Which handlebars for a mountain bike are best?
The right mountain bike handlebars can help you steer and maneuver more precisely, maintain a proper riding position and even absorb some of the impact and vibration from a rough course or trail.
Whether you’re hitting the trail for the first time or participate in competitive enduro racing, having handlebars that match your riding style and preferences can help you make the most of your ride. In our buying guide, we examine the key factors that set different mountain bike handlebars apart, including materials, type, width and angle. We also share our top product recommendations, like the featherlight carbon composite Race Face SIXC DH Handlebar.
What to know before you buy handlebars for a mountain bike
Flat vs. riser
- Flat: This straight, classic design is a go-to for a reason. Flat handlebars are durable, strong and encourage a better forward-leaning posture for challenging climbs and trail riding.
- Riser: Riser bars angle up slightly in a U-shape that flattens at the ends for the grips and brakes. Riser handlebars allow you to ride upright, which offers extra comfort and control on extreme courses.
Materials
- Carbon fiber: Carbon fiber is both extremely strong and lightweight, making it the gold standard in handlebar materials. It also helps minimize vibration for a smoother ride.
- Scandium: Scandium is lighter than aluminum but not quite as light as carbon fiber. It’s both strong and durable.
- Aluminum (or aluminum alloy): While not quite as strong as carbon fiber, aluminum is durable, long-lasting and great for bikers on a budget. Unfortunately, aluminum won’t do much about vibration and impact while riding.
- Titanium: Titanium is heavy and expensive. Some riders still prefer this material, however, because of its superior ability to reduce impact and vibration.
- Steel: While steel is strong, inexpensive and virtually indestructible, it is heavy. Many BMX riders prefer steel, but most mountain bikers steer clear.
What to look for in quality handlebars for a mountain bike
Handlebar width
Wider handlebars may offer more control and leverage on downhill slopes or rough terrain, while narrower bars help you maintain a balanced riding position for longer cross-country rides. Flat bars are usually narrower (around 23 inches), while riser bars are often wider (around 27 inches). If you aren’t sure which width you prefer, you can buy a wider set of handlebars and have them cut down later if you decide you’d prefer a narrower set.
Angle
The angle or bend in a given set of handlebars determines how dramatically the bars angle away from the center. You can find some flat bars with little to no bend or riser bars with between 4-degree and 9-degree of bend that allow you to ride in an upright position with your hands near your body. Most riders opt for a neutral 4- to 6-degree angle.
Diameter
The majority of mountain bike handlebars have a 22.2-millimeter grip diameter and can accommodate almost any kind of grip you prefer. Keep in mind that the diameter of the clamping surface may vary from 25.5 to 35 millimeters. Make sure the size of your stem clamp is compatible with your new handlebars before you buy.
How much you can expect to spend on handlebars for a mountain bike
Budget mountain bike handlebars run between $8 and $65, with the most expensive options priced between $95 and $175. Economy handlebars are usually heavier and made from less durable materials like titanium or aluminum alloy, while pricier options are typically made from carbon fiber and are both lightweight and extremely durable.
Handlebars for a mountain bike FAQ
How wide should my handlebars be?
A. To find your ideal handlebar width, get into a pushup stance with your hands on the floor and your arms at 45-degree angles from your chest. The distance between your hands in this stance is the width of the most comfortable handlebar for your bike.
Which type of handlebars are best for enduro racing?
A. If speed is your primary concern, choose ultra-light carbon fiber handlebars that won’t weigh you down. Select wider handlebars that can help you maintain control on rough downhill sections.
What are the best handlebars for a mountain bike to buy?
Top handlebars for a mountain bike
What you need to know: This extremely light carbon composite option is as comfortable as it is durable.
What you’ll love: These long bars are excellent for precision steering. They’re made of virtually indestructible carbon composite. They’re lightweight, weighing only 220 grams.
What you should consider: They need a 31.8-millimeter stem; they’re incompatible with 35-millimeter stems.
Top handlebars for a mountain bike for the money
What you need to know: These durable, affordable handlebars are comfortable and simple to install.
What you’ll love: They have lots of room to accommodate many grip styles. They’re quick and easy to install with a single bolt. They’ve got great durability for the price point.
What you should consider: They’re not as light as pricier options.
Worth checking out
RXL SL Carbon Fiber Handlebars
What you need to know: These sleek, aerodynamic carbon fiber handlebars are available in a wide variety of attractive styles.
What you’ll love: They’re durable. The design and engineering reflect expert input. They’re also easy to install. There are many different colors, sizes and styles to choose from.
What you should consider: Some color/size options are chronically out of stock.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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