Different varieties of bicycle handlebar designs are available for cyclists, each created to accommodate different riding conditions. Some types of handlebars provide better steering control and power, while others offer multiple grip positions that can help to reduce hand and arm fatigue on longer rides. Different handlebar types also allow for riding postures that may work better for certain riding conditions. Whatever style of riding you prefer, there is a handlebar that is perfect for you.
Flat Handlebar
Flat handlebars are the standard type of bars for most bicycles. They are characterized with being completely flat although in most cases, there is a very slight bend towards the rider. They are very popular among MTB riders due to their versatility and are found in most Hybrid Bicycles now-a-days as well. Flat bars offer more space to mount lights, cyclo-computers and any other accessory. The simplicity of the design also makes steering predictable and precise.
Drop Handlebar
Drop handlebars are the traditional style for Road Bicycles. They first extend outward from the steering stem, turn forward, then curve downward and finally back towards the rider in an upside-down position. These handlebars can be gripped near the steering stem, at the first angle in the handlebars, at the tops of the brake levers toward the front of the handlebars, or at the bottom angle that points back toward the rider. The different positions allow either an upright stance or a lower, more aerodynamic position for the rider.
Butterfly/Touring Handlebar
Touring or Butterfly style bicycle handlebars are popular among long distance touring cyclists. Since the majority of touring is done in an upright position, the handlebar has about three possible upright posture hand locations. These handlebars offer plenty of locations to vary your hand position to reduce hand problems. It is a desirable bicycle handlebar for long distance road riding. Also the figure-eight handlebar virtually acts as a semi-stable shelf space to place items you may need quick access to during your long rides.
Triathlon Handlebar
These bicycle bars are used to aid with aerodynamics. The meaning of aerodynamics is what happens when a solid object, in this case the bicycle meets the motion of air. These handle bars are designed in such a way that it allows the bicycle to travel through the air with minimum of ease.
Aero or Traithlon handlebars are not ideal for longer rides because the riding position is not as comfortable as regular drop-bars. The ideal pedaling efficiency and aerodynamics, though, can provide a serious edge to cyclists looking to improve their sprint times. Fitting aerobars to your short-distance bicycle will let you bring your torso closer to your bicycle's top tube, or cross bar, which provides substantial wind reduction when you are moving fast. Most bicycles can be fitted with removable triathlon bars, so you can decide when to use them and when to save bicycle weight without them.
Bullhorn Handlebar
Bullhorn handlebars are bicycle bars that curve up and forward. A pursuit bullhorn handlebar is a slight variation to your typical bullhorn bar. A typical bullhorn simply curves forward and up. A pursuit bullhorn bar curves forward, drops down slightly and then curves back up again. Bullhorns are essentially flat bars that allow you to get lower when facing headwind or going at fast speeds. This makes it better than flat bars and risers for speed oriented bicycling such as track racing.
Bullhorn bars not only give you room, but the horns allow you to move even further up and forward when climbing giving the rider the best possible leverage when pedaling uphill.
Cruiser Handlebar
Cruiser handlebars are commonly found on Hybrid Bicycles intended for pleasure riding. These handlebars bend forward and upward slightly then outward and back towards the rider. These handlebars allow for a comfortable and upright riding stance and relatively ergonomic grip position at the ends of the handlebars.
The position of the handlebars puts the wrists in the most natural position while riding. The swept back design of the handlebar not only leaves room at the front, but also keeps weight balanced even if you put a basket in front for storage.
It is essential to use a bicycle handlebar that makes you feel like you are one with your bicycle, not only in terms of handling and performance, but it also should feel like an extension of yourself.
