The handlebar is, like saddle and pedals, one of the contact points between rider and bike and is therefore very important. This component allows the rider to control the direction of travel through the movement of the hands: moving the handlebar changes the direction of the front wheel, which determines the line that the entire bike will follow.
The stem is the direct connection between the handlebar and the front fork.
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Choosing to buy a new handlebar may seem simple, but there are many types of bicycle handlebars on the market, which differ in material, shape and technical characteristics.
The handlebar must then be combined with the correct stem, which has the function of attaching the handlebar to the fork and allows the correct height and position for the rider to be adjusted.
If you are choosing a bike handlebar, you should first consider how you want to use it: in general, the riding position on a road bike will be more aerodynamic and forward shifted, while on a city bike the position is much more relaxed and the back straighter. Accordingly, in the first example the most suitable handlebar will be the so-called ox-horn handlebar, while for the second case it will be preferable to choose a wide handlebar.
Depending on the cycling speciality, we can find the following types of handlebars:
These are "flat" handlebars; they have a straight tube and are designed to absorb ground vibrations as much as possible. They are easy to grip and handle and allow the rider to assume a comfortable position.
They are normally quite wide, from 700 to 800 mm, and the width is measured from one end of the handlebar to the other.
These are "drop" handlebars, shaped like ox horns. They are characterised by the possibility of assuming different hand positions according to the cyclist's needs.
Gravel and cyclocross bikes require the same type of handlebar, although many manufacturers have modified the angle of the bend to make it more comfortable
They can have different shapes and sizes depending on the bike. In general, a fork handlebar is preferred on these bikes, allowing the rider to assume a comfortable position that is perpendicular to the ground.
It is important, when choosing a handlebar and its positioning, that the cyclist assumes a comfortable position in the saddle. In particular, in no case should the arms be outstretched and too stiff: if the cyclist reaches the maximum extension of his arms, it means that the handlebar has not been positioned correctly.
We must underline that adjusting the handlebar angle is an entirely subjective parameter, depending on riding style, the type of bike and its geometry.
The stem is the component that connects the handlebar to the fork axis of the bicycle.
It is characterised by its length and inclination (in relation to the horizontal plane), elements that affect the cyclist's position on the saddle.
Contact our team, we will be able to advise you on the model best suited to your needs and position on the bike among the best brands on the market.