The Most Comfortable Bike Handlebars, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the bike handlebars you think is the most comfortable!

Updated on May 3, 2024 06:15

Choosing the right bike handlebars affects comfort, control, and overall cycling performance. For cyclists, long rides can turn painful with poorly designed handlebars, hence the importance of finding ones that provide good ergonomics and fit. Recognizing which handlebars stand out in comfort can significantly enhance your biking experience. This list serves as a dynamic guide, shaped by community votes, to highlight the most comfortable handlebars available. Your participation by voting will not only reflect your personal experience but also assist others in making informed decisions. Engage with the rankings to see how preferences change and new products rise to favor.

What Are the Most Comfortable Bike Handlebars?

1

40
votes
Ergon GP1 Grips

Ergon

These grips are designed to provide maximum comfort and support for your hands, thanks to their ergonomic shape and soft rubber material. They also feature a built-in bar end for additional grip options.
The Ergon GP1 Grips are ergonomic handlebar grips designed to provide maximum comfort and support while cycling. They are made from high-quality materials and have a unique design that helps to reduce pressure points and prevent hand and wrist pain.

Material: Rubber

Size: 2 sizes available for different hand sizes (Small and Large)

Weight: Approx. 145 g per pair

Shape: Ergonomic with a winged shape for wrist support

Lock-on: Integrated clamp design for secure and easy installation
2

34
votes
Jacob Montgomery · CC BY-SA 3.0

Jones H-Bar

Jeff Jones

The unique shape of the Jones H-Bar provides multiple hand positions for increased comfort on long rides. It also allows for a more upright riding position, reducing strain on the neck and back.
The Jones H-Bar is a type of handlebar designed for bicycles that provides multiple hand positions, allowing for a comfortable ride over long distances. It features a unique looped design and a flat section in the center that provides a natural hand position for wrist comfort and easy access to controls. The bar also allows for a wider hand position providing better stability and control over the bike.

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Width: 710-710mm

Weight: 330-360g

Rise: 45mm

Clamp Diameter: 31.8mm
3

20
votes
Brooks Leather Grips

Brooks England

Made from high-quality leather, these grips provide a comfortable and durable option for riders who prefer a traditional look and feel. They also mold to the shape of your hands over time for a custom fit.
Brooks Leather Grips are a stylish and comfortable handlebar grips made of high-quality leather that offers excellent grip and shock absorption.

Material: Leather

Length: 130mm

Diameter: 22.2mm

Weight: 120g

Color Options: Antique Brown, Black, Honey
4

15
votes
Salsa Woodchipper Handlebar

Salsa Cycles

The flared shape of the Woodchipper handlebar provides a wider grip area, reducing strain on the hands and wrists. It also allows for greater control and stability on rough terrain.
The Salsa Woodchipper Handlebar is a drop-bar handlebar used for off-road riding and gravel races. Its unique design offers a shallow drop but with a wide flare to improve control and comfort. The flared drops allow for a wider hand position, which enhances stability on rough terrain. The top section of the bars also features a mild flare, promoting wrist comfort and allowing for various hand positions.

Material: 7050 aluminum alloy

Drop: 116mm

Reach: 72mm

Flare Angle: 24°

Clamp Diameter: 31.8mm
5

21
votes
Fizik Bar Gel

Fizik

This gel padding can be added to any handlebar to provide extra cushioning and support for the hands. It also helps to reduce vibrations and shock from the road.
Fizik Bar Gel is a type of ergonomic handlebar tape. It is designed to reduce hand fatigue and vibration while cycling, making for a more comfortable ride.

Material: Gel

Size: 4mm thickness, 210mm length, 30mm width

Weight: 50g

Compatibility: Fits most drop bars

Installation: Easy to install under handlebar tape
6

5
votes
Ritchey WCS Carbon Curve

Ritchey Design

Made from lightweight carbon fiber, this handlebar provides a comfortable and responsive ride with its ergonomic shape and shock-absorbing properties.
The Ritchey WCS Carbon Curve is a road bike handlebar designed for comfort and performance.

Material: Carbon fiber

Drop: 128mm

Reach: 73mm

Width: 40, 42, 44, 46cm (center to center)

Clamp diameter: 31.8mm
7

10
votes
Trekking Handlebars

Designed for long-distance touring, trekking handlebars provide multiple hand positions and a more upright riding position for increased comfort on multi-day rides.
Trekking Handlebars are a type of bike handlebars that feature a flat section in the center that allows for multiple hand positions, providing greater comfort over long rides. They are also known as butterfly handlebars.

Material: Aluminum or steel

Width: Approximately 55-60cm

Drop: 10-20mm

Sweep: 20-45 degrees

Weight: Approximately 350-500g
8

6
votes
Velo Orange Grand Cru Randonneur Handlebar

Velo Orange

Similar to trekking handlebars, the Grand Cru Randonneur provides multiple hand positions and a more upright riding position. It also features a classic design and is made from high-quality materials.
The Velo Orange Grand Cru Randonneur Handlebar is a classic drop bar design with a shallow drop and short reach, making it ideal for long distance cycling and touring. The shape offers multiple hand positions for comfort, and the width provides stability and control, especially when carrying a heavy load.

Material: Aluminum

Drop: 128mm

Reach: 108mm

Width: 44cm

Clamp Diameter: 31.8mm
9

8
votes
Nitto Albatross Handlebar

Nitto

With a swept-back shape and multiple hand positions, the Albatross provides a comfortable and relaxed riding position for city and commuter riders. It also features a classic design and is made from durable materials.
The Nitto Albatross Handlebar is a swept-back handlebar designed for comfortable and upright riding positions. The shape of the handlebar allows for a natural hand position that reduces strain on the wrists, neck, and shoulders. The Albatross Handlebar is made of high-quality heat-treated aluminum alloy, which makes it strong, lightweight, and durable for long-term use.

Material: Heat-treated aluminum alloy

Clamp Diameter: 25.4mm

Width: 55cm

Rise: 52mm

Sweep Angle: 45 degrees
10

4
votes

Specialized Body Geometry Bar Tape

This handlebar tape is designed to provide extra cushioning and support for the hands, as well as reduce pressure points. It also comes in a variety of colors to match your bike's aesthetic.

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Ranking factors for comfortable bike handlebars

Ergonomics

The shape and design of the handlebars should provide a comfortable grip and support proper wrist and hand position. Look for handlebars with a natural curvature that matches the shape of your hands.
Material

The material of the handlebars can impact your comfort. Lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber are usually more comfortable than heavier materials like steel. Some materials also absorb road vibrations better than others.
Width

The width of the handlebars should be proportional to the width of your shoulders. This ensures a comfortable posture and reduces strain on your neck, shoulders, and back.
Reach and drop

Reach refers to the horizontal distance from the center of the handlebar to the furthest edge, while drop refers to the vertical distance between the highest and lowest points. Choose a handlebar with a reach and drop that allows you to maintain a comfortable posture without straining your back, neck, or shoulders.
Grip padding and texture

Grips or handlebar tape are essential for providing cushioning and reducing vibrations. Look for padded or cushioned grips with a textured surface for better grip and comfort.
Handlebar type

Different handlebar types cater to different riding styles and preferences. Drop handlebars, for instance, offer multiple hand positions, making them suited for long-distance rides. Flat or riser handlebars, on the other hand, allow for a more upright posture, which is generally more comfortable for casual or recreational riders.
Adjustability

An adjustable stem can help you fine-tune your handlebar's height and angle, making it more comfortable for your specific body dimensions and riding preferences.
Compatibility

Before selecting a handlebar, ensure it is compatible with your bike's frame, components, and overall design. This will help avoid any installation problems and ensure your bike's performance and comfort are not compromised.
Budget

Although high-quality handlebars can improve comfort significantly, consider your budget when choosing handlebars. Higher-end options may offer better comfort and ergonomics, but they can also be more expensive.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most comfortable bike handlebars. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or handlebar is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1444 views
164 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each handlebar once every 24 hours. The rank of each handlebar is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most comfortable bike handlebars

Bike handlebars are one of the most crucial components of a bicycle, which can significantly impact the rider's comfort level and overall riding experience. With a wide range of handlebars available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one for your needs. The comfort level of bike handlebars is determined by various factors such as the material, shape, width, and grip. The right handlebars can help reduce fatigue, increase stability, and offer a comfortable riding position, making your cycling experience more enjoyable. In this article, we will explore some of the most comfortable bike handlebars that you can consider for your next ride.