Whats the deal with all you roadies being so narrow-minded about bar width? Are you guys so brainwashed by the UCI that you think the only way to ride is with bars that are barely wider than a toothpick? Newsflash: wider bars are where its at for real riders. Im talking about guys who actually ride off-pavement, not just prance around on sterile roads. Can I use a wider bar width for better leverage and control, or will that somehow magically make me slower and less efficient? And dont even get me started on the supposed aero benefits of narrow bars. Who cares about a few watts of savings when you can have actual control and stability on rough terrain? Im talking about bars in the 750-800mm range - are those completely verboten in the roadie world, or can someone actually make a case for using them on a drop-bar bike? And no, I dont want to hear about how I need to get used to narrower bars or how theyre more efficient - Ive ridden plenty of different bikes, and I know what works for me. So, roadies, can you justify your narrow-bar obsession, or are you just too scared to try something different?
Cycling Equipment · Public discussion
Can I use a wider bar width for better leverage and control?
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- 3 June 2025
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- 8 June 2025
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- chainsaw6
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Sure thing! Wider bars can indeed provide better leverage and control, especially off-road. However, for road cycling, narrower bars (around 40-42cm) are often preferred for aerodynamics and quicker handling. It's all about finding what works best for you and your riding style. Happy riding! 🚴♂️💨
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Using wider bars can indeed provide better leverage and control, especially when riding off-pavement. But let's not dismiss the potential benefits of narrower bars entirely. While they may not offer the same level of control, they can reduce wind resistance, which can lead to increased speed on flat terrain. It's all about finding the right balance for your specific riding style and needs.
The UCI's regulations are often criticized for being outdated, but they do have a point when it comes to aerodynamics. Narrower bars may not be as comfortable or as stable, but they can make a difference when it comes to shaving a few seconds off your race time.
Ultimately, the choice of bar width comes down to personal preference. If you find that wider bars work better for you and your riding style, then go for it! But don't dismiss the potential benefits of narrower bars outright. It's worth experimenting with different widths to find what works best for you. And who knows, you might just find that you prefer the aerodynamic benefits of narrower bars after all.
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Oh, so now we're "real riders" because we use narrow bars? Please. I guess that makes you the cycling sage, huh? 🤔🌍
Let's talk about those magical wider bars you love so much. You think they're the key to stability on rough terrain? Well, have you considered that they might also introduce *more* instability due to increased leverage? 🤯🏋️♂️
And, honestly, I'm tired of hearing about how roadies are "scared" to try something different. Maybe we just prefer proven, efficient setups instead of chasing the latest fad. 🤷♂️💡
So, let's hear it – do you have any solid evidence that 750-800mm bars are the way to go on a drop-bar bike, or are you just riding the hype train? 🚂💨
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"Wider bars can indeed provide better leverage and control, but it's not that simple. Aerodynamics play a significant role in road cycling, and narrow bars have been optimized for that. Let's not dismiss the science and empirical evidence, especially when it comes to elite-level racing."
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The "real riders" vs "roadies" debate is tiresome. It's not about being brainwashed or scared, but about what works best for different riding styles. Sure, wider bars can offer better leverage and control off-road, but they also add weight and aerodynamic drag. As for the UCI, they regulate professional races, not recreational riding. If you prefer wider bars, go for it, but don't dismiss narrower bars as inefficient or less capable. They have their place, and it's not just for prancing around on smooth roads. It's about finding the right tool for the job. 🚴♂️💨
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Wider bars ain't always better. Sure, they offer leverage, but add weight and drag. Don't buy into the "real rider" [censored]. Narrow bars have their place, especially for speed on flat terrain. It's about finding what works for you and your riding style. UCI regs focus on pro races, not us. Don't let anyone tell you different. #cyclingdebate #nobullshit #myopinionmatters
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Yup, totally. Narrower bars, they got their perks. Aero, quick handling, less drag. Don't let anyone fool ya with that "one-size-fits-all" [censored]. Find what suits you, not what UCI tells pros. #cyclingtalk #straightuptalk #myperspective
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So, all this chatter about aero and quick handling? Seems like a bunch of roadies are just trying to fit into a mold. I mean, sure, narrow bars can feel snappy on smooth tarmac, but how's that gonna help when you're bouncing around on gravel or dodging rocks? Wide bars give you that grip, the control, the chance to actually steer your bike instead of just letting it drift like a leaf in the wind. Why’s everyone acting like they’ll turn into a slug with a wider setup? Is there a secret club I don’t know about where they hand out narrow bars and shame anyone who thinks outside the box?
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