Choosing the right Mountain Bike Handlebar can significantly transform your riding experience. It’s a crucial component that affects comfort, control, and overall performance on the trails. Whether you’re seeking enhanced vibration dampening, lighter weight, or a more aggressive riding posture, upgrading your handlebar is a cost-effective way to personalize your bike and elevate your ride. This guide dives into the top mountain bike handlebars available, helping you select the perfect one to match your riding style and preferences.
Top Mountain Bike Handlebar Picks: Carbon and Aluminum Options
We’ve rigorously tested a range of handlebars, from lightweight carbon fiber models to robust aluminum options, to bring you our top recommendations. Here’s a breakdown of the best performers in various categories:
Best Overall Carbon Handlebar: Deity Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser
mountain bike handlebars
The Deity Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser immediately impressed our testers with its exceptional comfort and performance. This handlebar excels in vibration dampening, making long rides less fatiguing without compromising control. Its modern geometry, sleek design, and lightweight yet durable construction make it a top choice for trail, enduro, and even DH riding.
Pros:
- Excellent Vibration Dampening: Carbon layup effectively reduces trail buzz.
- Lightweight: Competitive weight for a carbon handlebar at 245 grams.
- Modern Geometry: 810mm width, 9mm backsweep, and 5mm upsweep for enhanced control.
- High-End Finish: Premium look and feel with multiple logo color options.
Cons:
- Price: Carbon construction comes at a higher price point.
- Limited Rise Options: Only available in a 30mm rise.
The Deity Speedway Carbon offers a refined riding experience, providing a noticeable upgrade in both comfort and handling. It’s an investment that pays off with enhanced trail feedback and reduced hand fatigue.
mountain bike handlebars – the speedway is an excellent aftermarket handlebar that will almost…
The Deity Speedway is an excellent aftermarket handlebar that will almost definitely be an upgrade to your bike’s cockpit.
Best Overall Aluminum Handlebar: Renthal Fatbar 35
mountain bike handlebars
The Renthal Fatbar 35 is a legendary name in mountain biking, known for its durability and reliable performance. This aluminum handlebar provides a sturdy and responsive feel, making it a dependable addition to any mountain bike. While not as vibration-damping as carbon, the Fatbar 35 offers a comfortable ride for an aluminum option and is available at a reasonable price.
Pros:
- Reasonably Priced: Excellent value for a high-quality aluminum handlebar.
- Tried and True Design: Proven performance and durability.
- Durable: Built to withstand demanding trail conditions.
- Multiple Rise Options: Available in 10mm, 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm rises.
Cons:
- Heavier than Carbon: Weighs more than carbon fiber handlebars.
- Vibration Dampening: Less effective at absorbing vibrations compared to carbon.
The Renthal Fatbar 35 is a fantastic choice for riders seeking a durable, high-performing aluminum handlebar without breaking the bank. Its reputation for reliability and performance makes it a solid upgrade.
mountain bike handlebars – the renthal fatbar was out favorite aluminum model from a control…
The Renthal FatBar was our favorite aluminum model from a control standpoint. Beefy enough for responsive handling, but forgiving enough to dampen some vibration too.
Best Bang for the Buck Carbon Handlebar: OneUp Components Carbon Handlebar
mountain bike handlebars
OneUp Components Carbon Handlebar strikes an impressive balance between price and performance. This handlebar delivers the benefits of carbon fiber—light weight and vibration dampening—at a more accessible price point than other carbon models. Its unique ovalized design enhances vertical compliance, resulting in a remarkably comfortable ride.
Pros:
- Lightweight: Only 223 grams for the 20mm rise version.
- Affordable Carbon: Competitively priced for a carbon handlebar.
- Balanced Ride Feel: Excellent blend of comfort and control.
- Great Vibration Dampening: Ovalized design effectively absorbs trail vibrations.
Cons:
- 35mm Clamp Only: Requires a 35mm stem clamp.
The OneUp Carbon Handlebar is an outstanding value for riders seeking the performance advantages of carbon without the premium price tag. It’s a smart upgrade that enhances both comfort and control.
mountain bike handlebars – not only is it a good value, but the oneup carbon handlebar proved…
Not only is it a good value, but the OneUp Carbon Handlebar proved to be a tester favorite with an excellent blend of comfort and control, plus it looks great.
Best on a Super Tight Budget: Funn Full-On
mountain bike handlebars
For riders on a budget, the Funn Full-On handlebar offers incredible value. This aluminum handlebar provides a significant upgrade over stock bars at a fraction of the cost. Despite its affordability, the Full-On delivers solid performance, offering good stiffness and reasonable vibration dampening.
Pros:
- Very Affordable: Extremely budget-friendly.
- Multiple Colors: Available in 5 anodized colors.
- Clamp Diameter Options: Available in both 31.8mm and 35mm clamp diameters.
Cons:
- Heavier Weight: Weighs 335 grams.
- Less Forgiving: Not as effective at vibration dampening as higher-end options.
The Funn Full-On proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to improve your ride. It’s a fantastic entry-level upgrade that offers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
mountain bike handlebars – the funn full-on costs a fraction of any other bar we tested, yet…
The Funn Full-On costs a fraction of any other bar we tested, yet they still perform admirably on the trail.
A Close Second: Santa Cruz Bicycles Carbon 800 Riser
mountain bike handlebars
The Santa Cruz Bicycles Carbon 800 Riser impressed us with its well-rounded performance. This carbon handlebar offers an excellent balance of stiffness and compliance, resulting in precise control and all-day comfort. Santa Cruz’s expertise in carbon fiber is evident in the quality and design of this handlebar.
Pros:
- Excellent Stiffness and Compliance Balance: Provides both control and comfort.
- Lightweight: Weighs 240 grams.
- Well-Designed: High-quality construction and stealthy aesthetics.
Cons:
- Price: Higher price point associated with carbon fiber.
- Branding: Santa Cruz logo might not appeal to all riders.
- Limited Rise Options: Only available in a 20mm rise.
The Santa Cruz Carbon Riser is a top-tier option for riders seeking a high-performance carbon handlebar that delivers in both control and comfort.
mountain bike handlebars – the santa cruz carbon riser is an excellent handlebar that is…
The Santa Cruz Carbon Riser is an excellent handlebar that is lightweight with a balanced ride feel.
Best for Extra Backsweep: SQlab 30X 12-Degree Carbon
mountain bike handlebars
The SQlab 30X 12-Degree Carbon is designed for riders seeking enhanced ergonomics and wrist comfort. With a 12-degree backsweep (also available in 16-degree), this handlebar promotes a more natural hand and arm position. SQlab’s focus on ergonomics makes this a unique option for riders experiencing wrist discomfort.
Pros:
- Ergonomic Design: Increased backsweep for improved wrist comfort.
- Lightweight: Weighs 235 grams.
- Carbon and Aluminum Options: Available in both materials.
Cons:
- Price: Carbon version is expensive.
- Increased Backsweep: May not be preferred by all riders.
- Rise Measurement: Rise measurements may differ from other brands.
The SQlab 30X Carbon is a niche handlebar that caters to riders prioritizing ergonomics and wrist comfort. It’s a potential solution for those struggling with hand or wrist pain during rides.
mountain bike handlebars – if you experience wrist discomfort with regular bars, the 12 or…
If you experience wrist discomfort with regular bars, the 12 or 16-degree sweep of the SQlab 30X may prove to be a more ergonomically friendly option.
Best for Lightweight: Race Face Next R 35 Carbon
mountain bike handlebars
The Race Face Next R 35 Carbon stands out as the lightest handlebar in our test. Weighing in at a mere 215 grams, it’s an excellent choice for weight-conscious riders. Despite its feathery weight, the Next R 35 Carbon doesn’t compromise on stiffness or control, offering a responsive and efficient ride.
Pros:
- Ultra-Lightweight: The lightest handlebar in our test at 215 grams.
- Stiff and Responsive: 35mm clamp diameter ensures excellent control.
- Multiple Rise Options: Available in 10mm, 20mm, and 35mm rises, and six colors.
Cons:
- Price: One of the more expensive options.
- Vibration Dampening: Slightly less vibration damping compared to top-rated models.
The Race Face Next R 35 Carbon is ideal for riders seeking to minimize weight without sacrificing performance. Its lightweight design and responsive feel make it a top choice for various riding disciplines.
mountain bike handlebars – the next r is a lightweight carbon handlebar that is a great option…
The Next R is a lightweight carbon handlebar that is a great option for any type of riding or bike.
Best for Adjustability: Ibis Carbon Adjustable Width
The Ibis Carbon Adjustable Width handlebar offers a unique feature: adjustable width. This innovative design allows riders to experiment with different widths between 750mm and 800mm, making it perfect for fine-tuning bike fit or adapting to varying trail conditions.
Pros:
- Adjustable Width: Allows customization between 750mm and 800mm.
- Lightweight: 254 grams with inserts.
- Comfortable: Provides good vibration dampening.
Cons:
- Price: Premium price for adjustability.
- Stiffness: Not as stiff as some carbon competitors.
- 31.8mm Clamp Only: Limited to 31.8mm stem clamp diameter.
The Ibis Carbon Adjustable Width is a unique solution for riders who value customization and experimentation. Its adjustability feature sets it apart, offering a versatile option for dialing in the perfect handlebar width.
mountain bike handlebars – the unique design of the adjustable width bars makes them adjustable…
The unique design of the Adjustable Width bars makes them adjustable between 750 and 800mm and the inserts can be trimmed to your desired width anywhere in between.
Best for Stiffness: ENVE M7
mountain bike handlebars
The ENVE M7 is engineered for aggressive riders who prioritize stiffness and precise control above all else. This carbon handlebar delivers uncompromising stiffness, resulting in razor-sharp handling and instant response. Made in the USA, the ENVE M7 boasts high-end construction and is designed for demanding trail, enduro, and downhill riding.
Pros:
- Ultra-Stiff: Maximum stiffness for precise steering.
- Lightweight: 241 grams.
- Made in the USA: High-quality manufacturing.
Cons:
- Price: Premium price associated with high-end components.
- Stiffness: Can be too stiff for riders seeking more compliance.
- Vibration Dampening: Less effective at vibration damping compared to more compliant models.
The ENVE M7 is the ultimate choice for aggressive riders who demand maximum stiffness and control. It’s built for pushing limits and provides unwavering precision in demanding terrain.
mountain bike handlebars – the m7 is a burly carbon handlebar made to be super stiff for…
The M7 is a burly carbon handlebar made to be super stiff for precise control at high speeds and in demanding situations under strong pilots.
Best Alloy Handlebar for Vibration Dampening: Spank Oozy Trail 780 Vibrocore
mountain bike handlebars
The Spank Oozy Trail 780 Vibrocore stands out for its innovative Vibrocore technology. This aluminum handlebar is injected with foam to dampen vibrations, offering a more comfortable ride than typical alloy bars. It’s a lighter-weight aluminum option that aims to bridge the gap in comfort between aluminum and carbon.
Pros:
- Vibrocore Technology: Foam-filled core reduces vibration.
- Lightweight for Alloy: 278 grams.
- Multiple Color Options: Available in five colors.
Cons:
- Price: More expensive than some aluminum handlebars.
- Control: Slightly less sharp control compared to stiffer options.
The Spank Oozy Trail 780 Vibrocore is a great choice for riders seeking enhanced vibration damping in an aluminum handlebar. Its Vibrocore technology sets it apart, offering a smoother ride without the carbon price tag.
mountain bike handlebars – the vibrocore foam is clearly visible inside the oozy trail…
The Vibrocore foam is clearly visible inside the Oozy Trail handlebar. It runs nearly the whole length of the bar.
Best Burly Aluminum Handlebar: Deity Components Blacklabel 800
The Deity Components Blacklabel 800 is built for aggressive downhill riding. This aluminum handlebar is incredibly stiff and robust, offering maximum control and responsiveness in demanding situations. Proven on World Cup DH tracks and Rampage, the Blacklabel 800 is for riders who prioritize stiffness and durability above all else.
Pros:
- Extremely Stiff: Uncompromising stiffness for maximum control.
- Reasonable Price: Good value for a burly aluminum handlebar.
- Slick Looks: Available in multiple logo colors.
Cons:
- Heavy: Weighs 340 grams.
- Stiffness: May be too stiff for riders seeking compliance.
- Vibration Dampening: Limited vibration damping.
The Deity Blacklabel 800 is the go-to handlebar for downhill enthusiasts and aggressive riders who demand maximum stiffness and control. It’s built to withstand the most punishing trails and deliver unwavering performance.
mountain bike handlebars – no matter your style of riding, upgrading your handlebar can improve…
No matter your style of riding, upgrading your handlebar can improve your bike’s performance. We tested 11 different models.
Why Upgrade Your Mountain Bike Handlebar?
Often overlooked, the handlebar is a critical component that significantly impacts your mountain bike’s feel and performance. Stock handlebars, while functional, are often basic and don’t cater to individual riding styles or preferences. Upgrading your handlebar allows you to:
- Improve Comfort: Different materials and designs offer varying levels of vibration dampening, reducing hand fatigue and numbness.
- Enhance Control: Handlebar width, rise, and sweep influence your body position and leverage, affecting steering precision and handling.
- Reduce Weight: Switching to a lighter handlebar, especially carbon fiber, can contribute to overall weight savings and improved bike agility.
- Customize Fit: Choosing the right geometry ensures a comfortable and efficient riding posture, tailored to your body and riding style.
Key Handlebar Considerations for Mountain Biking
When selecting a mountain bike handlebar, consider these crucial factors:
Width: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Handlebar width has increased in recent years to enhance control and leverage, especially on modern, more aggressive bikes. Wider bars promote a forward, “attacking” stance, improving stability and cornering. However, width is a personal preference, and excessively wide bars can be detrimental.
mountain bike handlebars – in recent years, handlebars have trended wider to work with modern…
In recent years, handlebars have trended wider to work with modern bike geometry and aggressive riding styles.
- Personal Preference: Consider your body size and riding style.
- Typical Width Ranges: DH/Enduro: 780-800mm (men), 740-780mm (women); Trail/XC: 750-780mm.
- Adjustability: Most handlebars can be trimmed to your desired width.
Experiment to find the width that feels most natural and comfortable for your riding style.
mountain bike handlebars – handlebar width is a personal preference. most modern trail and…
Handlebar width is a personal preference. Most modern trail and all-mountain bikes come spec’d with a 780-800mm bar these days. Most bars can be trimmed to your desired width.
Geometry: Rise and Sweep for Comfort and Control
Handlebar geometry includes rise and sweep, which influence your riding posture and wrist angle.
mountain bike handlebars – handlebars come in all shapes and sizes, they are offered in…
Handlebars come in all shapes and sizes, they are offered in different widths, upsweep, back sweep, rise, and clamp diameters.
- Rise: The vertical height of the handlebar. Higher rise bars (20-40mm) promote an upright position, common in trail/enduro/DH. Lower rise or flat bars encourage a forward, aggressive stance, typical in XC riding.
- Sweep (Backsweep and Upsweep): Angles of the handlebar ends. Backsweep angles bars towards you for wrist comfort. Upsweep provides a slight vertical lift for a neutral wrist position. Most bars have 8-10° backsweep and 4-6° upsweep.
Choose rise and sweep based on your riding discipline and comfort preferences.
Material: Carbon Fiber vs. Aluminum Alloy
The material of your handlebar significantly impacts weight, vibration dampening, and price.
mountain bike handlebars – mountain bike handlebars generally come in either carbon fiber or…
Mountain bike handlebars generally come in either carbon fiber or aluminum. The different materials have different performance characteristics, weights, and prices.
- Carbon Fiber:
- Pros: Lighter weight, superior vibration dampening, design flexibility.
- Cons: Higher price.
- Aluminum Alloy:
- Pros: More affordable, durable, wide variety of shapes and sizes.
- Cons: Heavier than carbon, less vibration damping.
Carbon fiber offers weight savings and enhanced comfort, while aluminum alloy provides durability and value.
Clamp Diameter: 31.8mm vs. 35mm
The clamp diameter affects stiffness at the stem-handlebar interface.
mountain bike handlebars – the larger 35mm clamp diameter creates a stiffer stem/bar interface…
The larger 35mm clamp diameter creates a stiffer stem/bar interface. There are advantages to each bore size/clamp diameter.
- 35mm: Stiffer, often preferred for aggressive riding. Becoming increasingly common on trail and enduro bikes.
- 31.8mm: More compliant, potentially more comfortable. Still prevalent on XC and trail bikes.
Consider your riding style and desired stiffness when choosing clamp diameter. Note that changing diameter may require a new stem.
Adjustability: Fine-Tuning Your Width
Handlebar width can be adjusted by trimming the ends. Some handlebars, like the Ibis Adjustable Width, offer more versatile width adjustments.
mountain bike handlebars – most manufacturers put measurement lines on the ends of the…
Most manufacturers put measurement lines on the ends of the handlebar to help in the trimming process. The Ibis bar has blue aluminum inserts to adjust between 750 and 800mm, and the insert can be trimmed to the desired length in between.
- Trimming: Standard handlebars can be trimmed to reduce width.
- Adjustable Width Handlebars: Offer on-the-fly width changes, ideal for experimentation.
Stiffness, Compliance, and Control: Finding the Right Balance
Stiffness and compliance are key performance characteristics.
mountain bike handlebars – heavy-hitting terrain requires precise handling and enough…
Heavy-hitting terrain requires precise handling and enough forgiveness that your hands don’t go numb. The best handlebars provide a combination of both.
- Stiffness: Resistance to bending, enhances steering precision and control.
- Compliance: Flex or elasticity, absorbs trail chatter and reduces hand fatigue.
The best handlebars balance stiffness for control with compliance for comfort.
mountain bike handlebars – the santa cruz carbon riser was one of our favorite models for its…
The Santa Cruz Carbon Riser was one of our favorite models for its excellent blend of stiffness and compliance.
Weight: Grams Can Make a Difference
Weight is a consideration, especially for performance-oriented riders.
mountain bike handlebars – depending how you ride you may or may not be concerned with the…
Depending how you ride you may or may not be concerned with the weight of your handlebar, but it is an easy place to shave some weight from the bike while also improving performance.
- Carbon Fiber Advantage: Significantly lighter than aluminum.
- Weight Savings: Reducing handlebar weight contributes to overall bike agility.
Style and Design: Personal Touches
While performance is paramount, handlebar aesthetics can also be a factor.
mountain bike handlebars – style is a personal preference, of course, and most handlebars look…
Style is a personal preference, of course, and most handlebars look relatively similar. We generally prefer stealthy, subtle looks like the SQlab 30X pictured here.
- Finish and Features: Consider finish quality, unique technologies (like Vibrocore), and color options.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Mountain Bike Experience
mountain bike handlebars – a new handlebar is a component upgrade that can take the comfort and…
A new handlebar is a component upgrade that can take the comfort and performance of your bike to a new level. There are loads of great options to choose from to suit varying needs and riding styles.
Upgrading your mountain bike handlebar is a worthwhile investment that can transform your ride. By considering factors like material, geometry, width, and stiffness, you can find the perfect handlebar to enhance your comfort, control, and overall enjoyment on the trails. Explore the options, consider your riding style, and unlock the full potential of your mountain bike.
