Need some Help Understanding BMX Handlebars?

BMX Handlebars have a lot of options, some differences are obvious, others more subtle. A good thing to remember here is that there are no 'wrong choices’ and all our handlebars use a universal fit found on 99.9% BMX bikes.

Keep reading to find your ideal handlebars, or click below to watch our handlebars buyers guide video.

CONSTRUCTION

BMX Handlebars come in either a 2-piece construction or a 4-piece construction. What one you choose is down to personal preference

2-PIECE BARS

2-piece bars offer a more classic look and typically lighter weight

4-PIECE BARS

4-piece offering additional strength (and weight) popular mostly with Street riders


GEOMETRY

The geometry of handlebars dictates how the bars “feel” and is dictated by personal preference.

The biggest metric that affects the feel of the bars is the rise.

A. RISE

A. RISE

The rise refers to how tall the bars are and is the biggest influencer on how your handlebars will feel. The rise of the bars is completely down to personal preference. If you are starting from scratch and need a starting point then handlebars with a rise of 8” - 8.75” are considered average.

B. UP SWEEP

B. UP SWEEP

This angle measures how much the bars angle upwards at the grip area. A 0˚ up sweep would mean that the grip area is perfectly flat and parallel to the ground. This is completely down to rider preference with the average being between 2˚-3˚.

C. WIDTH

C. WIDTH

The width of handlebars simply refer to how wide the handlebars are - they typically range from around 27” to 30” in width. Again this is personal preference and many riders cut the bars down to a required width if needed with a hacksaw.

D. BACK SWEEP

D. BACK SWEEP

Back sweep refers to the amount the grip area of the bars angles back towards the rider and plays a pivotal part in how the handlebars feel. A 0˚ Back sweep would mean the bars are completely flat, the larger the angle the more the bars angle back. An average back sweep would be between 2˚ and 3˚.