Bicycle Bar Ends Review

In the sport of cycling, bar ends are essentially extensions that fit into the end of the bike’s handlebars. They are most commonly fitted into the ends of the handlebars of mountain bikes and they allow the rider to adjust his or her posture to have better control over the bike. Some brands and models of bikes come equipped with handlebars that already have bar ends welded into them. In most, cases, however, the bar ends are usually fitted or clamped into ends of the handlebars. These were quite popular in mountain bikes manufactured during the 1980s and the 1990s, especially after the upswept or upward turned bars came into style. It is important to note that bike bar ends that are attached a bike can become particularly problematic when trying to achieve certain maneuvers or ride on certain tracks, since the extensions can limit the movement of the handlebars. Most bar ends, like a Shimano bar end or Campagnolo bar ends,  are manufactured using a process called “tungsten inert gas” welding, a process that allows the welder to join the pieces of metal together using a bonding technique. This results in a very strong joint that can withstand tremendous pressure and force that can occur in mountain biking.

Why You Need it

Bar ends, such as a SRAM bar end and Suntour bar ends,  have a variety of purposes. First and foremost, bar ends improve a rider’s performance during a race. They also provide additional stability for riders, especially those who race on tracks that incorporate a great deal of uphill riding. They enable the mountain biker to pedal in a standing position which results in better handling and acceleration on an uphill track. Handlebar bar ends also have an additional use. They provide better stability for the bicycle when the rider is performing mechanical maintenance. Many bicycle repairs are performed with the bike flipped over. Bar ends will enable the bike to balance better in this position. It is important to note, however, that in recent years, a number of mountain bikers have been injured whilst riding with bar ends on their handlebars. Unfortunately, the ends can get caught on a twig or branch on the trail causing the handlebars to jerk to one side causing an accident. Therefore, a rider must be mindful of riding safely when using bar ends.

Major Manufacturers

LP Composites, Bontrager Race OS Bar Ends, Forte Carbon Stix, Setter XE Curved Alloy Bar Ends, Ritchey Comp Bar Ends.

Pricing

Bar ends can range in price from $6.95 to $35.99 for M-Wave Grip bar ends.