pros vs. cons of different types of handle bars

[khanb1]

The mountain bike handlebars (low riser…I think) on my bike used to have bar ends, but got rid of em b/c I didn’t know how or what to use em for. I also had this challenge where every few miles the handlebars would gradually slip forward as I ride and I’d have to adjust and tighten it again.

Here’s a pic of what I mean:

I didn’t know if I needed a new handlebar stem + bars or what?

After researching for a solution, I found out there are so many different kinds of handlebars. The handlebars I know of through my reading are; drop down (typical road bike) flatbar, low riser, high riser, bull horns, mustache, cruiser, bar ends (mountain bike)…on flat or low risers?

I got kinda confused, i just used some electric tape as a shim and tightened it with more tape to secure it. I think it did the job right, however my curious mind hasn’t shut off.

I don’t understand why there are so many different kinds of handlebars. What situations are they useful for (pros) and when are they not a smart choice (cons)?

Topic

[baiskeli]

Basically, your bars look like upright bars for a “comfort” bike, hybrid or mountain bike. They allow you to sit in an upright position. It’s more comfortable for casual riding, and a little easier to handle the bike with.

A road bike will have drop bars (along with the shape of the rest of the bike) that get you leaning forward more. This is more comfortable for longer rides because you can put more weight on your arms, and legs too because of the position. It’s also more aerodynamic. The typical road bars allow a few different positions for your hands., including a drop position that’s really low and aerodynamic when you want speed.

Those are the two basic kinds. All the others are variations on those. You can usually adjust any kind to fit you within limits.

Bar ends are mainly for holding onto when you’re heading downhill on a road or comfort bike – they keep your center of gravity over the bike so you won’t flip forward. But they are nice when you want a different position for your hands too. Changing hand positions can help relieve numbness or soreness on long rides.

To fix your loose bars, you probably need a new stem, or at least a new bolt (which might require a new stem anyway).

I’m sure others here can weigh in on what I missed.

[Author]

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