Fixed Gear Handlebars - Different Types, Different Properties

Perhaps no other type of bike offers as much freedom in handlebar selection as a fixed gear . Straight handlebars, drop bars, or perhaps bull bars? Nothing limits you. What's more, the lack of accessories means you can swap them in minutes, giving the bike a completely new character. Of course, we're talking about urban use for fixed gear. On the track, fixed gear handlebars (usually drop bars or bull bars) are tailored to the discipline and strictly regulated. In this short article, we'll look at the most popular choices, which I'll add my subjective commentary. I also recommend a post dedicated to gravel handlebars, which you can find here .

Lamb, a classic

In my opinion, this is the most versatile fixed-gear handlebar. It offers a dynamic silhouette and multiple grips, making it ideal for longer rides. This is a very diverse group of handlebars. I often see track or pseudo-track handlebars on the street, with practically one available grip – the lower grip. Unfortunately, most users place their hands right next to the stem, creating an extremely uncomfortable and unstable position. I recommend modern models, always with a flat upper grip. This ensures a very comfortable and confident basic posture, and when necessary, you can lower or change to a more upright position. Advantages and disadvantages + A properly selected lamb is very comfortable. + Maximize your bike's performance thanks to an efficient position. + Classic style. + Many tricks. - Poor selection of comfortable, modern models for 1-inch stems. - For some people the silhouette may be too sloping.

Fixed Gear Handlebar - Bull Horns

A simpler shape, favored by skid bike enthusiasts. It's easy to shift your weight forward and swing your rear end. They provide a dynamic, extended silhouette, but without the downward slope of a drop bar. On the other hand, a strong forward shift often results in very unstable bike handling. I can't stand the drop bar, but they have a devoted following. A popular choice is to mount these handlebars and ride with only your hands on the stem, similar to a track drop bar. You can do it, but why? Still, I have to admit, I can't imagine mounting a drop bar to some lo-pro frames. Then the drop bar gets my vote. Advantages and disadvantages: + A more upright alternative to lamb. + Queen of the skids. + Perfect for some classics (not necessarily comfortable). - Specific handling, especially with a long stem. - Usually a narrow grip at the sternum (or no grip at all).

Flatbar - minimalist fixed gear handlebar

A straight tube, ideally as short as possible – just a few years ago, this was considered by many to be the best handlebar for a fixed gear. The main advantage was the ability to fit between cars and a relatively upright position. The "who has the narrowest handlebar" contest quickly took on bizarre proportions. The fact is, if your arms are spread narrower than your shoulders, your chest closes in on you in corners, effectively suffocating you. Not to mention the complete lack of control over the bike. In this form, the species is practically extinct today (and that's a good thing). However, the more refined version, derived from MTBs, slightly curved towards the rider and with a reasonable width, is quite common. Such handlebars are ergonomic and provide excellent control. Advantages and disadvantages: + Comfort (in the case of sensibly selected width and bending). + Good bike control (same as above). + Dynamic silhouette straight from MTB. - Poor ergonomics in non-bending models. - A bizarre trend for extremely narrow handlebars.

Riser - comfortable handlebar for fixed gear bikes

The evolution of the flatbar and probably the most popular choice at the moment. The raised handlebar with its pleasant bend is simply comfortable. It provides excellent control, and while not as dynamic as the above, it makes up for it in ride comfort. Additionally, the rise helps "civilize" the very aggressive frames. All this makes it a great everyday fixed-gear handlebar and an ideal choice for single-speed bikes (we install them on every single-speed bike). Recently, we've even seen a trend toward wider risers and flatbars. Is common sense prevailing? Although I've seen a few fixed-gear bikes with downhill-wide handlebars, so I guess there will always be someone who prefers style over substance :) Advantages and disadvantages: + Unrivaled comfort + Good control over the bike - Worse dynamics compared to others. - Stylish?

To sum up

My favorite is a drop bar (as long as it's not a track bike) and a reasonably wide, modern flatbar. However, many people will undoubtedly disagree, and that's a good thing. The fixed-gear scene is very diverse, and fortunately, no one is stopping anyone from trying anything. And swapping a friend's handlebars for a test drive only takes a few minutes, so it's worth trying. That's how you build sound opinions, after all!