How to choose road handlebars
Choose road handlebars or rams with respect to your body proportions, riding style and financial possibilities. The most important parameters when choosing will include the overall width of the handlebars, their material and the shape of the arc and cross-section.
If you still can't make up your mind after reading this article, remember that we are not just an e-shop. We will be happy to welcome you directly in our brick-and-mortar store, where our cycling specialists will help you choose the right road handlebars.
Handlebar width
Choose a handlebar width that matches the width of your shoulders. The most common handlebar width for a road bike is 42 cm. Riders with wider shoulders use a 44 cm size. Conversely, riders with narrower shoulders can use 40 or 38 cm wide handlebars to take advantage of the lower aerodynamic drag.
Material
Road handlebars are made of aluminium and carbon. Carbon handlebars are clearly superior to aluminium ones in terms of their properties. They stand out for their low weight, high stiffness and durability. In addition, they contribute to riding comfort, as they absorb vibrations from uneven terrain better thanks to the natural elasticity of carbon. The only disadvantage of carbon that may sway the decision maker to the side of aluminium rams is the higher price.
Arc shape
The shape of the road handlebar curve affects your comfort and the overall handling of the bike. Rams are divided into two basic categories according to their shape - round and tapered, ergonomic (compact).
The round curve is suitable for aggressive riders because it allows for a firm grip and quick directional corrections. The tapered curve is more comfortable and pleasant, which you will appreciate especially on very long rides.
Range and depth
The reach of the arc (the distance the arc reaches in front of the stem) and the drop of the arc (the distance the arc drops below the stem) play an important role. Generally speaking, the greater the reach and depth of the handlebars, the more suitable they are for racing riding, as they allow for a more sporty - more relaxed and stretched - riding position. Conversely, the shorter and shallower the curves, the more upright and comfortable you will sit.
The reach and depth of the handlebars, of course, interact with the length and slope of the stem. For example, if you choose a short stem, you can afford handlebars with more reach and depth without necessarily making your seating position uncomfortable. Comfort in this case is further enhanced by the variation in grip, which is always greater on handlebars with more reach and depth.
Read more about choosing a stem in the article How to choose a stem.
Tube cross-section
Road handlebars also differ in the cross-section of the tube from which they are made. The cross-section affects the comfort of the grip and the aerodynamic properties of the handlebars. In terms of cross-section, drop-handlebars can be round, oval or aerodynamic (tapered).
Of course, you choose an aerodynamic shape if you want to achieve the least air resistance. They are particularly suitable for time trial or track cyclists.
The choice between round and oval is a rather subjective matter, go with what you are more comfortable with. Although here too it can be said that a round cross-section allows for a firmer grip and lends itself to an aggressive riding style, while an oval is more ergonomic and therefore more comfortable.
