Are you looking to get an aero bar for your bike? Wonder what the different kinds of aero bars can do for you?
A Quick Intro To Aero Bars
I am pretty sure you are aware that aero bars are usually used on Time Trial and Triathlon bikes.
These bikes are not your typical riding bikes, they are designed for racing purposes.
There are several different makers of aero bars in the market right now. There is a variety of different styles available. If you want something that will work with bikes that already have existing handlebars, then you might be looking for something called clip-on aero bars.
Clip-on aero bars will fasten to your bike’s existing handlebars. They usually come with the complete set of fastening equipment, arm rest pads and of course the bars themselves.
There are also different styles of bars or extensions you can choose from.
Generally there are 3 styles you can get :
1. The straight bar. No bends of any kind.
2. The chicane. Bar that has a bend or slight job in it. Like an ‘S’ shape.
3. The ski tip. The extension bar looks like the end of professional ski pole. They have a more drastic bend than the chicane extension. Like a ‘J’ shape.
The Aero Bar
Each extension/bar has its own set of benefits.
The chicane and ski tip will allow your hands to be closer together.
This will enable you to be in a more aerodynamic position. This ability will help you to streamline your body position when you are on your bike.
The straight bar will give you the ability to change positions on your bike. It will also allow you to be more aerodynamic too. If your main goal is not aerodynamics, then the straight extensions are perfect.
All these bars/extensions have their own benefits. Let’s assess further on your situation and the types of events that you will be participating.
Aero Bars Based On Your Training Or Event
Now we know that aero bars vary widely in comfort, design, adjustability, price and weight. It is essential to choose the right type of aero bars for the kind of event or training you will be participating. With so many different price points and designs, selecting the right bars based on your needs can be a headache.
Aero Bars For Time Trial And Short Course
First of all, you need to understand that there is a difference between the bars designed for short course events and the ones created for long course triathlon.
Time trial bars are usually used in bike races under 50 km in distance. Comfort is not the main criteria here. They are usually lighter in weight. They are also more aerodynamic usually with little or no adjustment to the pads, pad width or extensions.
It is not uncommon that some of these bars are completely fixed and you cannot make any adjustments at all. Sizing may vary between small, medium and large. The pads are usually thinner and lower-profile. They may be more suitable for short course events but may not be a good choice for long hour training unless you feel very comfortable with them.
Aero Bars For Long Course Triathlons
Aero bars designed for long course triathlons are usually more adjustable and incorporated with more comfortable pads. If this is your goal, make sure you get bars that are suitable for long course adjustability and comfort.
Choosing Between The 3 Styles
Once you have chosen the type of aero bars for your event, the differences are again going to be in price, comfort, adjustability, aerodynamics, and weight.
The key here is to find the right balance between all these factors to suit your needs.
Bear in mind that “expensive” aero bars do not mean they are the most comfortable or adjustable. The next thing is too look at the different bar extensions. Like mentioned above, the type of bar extensions may vary from a straight bar, ‘chicane’ or ‘S’ bend, to a ‘ski tip’ or ‘J’ bend. Many presume that a straight extension is more aerodynamic, but this is not always the case. Some athletes show less aerodynamic drag in the wind tunnel using a ‘ski tip’ bend, and ‘chicane’ bends may be more comfortable/ergonomic. Choosing the extension type based on comfort is a good start.
What About The ‘Weight’ Of An Aero Bar?
When it comes to weight, carbon fiber bars will usually be a bit lighter than aluminum, and also have the extra benefit of dampening road vibration. But, they are generally more expensive.
Clip-on bars can be added to any existing bike bars, enabling a combination of different components. But the downside here is there will be a slight increase in weight which may cause an aerodynamic drag.
Full carbon monocoque bars are by far the most expensive ones (can cost up to $1000). They usually combine all the components of the front end, like the brakes, into one piece of carbon fiber. The cables are routed internally. And you can’t see the clamps and bolts from the slipstream. While these are the most clean, but there’s generally no extra advantages in terms of the aerodynamics.
Pursuit / Base Bars
There are a variety of base bars that you can choose from as well. If you are training on hilly courses in which you stand up or sit, then you may need a longer extension. Some base bars have long grip up to six inches or more while others may have a tiny grip just enough to brake promptly. You get more hand positions with longer extension bars and suitable for out-of-saddle riding. Some don’t feel comfortable with shorter base bars, as they are concern that their hands will slide off the bar when their hands become sweaty.
Your Perfect Aero Bar
It’s always good to start by looking at the price point first. If you are getting a new bicycle, make sure if the aero bars are comfortable for the distance or event you are training for. Once the bars are on your bike, make sure they are adjusted properly. You can seek help from professional fitter and make sure you communicate with your fitter about your preferences.
