How Are Road Bike Handlebars Measured

Are you wondering how to measure your road bike handlebars

Whether you’re looking to replace your old handlebars or you’re just curious about what size you need, knowing how to measure your handlebars is essential.

In this short guide, we’ll walk you through the process of measuring your handlebars so that you can find the perfect fit for your bike.

5 Ways to Measure Your Road Bike Handlebars

1. Center-to-Center

Measure from the center of the stem clamp to the center of the handlebar.

2. Reach

Measure from the center of the stem clamp to the center of the bar where your hands rest.

3. Drop

Measure from the top of the bar to the center of the bar where your hands rest.

4. Width

Measure the widest part of the handlebars.

5. Angle

Measure the angle of the handlebars from the stem.

How Are Road Bike Handlebars Measured?

Handlebar Width

The width of a road bike handlebar is measured from the center of one grip to the center of the other grip. This measurement is typically given in centimeters, and it’s important to choose a handlebar that’s the right width for your body size and riding style.

If you have a narrow frame, you’ll want a narrower handlebar, and if you have a wider frame, you’ll want a wider handlebar. The general rule of thumb is to choose a handlebar that’s about the same width as your shoulders.

You can also measure your reach to find the right handlebar width. To do this, stand with your arms outstretched to the sides and measure the distance between your fingertips. Then, subtract 10 centimeters from this measurement to get the ideal handlebar width.

Bar Radius

The bar radius is the curvature of the handlebar, and it’s measured from the center of the handlebar to the outside edge of the grip. This measurement is typically given in millimeters, and it’s important to choose a handlebar with the right radius for your riding style.

If you ride in a more upright position, you’ll want a handlebar with a shorter radius, and if you ride in a more aggressive position, you’ll want a handlebar with a longer radius.

Bar Height

The bar height is the distance from the top of the handlebar to the ground. This measurement is typically given in centimeters, and it’s important to choose a handlebar that’s the right height for your body size and riding style.

If you have a shorter torso, you’ll want a handlebar that’s lower, and if you have a longer torso, you’ll want a handlebar that’s higher.

Stem Length

The stem length is the distance from the center of the handlebar to the center of the headset. This measurement is typically given in millimeters, and it’s important to choose a stem that’s the right length for your body size and riding style.

If you have a shorter reach, you’ll want a shorter stem, and if you have a longer reach, you’ll want a longer stem.

Conclusion

The width, radius, height, and stem length of your handlebars are all important factors to consider when choosing a new road bike handlebar. By taking the time to measure your body and riding style, you can choose a handlebar that will provide you with the best possible performance.

Also Read: How Many Gears Do Road Bikes Have

FAQs: How are road bike handlebars measured?

What are the different handlebar measurements?

There are three main handlebar measurements:

Reach: This is the distance from the center of the stem clamp to the center of the handlebar.
Drop: This is the vertical distance from the top of the handlebar to the center of the stem clamp.
Width: This is the horizontal distance across the handlebars.

What is the standard handlebar measurement?

There is no standard handlebar measurement, as different riders have different preferences. However, a good starting point is a reach of 80-85mm, a drop of 120-130mm, and a width of 40-44cm.

How do I measure my handlebar reach?

To measure your handlebar reach, you will need a tape measure and a bike.

1. Sit on your bike in a comfortable riding position.
2. Place the end of the tape measure at the center of the stem clamp.
3. Stretch the tape measure to the center of the handlebar.
4. Read the measurement in millimeters.

How do I measure my handlebar drop?

To measure your handlebar drop, you will need a tape measure and a bike.

1. Sit on your bike in a comfortable riding position.
2. Place the end of the tape measure at the top of the handlebar.
3. Stretch the tape measure to the center of the stem clamp.
4. Read the measurement in millimeters.

How do I measure my handlebar width?

To measure your handlebar width, you will need a tape measure and a bike.

1. Sit on your bike in a comfortable riding position.
2. Place the end of the tape measure at one end of the handlebar.
3. Stretch the tape measure to the other end of the handlebar.
4. Read the measurement in millimeters.