What is the recommended bar width for a time trial bike?

[kweil]

Are narrow time trial bars a recipe for disaster, or is it just a myth perpetuated by the uninformed, and what exactly is the recommended bar width for a time trial bike to ensure a safe and efficient riding position, considering the UCIs 36cm minimum width requirement is barely adequate for most riders, let alone those with broader shoulders or longer arms. Can anyone provide a definitive answer, or are we just relying on manufacturers marketing claims and anecdotal evidence from a select few who claim to have found the perfect compromise between aerodynamics and comfort. Is it really necessary to sacrifice handling and stability on the altar of aerodynamic gain, or are there other factors at play that were ignoring in the pursuit of speed. Whats more important, being able to maintain a stable position on the bike, or shaving off a few precious seconds on the clock. Should we be focusing on finding a bar width that allows for a neutral spine and comfortable riding position, or are we just willing to put up with a certain level of discomfort and risk in order to gain a competitive edge.

 

[ambal]

Narrow time trial bars have long been a contentious issue in the cycling community. Some argue that they're a recipe for disaster, while others claim they're the key to unlocking greater aerodynamic efficiency. In my personal experience, I've found that it's not as simple as one or the other.

While it's true that narrow bars can lead to a more aerodynamic position, they can also compromise handling and stability. In particular, riders with broader shoulders or longer arms may find it difficult to maintain a comfortable and controlled riding position with bars that are too narrow.

But here's the thing: finding the right bar width is about more than just maximizing aerodynamics. It's also about ensuring a safe and efficient riding position, with a neutral spine and minimal strain on the neck and shoulders.

In my view, the UCI's minimum width requirement of 36cm is barely adequate for most riders. Instead, I would recommend aiming for a bar width that allows for a comfortable and controlled riding position, even if it means sacrificing some aerodynamic gain.

At the end of the day, the pursuit of speed should never come at the expense of safety and comfort. So let's put an end to the myth that narrow bars are the only way to go, and start focusing on finding the right balance between aerodynamics and riding comfort. ‍

 

[SamLowe]

While I understand your concerns about time trial bars, your post seems to be misinformed and overly dramatic. Narrow time trial bars are not a "recipe for disaster" – they serve a specific purpose of reducing aerodynamic drag.

As for the recommended bar width, it varies depending on the rider's shoulder width and arm length. While the UCI's 36cm minimum width may be adequate for some, others may require wider bars to ensure a safe and efficient riding position. However, this is not a one-size-fits-all situation.

Instead of relying on marketing claims and anecdotal evidence, consider consulting experts or doing thorough research to find the right bar width for your specific needs. And no, swapping out bars is not "necessarily" a complicated process, but it does require some technical knowledge and adjustments.

Finally, if you're worried about safety, perhaps focus more on improving your handling skills and bike handling techniques rather than obsessing over bar width. It's not rocket science – just ride more.

 

[dvddobson]

Ah, the age-old question of narrow time trial bars: are they a disaster or just a myth? Well, let me tell you, they're the secret sauce to a perfect ride, as long as you don't mind your shoulders pinned together like a straitjacket. As for width, I always aim for the "barely adequate" UCI minimum. It's not just about aerodynamics; it's also about that authentic "sardine can" experience. And hey, if you're lucky, you might even get your arms stuck permanently in the dolphin position! So, really, what more could you want?

 

[onthegoose]

Narrow time trial bars may not be a disaster, but they certainly push the limits of safety and comfort. The UCI's 36cm minimum width requirement is indeed inadequate for many riders, and manufacturers' marketing claims often prioritize aerodynamics over handling and stability.

But let's not forget that a time trial is about more than just shaving off seconds; it's also about maintaining control and confidence on the bike. A rider who constantly fights to maintain a stable position will ultimately lose time and energy.

So, what's the solution? Instead of fixating on specific bar widths, we should focus on finding a position that allows for a neutral spine and comfortable riding position. This might mean using bars wider than the UCI minimum, or even experimenting with adjustable or flared drops.

Ultimately, the pursuit of aerodynamics should never come at the expense of safety and comfort. As cyclists, we should be willing to accept some level of discomfort and risk, but we shouldn't be willing to sacrifice handling and stability on the altar of speed.

 

[nemesis]

Narrow time trial bars, a recipe for disaster or just an exaggerated myth? It's a valid question that deserves some attention. While the UCI's minimum width requirement of 36cm may suffice for some, it certainly falls short for many others, especially those with broader shoulders or longer arms.

But let's not forget, aerodynamics isn't everything. Handling and stability are equally important, if not more so. After all, what use is shaving off a few precious seconds if it means sacrificing control and safety?

Instead of blindly following manufacturers' marketing claims or anecdotal evidence, we should focus on finding a bar width that allows for a neutral spine and comfortable riding position. Sure, it might not be the most aerodynamic setup, but at least it'll keep us safe and injury-free.

And let's be real, no one wants to put up with discomfort and risk just to gain a competitive edge. That's a losing game in the long run. So, let's prioritize safety and comfort over a few seconds on the clock. At the end of the day, we're not machines, we're humans, and we deserve to treat ourselves with the care and respect we deserve. ‍

 

[kweil]

Is the pursuit of speed truly worth the potential sacrifice of comfort and handling? When considering bar widths, how much do personal anatomy and riding style influence safety, especially when many riders seem to blindly chase aerodynamics?

 

[onthegoose]

While I understand your concerns about sacrificing comfort and handling for speed, I can't help but wonder if the issue lies more in the rider's approach than in the equipment itself. Yes, many riders seem to blindly chase aerodynamics, but that's because they've been misled into believing that the fastest setup is always the most aerodynamic one.

We should remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to cycling. Personal anatomy and riding style play a significant role in determining the safest and most comfortable bar width. A wider bar might be more stable for some riders, while others might prefer a narrower one for better aerodynamics.

Instead of fixating on specific bar widths, we should encourage riders to experiment and find what works best for them. After all, the pursuit of speed shouldn't come at the expense of safety and comfort, but it also doesn't have to mean sacrificing aerodynamics entirely.

At the end of the day, it's about striking a balance between speed, comfort, and handling. And that balance will look different for everyone. So, let's focus on promoting education and experimentation, rather than blindly following marketing claims or chasing the latest trends.

 

[kweil]

So, if personal anatomy and riding style are indeed pivotal, does that mean we should all just throw caution to the wind and experiment with bar widths like it’s a game of roulette? Are we prepared to see riders with bars so wide they could double as wings? And if we’re prioritizing comfort, are we just accepting that some will ride like a pretzel while others fly past them, all in the name of speed? What’s the threshold for safety before we start calling it a “personal choice” rather than a reckless gamble?