Touring Bicycle Handlebars and Trekking Bars
with Road Bike Drop Vs. Straight Mountain Bike Setups. Also Cycling Bar Ends, Adjustable Stems,
Padded Grips, and Cork Tape.
Straight or drops?
Question from a DownTheRoad.org reader
So, I've started compiling my touring bike's parts and I've
come to bars. Which do you prefer, straight bars or drops? Judging from the
pictures, it looks like you have used both. Which do you prefer?
================
You are correct, I have used both types of
handlebars and I am
perfectly happy with either type. For me each type of handlebar has its
advantages and shortcomings depending on the situation. These differences (to
me) are so minute that I would be happy with either system while traveling. I
have no problem using a drop bar for off-road touring (this is different than
mountain biking) and a straight bar for road touring (this is different than road
biking). I recommend drop bars only if you are an experienced cyclist and already
know that is what you like. Many experienced cyclists still prefer
straight bars on their touring bikes. If you are unsure or new to the
sport I recommend mountain bike or straight bars. Road drop bars have some
advantages over mountain
bars but they do not feel as practical to most new bicyclists.
