Handlebars for road bicycles” whose operability varies by shape. There are shapes such as shallow, anatomical, and anatomical shallow, as well as types such as drop handles and flared handles.
There is a wide variety of models from different manufacturers such as Thomson, FSA and Nitto, so it is easy to get lost when choosing which one to buy. So this time, we’ll introduce you to the recommended road bike handlebars.
Road bike handlebars called “shallow” are also called round handlebars. There is a big difference between the top and bottom, and when you hold the bottom handlebar, it is the type that leans forward significantly.
Another feature is the lowered position of the bracket, which is the basic position of the drop handlebar. Even when holding the bracket of the brake handle, it can maintain a certain degree of forward leaning position. It has a classic style drop handle, so it is recommended for frames using chromoly.
The “anatomy” with a sense of stability
“Anatomic” has the same drop handle as the Shallow, but the difference in height between the upper (flat) handle and the stand is minimal. The lower handle is designed to be straight, so it is also recommended when you want to hold it securely. It is also convenient when you want to stand on the pedal and increase the speed.
However, it needs to be noted that the levers are far apart. If you have small hands or short fingers, it is best to check in advance if you can hold the brake lever.
Anatomy of a Shallow is recommended for beginners
“Anatomic Shallow”, as the name suggests, is a type designed to combine the advantages of shallow and anatomy. The “reach diameter”, which indicates the length from the plane to the tip, and the “drop width”, which indicates the height difference at the bottom, are very short. The range is about 70 mm and the drop is about 120 mm.
There is also very little change in posture when changing from the stand to the lower grip, which is also a point. Recommended not only for first-time road cyclists, but also for people of short stature.
The “megaphone” for urban cycling
The tip of the “Bullhorn” protrudes like a bullhorn, making it easy to ride a road bike in the city. You can grab the corner with your wrist in a vertical position, so you can apply force firmly.
Also, the key is the narrow width of the handle. It is also recommended when there are many opportunities to drive on the roads where other bicycles, motorcycles, cars, etc. travel.
Check the material
“Aluminum” and “carbon” are mainly used as handlebar materials for road bicycles. We have a variety of aluminum handlebars for road bikes. Prices are usually cheaper than carbon models, so they are recommended not only for beginners but also for people who value value value for money.
On the other hand, carbon handlebars are often used for high-end models because they are light and stiff. Since carbon is an easy material to work with, pneumatic grips that take air resistance into account are being developed.
Check the width of the handle
When buying road bike handlebars, it is important to check the “handlebar width”. Generally speaking, there are many models around 380 to 440mm, but there are also narrow sizes below 380mm.
When choosing one, you should basically match the width of your shoulder. However, if you emphasize straightness, we recommend that you choose a model that is wider than your shoulder width. Depending on the width of the handlebars, the grip will change and help stabilize your posture, so please consider your riding style when purchasing.
Check the drop width and reach diameter
When choosing handlebars for your road bike, it’s important to check the “drop width” and “reach diameter” in addition to the handlebar width. Drop width is the difference in height between the top and bottom of the handlebar. The reach diameter is the length of the handlebar from front to back.
Just like the width of the handlebars, keep in mind that different drop widths and reach diameters will change your grip. Models with smaller drop widths and reach diameters are easier to grip and are recommended for beginners, but if you want to take a deep forward position, larger widths are appropriate.
Check the diameter of the bar clamp
The “bar clamp diameter” is a specification that indicates the diameter of the central part of the road grip. Common road bike sizes are generally 26mm or 31.8mm. 31.8mm in particular is also the size used by MTB with a rich lineup.
Also, please note that if the handlebar clamp diameter is different, it may not be installed according to the road bike. It is recommended to check the size of the handlebar post where the steering wheel is installed in advance.
