This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much the right handlebar can elevate your ride. Having tested both, I can tell you that a good raised handlebar makes a real difference—less neck strain, more control, and better comfort on long sessions.
After trying a few options, the BICYCGEAR 31.8 Bike Handlebars 720mm, 86mm Rise Bicycle stood out for its 86mm rise and 10° backsweep, which gave me a relaxed, upright position and improved handling on tricky trails. It feels well-machined, lightweight, and durable, perfect for mountain biking or e-biking where stability counts. Compared to narrower or lower-rise options, this handlebar truly improves comfort and control, making it my top pick for anyone wanting to upgrade their bike.
Top Recommendation: BICYCGEAR 31.8 Bike Handlebars 720mm, 86mm Rise Bicycle
Why We Recommend It: This handlebar offers a high rise of 86mm, reducing neck and shoulder fatigue during long rides. Its 10° backsweep increases comfort, while the 3D forged, CNC-machined alloy provides durability and a premium feel. Its 720mm width supports stable handling on diverse terrains, outperforming shorter, less adjustable bars.
Best bicycle raised handlebar: Our Top 2 Picks
- BICYCGEAR 31.8 Bike Handlebars 720mm, 86mm Rise Bicycle – Best Bicycle Lightweight Handlebar
- Funn Upturn MTB/BMX Handlebar 785mm, 55mm Rise, 31.8mm Alloy – Best Bicycle Adjustable Handlebar
BICYCGEAR 31.8 Bike Handlebars 720mm, 86mm Rise Bicycle
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Comfortable upright position
- ✓ Durable, high-quality build
- ✕ Only fits 31.8mm stems
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some alternatives
| Handlebar Diameter | 31.8mm (1 1/4 inches) |
| Handlebar Length | 720mm |
| Rise | 86mm |
| Backsweep | 10 degrees |
| Weight | 373g |
| Material and Manufacturing | High-quality alloy, 3D forged and CNC machined |
When I first unboxed the BICYCGEAR 31.8 Bike Handlebar, I immediately noticed its sturdy, well-machined finish. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 373 grams, but feels solid in hand, thanks to the high-quality alloy construction.
I was particularly curious about the 86mm rise and 10° backsweep, so I mounted it on my mountain bike to see how it would transform my ride.
The installation was straightforward, provided your stem diameter is 31.8mm—just as the specs suggest. Once attached, I immediately felt a more upright riding position that eased tension on my neck and shoulders.
The rise really helps elevate your posture, making long rides much more comfortable.
During my rides, I appreciated how versatile this handlebar is. It’s perfect for switching between different cycling styles, whether trail riding, enduro, or even mountain biking.
The CNC-machined finish gave me confidence that it’s built to last, with a smooth, precise feel that’s just right for aggressive riding or casual cruising.
What I liked most is how well the handlebar handles stress—no flex or creaking even after hours of riding. Plus, the 720mm width gave me ample control without feeling too wide or unwieldy.
It’s a solid upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in comfort and control.
Overall, this handlebar from BICYCGEAR is a reliable choice for anyone looking to elevate their cycling experience. It’s well-made, easy to install, and genuinely enhances riding comfort with its thoughtful design.
Funn Upturn MTB/BMX Handlebar 785mm, 55mm Rise, 31.8mm Alloy
- ✓ Comfortable upright riding position
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✓ Durable lightweight alloy
- ✕ Only compatible with 31.8mm clamps
- ✕ Might be too high for some riders
| Handlebar Diameter | 31.8mm |
| Width | 785mm |
| Rise | 55mm (also available in 40mm and 75mm options) |
| Material | AL6061 aluminum alloy |
| Compatibility | Compatible with 31.8mm clamp size stems |
| Design Features | Upright riding position with indication marks for shifter and brake lever positioning |
Ever struggle to find a handlebar that balances comfort and control on rough trails? When I swapped out my old bars for the Funn Upturn MTB/BMX Handlebar, it immediately changed my ride experience.
The 785mm width felt just right—wide enough for stability but not cumbersome in tight turns.
The 55mm rise instantly put me in a more upright position, which made navigating technical terrain feel less stressful. I noticed I could see more ahead and react quicker to obstacles.
The smooth surface and sturdy AL6061 aluminum alloy construction gave me confidence that these bars can handle some serious off-road adventures.
Installing was straightforward thanks to the clear indication marks for shifter and brake lever positioning. It saved me time fiddling with adjustments, letting me focus on the ride.
The lightweight design helped reduce fatigue on longer trails, and I appreciated how durable yet easy to maneuver the handlebar felt.
One thing to keep in mind is measuring your stem’s clamp size—these bars are only compatible with 31.8mm clamps. Make sure to double-check that before you buy.
Also, the 55mm rise might be too high for some riders looking for a more aggressive stance, but for me, it hit the sweet spot for comfort and control.
Overall, these handlebars gave me a noticeable boost in handling and comfort. Whether you’re tackling mountain trails or BMX tracks, they offer a reliable upgrade that’s built to last.
For the price, you really get a solid mix of lightweight durability and customizable comfort.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Bicycle Raised Handlebar?
- Ergonomic Design: Ergonomically designed handlebars promote a natural hand position, reducing strain on the wrists and arms during longer rides.
- Adjustable Height: Adjustable height options allow riders to customize the handlebar position to suit their body type and riding style, improving comfort and control.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber provide durability while keeping the handlebars lightweight, ensuring easy maneuverability without sacrificing strength.
- Grip Texture: Textured grips enhance traction and comfort, preventing slippage and providing a secure hold, especially in wet conditions.
- Compatibility: The best raised handlebars are designed to be compatible with various types of bikes and accessories, allowing for easy installation and integration with other components.
- Weight Distribution: A design that supports optimal weight distribution helps maintain balance and stability while riding, leading to a more enjoyable and safer experience.
- Style and Aesthetics: The appearance of handlebars can also influence a bike’s overall look; the best options come in various styles and colors to match personal preferences and bike designs.
How Do Different Types of Raised Handlebars Affect Riding Experience?
- Riser Handlebars: These handlebars are typically designed with a rise from the stem, providing a more upright riding position. This design helps to reduce strain on the back and shoulders, making them ideal for casual riders or those who prefer a more relaxed posture.
- Butterfly Handlebars: Characterized by their wide and curved shape, butterfly handlebars offer multiple hand positions and a comfortable grip. They are particularly beneficial for long-distance touring as they allow for varied body positioning and reduce fatigue during extended rides.
- North Road Handlebars: These handlebars have a distinct upward curve and are often seen on city or touring bikes. They provide a comfortable, upright riding position while allowing for easy maneuverability in urban settings, making them a popular choice for commuters.
- Mountain Bike Handlebars: Generally wider and flatter, these handlebars enhance control and stability on rough terrains. They are designed for aggressive riding styles, ensuring that riders can handle challenging trails while maintaining a strong grip and balance.
- Cruiser Handlebars: With their high-rise and sweeping design, cruiser handlebars promote an extremely relaxed riding posture. They are perfect for leisurely rides on flat surfaces, allowing riders to sit back and enjoy the scenery without straining their arms or back.
What Advantages Do Riser Handlebars Offer for Comfort?
Riser handlebars provide several advantages that enhance comfort for cyclists.
- Improved Riding Posture: Riser handlebars elevate the hand position, allowing for a more upright riding posture.
- Reduced Back and Neck Strain: By promoting a more comfortable angle for the back and neck, riser handlebars help mitigate strain during long rides.
- Better Control and Stability: The higher position of riser handlebars can improve bike handling, leading to better control and stability on various terrains.
- Wider Grip Options: Riser handlebars often come in various widths, allowing cyclists to choose a grip that feels most comfortable for their riding style.
- Enhanced Visibility: The elevated position of the handlebars can help riders maintain better sightlines, improving awareness of their surroundings.
Improved riding posture with riser handlebars allows cyclists to sit more upright, which can reduce fatigue and discomfort that often accompanies aggressive riding positions. This more relaxed stance is particularly beneficial for casual cyclists or those navigating urban environments.
Reduced back and neck strain is a significant advantage, especially for riders who may experience discomfort from leaning forward on traditional drop bars. By maintaining a more neutral spine, cyclists can enjoy longer rides without the same level of physical distress.
Better control and stability are achieved due to the higher leverage provided by riser handlebars, making it easier to maneuver the bike, especially on rough or uneven surfaces. This is particularly advantageous for mountain biking and off-road riding.
Wider grip options allow cyclists to select handlebars that fit their shoulder width and riding style, ensuring that they maintain a comfortable and secure grip. This customization can lead to improved efficiency and reduced hand fatigue during long rides.
Enhanced visibility is another key benefit, as the elevated handlebars promote a higher line of sight, allowing cyclists to scan their environment more effectively. This increased awareness is crucial for safety, especially in busy or urban areas.
Why Choose Bullhorn Handlebars for Performance and Control?
Choosing Bullhorn handlebars for performance and control is primarily due to their unique design, which offers a more aerodynamic riding position while providing excellent leverage for acceleration and climbing.
According to a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, the position of the handlebars can significantly affect a cyclist’s power output and comfort during rides. Bullhorn handlebars allow riders to adopt a more aggressive stance, which can lead to improved efficiency and speed as it reduces wind resistance and enhances the rider’s ability to apply force directly to the handlebars.
The causal relationship between handlebar design and performance can be observed in how the Bullhorn shape allows for multiple hand positions, which helps in reducing fatigue over long rides. This versatility not only aids in maintaining comfort but also allows the cyclist to shift their weight effectively during climbs or sprints. Additionally, the raised nature of these handlebars enables better control of the bike during sharp turns and descents, as riders can leverage their body weight more effectively. The design facilitates a more stable grip, which translates to improved handling and responsiveness, critical factors in competitive cycling scenarios.
What Should You Consider When Selecting a Raised Handlebar?
Compatibility is vital to ensure that the new handlebar can be properly fitted to the bike’s existing components. This includes checking the diameter of the handlebar and the stem, as well as ensuring that the controls and cables can be adjusted to fit the new setup.
How Does Your Riding Style Influence Handlebar Choice?
Your riding style significantly influences the choice of handlebars for optimal comfort and performance.
- Upright Riding Style: This style is characterized by a straight back and relaxed posture, often seen in casual or commuter biking.
- Aggressive Riding Style: This involves a forward-leaning position typically adopted in racing or performance cycling.
- Mixed Riding Style: This is a combination of both upright and aggressive styles, suitable for various terrains and riding conditions.
Upright Riding Style: Cyclists who prefer an upright riding style benefit from raised handlebars, which allow for better visibility and a more comfortable posture. This design helps reduce strain on the back and neck, making it ideal for long-distance commuting or leisurely rides.
Aggressive Riding Style: For riders who adopt a more aggressive stance, lower handlebars are often preferred to enhance aerodynamics and improve speed. However, if raised handlebars are chosen, they should be adjusted to maintain an efficient posture that doesn’t compromise performance during intense rides.
Mixed Riding Style: Riders with a mixed style may require versatile handlebars that enable adjustments to suit different riding conditions. Raised handlebars can provide comfort during casual rides while also allowing for a more aggressive posture when necessary, making them a flexible choice for diverse cycling activities.
What Impact Does Handlebar Width and Rise Have on Your Ride?
- Handlebar Width: The width of a handlebar influences your riding posture and stability on the bike.
- Handlebar Rise: The rise of a handlebar affects your riding position, impacting your back and neck comfort.
- Control and Maneuverability: Both width and rise contribute to how well you can control the bike, particularly in tight turns or rough terrain.
- Power Transfer: The geometry created by handlebar width and rise can affect how power is transferred from your body to the bike.
Handlebar Width: Wider handlebars generally provide better leverage and stability, especially during climbing or navigating technical trails. This can give riders more control, particularly in off-road scenarios, while narrower handlebars can facilitate easier maneuverability in urban settings or congested paths.
Handlebar Rise: Higher handlebars can help create a more upright riding position, which is often more comfortable for casual riders or those with back issues. Conversely, lower handlebars typically lend themselves to a more aggressive posture, promoting aerodynamics and speed, which can be beneficial for racing cyclists.
Control and Maneuverability: A handlebar that is too wide or too narrow for an individual can compromise their ability to steer effectively. This is particularly crucial in mountain biking, where quick turns and reactions are essential; the right combination of width and rise enhances a rider’s agility and responsiveness.
Power Transfer: The positioning of the handlebars can influence how effectively a cyclist can transfer their body weight into pedaling power. Handlebars that are too high may lead to less force being directed downward, while a well-placed handlebar allows for optimal power application, especially during sprints or steep climbs.
What Are the Top Benefits of Using Raised Handlebars on Your Bicycle?
The top benefits of using raised handlebars on your bicycle include improved comfort, better visibility, and enhanced control.
- Improved Comfort: Raised handlebars allow for a more upright riding position, which can reduce strain on the back, neck, and wrists. This is especially beneficial for longer rides or for those who may have discomfort with lower handlebar setups.
- Better Visibility: With raised handlebars, riders have a clearer line of sight over traffic and obstacles. This elevated position helps cyclists to maintain awareness of their surroundings, making it safer to navigate through urban environments or busy roads.
- Enhanced Control: The upright position provided by raised handlebars enables better weight distribution and control over the bicycle. This can be particularly advantageous when navigating tight corners or rough terrains, as it allows for quicker reactions and adjustments.
- Accessibility for Various Riders: Raised handlebars can accommodate a wider range of body types and preferences, making bicycles more accessible for individuals of different heights and abilities. This inclusivity can encourage more people to take up cycling as a hobby or mode of transportation.
- Reduced Fatigue: By promoting a more relaxed posture, raised handlebars help to minimize fatigue during rides. Cyclists are less likely to experience numbness or discomfort, which can lead to longer, more enjoyable rides.
How Can Raised Handlebars Enhance Your Overall Cycling Performance?
Raised handlebars can significantly improve cycling performance by enhancing comfort, control, and aerodynamics.
- Improved Comfort: Raised handlebars allow for a more upright riding position, which reduces strain on the back, neck, and shoulders. This position is especially beneficial for long rides, as it can prevent fatigue and discomfort that often comes with aggressive riding postures.
- Increased Control: With raised handlebars, cyclists can achieve better steering and handling of the bike. The more upright position provides a greater sense of balance and control, especially when navigating through urban environments or rough terrains.
- Enhanced Visibility: Higher handlebars can elevate the rider’s line of sight, making it easier to spot obstacles, traffic, and other cyclists ahead. This improved awareness can lead to safer riding experiences and better decision-making on the road.
- Better Aerodynamics: While raised handlebars may seem counterintuitive for aerodynamics, they can actually benefit certain types of cycling, especially for casual riders. By allowing a more relaxed grip and posture, cyclists can maintain a steady speed without excessive muscle tension.
- Customizable Fit: Raised handlebars often come with adjustable options, allowing riders to tailor their bike setup to their specific body type and riding style. This customization can lead to a more enjoyable and efficient cycling experience overall.