Handlebar measurements

[Danny]

I need to change my handlebars and want to get a pair with drops that come closer to me.

On my current handlebars the ends of the drops are approximately in line with the top of the handlebars, and ideally I would like some that come closer to me by a couple of cms.

Is the secret to go for handlebars with a shorter reach, or is there another measurement I should be looking for?

 

[Venod]

I have been using these for a few years now on all my bikes, I find I use the drops more than I did on deeper bars, not sure what entry level means

http://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/HBPX6061SD/planet-x-road-bar-strada-shallow-drop

 

[Gravity Aided]

Mustache bars? Not my picture, but a good illustration.

 

[Danny]

Mustache bars? Not my picture, but a good illustration.

Hmm...interesting concept, but I didn't want to give up on the drops altogether.

 

[Danny]

An added complication is that I would like to get some silver bars to match the rest of the components on my now vintage bike, which means the choice is even more limited.

Both these Cinelli bars and the Ritchy Classics look like options but neither give any indication of the length of the drop part of the handlebars - in fact there are no measurements for the Cinellis bars.

 

[John the Canuck]

i have a as-new set of bars - in chrome 25.4mm clamp area - Peugeot


ctoc width = 36cm
reach = only 90mm
drop = standard 150mm


PM if interested ... i'll even remove the glue..
.

 

[migrantwing]

I was watching a video about bars the other day. Steve Hogg makes some interesting points that you may otherwise overlook.

Steve Hogg - Bars

 

[migrantwing]

An added complication is that I would like to get some silver bars to match the rest of the components on my now vintage bike, which means the choice is even more limited.

Both these Cinelli bars and the Ritchy Classics look like options but neither give any indication of the length of the drop part of the handlebars - in fact there are no measurements for the Cinellis bars.

Top Features of the Ritchey Classic Curve Road Handlebar
Fixed shallow decreasing radius bend (Compact at 128mm)
Allows comfort in drops when using a short headset stack
31.8 OS clamp section for improved stiffness and durability
Widths: 40cm, 42cm & 44cm (C-C)
Diametre: 31.8mm
Drop: 128mm
Reach: 73mm
Finish: High Polished Silver

 

[Danny]

Top Features of the Ritchey Classic Curve Road Handlebar
Fixed shallow decreasing radius bend (Compact at 128mm)
Allows comfort in drops when using a short headset stack
31.8 OS clamp section for improved stiffness and durability
Widths: 40cm, 42cm & 44cm (C-C)
Diametre: 31.8mm
Drop: 128mm
Reach: 73mm
Finish: High Polished Silver

Thanks, but what does that say about the 'return' part of the handlebar?

 

[srw]

What happens if you adjust the angle of the handlebars so that the ends are closer to you?

 

[John the Canuck]

reach = only 90mm

no comments..?

 

[migrantwing]

Thanks, but what does that say about the 'return' part of the handlebar?

Fair point. This is the problem with buying stuff online, sadly. Even if you bought bars at an LBS, you'd still have to put them on your bike and make adjustments to see if they suit you or not and some/most places won't do a refund.

Maybe order a few different but similar bars from Wiggle or CRC and then send back what you don't want?

Returns

 

[Danny]

What happens if you adjust the angle of the handlebars so that the ends are closer to you?

Thanks - I've tried that and it only helps to a limited extent.

I actually have two bikes with the handlebars now at the same angel, and on the newer one the ends of the handlebars definitely come back further than on the older one.

The reasons I don't just buy an identical pair are that the ones on the newer bike are black and oversized and I am looking for standard and silver.

 

[Danny]

reach = only 90mm

no comments..?

Sorry - despite the ultra large pictures I have only belatedly spotted your post above, and am now sending you a PM.