Drop Bars
As the traditional touring handlebar, drop bars offer several riding positions. On a long ride, it's important to be able to change your grip and posture in order to not put too much stress on any one part of your body. Drop bars let you tuck out of the wind, sit more upright and adjust your position to ride somewhere in the middle. These bars take time to get use to for cyclists who normally ride with a flat bar, but because of their versatility, they're a top pick for touring.
Flat Bars
Flat bars are found on mountain bikes, flat bar road bikes and some hybrids. Flat bars put the rider in the most upright position, taking stress off the upper body and back. These bars work best for riders who are prone to back pain or suffer from problems in their upper extremities, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Because they only allow one grip on the handlebars, flat bars are best suited for shorter tours or on rides when pedaling will be mixed with plenty of breaks and sight-seeing.
Flat Bar With Bar Ends
To add an additional grip to a flat bar, look for a handlebar with bar ends, or buy a pair to add to your current handlebars. Bar ends bolt onto the ends of your handlebars, typically at a 45-degree angle from the ground. Cyclists often ride on their bar ends during climbs, but while touring, they offer a solution to only having one riding position with your flat bar. For a few extra dollars, they are an inexpensive way to make a flat bar more comfortable on a long ride.
Multi-Position Handlebars
Multi-position bars offer the most options for hand positions. Shaped like butterfly wings, these handlebars are sold as stock bars on only a few touring bikes. Because they're not normally used outside of touring, you may not be able to see them in person at your bike shop, although they should be available to order. Because they are wide-set, like a flat bar, they do not offer the same aerodynamics as a drop bar, but their infinite hand positions make them a top choice for comfort over speed.
Article Written By Kathrine Cole
Kathrine Cole is a professional outdoor educator. She teaches rock climbing, backpacking, cycling, and bike maintenance classes. She is a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School, a Wilderness First Responder, and a Leave No Trace Trainer.
