Bike Handlebars and Grips

Handlebars, hoods and drop: the shape of the road handlebar

The handlebar offers three main grips: the tops for a relaxed ride and climbing seated; the hoods of the levers, the most commonly used position; and the drop of the handlebar for descending and sprinting. The depth of this drop and the reach define the cyclist's stretching. A compact handlebar, like the Pro LT Compact Ergo, reduces both and makes it easier to access the bottom of the bar, while the Vision Trimax carbon, with a flattened top and compatible with the internal routing of wires for an electronic drivetrain, focuses on stiffness and aerodynamics.

The components

Peripheral components also come in various forms:

• Stem.
• Saddles.
• Seat posts.
• Pedals.
• Headsets and cups.

All components are gathered on the peripheral components page.

Aero extensions and flared gravel handlebars

For time trial and triathlon, the Zipp Vuka extensions, with a diameter of twenty-two point two millimetres, attach with armrests to adopt a stretched position, resting on the forearms, which reduces frontal area. They come in several shapes, more or less raised at the end, to orient the wrists. The Campagnolo Crononero handlebar, designed for solitary effort, complements this specific position. For gravel, the Zipp Service Course XPLR flares downwards: the low position widens and the bike gains stability on rough paths.

Bar tape: gel, polyurethane or cotton

The bar tape ensures grip and filters vibrations. Models in gel, from BBB or Ges, prioritise comfort on bumpy roads. The Supacaz Super Sticky Kush, made of polyurethane, stays sticky even in the rain and resists UV as well as sweat. The Deda Mistral, Controltech and microfiber from Ges focus on grip and thinness, while the Velox Tressostar, made from woven cotton produced in France, maintains the aesthetics of classic bikes. It is wrapped from the end of the handlebar towards the stem, with a consistent overlap of about a third of its width, while being stretched.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in good plans, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and the items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What handlebar width should I choose on a road bike?

The width is close to that of the shoulders, usually between thirty-eight and forty-four centimetres. Check the manufacturer's measurement method: some indicate from axle to axle at the hoods, others from the outside of the handlebar.

What handlebar diameter for my road stem?

The current standard is thirty-one point eight millimetres at the centre of the handlebar; older bikes often use twenty-six millimetres. The stem must match this diameter exactly, without any makeshift spacers.

How much bar tape is needed for a road handlebar?

One roll per side: bar tapes are sold in pairs, with end caps and finishing adhesives. Allow a little extra length on a wide handlebar or with a deep drop.

When should I change my bar tape?

As soon as it is torn, compressed, slides under the hands, or after a fall that has damaged it. New bar tape restores grip and cushioning, and it's a good time to check the condition of the handlebar beneath.

Is a carbon handlebar more comfortable than an aluminium handlebar?

Carbon filters small vibrations better and lightens the front end, resulting in greater comfort on long rides. It requires respecting the torque settings and using specific mounting paste to avoid crushing.