Have you ever felt like your mountain bike is fighting against you, instead of working with you? A lot of that feeling comes down to your handlebars. They are your main connection to the bike, and the wrong ones can make even a simple trail feel like climbing Mount Everest. Choosing the right mountain bike handlebars can be tough. There are so many sizes, shapes, and materials. It’s easy to get lost in the details and end up with something that just doesn’t feel right.
Picking the perfect handlebar isn’t just about comfort. It’s about control, confidence, and ultimately, having more fun on the trails. The wrong width can throw off your balance. A bad back sweep can make your wrists ache. And a flimsy material can leave you feeling unsure when things get rough. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be so hard!
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about mountain bike handlebars. We’ll explain the different types, sizes, and materials, and we’ll help you understand how each one affects your ride. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the perfect handlebars for your bike and riding style. Get ready to transform your mountain biking experience!
Our Top 5 Mtb Handlebars Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mtb Handlebars Detailed Reviews
1. FIFTY-FIFTY Mountain Bike Riser Handlebar
Rating: 9.0/10
The FIFTY-FIFTY Mountain Bike Riser Handlebar is built for tough trails. It’s made from strong 6061 aluminum alloy. This handlebar gives you more control and comfort on your mountain bike. It comes in black with a 35mm rise and is 780mm wide.
What We Like:
- Durable and Strong: High-grade aluminum alloy makes it tough for any ride.
- Very Lightweight: At only 340g (12 oz), it won’t weigh you down.
- Super Wide: The 780mm width gives you excellent control on extreme trails.
- More Comfortable and Control: Riser bars improve your riding position and handling.
- Easy Setup: It has markings to easily cut down the width. You can adjust it from 780mm to as narrow as 680mm.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black color might not match every bike’s style.
- Some riders might prefer a different rise than 35mm.
In conclusion, the FIFTY-FIFTY riser handlebar offers great strength, control, and adjustability for serious mountain bikers. If you want better handling on the trails, this handlebar is a great upgrade.
2. Wake 31.8mm MTB Mountain Bike Handlebar
Rating: 9.1/10
The Wake 31.8mm MTB Mountain Bike Handlebar is built for riders who want more control. It is made from strong aluminum alloy. You can choose between 720mm and 780mm lengths. The black matte finish looks sleek. It is designed to be lightweight yet durable for tough trails.
What We Like:
- Ultra-Lightweight: Made of high-strength Aluminum Alloy 6061, it feels light but is strong. The 720mm version weighs only about 330g.
- Professional Design: Its ergonomic design helps you control your bike better. It’s great for riders who need more stability.
- Versatile: It works with most mountain bikes and dirt bikes. It is good for downhill and off-road riding.
- Stylish Finish: The matte black paint looks great on any bike.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: It only comes in black. More color choices would be nice.
- Handlebar Diameter: You must make sure your stem is 31.8mm. It will not fit if it is not the right size.
This handlebar is a good upgrade for your mountain bike. If you want better control and a lightweight feel, this is a solid choice.
3. 31.8 Bike Handlebar – 25mm
Rating: 8.8/10
This 31.8 Bike Handlebar is a great upgrade for your mountain bike. It’s made from strong 6061 aluminum alloy and comes in a wide 780mm width. You can choose from different rises: 25mm, 55mm, 70mm, 90mm, or 120mm. The handlebar is designed to be comfortable and give you better control on the trails. It even looks like carbon fiber!
What We Like:
- Wide and Sturdy: The 780mm width gives you plenty of leverage and control. The aluminum alloy build makes it durable for tough rides.
- Comfortable Design: The 12-degree rearward sweep helps your shoulders and wrists stay comfortable, even on long rides.
- Multiple Rise Options: You can choose the perfect rise (25mm to 120mm) to fit your riding style and bike setup.
- Easy to Install: The handlebar is easy to install if you follow the instructions.
- Looks Great: The handlebar has a sleek design that resembles carbon fiber.
What Could Be Improved:
- Stem Compatibility: You need to make sure your stem clamp diameter is 31.8mm before you buy it.
- May be Too Wide: 780mm might be too wide for some riders or certain trails. Consider if you need to cut it down.
In conclusion, this 31.8 Bike Handlebar is a solid choice for mountain bikers looking for a wider, more comfortable, and durable handlebar. It will improve your control and make your rides more enjoyable.
4. BUCKLOS Mountain Bike MTB Handlebars 25.4/31.8mm – 20/30/50/90/100/120/160mm Rise Aluminum Alloy Handlebar – 720/780mm Extra Long Bicycle Riser HandleBars for E-Bike Folding Bike Downhill Racing.
Rating: 9.0/10
The BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Handlebar is a strong and adjustable handlebar for mountain bikes, e-bikes, folding bikes, and downhill racing bikes. It’s made from 6061 Aluminum Alloy, so it’s tough and can handle rough rides. You can pick different rises and widths to fit your needs. This handlebar helps you control your bike better and makes your ride more comfy.
What We Like:
- The 6061 Aluminum Alloy makes the handlebar strong and long-lasting.
- You can choose from many sizes (580/620/720/780mm wide and 20/30/50/90/100/120/160mm rise) to find the perfect fit for your bike and riding style.
- The extra width (up to 780mm) gives you more control over your bike, especially when riding on tough trails.
- The cut-down markings make it easy to adjust the width of the handlebar if you want it shorter.
- The riser design helps you sit more upright, which can be more comfortable for long rides.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some riders might find the wide range of options confusing when choosing the right size.
- While aluminum is strong, it’s not as lightweight as carbon fiber, which some serious racers might prefer.
- The hard anodizing, while durable, may not be available in many color options.
In conclusion, the BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Handlebar is a great choice for riders who want a strong, adjustable, and comfortable handlebar. It is a good upgrade for better control and riding posture.
5. Jgbike 31.8mm MTB Rise Handlebar
Rating: 9.3/10
The Jgbike 31.8mm MTB Rise Handlebar is a strong and light handlebar. It’s made from 3D forged 6061T6 Aluminum and uses a “Double Body” process. The handlebar has an anodized finish and is ready for jumps and trails. You can even find a matching stem! Choose between 720mm or 780mm lengths. This handlebar is a great upgrade for your mountain bike, e-bike, or fat bike.
What We Like:
- Great value for the price.
- Lightweight and strong thanks to the aluminum alloy.
- Available in popular rise options: 15mm, 25mm, and 45mm.
- Designed to improve your riding, jumping, and overall performance.
- Looks great with its excellent anodized finish.
- Perfect gift for the cyclist in your life!
- Great for DIY bike builds.
What Could Be Improved:
- More color options could be offered.
- Specific torque specs for installation could be included.
If you are looking for an affordable and reliable handlebar, the Jgbike 31.8mm MTB Rise Handlebar is a solid option. Upgrade your ride and enjoy the trails!
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Conquer the Trails with the Right MTB Handlebars
Choosing the right mountain bike (MTB) handlebars can make a huge difference in your riding experience. They impact your control, comfort, and overall performance on the trails. This guide will help you understand what to look for when buying new handlebars for your mountain bike.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for MTB handlebars, consider these important features:
- Width: Handlebar width affects your control and stability. Wider bars offer more leverage and control, especially on technical terrain. Narrower bars are better for tight trails and can improve aerodynamics. Most riders choose handlebars between 720mm and 800mm.
- Rise: Rise refers to how much the handlebar rises above the clamping area. Higher rise puts you in a more upright position, which is often more comfortable for downhill riding. Lower rise puts you in a more aggressive, forward-leaning position for better climbing.
- Sweep (Backsweep & Upsweep): Backsweep is how far the handlebar angles back toward you. Upsweep is how far the handlebar angles up. These angles affect your wrist comfort and riding posture. Experiment to find what feels best for you.
- Clamp Diameter: This is the diameter of the handlebar where it attaches to the stem. Common sizes are 31.8mm and 35mm. Make sure your handlebars and stem are compatible.
- Material: Handlebars are typically made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Important Materials
The material of your MTB handlebars impacts their weight, strength, and vibration damping.
- Aluminum: Aluminum handlebars are strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. They are a good choice for most riders. Aluminum bars can be heavier than carbon fiber.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber handlebars are lighter and can absorb vibrations better than aluminum. They are more expensive but can improve comfort and performance. Be careful not to overtighten bolts on carbon fiber bars, as this can damage them.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can affect the quality of MTB handlebars.
- Manufacturing Process: High-quality handlebars are made with precise manufacturing processes. Look for bars from reputable brands that use advanced techniques.
- Material Quality: The grade of aluminum or carbon fiber used impacts the strength and durability of the bars. Higher-grade materials result in stronger and more reliable handlebars.
- Finish: A good finish protects the handlebars from corrosion and wear. Look for bars with a durable anodized or painted finish.
- Weight: Lighter handlebars can improve your bike’s overall weight and make it easier to handle. However, don’t sacrifice strength for weight.
- Compliance: Compliance refers to how well the handlebars absorb vibrations. More compliant bars can reduce fatigue on long rides.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider how you plan to use your mountain bike when choosing handlebars.
- Trail Riding: For general trail riding, a handlebar with a moderate width (740-780mm) and rise is a good choice. Aluminum bars are a good option for most trail riders.
- Downhill Riding: Downhill riders often prefer wider handlebars (780-800mm) with a higher rise for maximum control and stability. Carbon fiber bars can help absorb vibrations on rough downhill tracks.
- Cross-Country Riding: Cross-country riders may prefer narrower handlebars (720-760mm) with a lower rise for better climbing efficiency. Lightweight carbon fiber bars can save weight and improve performance.
- Enduro Riding: Enduro riders need a balance of control and climbing efficiency. A handlebar with a moderate width (760-780mm) and rise is a good choice. Both aluminum and carbon fiber bars are suitable for enduro riding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What handlebar width is right for me?
A: It depends on your height, riding style, and the type of trails you ride. A good starting point is to measure the width of your shoulders. Your handlebars should be about the same width or slightly wider.
Q: Should I choose aluminum or carbon fiber handlebars?
A: Aluminum handlebars are more affordable and durable. Carbon fiber handlebars are lighter and absorb vibrations better. Choose carbon fiber if you want to save weight and improve comfort. If you are on a budget, aluminum is a great choice.
Q: What is handlebar rise?
A: Handlebar rise is how much the handlebar rises above the clamping area. Higher rise puts you in a more upright position, while lower rise puts you in a more aggressive position.
Q: What is backsweep and upsweep?
A: Backsweep is how far the handlebar angles back toward you. Upsweep is how far the handlebar angles up. These angles affect your wrist comfort and riding posture.
Q: How do I install new handlebars?
A: You’ll need a torque wrench and the correct size Allen wrenches. Loosen the bolts on your stem, remove the old handlebars, and install the new ones. Tighten the stem bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, take your bike to a professional mechanic.
Q: Can I cut down my handlebars?
A: Yes, you can cut down your handlebars if they are too wide. Use a pipe cutter or a hacksaw with a fine-tooth blade. Be sure to measure carefully and cut evenly on both sides.
Q: What is the difference between a 31.8mm and a 35mm clamp diameter?
A: The clamp diameter is the size of the handlebar where it attaches to the stem. 35mm handlebars are generally stiffer than 31.8mm handlebars. Make sure your handlebars and stem are compatible.
Q: How do I know if my handlebars are damaged?
A: Inspect your handlebars regularly for cracks, dents, or bends. If you see any damage, replace them immediately. Damaged handlebars can break unexpectedly, which can lead to serious injury.
Q: What is the best handlebar for downhill riding?
A: Downhill riders typically prefer wider handlebars (780-800mm) with a higher rise for maximum control and stability.
Q: Where can I buy MTB handlebars?
A: You can buy MTB handlebars at most bike shops or online retailers. Some popular brands include Race Face, Renthal, and Deity.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.