Road & Gravel Bike Handlebars – Keep Speed Firmly Under Control

Overview of Different Handlebar Shapes

The variety of handlebar shapes allows for precise adjustment to your individual needs:

• Classic road handlebars offer the traditional, downward-curved shape and enable various grip positions. The top section is perfect for relaxed riding and climbs, while the drops provide an aerodynamic position for fast descents and sprints.
• Compact handlebars have a more modern geometry with shorter reach and a shallower drop. These handlebars provide more comfort, especially on long distances, and are excellent for beginners and touring cyclists.
• Ergo handlebars feature an anatomically shaped drop section that allows your wrists a more natural position, preventing pressure points. This design reduces fatigue on long rides.
• Aero handlebars are optimized for maximum aerodynamics. With flat tops and special internal cable routing, they minimize air resistance – ideal for time trialists and triathletes.
• Gravel handlebars are specifically designed for riding off-road and on unpaved paths. They combine elements of traditional road handlebars with special features for more control and comfort on rough terrain. Typically, they are wider than classic road handlebars and often feature a slight flare outward. This design gives you more stability and control in off-road conditions while still benefiting from different grip positions.

Decisive Features for Your Perfect Handlebars

The handlebar width is one of the most important criteria and should correspond to your shoulder width. It is measured from center to center of the handlebar ends and typically ranges between 38 and 46 cm. A proper width improves your breathing and ensures an ergonomic posture.

The reach describes the horizontal distance from the tops to the foremost point of the drops. A shorter reach of 70-80 mm offers more comfort, while a longer reach of 85-95 mm enables a more stretched, aerodynamic position.

The drop refers to the vertical distance between tops and drops. A shallower drop (125- 135 mm) is more back-friendly and ideal for longer tours, while a deeper drop (140-150 mm) favors a more aggressive racing position.

The clamp diameter in the stem area is also decisive. The modern standard is 31.8 mm and offers optimal stiffness. Be sure to check the compatibility between handlebars and stem.

For gravel handlebars, two additional important properties come into play:

• The flare indicates the angle at which the drops open outward. This angle varies between 10° and 30° depending on the model and provides a wider grip position on the drops, offering more leverage and control off-road.
• The outsweep describes how much the drops bend outward. A greater outsweep creates more space for your wrists and improves ergonomics during long off-road rides.

Materials – From Aluminum to Carbon

For materials, you mainly have the choice between:

• Aluminum handlebars, which offer excellent value for money. They are robust, durable, and affordable. With weights between 250 and 300 grams, high-quality aluminum handlebars are quite competitive.
• Carbon handlebars, which impress with their low weight (often under 200 grams) and excellent vibration damping. Carbon absorbs road vibrations more effectively, thus reducing fatigue in your hands and arms on long rides. The downside: they are more expensive and more vulnerable in crashes.

For gravel handlebars: While aluminum models are more robust and less prone to breakage during off-road crashes, carbon variants offer better vibration damping on bumpy surfaces – an important aspect when gravel biking.

The Right Choice for Your Riding Style

When making your selection, you should consider your personal riding style and intended use:

• For racers and sprinters: Stiff, aerodynamic handlebars with a deeper drop
• For long-distance riders: Compact handlebars with a shallower drop and ergonomic grip positions
• For all-round riders: Classic or compact handlebars with medium drop and reach
• For gravel enthusiasts: Special gravel handlebars with appropriate flare for more control off-road

Differences Between Road and Gravel Handlebars

Although both handlebar types appear similar at first glance, there are decisive differences:

• Width: Gravel handlebars are typically wider (usually 42-48 cm) than classic road handlebars (38-44 cm) to provide more control on uneven terrain.
• Flare and outsweep: The characteristic flare on gravel handlebars is their main distinguishing feature. While road handlebars usually run parallel, gravel handlebars open outward toward the bottom, allowing a more natural hand position off-road.
• Ergonomics: Gravel handlebars are often designed for longer periods in the drops position, with shallower drops and more ergonomic curves for hours of riding off paved roads.

Compatibility: Both handlebar types use the same clamping system and are compatible with the same shift/brake levers, making switching or adaptation relatively simple.

Purpose: While road handlebars are optimized for aerodynamics and efficiency on the road, gravel handlebars prioritize control, comfort, and stability off-road – without sacrificing the versatility of different grip positions.

Your road or gravel handlebars are much more than just a component – they are your direct connection to the bicycle and crucial for your riding experience. With the right handlebars, you enhance not only your comfort but also your efficiency and enjoyment of cycling!