From the windswept roads of the Tour de France to the grueling Ironman triathlon, aero bars (also known as triathlon bars) are a common sight in cycling and triathlon events worldwide.
Aero handlebars, designed for reduced wind resistance, feature streamlined shapes to enhance a cyclist’s aerodynamics. Typically found in time trial and triathlon setups, they optimize performance by minimizing air drag during rides.
They have sparked countless debates and discussions, but do they truly provide a significant advantage?
In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the science behind aero handlebars, how they leverage aerodynamics for speed enhancement, and the various types available on the market.
We will cover the following topics:
- The Development Of Aero Bars
- How Aero Bars Enhance Cycling Speed
- When Should You Use Aero Bars?
- Types Of Aero Bars
- How Much Do Aero Bars Cost?
- Installing And Adjusting Aero Bars
- Safety And Use Considerations
Let’s dive in!
The development of Aero Bars
Aero bars, now a commonplace piece of equipment in triathlon and cycling, haven’t always enjoyed their current widespread acceptance.
In the 1980s, aero bars were regarded with disdain by traditional road cyclists.
They were dismissed as a “dork bar”, used only by the eccentric athletes of ultra-distance bike races and triathlons.
This was about to change in 1987, thanks to a chance encounter between Johnny Goldsmith, creator of the Spinning indoor cycling training programs, and pro triathlete Brad Kearns.
Goldsmith, an avid participant in the Race Across America (RAAM), had experienced first-hand the aerodynamic advantage that triathlon handlebars could provide.
Intrigued, Kearns tried it out during the Desert Princess Duathlon and won, attributing his victory to the aero bars’ undeniable advantage. Thus, the aero bars began to catch on among pro triathletes.
LeMond’s Tour de France Win
Credit: Benjamin Werner, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Edited from the original.
However, it was the 1989 Tour de France that truly catapulted aero bars into global recognition.
Greg LeMond, wearing an aero helmet and armed with Scott DH aero bars, overcame a significant deficit to French legend Laurent Fignon to clinch victory in a dramatic 24-kilometer final-stage time trial.
To overcome the 50-second deficit, LeMond relied on groundbreaking “aero bars” designed by Boone Lennon, a former US national ski team coach with a profound understanding of aerodynamics.
Despite attempts by Fignon’s directeur sportif to have the tri bars barred by the Tour de France commissaires, LeMond rode on, using the bars to cut through the wind like a downhill skier.
The world watched as Laurent Fignon fought his way to the finish line, his brutal desperation contrasting starkly with LeMond’s aerodynamic efficiency.
LeMond’s eight-second victory over Fignon remains the closest finish in the history of the race.
This triumph triggered a sea change in the cycling world, and Scott’s aero bar sales skyrocketed.
How Aero Bars Enhance Cycling Speed
The central idea behind tri bars lies in the principle of reduced frontal area.
In aerodynamics, drag opposes the motion of an object through a fluid, such as a cyclist moving through the air. Form drag, or pressure drag, is most relevant to cycling and increases with the size of the moving object.
The aero position minimizes the cyclist’s frontal area, facing the oncoming wind. It transforms the cyclist’s shape from upright (bluff body) to streamlined, reducing the wake and drag.
Studies show that reduced drag can significantly increase speed.
On average, cyclists using aero bars experience speed gains of approximately 1.5 to 4.5% compared to a standard upright riding posture, resulting in a time gain of around 1 minute and 40 seconds over a 40 km distance.
These results can vary depending on factors such as the cyclist’s initial position, individual power output, and external conditions like wind speed and direction.
Why does reduced drag lead to increased speed? It’s simple physics. The power required to overcome aerodynamic drag increases with the cube of speed.
Even small reductions in drag result in significant power savings, allowing cyclists to maintain speed more efficiently.
When Should You Use Aero Bars?
Time trial
In time trials, aero bars are the rock stars, putting the spotlight on their unbeatable streamlined design.
Think of it like turning your ride into a sleek, swift arrow, piercing the wind. The bars provide the edge you need to cut through the air, shaving those precious seconds off your time.
Remember, in a time trial, every tick-tock of the clock matters, and aero bars are no longer a secret weapon to beat rivals – they’re an absolute essential.
Triathlon
Then there’s the triathlon, a gritty test of endurance where cycling is sandwiched between swimming and running stints.
This is the original proving ground of the aero bar, which is why many cyclists still refer to them as “tri bars”.
Triathlon bars offer an optimal riding position that allows you to conserve energy, so you can power through the swim and the run stages like a champ.
Aerodynamic savings are especially important in triathlon because drafting behind other cyclists is forbidden. This increases the air resistance cyclists are exposed to compared to conventional mass-start road races.
Touring
And how about ultra-distance rides, those epic, cross-country journeys where the only soundtrack is the steady rhythm of your heartbeat and the whisper of tires against asphalt?
Aero bars can be a real godsend, giving you alternate hand and body positions, while getting you from A to B faster and with less energy expenditure.
This helps alleviate muscle fatigue and can be the difference between a grueling ride and a fulfilling adventure.
What Type of Aero Bars should I buy?
Navigating the variety of aerodynamic triathlon handlebars available on the market may seem daunting.
To make an informed choice, understanding the differences between tri bars is crucial.
Integrated vs Clip-on Aero Bars
Aero bars can either be integrated units that replace conventional handlebars, or they can be clip-on models that attach to regular handlebars.
Time-trial or triathlon bikes typically come fitted with integrated aero and bullhorn combination handlebars, which are more aerodynamic and secure than clip-on models and often feature bar-end shifters to allow gear changes without leaving the aero tuck.
Clip-on aero bars tend to be cheaper and have the advantage that they can be added or removed at will from standard road or touring bikes.
Aero Bar Length
Long aero bars extend farther out from the handlebars, facilitating a more stretched-out body position.
Short ones, on the other hand, do not extend as far, resulting in a less aggressive position.
They are often preferred in technical courses with tight turns or frequent elevation changes, where agility and control are prioritized over pure speed.
One-piece vs Two-piece Aero Bars
One-piece time trial bars consist of a single, solid unit with a fixed length and angle, providing a stable fit favored by athletes who prefer a “set-and-forget” approach.
However, they offer limited customization options.
In contrast, two-piece aero bars are made of two separate extensions that attach to the handlebars. This design offers flexibility, allowing independent adjustment of each piece to fine-tune width, angle, and rotation according to individual comfort and performance needs.
While it may require more time and effort to adjust, the result is a highly personalized fit.
Aero Bar Materials
Carbon is praised for its lightweight properties, ideal for long ascents or weight-conscious riders. Additionally, carbon naturally dampens vibrations, providing a smoother ride over rough surfaces.
On the other hand, aluminum is often more durable, with better resistance to wear and tear over time. It is also more budget-friendly compared to carbon alternatives.
Aero Bar Shape
Lastly, tri bars can come in various shapes; straight, curved, or S-shaped.
The choice of shape largely depends on personal preference, but it’s important to consider how the shape might affect hand and wrist position and, subsequently, bike control.
Remember, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, riding style, and comfort preferences. It’s advisable to try different setups, if possible, before making a decision.
How Much Do Aero Bars Cost?
The price varies widely based on design, material, and brand. As a rough estimate, they can be found within a price range of $50 to $500.
Basic aluminum triathlon handlebars priced around $50 to $100 offer functionality and durability. However, they may lack the adjustability and lightweight characteristics of higher-end models.
Mid-range tri bars, typically priced between $100 and $250, balance cost and features. They often incorporate advanced design elements, improved adjustability, and lightweight materials such as carbon.
Premium options ranging in price from $250 to $500 offer peak performance and customization. These models are usually crafted from high-quality materials, typically carbon fiber.
They provide extensive adjustability options, and may include features like integrated hydration or computer mounts.
Although the upfront investment may seem significant, it’s crucial to consider the added value. They offer substantial speed and efficiency improvements at a much lower cost compared to major components like high-end wheels that can exceed $1000.
Installing And Adjusting Aero Bars
Installing and adjusting aero bars can be a straightforward process if approached correctly. That said, both the initial installation and subsequent fitting require meticulous attention to detail for optimal performance and comfort.
Firstly, compatibility is essential. Aero handlebars fit most standard road handlebars with a diameter of 31.8 mm or 26.0 mm, while oversized or uniquely shaped handlebars may require specific adapters or mounts.
Checking the product specifications or consulting with a bike shop ensures compatibility with your bike’s handlebars.
The installation process involves attaching the clip-on tri bars to your handlebars using clamps and bolts, typically included. Basic tools like Allen keys are necessary.
Follow the provided instructions closely, ensuring secure connections without damaging the handlebars.
The fitting process
Once installed, adjust them for optimal fit. This fitting process is important, as it impacts both comfort and aerodynamic benefits. Here are a few steps to guide you:
- Elbow pad: Adjust the elbow pads to ensure a comfortable resting position for your arms with a roughly 90-degree bend at the elbow while holding the tri bars.
- Aero bar length: Adjust the length to ensure your hands reach the end comfortably without excessive stretching or compression of your torso.
- Aero bar angle: Adjust the tilt. Some cyclists prefer a flat position parallel to the ground, while others prefer a slight upward tilt.
- Saddle: You may need to move your saddle forward slightly to compensate for the forward shift in your overall body position.
- Seatpost and handlebar height: Check these as well. Lowering or raising the handlebars or the saddle may be necessary to achieve a comfortable and efficient position.
Keep in mind that the perfect setup can significantly vary from cyclist to cyclist, depending on factors like body geometry, flexibility, and riding style.
It can be helpful to work with a professional bike fitter or experienced coach who can guide you toward a setup that maximizes comfort and performance.
After initial adjustments, take a few short rides to assess comfort and make any necessary tweaks. Remember, small changes can make a big difference, so investing time in fine-tuning your setup is worthwhile.
Aero Bar Safety And Use Considerations
While aero bars enhance speed and efficiency on long, straight, and open roads, they may not be the safest choice in all circumstances.
In heavy traffic or during steep descents, having immediate access to brakes and the ability to maneuver quickly is critical. In these cases, transitioning back to the standard road bike position and using traditional handlebars is advisable.
Safe use involves understanding how and when to switch between the two positions.
Practicing this transition on flat, open roads with minimal traffic or obstacles is recommended. Over time, it becomes second nature.
Now you know all about tri bars…
In conclusion, tri bars are not mere aesthetic additions to your road or time trial bike; they are scientifically proven gear that has the potential to transform your cycling experience.
From the undeniable speed gains achieved through improved aerodynamics to the increased comfort and efficiency on long rides, these additions can be game-changers.
So, why hesitate? As a cyclist, growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new techniques, exploring new gear, and continuously pushing your boundaries.
Let us know in the comments section below if you have ever used aero bars, if they helped you, or if you are considering testing them for the first time!
I feel that aero bars actually consistently help my times more than suggested in your article.
My “lunch ride” is 21km and about 330m elevation. I am not a super fast comp cyclist. 51y old. Without aero bar i typically do this loop in about 1h14. Best time of 1h11. With aerobar, normal times around 1h11 and best time 1h07.
So
pb without aero was 1h11
Pb with aerobar was 1h07
About 5% faster i guess?