Best Aero Bars for Road Bike (Make Speed and Comfort Inseparable)

Aero bars skyrocketed to fame when Greg LeMond used it during the 1989 Tour De France competition. Some people during that time did not have any idea what those innovative-looking aero bars are on a road bike that were sticking out from Greg’s bike. They were so amazed about what the greatest American cyclist was adding into his handlebars. 

Today, aero bars have become a household name among everyday cyclists. Aero bars on a mountain bike serve as wonderful addition because it helps improve a cyclist’s performance by increasing speed and providing better comfort. All these benefits without the need to spend a huge amount, in just one piece of gear, the aero bars. 

Any seasoned cyclist would admit that it would be difficult to achieve improved speed when the wind keeps the bike from doing so. This is when aero bars on a road bike will prove to be very helpful. Not to mention aero bars on a mountain bike which is also greatly appreciated by many cycling enthusiasts. 

What are Aerobars?

The so-called aerobars actually refers to a set of handlebars that are being attached to what is already on the bike. The word “aero” represents the aerodynamic abilities that it provides the rider. 

Aero bars are also referred to as tri bars, triathlon bars or clip-on aero bars. Aero bars are mainly designed with long bars and cushioned elbow pads. Although different people have different names to it, aero bars serve one purpose. This is to help cyclists achieve great improvement in aerodynamic performance. Thus, they can easily compete with even the most seasoned cyclist. 

Why should a cyclist install aero bars to the bike?

Its design allows the rider to deviate from his regular riding position for improved performance.  The riding position that aero bars on a mountain bike provides are known to be favored well not just by beginners. Seasoned cyclists also find these aerobars so beneficial. 

Many cyclists find it too difficult to splurge a hefty amount on a tri bike to be able to compete in a main event. However, this issue can be resolved with the addition of aero bars on a mountain bike. By simply adding it to the cyclist’s existing handlebars, one can already enjoy its many advantages. So, instead of investing on a $6,000 bike in which one may find too difficult to afford, it is better to install aero bars. This is because for improved performance to be achieved, one has to increase his speed. And the best way to do this is to reduce aerodynamic drag. Although there are plenty of upgrading that one can do for his bike to make it more aerodynamic, nothing gives the greatest returns than installing a good pair of aero bars on a mountain bike. 

What are the Different Parts of an Aero Bar?

Bars

These bars are both forward facing while its grip is on the end so that the rider can easily hold onto it. These bars are usually made from aluminum or carbon. Some aerobars on a road bike are adjustable so that the rider will be able to change its length or width according to what is more comfortable for him. There are bars that come in separate skis and some are just in one complete bar. 

Pads

Some aero bars on mountain bikes have cushioned pads and some do not have it. Others prefer to install cushioned pads later. These pads are mostly made of foam that allows riders to firmly place their elbows.  These pads relieve much of the soreness being felt by riders from riding for long periods of time. 

Clip-On Parts

Although the name says “clip-on”, in reality these have to be screwed to be secured firmly onto the bike. 

Are Aero Bars only good for cycling professionals?

Aerobars are NOT Just for Seasoned Athletes. Contrary to what others believe, aero bars can benefit any cyclist. So, instead of spending thousands of dollars on a time trial bike or tri bike, one can just opt to add aerobars into his bike. The truth is, aerobars on a road bike can be used by anyone. 

Aero Bars Can Be Used for Different Bike Types

The following is a list of examples where aero bars can be of great use. 

Triathlon Bikes

Triathlon bikes equipped with aero bars can do wonders in improving one’s performance. Since aero bars significantly reduce fatigue and improve speed, the cyclist will find it easier to relax. Thus, getting one’s self ready for the next segment of the competition will also be easier to do. Needless to say, aero road bike for triathlon gives the rider an edge over his competitors. 

Road Bikes

People who own road bikes for daily commute, leisure or for exercise may benefit from aero bars. Commute time can be reduced with the addition of aerobars on a road bike. If the road bike is used for exercise, one will be able to extend his exercise time. This is because aero bars reduce the fatigue that a cyclist may experience out of pedaling for prolonged periods. It reduces much pain or stress that one may usually feel in his back. This makes the riding experience feel much more pleasurable. 

Time Trial Bikes

Unfortunately, aerobars are prohibited in road races. However, most formal competitions do allow the use of aero bars during time trials. The advantages that aerobars on a road bike provide are no doubt perfect for short distance measures of speed. 

What are the Benefits of Using Aerobars?

Improves Speed

This is one of the most common reasons why cyclists prefer to install aerobars on a mountain bike. With the improvement of aerodynamics and speed that aerobars offer, every cyclist needs to have one. 

Reduces Drag

Wind resistance is one significant factor that affects a cyclist's performance. Having a wider surface for the wind to connect with is tantamount to more drag being created by the cyclist himself. This is where aerobars for mountain bike become very helpful. It changes the cyclist’s riding profile and make him narrower. In turn, the surface area in which the wind connects with will be reduced. The result would be lowered wind resistance. 

This is because a cyclist’s body accounts for most of the frontal area. Other upgrades that people make on their bikes only improves the way that air passes past the bike and the rest of its components. The best thing about aero bars on mountain bikes is that it actually reduces the area that the cyclist’s body is catching the wind. 

Saves Energy 

Aerobars on a mountain bike are energy efficient. This has been proven in several studies. One study showed that aerobars help reduce a cyclist’s power output for as much as 29.4 watts. People who are using a standard road bike may largely benefit from clip-on aero bars. Once these aero bars have been installed cyclists may expect to be able to go faster for as much as 1 to 2 mph. 

Increases Level of Comfort

Cycling can be so tiring. This is so true especially if the road is not so biker friendly. The addition of mountain bike aerobars it would become easier for the rider to change position. And this will certainly relieve so much discomfort on the part of the rider. The ability to put the elbows on the pads that usually come with aero bars surely spells comfort and reduced fatigue for riders. These pads also help absorb some of the shock that is usually experienced from riding on rough surfaces. 

Reduces Injury

Riding a bike exposes one to different types of injuries. This is true especially if one has to ride on difficult roads for extended periods. Besides, poor positioning also puts one at risk of suffering from injuries. However, if aero bars are added onto the handlebars, one is less likely to experience injuries. This is because aero bars on a mountain bike and aero bars on a road bike help improve one’s posture all throughout the ride. Not to mention the comfort it provides that spares one from aches and pains that cyclists are prone to. 

More Space for Mounting

Having more space for mounting some essentials during backpacking is a great bonus of having aero bars. During non-competition rides, aero bars on a road bike may also serve as a place for mounting a rider’s feed bags, lights, etc. This is because aero bars help create more horizontal space that can be very helpful especially when going for backpacking adventure. 

Provides More Riding Positions

Aerobars allow riders to be in a different riding position which is so helpful especially during long days. Having aerobars on a mountain bike would mean the rider does not need to be exactly in the same position all throughout the duration of the ride. With aero bars, the biker’s elbows and arm bones will be the one supporting the cyclist’s upper body weight. In turn, the arms, hands and wrists will now experience less strain. Besides, aero bars also make it easier for the rider to stretch out as he will have the ability to use the different muscle groups in his back. 

The benefits that one can get from using mountain bike aerobars may also depend on its quality. When used correctly and properly, one will be able to experience most if not all of the benefits of using aerobars. 

Different Types Of Aero Bars For Mountain Bike

Ergonomic Aero Bars

These aero bars for mountain bike offer riders several options for adjustments to ensure they achieve not just aerodynamic positioning. The ability to choose from different adjustments also helps guarantee riders of the level of comfort that they long for. 

These ergonomic aerobars on a mountain bike have easy to access clams and holes. Plus, its series of screws or bolts make it very easy for one to adjust the aero bars any way a cyclist wishes to. Its padded armrests can be shifted backward, forward or side to side. Its angles can also be twisted inwards. The extensions can be moved or rotated depending on the rider’s preference. See? These are the reasons why these ergonomic aero bars are called as such. 

Clip On Aero Bars

These triathlon aero bars are also called tri-bars or clip-on aerobars. These clip-on aero bars for mountain bikes are designed to be so practical and bikers will also be glad to know that these are non-fussy. Just purely simple yet so functional. People who plan to attend a triathlon for the first time using a mountain bike should have these as an addition to their bike. Its design makes the bike perfect for evening rides. It is also great for long distance weekend trips. 

Time Trial Mountain Bike Aero Bars

These mountain bike aero bars possess significant attributes that allow cyclists to beat the clock. These offer comfort and aerodynamics. Not to mention that these are also low weight. Its adjustable armrest positions allow one’s arms to angle in the most comfortable position possible to revv up one’s aggressive pedaling. 

The Best Aero Bars Review

Bikers who love the thrill of being in a competition against fellow cycling enthusiasts would see to it that they are using the best aero bars for road bike. This is also true even when a biker would only want to beat his own personal best. For many cyclists, getting the best equipment would often mean having to break the bank. Unfortunately, some of these cyclists also end up feeling frustrated when the equipment that has been purchased does not meet their expected level of improved performance. So they find themselves regretting every cent they spent. 

To avoid experiencing such predicament, consider buying the best aero bars for road bike. This piece of equipment gives one the best aerodynamic performance that people can only expect from a triathlon bike. The best thing about it is that one will only be spending a fraction of the cost than if a person is going to buy a new bike. Besides, people just have to attach these to their bikes and off they went to a competition.  Not to mention the fact that a simple act of purchasing aero bars can save one a lot of money and time. 

Here is a list of some of the best aero bars for road and mountain bikes. 

Redshift Quick-Release Clip-On Aerobars

Image Source: Redshiftsports.com

Redshift has this so-called Switch Aero System that allows super easy conversion from road bike to triathlon use.  This is made possible with Redshift’s easy to remove aero bars. These aerobars are so comfortable to use even though they are slightly wide due to its bar mounts that are outboard of its quick release mechanism. A lot of cyclists who are using this claimed that the aero bars on a mountain bike felt good. It does not have any slippage or creaks. Its pads also felt good on the arms and elbows. 

The Redshift quick-release aero bars are ideal for road bike owners who sometimes dabble into triathlon. It is also good for novice triathletes who do not want to splurge a hefty amount on pricey mountain bike aero bars. 

Compared to reversible seat post, a quick-release aero bars on a road bike is definitely better. It would definitely be the most significant aerodynamic advantage that a cyclist can experience with his road bike. What makes these aero bars so appealing is the fact that cyclists can easily remove it to have reduced weight whenever they are going for a “road style” ride. In addition, the thought of being able to attach them easily to the bike whenever the need arises is also what makes it such a compelling bike addition to have. Since it is easy to remove, it will not pose any issue when the bike needs to be placed in the car trunk or inside the travel case. 

Redshift’s aero bars for mountain bikes are equipped with a pair of semi-permanent aluminum brackets. These are bolted into the bars while its extensions as well as its arm rests are attached via dovetail interface. Everything can be secured in place using spring-loaded bar and a lever which is cam-typed. 

The extension heights and arm rest of these aero bars for mountain bikes are adjustable. One can also easily tweak its armrest width. Its standard-diameter extensions are provided in three varying shapes and these are L-bend, S-bend and straight. In other words, Redshift aerobars provide multiple adjustability that ensures perfect fit in terms of extension reach, rotation, pad width and fore draft. These advantages can be attributed to its Switch Aero System that guarantees maximum comfort. This makes riding long distances, no matter what the road conditions are a lot easier to do. 

However, riders should only make the necessary adjustments once to ensure they achieve a maintained position for each installation and removal of the aero bars. 

Using the aero bars on a road bike makes handling significantly quicker compared to a triathlon bike. One reason for this is the added forward weight bias. Many users of Redshift aero bars claim that they were able to quickly adjust to a new aero riding position. It has also been found that everyone was able to experience stability once they reach above the 10-12 mph. 

Profile Design’s Sonic Ergo Clip-On Aerobar

Image source: profile-design.com

Profile Design’s Sonic Ego clip-on aero bars for mountain bike has been designed to provide cyclists a much broader range of fit. It is equipped with ergo arm rest that has a wide range of adjustment capability. This feature alone is already enough to provide riders their desired level of comfort especially that it also has supportive cups for a biker’s forearms. 

One of the main goals for installing aero bars on a mountain bike is to decrease a cyclist’s frontal area. This decrease in frontal area translates to reduced drag. These aero bars also allow the biker to be in a fast riding position, without having to worry about discomforts, aches and pains all throughout the competition. 

This Sonic Ergo aero bars for mountain bike helps ensure that the biker achieves all these. This will not be possible considering that these aero bars have extension length and rotation that are not complicated to adjust. It only makes use of the top bolt and proper adjustments can be adjusted on the fly. 

There have been claims that Sonic Ergo mountain bike aero bars have great adjustability. It is known to be capable of enabling cyclists around 100 distinct positions with a simple adjustment done on the armrests. Add in the extension width as well as its tilt adjustability that are being offered by its clip-on feature and the cyclist will be on his way to beating his competitors. 

The term Sonic Ergo 45/25 means that its extensions have 45-degree bend on its first section while its grip allows 25-degree bend. For cyclists, this would mean that they get will have the luxury of choosing between a shrugged position or one that is lower, yet more open heads up position. 

Moreover, this Sonic Ergo 45/25a mountain bike aero bar also provides bikers a 7.5 mm lateral shift on each side. This allows them to position their hands on a narrower or wider angle. They can do this without the need to tilt the extensions to an extent that the shifters would already touch. 

Its flippable ergo arm rest design makes it easier for bikers to swap sides or rotate its arm rests so that smaller increments of movement can be achieved. In other words, fine tuning one’s riding position will become easier to do. The adjustability it offers would also make it easier for bikers to fit these aero bars into other bikes. 

Platt Carbon TT Handlebar Bicycle Aero Bars

Image Source: Amazon

This Platt Carbon Aero Bars for mountain bikes are made from carbon fiber and aluminum screws. Its 3k ultra light weave carbon fiber material ensures durability so bikers will not have to worry about buying another new pair of aero bars soon. Its dimensions are 31.8mm x 340 mm. It also weighs 300g which means it is lightweight so adding it to the bike does not have to feel bulky or heavy. 

These mountain bike aero bars would do a great job no matter what the riding conditions are. It gives very little wind resistance as it also enables riders to accelerate so easily so that maximum speed can be achieved. 

Zipp Vuka Aero Bars

Image Source: Zipp.com

The Zipp Vuka mountain bike aero bars are lightweight and offer a very wide range of fit options. Its adjustability allows bikers to choose from more than 6000 positions. Finding an ideal position is not difficult to do because bikers may use it with any stem. Its aerodynamic cockpit to ensure a biker’s biomechanical and aerodynamic positioning all throughout the ride. Zipp Vuka aero engineers designed these bars with increased adjustability in mind. It is also designed to make it easier for cyclists to maintain their aero efficiency. 

These aero bars for mountain bikes are equipped with larger vertical range for adjustments. This helps ensure that bikers will be able to achieve their desired level of comfort. Some riders do want to position their base bars on a low level while their arm rests and their extensions are set high. 

Zipp Vuka mountain bike aero bars also allows bikers to angle their extensions to as much as 10 degrees. Its armrests can also be angled independently at varying degrees such as 5,10 or 15 degrees. This ability to be angled in certain degrees enable riders to be in high hands position. The high hands position is something that many cyclists prefer. It is because for them this high hands position makes them capable of being in the most aerodynamic position. 

Things to Consider when Buying Aero Bars for Mountain Bike

Material

Carbon

Aero bars made from carbon material are lightweight. In fact, many carbon aero bars on a road bike weigh only half of those that were made from other materials. It is also considered as the most ergonomic. Carbon is easy to be fine-tuned to provide riders a perfect combination of low weight, conformity and strength. The only disadvantage to carbon made aero bars is its price. It is because aero bars made from carbon are also the most priciest. Besides, carbon made aero bars were also found to offer more responsive steering. 

Steel

Many bikers shy away from steel aero bars on a road bike mainly because of its weight. The advantage of steel aero bars would be its price. Although many cyclists have already noted that steel aero bars can also be trustworthy. This is true even when riding longer distances. These steel aero bars may feel heavy but rest assured that these are also strong and secure. These qualities are so important since bikers mainly rely on their bars for steering wherever they want to go. 

Aluminum

The strength and price of aluminum aero bars are two factors that make it very popular among cyclists. It is not as lightweight as carbon made aero bars, but its weight is not heavy enough for bikers to avoid it. Aluminum alloy aero bars on a road bike are known for their toughness. Cyclists trust these enough to be used in high speeds. 

Weight

When choosing an aero bar to be installed into a mountain bike, the weight is another important factor to consider. Buying a heavy one would surely defeat the purpose of having aero bars because it would also add weight to the bike. This will only make it too difficult for cyclists to ride uphill. It will also tend to cancel out the benefit of having aero bars on a mountain bike when accelerating downhill. Keep in mind that when choosing aero bars, the lighter it is, the more capable it becomes of providing improved speed. 

Adjustability

There are plenty of the best aero bars for road bike today that have multi-adjustment features. Other types also have a separate rest and bar adjustments. Some aero bars allow cyclists to modify its placement, bar width, armrest angle and bar length. Aero bars that provide lots of room for adjustability are certainly the most comfortable to use. The reason is obvious - one can always change its settings anytime and depending on the riding conditions and the terrain that one will be riding into. 

Diameter

This is another factor that needs careful examination before purchasing. Buying something that is extremely wide will only put more pressure on one’s arms and neck. Besides, very wide clip-on aero bars on a mountain bike would make one feel as if he is driving a truck. 

On the other hand, aero bars that are too narrow would also put more strain on the arms and elbows. However, narrower aero bars also allow the elbows to be positioned inwards thus upgrading the aerodynamics. 

Some aero bars are designed specifically for handlebars that have certain diameter. This guarantees a perfect fit for the bike which in turn also ensures comfort for the rider. 

Ease of Installation

This is another important factor that should not be overlooked. The last thing a biker wants for aero bars is to find himself having too much difficulty tightening its screws or adjusting it to his preferred settings. So, opt for one that makes installation a breeze. The components of the best aero bars for road bike should not take rocket science to assemble together. For example, aero bars that allow flip-up arm rests to be added in a flash are worthy of attention and worthy to be purchased as well. 

Overall Quality

Last but not the least, the overall quality of mountain bike aero bars needs to be taken into consideration. Its padding, cable routing, workmanship, shaping and finishing has to be checked. 

Tips for Using and Adjusting Aero Bars

Some aero bars on mountain bikes are known to be uncomfortable as they tend to be twitchy. This makes aero bars too dangerous to use. However, if aero bars are installed and adjusted properly, they will serve to be wonderful additions to anyone's bike. 

Many people make the mistake of installing their aero bars without bothering to make the necessary adjustments with their bike fit. Consequently, they find themselves feeling unsteady and so uncomfortable. Here are some tips on how to use and adjust aero bars to maximize its benefits:

Make changes to the position of the saddle. 

As soon as aero bars are installed on a bike, they do move the handlebars forward. This would mean that the rider should also adjust the position of his body for it to accommodate the changes made by the mountain bike aero bars. Once the saddle is adjusted forward, the biker will find that it also lowers. Thus, the need for it to be raised upward to compensate for its tendency to move to a lower position. 

Some cyclists would opt to just let its nose tilt to a downward direction. They do this so that it will be easier for them to roll their hips to a forward direction. Once the saddle is shifted to a forward, raised position more weight will be placed on the aero bars. This translates to improved stability for the biker. If the aero bars on a mountain bike still feels uncomfortable even after doing the adjustments, might as well ask for bike experts. 

The pads should be far enough from each other. 

Be keen about where the pads are placed. They should not be too near to each other. Otherwise, the biker will end up scrunching in a way that is too narrow that it makes breathing difficult. Just set it far enough from each other. This way, the rider will be able to reduce his frontal surface without pressing his chest cavity too much. After installing the aero bars on a road bike go for a test ride. This is to check whether the use of aero bars allow the rider’s shoulders to be in their natural scrunching position. It should be natural in the sense that it does not add too much strain on the rider’s back and shoulders. 

Pay attention to the terrain.

Another common mistake that cyclists make is the tendency to just stay on their aero bars even though they are already starting to lose efficiency. If the speed starts to dip especially during an uphill ride, the rider has to get back to sitting up to be able to muster more pedaling power.

Take time to practice the use of aero bars.

Practice the use of aero bars on flat roads. Stay away from the crowd or from a pack of riders. Focus on trying to get used to using aero bars on a road bike. Try to get comfortable riding on aero position for about 10 minutes. As one’s confidence grows, and so is the time spent on that aero position. However, aero bars are not ideal for riding in packs. It is because when an individual is using aero bars, the brakes will become too difficult to reach. So, the person will not be able to react as quickly as he needs to when other riders overtake or when there is an obstacle brought about by pack maneuvers. 

Final Thoughts on Using Aero Bars

If expertly fitted, these aero bars on mountain bikes will certainly give cyclists several dramatic benefits. There is no doubt about that. However, it is also a matter of being completely aware just when and where these aero bars would be deemed highly beneficial. Unfortunately, there are some bikes that were not designed in a way that a good pair of aero bars can be perfectly fitted. Insisting on the use of it even when the bike does not seem capable of catering to aerodynamic accessories such as aero bars would be unsafe. This may pose a danger not just to the rider himself but as well as to his fellow riders on the road. 

So, before buying any brand of aero bars, one has to first determine his goals for riding with such gear. Those who look forward to being trained for a triathlon competition should opt to have aero bars installed on their road bikes. 

In the event that the rider does not have the right bike for perfectly fitting a pair of mountain bike aero bars, consider trading in. If one’s budget allows, the cyclist may also opt to upgrade the bike to make it more capable of having aero bars. Having the right bike, with the best aero bars installed would significantly improve one's chances of winning the competition.