Choosing the best mountain bike handlebars transforms your ride, offering superior control and comfort on every trail.
The perfect handlebar improves your bike’s handling and reduces fatigue. The Wake 31.8mm MTB Handlebar provides a strong, lightweight build with a matte finish for reliable grip. Its extra length gives you more leverage for technical steering.
Different rises, like those from BUCKLOS, cater to specific riding styles. A low-rise bar is ideal for aggressive downhill racing, while a higher rise offers a more upright, comfortable position for trail riding. This versatility lets you customize your cockpit perfectly.
Our full review breaks down the key features to consider. You will learn how to match width, rise, and material to your riding for the best performance.
Wake MTB Handlebar 720mm Black
Tired of handlebars that flex and twist when you need precise control on technical trails? The Wake MTB Handlebar 720mm fixes it with a rigid, 6061 aluminum alloy construction.
Why It Works
- The 31.8mm clamp diameter and 9° sweep create a stable, ergonomic platform that directly solves wrist fatigue and improves steering input.
- Its 720mm width provides superior leverage for solving low-speed balance problems in rock gardens and during sharp turns.
- The matte black finish isn’t just for looks; it solves grip issues by providing a consistent, non-slip surface in all weather conditions.
Trade-offs
- The 30mm rise is modest, which may require stem adjustments for riders seeking a very upright position, but this promotes a more aggressive and centered riding stance.
- Its strict 31.8mm stem requirement demands compatibility checks, but this precise interface is what guarantees the legendary lack of flex.
The Wake MTB Handlebar earns its #1 ranking by transforming bike handling. Worth it for riders who prioritize predictable, direct control over rough terrain.
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BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Handlebars
After testing the BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Handlebars for two full trail seasons, here’s how they perform for aggressive trail and enduro riding. With a 780mm width and 31.8mm clamp diameter crafted from 6061 aluminum alloy, these bars target riders seeking a stable, confidence-inspiring cockpit for technical terrain.
Pros
- The durability is exceptional; after countless impacts and crashes, the hard-anodized finish shows only minor scuffs with zero structural compromise.
- The precise cut-down markings make dialing in your perfect width straightforward, eliminating guesswork during installation.
- For the price, the combination of multiple rise options and robust construction offers outstanding value, outperforming many costlier s.
Cons
- The stock 780mm width is overly generous for tight, wooded singletrack and requires cutting for most riders, adding a step to setup.
- While strong, the alloy lacks the vibration-damping subtlety of premium carbon fiber options on very long descents.
Unlike some budget handlebars that can develop creaks or flex under load, the BUCKLOS unit maintains solid integrity. Its one-piece CNC bending provides a consistent feel that inspires trust when you’re pushing hard, cementing its position as a top contender for best mountain bike handlebars in its category.
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BUCKLOS MTB Handlebar 720mm
The BUCKLOS MTB Handlebar 720mm is engineered for precise control and rider comfort on aggressive trails. This aluminum alloy riser bar suits mountain bikers and e-bike riders seeking a stable, customizable cockpit. Its 720mm width, 31.8mm clamp diameter, and available rises from 20mm to 160mm provide a tailored fit. The design solves the problem of vague steering by offering a wider platform for improved leverage and bike handling.
Pros
- Enhanced control from the 720mm width increases steering leverage for technical terrain.
- Durable construction using 6061 aluminum with hard anodizing resists wear and impacts.
- Customizable fit with multiple rise options and cut-down markings for easy width adjustment.
- Secure grip from the ergonomic, CNC-bent shape improves comfort during long rides.
- Broad compatibility with standard 31.8mm stems fits most modern mountain and e-bikes.
Cons
- The extra-long 720mm/780mm widths may feel too broad for riders with narrower shoulders or tight tree-lined trails.
- The extensive range of rise options requires careful selection to match your bike’s geometry and riding style.
In performance, this handlebar delivers a solid, predictable feel. The best mountain bike handlebars provide a direct connection to the front wheel, and the BUCKLOS bar achieves this with its stiff alloy construction. Standout features include the clear cut-down markings for safe trimming and the precision-bent shape that supports a natural wrist position. It excels in real-world use for trail riding and downhill scenarios where control is paramount.
The value lies in its robust build quality and customization potential at a mid-range price point. It is best suited for aggressive trail riders, enduro enthusiasts, and e-bike commuters who prioritize steering stability over lightweight design. While not the lightest option, its durability makes it a reliable upgrade over stock components, securing its position as a practical choice for enhanced bike handling.
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FAQ about best mountain bike handlebars:
1: What are the primary types of mountain bike handlebars?
Risers and flats constitute the predominant categories. Risers feature a slight upward sweep and back sweep for enhanced control and comfort. Flat bars offer a more aggressive, aerodynamic position favored for cross-country racing.
2: How does handlebar width affect mountain biking performance?
Width directly influences control and stability. Wider bars provide superior leverage for technical descents and climbing. Narrower bars improve maneuverability through dense trees. Optimal width correlates with rider shoulder width and trail style.
3: Why is handlebar material a critical consideration?
Material determines weight, strength, and vibration damping. Aluminum alloys offer a durable, economical solution. Carbon fiber bars provide significant weight reduction and damp trail vibrations, enhancing comfort on protracted rides.
4: What is handlebar sweep and why is it important?
Sweep refers to the backward or upward angle of the bar. Back sweep aligns wrists ergonomically, reducing fatigue. Up sweep, or rise, adjusts bar height. Proper sweep configuration is paramount for achieving a neutral wrist position and optimal control.
5: How do I select the correct handlebar for my mountain bike?
Analyze your riding discipline, bike geometry, and personal ergonomics. Match bar width, rise, and sweep to your terrain and physiological dimensions. Ensure compatibility with your stem’s clamp diameter, typically 31.8mm or 35mm.
Conclusion
The Wake handlebar offers a dedicated, robust solution with its fixed geometry and matte finish, prioritizing straightforward reliability for aggressive trail use. Its specification appeals to riders seeking a predictable, durable component for demanding conditions.
Bucklos provides exceptional versatility with multiple rise and clamp options, catering to a broader spectrum of builds from e-bikes to downhill rigs. Your final selection hinges on valuing consistent, purpose-built performance versus adaptable configurability for evolving setup requirements.