Unleashing Power: The carbon handlebars mtb Guide
The days of clunky, heavy, and uncomfortable handlebars on mountain bikes are over. The rise of carbon handlebars is here, and if you’ve been considering an upgrade, now’s the time to do it. For mountain bike riders looking to unleash more power, speed, and control, carbon handlebars are the way to go. Here’s an overview of what you need to know when selecting mountain bike carbon handlebars.
What Are carbon handlebars?
carbon handlebars are components that consist of composite construction. This means a combination of carbon fibers and epoxy resins are used to make the handlebar itself. In comparison, aluminum handlebars are machined from a solid block of raw aluminum. Carbon fiber is much lighter than aluminum, is less likely to corrode, and is much more durable and impact-resistant.
Why Should I Use carbon handlebars for My Mountain Bike?
There are a few reasons why carbon handlebars are becoming the go-to option for mountain bikers. Firstly, they’re much lighter than their aluminum counterparts, shifting the bike’s center of gravity toward the front of the bike and providing more control and stability. Secondly, they absorb shocks and vibrations, reducing rider fatigue. Thirdly, riders will experience improved power transfer and less arm pump due to the stiffer overall construction of the handlebar.
How to Best Select a Carbon Handlebar for Your MTB
Now that you’re familiar with the advantages of carbon handlebars, it’s time to understand the process of selecting the right one for you. One of the most important considerations is the width of the handlebar. While aluminum handlebars come in a few width options, with carbon, you can be as specific as you’d like.
For example, a wider handlebar means more control, but it also brings more weight and requires more strength from the rider. On the other hand, a narrower handlebar offers easier acceleration and improved aerodynamics, but could lead to less stability. Therefore, it’s important to identify your preferences, taking into account your mountain biking style and rider weight.
Other common factors that should be taken into account include the rise (the vertical distance between the center of the handlebar and the ends of the bar) and the sweep angle (the angle from the center of the bar out to the ends of the bar). The components associated with your handlebar, such as shifters and brakes, should also be considered when determining compatibility. Lastly, make sure to properly measure length, clamp diameter, and rotation amount before buying.
Conclusion
carbon handlebars are emerging as the perfect choice when it comes to mountain biking. Lightweight, durable, and efficient, they provide flexibility and personalization for experienced riders. So if you’re looking to upgrade, you now have a solid understanding of what you need to select the right carbon handlebar for your mountain bike that perfectly caters to your preferences. Happy riding!