Bike Handlebar Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right handlebars for your bike can be tricky, but the right set can improve comfort, performance, handling, and even the aesthetics of your ride.

Different handlebars offer varying levels of control depending on the type of riding you do. For example, flat bars provide better control on off-road trails, while drop bars allow a more aerodynamic position for road cycling.

Below, we’ve outlined the main types of handlebars available at Halfords, catering to all kinds of riders. We’ve also included our recommended options for those looking to get the most miles out of their bike.

Flat Handlebar

Flat handlebars are mainly used for commuting, mountain biking, and casual riding. They offer comfort, an upright riding position, and better control over varying terrain, making them a great all-rounder for versatility.

M:Part Flat Bar - 25.4mm, 580mm

The M:Part Flat Bar – 25.4mm – 580mm is an excellent option for a flat handlebar. Offering great value without compromising on performance, it features a 25.4mm clamping diameter and a 580mm width. Crafted from high-quality 6061 alloy, these handlebars are lightweight, heat-treated for extra strength and durability, and finished in satin black for a sleek, premium look.

Riser Handlebar

Riser handlebars are ideal for trail and all-mountain riding. They provide better control, comfort, and a more upright hand position. Perfect for aggressive riders tackling mountain-bike trails with jumps and sharp turns, riser bars also help reduce wrist strain and absorb impact at speed.

DMR ODUB Handlebar

Developed alongside professional mountain biker Olly Wilkins, the DMR ODUB Handlebar is both lightweight and durable. Made from 7075 heat-treated spiral-butted aluminium, it’s designed to withstand tough conditions. The laser-etched graphics and anodised gloss black finish also give your bike a stylish edge.

Drop Handlebar

Drop handlebars are the go-to choice for road cycling. They offer multiple hand positions for comfort, improved aerodynamics, and better control during long rides and sprints. Ideal for road racing and time trials, they allow riders to adopt a low, aerodynamic position to improve speed and performance.

Deda Elementi Piega 26 Bar

The Deda Elementi Piega 26 Bar is a versatile option for year-round road cycling. The double-butted design ensures extra strength where it’s needed most, while remaining lightweight elsewhere. Available in widths from 38–46cm, they suit a wide range of shoulder sizes, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride.

Extension Bars & Armrests

For serious racers, extension bars and armrests are a common upgrade to drop handlebars. Designed for time-trial riders, they improve aerodynamics, reduce wind resistance, and boost speed and endurance while riding.

Zipp Vuka Clip Above Bar Carbon Extensions 110mm

The Zipp Vuka Clip Above Bar Carbon Extensions 110mm offer a highly adjustable system that lets you fine-tune your aero tuck. Developed using data from thousands of bike fits with both recreational and professional riders, the Vuka Race Carbon Extension places the wrists at a natural angle, helping you stay comfortably tucked for maximum aerodynamics.

Key Considerations

When purchasing handlebars, keep the following factors in mind to ensure you choose the right style and fit for you and your ride:

Material

Halfords offers handlebars in a range of materials. Carbon fibre is the lightest—ideal for road cycling—while aluminium provides the strength and durability needed for trail and mountain biking. Striking the right balance between weight and toughness is key, so think about how much of a beating your bars will take.

Width

Handlebar width is important for comfort, control, and riding posture. The right width helps prevent strain, improves stability, and suits your riding style. When the handlebar width is wrong, it can cause discomfort, poor control, and inefficient riding. Too wide bars may lead to shoulder strain and difficulty manoeuvring in tight spaces, while bars that are too narrow can reduce stability and make handling rough terrain harder.

Getting the right width is important, so ask an in-store expert to help you decide which is the right width for you.

Clamp Diameter

Clamp diameter matters because it ensures your handlebars fit securely to your bike’s stem, keeping your ride safe and stable. If the clamp diameter is wrong for your handlebars, they won’t fit securely and run the risk of causing you and your bike damage.

Fitting Service

Here at Halfords, we offer an expert accessory fitting service from just £5. By letting an expert handle it, you won’t run the risk of fitting the saddle incorrectly or causing it damage, meaning you can ride away with extra peace of mind.

If you’re still unsure which handlebars are right for you, visit your local Halfords store, where one of our friendly experts will be happy to help you choose the best option for you and your bike.