a bad back, cycling has the potential for making it worse. The road bike style, with drop-down handlebars, naturally puts you into a more hunched, streamlined position, so while road bikes don’t cause back pain, they can aggravate someone who already has a back problem.
Can I put drop bars on a mountain bike?
Yes, drops can be slapped on any mountain bike, but they shouldn’t. For instance, most MTBs have a geometry with a much longer reach, and generally don’t fit as well with drop bars.
What size drop bars do I need?
The standard fitting advice is to get a handlebar as wide as the measurement between your AC joints. Those are the bumps atop your shoulders where the collarbone attaches just inboard of your deltoid muscle. But many riders prefer a handlebar slightly wider than their shoulders. A wide bar opens the chest.
Are Drop bars good for commuting?
As a general rule, if you struggle with hand and arm comfort on your daily commute, then drop bars are the best option for you. You’ll also be in a more aerodynamic position.
What width drop bars should I get?
How do I know what size drop bar to get?
Reach: Horizontal distance from the center of the handlebar top to the center of the furthest extension of the bend, where brake hoods are mounted. A reach of less than 80mm is short; 80-85mm is medium; 85mm or more is considered long. Width: Most companies measure a bar’s width between the center of each drop.
What is the advantage of drop bars?
Drop bars allow you to crouch down and reduce drag. This position can greatly increase your speed and efficiency. This comes in handy when you’re descending a hill, riding a long flat section, or riding into the wind.
Can I replace drop bars with flat bars?
Your drop handlebars levers (brakes/shifters) will not work or either fit within the new flat handlebars, therefor you’ll need to get a new flat handlebars brake setup.
Why do gravel bikes have drop handlebars?
Drop bars offer an undeniable aerodynamic advantage over flat bars by allowing the rider to be in a position with a reduced “frontal area” less aerodynamic drag. For riders who are able to maintain faster average speeds such as in racing (>15mph), the aerodynamic advantage of drop bars is significant.