Gravel bike handlebars have quickly become essential equipment for cyclists who like to venture off paved roads while maintaining the maneuverability and comfort of a road bike. This type of handlebar is specially designed to provide the perfect balance of comfort, versatility and control, allowing riders to navigate both roads and rougher paths.
In this article, we'll explore the specifics of gravel bike handlebars, their benefits, and why they're the ideal choice for those looking to combine on-road performance with off-road adventures.
1. What are gravel bike handlebars?
The gravel bike handlebar is distinguished mainly by its curved shape (drop bar), similar to that of road bike handlebars, but with particularities that make it better suited to mixed terrain. The key difference is the flare, which is how far apart the grips are at the end of the handlebars. On a gravel handlebar, the handlebar ends are flared outward, creating a wider, more stable shape.
This design allows riders to adopt different hand positions, while maintaining excellent control on more technical and uneven surfaces.
2. The advantages of gravel bike handlebars
The gravel bike handlebar has several advantages that make it a preferred choice for adventure cycling enthusiasts, whether they ride on asphalt roads, dirt paths or rocky trails.
a. Versatility for varied terrain
One of the main advantages of gravel bike handlebars is its ability to adapt to different types of terrain. Whether you're riding on smooth asphalt or gravel trails, these handlebars allow you to easily transition from one environment to another without compromising stability or comfort. The flared shape of the handlebars provides more control, which is essential when going down steep descents or on uneven surfaces.
b. Increased stability and control
The flare of the gravel handlebar provides a wider grip, which improves the stability of the bike, especially at high speeds or on uneven terrain. This expanded grip allows the rider to maintain precise control, even when conditions become more technical. This makes the gravel bike handlebar an excellent choice for those who like to venture on gravel trails, country lanes or forestry routes.
c. Comfort over long distances
The gravel bike handlebar is designed to provide maximum comfort, particularly over long distances. Thanks to its different hand positions, the cyclist can easily vary their posture to avoid muscle fatigue. The low grip allows for a more aerodynamic position on flat roads, while the wider grip provides more comfort and control on descents or technical sections.
d. Versatility of use
With a gravel bike handlebar, you can adopt an aggressive position when you want to gain speed on the road, or a more stable and comfortable position during technical sections. This handlebar is ideal for adventurous cyclists who like to explore varied routes without having to change bikes.
3. The specific characteristics of the gravel bike handlebar
The gravel bike handlebar differs from other handlebars, such as road or racing handlebars, by several specific aspects which make it more efficient on mixed terrain.
a. The flare (flaring of the handlebars)
Flare is the angle at which the ends of the handlebars open outward. On a gravel bike handlebar, the flare is generally more pronounced (between 12° and 24°), allowing a wider grip. This improves bike stability and control, especially on loose surfaces like gravel or dirt. The flare also helps prevent the wrists from being overly stressed during technical descents.
b. Handlebar width
Gravel handlebars are often wider than traditional road handlebars, with widths that can reach up to 50 cm or more. This additional width helps distribute the rider's weight better, providing better maneuverability and increased control, especially in technical or rocky sections.
c. Diameter and drop
The drop (the distance between the upper and lower part of the handlebars) is also a key element of the gravel bike handlebar. It is often shorter than on racing handlebars, providing an easier transition between different grips. This allows the rider to quickly switch from high to low grip, depending on terrain requirements.
4. How to choose a suitable gravel bike handlebar?
Choosing a gravel bike handlebar depends on several criteria, including your riding style, comfort preferences and the types of terrain you ride on.
a. Handlebar width
To choose the right handlebar width, it is essential to take into account your body shape and preferences. A wider handlebar (beyond 46 cm) will offer more stability and control, while a narrower handlebar (around 40 cm) will be more suitable for predominantly road courses, where aerodynamics and speed are priorities. .
b. Flare angle
The flare angle is an important criterion to take into account. A moderate flare (12° to 16°) is perfect for versatile use between road and gravel. If you often ride on more technical terrain, a more pronounced flare (18° to 24°) will further improve control and handling.
c. Handlebar material
Gravel handlebars come in different materials, including aluminum, carbon, and steel.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, affordable and sufficiently stiff, this is a common choice for gravel riders.
- Carbon: Very light and capable of absorbing vibrations, it is the preferred option for cyclists looking for maximum performance.
- Steel: Heavier, but extremely durable, it is perfect for cyclists looking for rock-solid strength over long distances.
5. Accessories to install on a gravel handlebar
The gravel bike handlebar can be personalized with several accessories to improve comfort and practicality during your outings.
a. Ergonomic handles
The addition of ergonomic handles increases comfort and better absorbs vibrations, especially on uneven roads. These grips better distribute pressure on the palms of the hands, reducing fatigue over long distances.
b. Extenders
Some cyclists install extensions on their gravel handlebars to adopt an even more aerodynamic posture during fast road sections. These extenders also allow you to vary the position of your hands, thus improving comfort during long rides.
c. Saddlebag support
The gravel bike handlebars offer enough space to install handlebar bags, ideal for carrying your belongings during your gravel adventures. These panniers can hold tools, provisions or a change of clothes, which is perfect for long independent outings.
6. What are the major brands of gravel bike handlebars?
Gravel bike handlebars are designed to provide a balance of comfort and control on mixed terrain, and several major brands have specialized in manufacturing these essential components. Here are some of the leading brands recognized for their high-quality gravel handlebars:
A.Easton
Easton is a well-known brand in the cycling world for its high quality components, including gravel handlebars. Their products are appreciated for their lightness and rigidity, particularly in materials such as aluminum and carbon. The Easton EA70 AX and Easton EC70 AX range are particularly popular for gravel bikes, offering excellent control with a flare suitable for rough terrain.
B. Zipp
Zipp is a prestigious brand, mainly known for its high-end components, particularly in the area of wheels and handlebars. The Zipp Service Course SL-70 XPLR range is specifically designed for gravel, offering an ergonomic shape with generous flare and a lightweight aluminum design. They are designed to maximize maneuverability while maintaining a comfortable position over long distances.
C.Salsa
Salsa is a brand specializing in adventure bikes, including gravel bikes. Their gravel handlebars are particularly suitable for long rides and technical routes. The Salsa Cowchipper model is one of the most popular gravel handlebars, with a pronounced flare and great versatility. They also offer the Salsa Woodchipper, another gravel bike handlebar with an even wider flare for riders looking for maximum control over rough terrain.
D. FSA (Full Speed Ahead)
FSA is a renowned manufacturer of bicycle components, including gravel handlebars. Their FSA Adventure Compact model is popular for its ergonomic shape, compact drop and moderate flare, offering an excellent compromise between comfort and maneuverability. FSA uses high quality materials, from aluminum to carbon, to offer a wide range of products tailored to the needs of gravel riders.
E. PRO
PRO, a Shimano-backed brand, is renowned for its reliable, high-performance bicycle components. Their PRO Discover range is designed specifically for gravel adventures, with lightweight aluminum or carbon handlebars. The PRO Discover Medium Flare is particularly appreciated for its blend of comfort and stability, in addition to being compatible with bikepacking accessories.
F. Ritchey
Ritchey is a historic brand in the world of cycling, known for its quality components. Ritchey gravel handlebars are designed with a moderate flare and lightweight construction. The Ritchey VentureMax model is very popular among gravel riders, offering good versatility with multiple hand positions and excellent vibration absorption thanks to a well-thought-out design.
G.Specialized
Specialized, one of the most well-known bicycle brands, also offers gravel handlebars in its component range. The Specialized Hover Expert Alloy is a great example, designed with a moderate flare to improve handling on difficult terrain, while maintaining a good level of comfort for long rides.
H. Enve
Enve is a high-end brand specializing in carbon components, renowned for the quality of its products. The Enve G Series Gravel Handlebar is a premium gravel handlebar made from carbon, offering superior control and optimal vibration absorption. Cyclists looking for lightweight, high-performance components will often choose Enve for its durable and performance-oriented products.
I.3T
3T is an Italian brand well known for its innovative and high quality bicycle components. Their 3T Superghiaia model is a carbon gravel handlebar designed to provide excellent control and comfort on varied terrain. It is appreciated for its lightness and rigidity, making 3T a preferred choice for demanding gravel riders.
F. Cannondale
Cannondale, famous for its quality bikes, also offers gravel handlebars in its component range. The Cannondale 3 Flare model is designed for gravel adventurers looking for a good balance between lightness, maneuverability and comfort. With a moderate flare, it is suitable for cyclists looking to improve their performance on mixed terrain.
The gravel bike handlebars offered by these top brands offer a variety of options to meet the needs of adventure riders, whether they are looking for lightness, comfort, or stability on difficult terrain. Whether you choose an aluminum model for its robustness or a carbon model for its lightness and performance, you will find quality options among these brands to fully enjoy your gravel rides.
Conclusion
The gravel bike handlebar is the perfect choice for riders who want to combine road speed and versatility on rough terrain. Thanks to its flared design and ability to offer a wide variety of hand positions, it allows you to navigate mixed terrain comfortably while maintaining excellent control.
Whether you are a cycle touring enthusiast or an adventurer looking for new trails, the gravel bike handlebar offers the stability, comfort and maneuverability necessary to fully enjoy your outings, whether on road or gravel.
