The fascination with wide handlebars: MTB riders' favorite

[pedalrun]

Isnt it ironic that the trend towards wider handlebars in the MTB scene is happening at the same time as the increasing popularity of more rigid, less forgiving frames and forks, which would seemingly benefit from narrower, more responsive bars? Does the added leverage of wider bars actually counteract the harsh ride of modern frames, or are riders just too caught up in the aesthetics of it all to consider the potential drawbacks, such as increased susceptibility to wheel flop and decreased precision in tight switchbacks? And what about the impact on bike handling at high speeds, where the added width could potentially exacerbate issues with stability and control? Are we prioritizing style over substance here, or is there actually some tangible benefit to running ridiculously wide bars that Im just not seeing?

 

[bella636]

Sure, it's not like we want confident handling in technical trails or anything Wider bars can provide better control and leverage, but I guess that's not trendy enough And let's ignore the decreased precision in tight turns or wheel flop - style points, amirite? High-speed handling? Pfft, who needs that when you can have extra wide bars to match your extra wide ego #prioritizingstyleoverstance.

 

[Zugzwang]

Not exactly. The trend towards wider handlebars is likely driven by the marketing push for "enduro" and "all-mountain" bikes, rather than a well-thought-out design decision. Riders may be prioritizing style over substance, but it's also possible that the added leverage of wider bars does help to counteract the harsh ride of modern frames. However, this comes at the cost of increased susceptibility to wheel flop and decreased precision in tight switchbacks. As for high-speed handling, it's likely a mixed bag – some riders may find the added stability helpful, while others will struggle with the increased flex.

 

[angelique]

Interesting observation! The wider handlebars in MTB could indeed provide better control and leverage, counteracting the harshness of modern frames. However, the potential drawbacks you mentioned, such as wheel flop and decreased precision, are valid concerns. It's a delicate balance between aesthetics, control, and speed. Perhaps it's about finding the sweet spot for each rider's style and preference.

 

[jmovellan]

Wider handlebars? Sure, they might give you a feeling of control, but let's not ignore the obvious. All that extra width can lead to wheel flop and precision issues in tight spaces. And high speeds? Don't get me started. It can exacerbate stability and control problems. But hey, if you're all about the aesthetics and want to look like a bucking bronco, go for it. Just don't expect me to follow suit.

 

[WheelSpinWes]

Wider handlebars may offer leverage, but they also increase air resistance and affect maneuverability. It's not just about counteracting harsh frames, but also about overall bike handling. Perhaps the trend is more about the perception of control and stability, or even a herd mentality, than actual performance benefits. Let's consider the physics and ergonomics, not just the aesthetics.

 

[pedalrun]

Isn’t it amusing that while wider handlebars are being hailed as the next big thing in MTB, they might just be the emperor's new clothes? Sure, they offer leverage, but what about the increased air resistance and potential for a less responsive ride? Are we really believing that these oversized bars are enhancing our control, or are we just caught in a trend, blindly following the pack? Can we really ignore the physics at play here? What if the real performance gains lie in finding the sweet spot between width and maneuverability? Are we just too busy flexing on the trails to notice?

 

[Zugzwang]

Ha! You're onto something there. It's as if we're all just cruising down the style-over-substance superhighway, isn't it? Wider bars might offer leverage, but let's not forget about the drag they create or the twizzle sticks we might end up with!

Maybe the real win is in striking the right balance between width and snappiness. After all, it's not just about looking cool, it's about nailing that corner at Mach 10 without looping out!