Gravel Handlebars: Enhancing Your Ride

Gravel biking has boomed in recent years. Traditional road bikes don’t quite cut it for off-road adventures. The specialization in components for gravel bikes is essential. One key component is the handlebar. Gravel handlebars differ from road and mountain bike handlebars. They are designed to improve control, comfort, and endurance over rough terrain.

Types of Gravel Handlebars

Gravel handlebars come in various shapes and sizes. Each type offers unique advantages.

Dropped Handlebars

• Slightly flared drops provide better control and comfort on rough paths.

Flared Handlebars

• Wide drops improve stability on challenging descents.

Short-Reach Handlebars

• Reduced reach helps with a more upright and comfortable position.

Ergonomic Handlebars

• Shaped for hand comfort, reducing fatigue on long rides.

Key Features of Gravel Handlebars

Understanding essential features helps optimize your setup.

Flare

Flare refers to the angle of outward drift of the drops. It improves control by widening your grip. This added stability is crucial during technical sections and rough terrain.

Width

Wider handlebars provide better handling and leverage over obstacles. They also offer more space for gear and accessories like bags and lights.

Reach

The distance from the bar’s center to the brake hoods is essential. Short-reach bars put you in a more relaxed position, reducing strain and improving endurance over long distances.

Drop

The vertical distance from the top of the bars to the bottom of the drops. A moderate drop is best for gravel riding, balancing aerodynamics and comfort.

Material Choices

Materials impact weight, strength, and comfort. The most common options are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel.

Aluminum

• Lightweight yet affordable.
• Sturdy but can transmit more road vibrations.

Carbon Fiber

• Extremely light and absorbs vibrations well.
• More expensive but offers superior comfort.

Steel

• Durable and absorbs vibrations efficiently.
• Heavier compared to aluminum and carbon.

Choosing the Right Gravel Handlebars

To select the right bars, consider your riding style and terrain. Do you tackle long mixed-terrain rides? Or prefer technical and challenging paths?

For Endurance

Focus on comfort and vibration absorption. Ergonomic handlebars with a short reach and moderate drop work well. Carbon fiber might be worth the investment here.

For Technical Riding

Opt for wider, flared handlebars. These provide better control and leverage in tricky sections. An aluminum or steel bar offers greater durability.

Bike Fit

Ensure the handlebars work well with your bike fit. Incorrect handlebar setup can lead to discomfort and even injury. Adjustments should maintain a balance between control, comfort, and performance.

Popular Brands and Models

Several brands lead in producing high-quality gravel handlebars. Each offers unique designs tailored to different riding needs.

Easton

The Easton EA70 AX is known for its ergonomic shape and excellent vibration damping. Lightweight with a 16-degree flare, it’s a reliable choice for avid gravel riders.

Ritchey

The Ritchey VentureMax Carbon offers distinct ergonomic features like a compact drop and slight back sweep on the tops. It combines comfort with performance impeccably.

Salsa

Salsa’s Cowchipper bars are versatile and popular among endurance riders. Their large flare and ergonomic design provide comfort on long rides over diverse terrain.

3T

The 3T Superghiaia offers a unique double-flare design. It’s lightweight and provides excellent control, making it suitable for competitive gravel racing.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance of gravel handlebars extend their lifespan and ensure safety. Here’s how to manage these tasks.

Installation

• Ensure compatibility with your bike’s stem.
• Use a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening bolts.
• Adjust tilt and position for optimal comfort and control.

Maintenance

• Regularly check for any cracks or damage, especially after hard rides.
• Clean handlebars thoroughly to prevent material degradation.
• Re-tape your bars when wear starts to show.

Tubeless Setup

Gravel biking has embraced tubeless technology. Tubeless setups allow lower tire pressures, improving comfort and grip.

Why Tubeless?

It reduces the risk of pinch flats. Allows riding with lower tire pressures, which absorb bumps better. Tubeless sealant automatically seals small punctures.

Setting Up Tubeless Tires

• Ensure your rims and tires are tubeless-ready.
• Apply tubeless tape to seal the rim’s spokes.
• Mount the tire and inflate it to seat the bead properly.
• Add sealant through the valve stem or by unseating a section of the tire.

Gear Recommendations

Complement your gravel handlebars with suitable gear for an enhanced riding experience. These items ensure comfort, safety, and practicality.

Handlebar Tape

Opt for padded tape to reduce vibrations. Brands like Lizard Skins and Fizik offer excellent cushioning and grip.

Handlebar Bags

Handlebar bags are handy for carrying essentials. Look for options that don’t obstruct your grip. Revelate Designs and Apidura have versatile and durable choices.

Lighting

Bright, handlebar-mounted lights enhance visibility. Brands like Garmin and Lezyne offer reliable lighting solutions for gravel riding.

Community Insights

Engaging with the gravel riding community can provide valuable insights. Forums and social media groups are great places to ask questions and share experiences.

Online Forums

• Reddit’s r/gravelcycling is a popular hub for discussions.
• Bikepacking.com forums offer advice from seasoned riders.

Social Media

• Instagram showcases setups and scenic routes.
• Facebook groups allow for quick feedback and gear recommendations.