Handlebars are one of the most important things to consider when it comes to making your rides more comfortable. Many hybrid bike handlebars can be suitable for one individual, whereas the same handlebar will be uncomfortable for another individual.
Finding the right handlebar is very important. More specifically, understanding the types of handlebars available in the market for hybrid bikes is also essential. In today’s article, we will discuss the different types of handlebars that are available for hybrid bikes.
We will also give you the top five hybrid bike handlebars you can get today. Once you are done reading this article, you will have an excellent understanding of what type of handlebar you should get based on your needs.
Flat handlebars
These handlebars are also known as mountain bike handlebars. These are simple horizontal bars which are very well for off-road trails. You can expect to have strong control over the bike and comfortably steer through many rough terrains, especially on sharp turns. The biggest negative with flat handlebars is that they only support one hand position, which can get uncomfortable if you’re taking a long ride. You can attach bar ends to the handlebar if you want to resolve the issue.
Raised Handlebars
They are also known as riser handlebars. Raised handlebars are smaller than a flat handlebar significantly. The main difference is that they have a raised section in the center. You can expect a more upright position when riding your bike. You can also expect two hand position instead of one, which isn’t the case with a flat handlebar. You can hold the handlebar of the hybrid bike closer to the raised section or further away from it. Just like the flat handlebars, the raised handlebar can be very uncomfortable when riding for long-distance.
Trekking handlebars
These handlebars are known as butterfly handlebars. Trekking handlebars are best suited for tracking, as the name suggests. You can find this type of hybrid bike handlebars, mostly in European countries. These handlebars offer for different hand positions, out of those 4, 3 will support you with an upright position while riding. You can either use to hand position if you want to lean forward when riding, as this will allow you to get a higher speed. Trekking handlebars are the most preferred option if you take your hybrid bike for long-distance rides.
Mustache Handlebars
Mustache handlebars are very similar in shape to trekking handlebars. The mustache handlebar supports different types of hand positions for the rider. Three will assist you with an upright position. This is fantastic for longer rides as it saves your back.
Cow-Horn Handlebars
These handlebars are known as bullhorn handlebars; these handlebars on a hybrid bike tend to give a unique look. You can easily tell if someone has a cow- horn handlebar as it sticks out. The cow-horn handlebar is best suited for off-road riding and supports three different hand positions. These handlebars are also very good for riding on the pavement and gravel pathways.
Top 5 Hybrid Handlebars
Orion Flat Bar Bike Handlebars
Orion Flat bar bike handlebars are made from the finest aluminum that is designed for delivering incredible speeds for city ride.
Although this handlebar is fantastic for city riding, it will support many different riding conditions. Orion handlebar is compatible with many different hybrid bikes, so you don’t have to worry about the handlebar not fitting your hybrid bike.
This handlebar is reasonably priced and is made from very good quality material.
The width measures in at 580 mm, which means it will support a comfortable ride in an upright position. The best thing about Orion flat handlebar is that it only weighs 200 g, which means that it will not increase the overall weight of your hybrid bike.
Crankbrothers Cobalt XC Handlebar
This handlebar is known for its reliability, especially when the brand is Crankbrothers. This is a raised handlebar made from carbon fiber.
You can expect this hybrid bike handlebar to weigh in at 155 g, which is very light.
Even though these handlebars are significantly lighter when compared to other handlebars, it still has the strength and durability which you are looking for when it comes to a strong handlebar.
Since the handlebar is made from carbon fiber, it offers a vibration dampening effect, which enables a smooth ride through rough terrain.
The manufacturer decided to add a 6-degree back-sweep, which provides riders with a comfortable ride, and not putting a lot of strain on their wrist and shoulder. The handlebar comes in two different lengths: 680mm and 780mm with 8mm and 15mm rise.
Control Tech Road Handlebar
With the fantastic ergonomic design, it offers a comfortable hand position that allows you to avoid any strains on your wrist, especially when you’re riding for long-distance. The upper tuber is oval and offers you with a 25% more surface area on your palm as compared to most other handlebars for a hybrid bike. This feature makes it an excellent choice for riders with, particularly large hands. The handlebar has a slight back sweep of 6, which allows for a more comfortable ride when holding onto the handlebar. The handlebar measures in at 380 MM in length and offer a drop of 135 MM. You can expect the weight to be 271 grams.
RXL SL Road Bike Handlebar
This is a fantastic model for drop handlebars. This is built from carbon fiber, which makes it the most expensive handlebar compared to other models. However, this handlebar is exceptionally lightweight and highly durable. The handlebar comes in three different sizes and weighs in at 210 g, which is very light compared to most drop handlebars. This handlebar features a 130mm drop that allows for a comfortable ride and has a diameter of 31.8mm, which provides an excellent position for your palms. Besides the very ergonomic design, the manufacturer has included a layer of granular paint, which enhances the friction between the brakes and the handlebar and ensures a safe ride.
Tiki Handlebar
Perhaps the cheapest hybrid bike handlebar in this category is going to be this one.
Origin8 Tiki handlebar, which is a mustache handlebar, is made from lightweight and durable aluminum. The hybrid handlebar comes in two different color options, you can get it in black and silver, and both feature a width of 515mm making it comfortable enough to rest your palm while having a good ride. It also includes a 60 MM rise in the design, which further makes the ride more secure and comfortable. Overall, this is a great option to use for your hybrid bike and enhance its usability.
Things to consider when purchasing hybrid handlebars
Let’s talk about some of the things we need to consider when purchasing your hybrid bike handlebars. Even though we have spoken of the most famous handlebars you can get in the market; you must understand for yourself what you need precisely when purchasing the right handlebar.
Body position
Take into consideration what type of body position you are going to be in when riding your hybrid bike. Different types of riding require different body posture, especially if you’re looking to have a comfortable ride.
If you start noticing that the wind is too strong when riding, you may want to get a handlebar, which lowers the position of your body instead of making it more upright.
However, when you ride your body lower for a very long distance, your back and arms can get tired, which is why you might need to sit upright to get rid of some fatigue.
It is recommended that you get a handlebar that supports both postures if you don’t know what type of riding you are going to be doing. On the other hand, if you know the kind of riding you’re going to be doing, then pick a handlebar that will support you and make you feel comfortable throughout the ride.
Material
The two different types of materials you can get when it comes to hybrid bike handlebars are going to be carbon and aluminum.
Aluminum is going to be more comfortable on the wallet, and will also provide you with a lightweight and robust handlebar.
Carbon is going to be more expensive than aluminum, but it is even lighter than aluminum and has a better feel to it.
Depending on your budget, pick a handlebar that works perfectly for you. In the grand scheme of riding, the material won’t matter as much as you think. It only matters if you are looking to do some serious riding.
Final verdict
Picking the right handlebar for your hybrid bike can be difficult, especially with all the options you can choose from. You must assess your budget, your riding needs, and finally, the handlebar you like aesthetically. We have recommended you with some fantastic handlebars. If you decide to get one of the handlebars we have recommended, then you will not be disappointed. Just keep in mind your riding needs, and your budget before you pull the trigger on a new handlebar.