Can You Put Aero Bars On A Road Bike

Do you want to go faster on your road bike Then you might want to consider adding aero bars. Aero bars are extensions that attach to your handlebars and allow you to tuck in your body for a more aerodynamic position. This can help you save energy and go faster, especially on long rides or descents.

Can You Add Aero Bars to Your Road Bike?

Yes, you can add aero bars to your road bike. However, it is important to note that aero bars are not for everyone. They are designed for triathletes and other cyclists who are looking to improve their aerodynamics and speed. If you are not an experienced cyclist, you should not use aero bars without first consulting with a qualified bike mechanic.

Adding aero bars to your road bike can be a relatively simple process. However, it is important to make sure that the bars are installed correctly. If the bars are not installed correctly, they can be dangerous.

Here are the steps on how to add aero bars to your road bike:

1. Remove the stem from your bike.
2. Install the aero bar mount to the steerer tube.
3. Install the aero bars to the mount.
4. Reattach the stem to the bike.

Once the aero bars are installed, you will need to adjust them so that they are comfortable for you to ride. You will need to adjust the height of the bars, the angle of the bars, and the reach of the bars.

It is important to experiment with different settings until you find a position that is comfortable for you. Once you have found a comfortable position, you can start riding with your aero bars.

Here are some tips for riding with aero bars:

Start by riding with the aero bars for short distances. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend riding with the aero bars.
Be aware of your surroundings when you are riding with the aero bars. You will have less visibility than you would if you were not using aero bars.
Be careful when turning with the aero bars. You will need to turn more slowly than you would if you were not using aero bars.

Aero bars can be a great way to improve your aerodynamics and speed. However, it is important to use them correctly and safely.

Can You Put Aero Bars on a Road Bike?

What are Aero Bars?

Aero bars are handlebars that extend forward from the stem of a road bike, allowing the rider to assume a more aerodynamic position. This can help to reduce drag and improve speed, especially when riding at high speeds.

Are Aero Bars Legal for Road Cycling?

Yes, aero bars are legal for road cycling. However, they are not allowed in all races. Some races, such as time trials, require riders to use standard handlebars. Others, such as criteriums, may allow riders to use aero bars, but they may not be allowed to use them in certain sections of the course.

How to Install Aero Bars on a Road Bike

Installing aero bars on a road bike is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to make sure that you install them correctly, as improper installation can lead to problems.

To install aero bars, you will need the following tools:

A hex wrench
A screwdriver
A tape measure
A level

1. Remove the stem from the bike. To do this, loosen the bolts that hold the stem in place with a hex wrench. Once the bolts are loose, you can remove the stem from the bike.
2. Install the aero bar mount. The aero bar mount is a bracket that attaches to the stem of the bike. It will need to be positioned so that the aero bars are level. To install the mount, use a screwdriver to tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
3. Install the aero bars. The aero bars will attach to the aero bar mount. To install them, simply slide them onto the mount and tighten the bolts that hold them in place.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Aero Bars

There are a number of advantages and disadvantages to using aero bars on a road bike.

Advantages:

Aero bars can help to reduce drag and improve speed, especially when riding at high speeds.
Aero bars can help to improve comfort, as they allow the rider to assume a more aerodynamic position.
Aero bars can help to reduce fatigue, as they allow the rider to distribute their weight more evenly.

Disadvantages:

Aero bars can make it difficult to see behind you.
Aero bars can make it difficult to turn the handlebars.
Aero bars can make it difficult to reach the brakes and shifters.

Conclusion

Aero bars can be a great way to improve your speed and comfort on a road bike. However, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before deciding whether or not to use them.

Also Read: Can You Put Road Bike Handlebars On A Hybrid

FAQs: Can you put aero bars on a road bike?

What are aero bars?

Aero bars are handlebars that are designed to reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamics. They are typically wider and more curved than traditional handlebars, and they allow the rider to tuck their body in closer to the bike. This can result in a significant decrease in drag, which can lead to faster speeds.

Are aero bars legal in cycling?

Yes, aero bars are legal in cycling. They are used by both professional and amateur cyclists alike. However, there are some rules and regulations governing their use. For example, in road cycling, aero bars must be mounted to the handlebar stem, and they cannot extend more than 5cm beyond the handlebar.

Can I put aero bars on any road bike?

Not all road bikes are compatible with aero bars. The bike must have a handlebar stem that is long enough to accommodate the aero bars. Additionally, the bike’s frame must be able to support the weight of the aero bars and the rider.

How do I install aero bars on my road bike?

Installing aero bars on a road bike is relatively straightforward. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The following steps provide a general overview of the installation process:

1. Remove the existing handlebars from the bike.
2. Mount the aero bars to the handlebar stem.
3. Adjust the position of the aero bars so that they are comfortable for you to ride.
4. Secure the aero bars in place.

What are the benefits of using aero bars?

There are a number of benefits to using aero bars on a road bike. These include:

Increased aerodynamics: Aero bars can reduce wind resistance by up to 30%, which can lead to faster speeds.
Improved comfort: Aero bars can help to reduce rider fatigue by allowing the rider to tuck their body in closer to the bike.
Increased control: Aero bars can provide the rider with more control over the bike, especially at high speeds.

What are the drawbacks of using aero bars?

There are a few drawbacks to using aero bars on a road bike. These include:

Increased weight: Aero bars add weight to the bike, which can make it more difficult to accelerate and climb hills.
Reduced visibility: Aero bars can block the rider’s view of the road, which can make it more difficult to see obstacles.
Increased risk of injury: Aero bars can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.