Buying Guide for the Best Aero Bars For Road Bike
Choosing aero bars for your road bike can give you a significant edge in terms of comfort and aerodynamics, particularly during long rides, solo efforts, or triathlon events. Aero bars allow you to adopt a more streamlined position, helping you cut through the air and reduce fatigue over distances. However, since aero bars come in many shapes, sizes, and adjustment options, it's important to match the features to your riding style and comfort preferences. Taking the time to understand key features will help ensure the aero bars you pick truly enhance your cycling experience.Type (Clip-On vs. Integrated)Aero bars come as either clip-on versions that attach to your existing handlebars or as integrated setups that replace the handlebars altogether. Clip-ons are convenient and popular because they can be installed or removed as needed and adjusted to fit various bike setups. Integrated bars, on the other hand, offer a more cohesive and aerodynamic fit but usually require a full handlebar swap and professional installation. Clip-ons are great for riders who want flexibility for different types of riding, while integrated bars are better suited for dedicated time trial or triathlon cyclists seeking every performance advantage.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to how much you can modify the position and spacing of the aero bars, including the arm pad height, width, and extension reach. Higher adjustability helps you fine-tune your position for comfort and performance. Some bars only offer minimal changes, while others let you move the pads and extensions in several directions. For casual riders or those new to aero bars, more adjustability is helpful to experiment with positioning until you find what's comfortable. Experienced or competitive cyclists might prioritize a specific position and can choose less adjustable models if they already know what works best for them.
Material (Aluminum vs. Carbon Fiber)Aero bars are generally made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum bars are durable, more affordable, and slightly heavier. Carbon fiber bars are favored for their lighter weight and improved vibration damping, offering extra comfort over long rides but usually at higher cost. If you plan to ride long distances, race, or simply want a lighter setup, carbon may be worth the investment. Otherwise, aluminum bars provide a good balance of performance and reliability for most riders.
Extension ShapeThe extensions are the parts you grip when in the aero position. They come in various shapes, including straight, S-bend, and ski-bend. Straight extensions offer a simple, aggressive aerodynamic position, while S-bends and ski-bends are designed for more wrist comfort and a natural hand position. Your choice will depend on your personal comfort and how aggressive you want your riding posture to be. If you are new to aero bars or plan on long rides, consider extensions designed with comfort in mind. Riders aiming for maximum aerodynamics in shorter, intense races may prefer straighter extensions.
Armrest PadsArmrest pads support your forearms and are crucial for comfort when using aero bars. They vary in size, softness, shape, and adjustability. Larger and softer pads tend to provide more comfort, especially for longer rides, while compact pads can help save weight. Look for pads that are replaceable and easy to clean, as they can wear out over time. If you plan on spending a lot of time in the aero position, prioritize comfort and adjustability in the armrest pads.
CompatibilityNot all aero bars fit all handlebars and bikes. Compatibility includes the shape and diameter of your handlebars, the amount of available space, and the overall geometry of your bike. Before choosing, check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure the aero bars will fit your bike without interfering with your shifters, brakes, or cables. Riders with compact or unique handlebars should pay extra attention to compatibility details to avoid installation troubles.