Triathlon Handlebars

A triathlon handlebar, also called a clip-on bar, aerobar or time trial handlebar, is a handlebar extension that you mount on an existing road handlebar and that brings you into a low, aerodynamic position with your arms on the elbow rests. That position significantly reduces air resistance compared to a standard road bike handlebar: by keeping your torso low and horizontal and bringing your arms together in front of you, you reduce the frontal area and decrease resistance without pedalling extra watts. On a flat time trial distance of forty kilometres, that delivers measurable time gains compared to a standard posture on the saddle.

In this range you will find clip-on bars in three segments: aluminium base models for athletes who ride with an aerobar for the first time, mid-range aluminium clip-on bars with more adjustability in rise, drop and tilt angle of the extensions, and lightweight carbon versions for triathletes and time trialists who aim for the lowest possible weight. In addition, you will find separate handlebar extensions for replacing or adjusting the length, bracket kits for mounting on different handlebar diameters and armrest kits in ergonomic and flat versions. The choice depends on your experience, how low you can comfortably ride and how you want to fine-tune the position.

Which triathlon handlebar suits you?

The right choice depends on how much riding experience you have, how low you can comfortably sit and whether you want to upgrade or try an aerobar for the first time.

You want to try an aerobar on your race bike for the first time: choose a base model aluminium clip-on bar. An entry-level model offers enough adjustment options to find a first aero position and is a cheap way to discover whether you can handle the posture before you invest in a more expensive model. Many athletes start with a base model and upgrade later once they know which extension height and extension length best suit their position.

You want to adjust your position precisely and have more freedom in height: choose a mid-range aluminium clip-on bar with adjustable rise and tilt angle. More expensive aluminium models offer more adjustment points: you can place the extensions higher or lower, adjust the tilt angle and slide the armrest forward or backward. That extra freedom is valuable if you already know what you want or if you optimise your position together with a bike fitter.

You want the lightest and stiffest possible handlebar for races: choose a carbon clip-on bar. Carbon handlebar extensions are considerably lighter than aluminium and contribute to a lower total weight of the cockpit. The difference in stiffness is less decisive with clip-on bars than with complete time trial handlebars, but the weight advantage is valuable for athletes who count every gram. Carbon clip-on bars are offered in several rise options so that here too you can choose the height that suits your riding position.

You want to replace or adjust the extensions in length without replacing the entire handlebar: choose separate handlebar extensions in 340 or 400 mm. Shorter extensions of 340 mm are suitable for athletes with shorter arms or a more compact riding position; longer extensions of 400 mm give more room for a stretched, low aero position. Extensions are attached via the bracket kit of the handlebar and are replaceable without remounting the entire system.

You want to replace or upgrade the armrests: choose a separate armrest kit. Ergonomic armrests have a slight curve that follows your forearms and distributes the pressure points evenly over the entire forearm. Flat race armrests rest directly on the elbow rest and give a more compact contact. Extra pads of fifteen millimetres effectively lower the armrest and can help if your position is sitting just a little too high.

What do you look out for when buying a triathlon handlebar?

Rise of the extensions

The rise of a handlebar extension indicates how much the extension bends upward relative to the zero line. A rise of 35 mm is relatively low and brings your hands close to the height of the handlebar. A rise of 45 to 50 mm gives more elevation, which is more comfortable if you cannot lie flat enough to find a low extension pleasant. Beginners and athletes with less back flexibility usually choose a higher rise; more advanced time trialists ride lower. The rise value is stated in the product name as a number: 35, 45 or 50 stands for millimetres of elevation.

Length of the extensions

Handlebar extensions are available in 340 and 400 mm. The length determines how far your hands extend in front of the handlebar and thereby how stretched your riding posture is. A length of 340 mm is compact and suitable for athletes with shorter arms or for a less stretched position. A length of 400 mm gives a longer reach, which can be aerodynamically more favourable with a flatter position. The right length is strongly individual and depends on your torso length, arm length and the height at which you mount the handlebar.

Aluminium or carbon

Aluminium clip-on bars are sturdy, affordable and sufficient for most athletes who use an aerobar on training rides and races. Carbon clip-on bars are lighter, usually ten to thirty grams per extension, and offer the same adjustment options. Carbon has the advantage that it weighs less at the same stiffness, but the price difference is considerable. Carbon is a relevant upgrade for triathletes who want to lighten the cockpit as part of a broader weight optimisation of the bike.

Armrest shape: ergo or race

Ergonomic armrests are slightly curved at the front and back so that they follow the shape of the forearm. They distribute the pressure over a larger surface and are more comfortable over longer distances. Race armrests are flat and compact, with less material, which is slightly lighter and gives a more compact contact on the elbow. For athletes who ride on the aerobar for more than two hours, such as in a half or full triathlon, ergonomic armrests are usually more comfortable. Race armrests are a good choice for shorter time trial distances or athletes who prefer a minimal contact surface.

Handlebar diameter and compatibility

Clip-on bars are attached to the existing handlebar via a clamp ring. The most common handlebar diameters are 22.2 mm (thinner, older bikes and mountain bikes) and 31.8 mm (oversize, standard on modern race bikes). Before buying, check which handlebar diameter your bike has and whether the clip-on bar is available in the corresponding clamp diameter. Bracket kits are available separately in case your diameter does not fit the chosen clip-on bar as standard.

Our advice: when choosing a rise, start with a standard 45 mm model if you do not know where to begin. That is the most common rise for athletes who are new to an aerobar and gives enough adjustability to make the position comfortable without sitting too low right away. Combine the handlebar with a drinking system that mounts on the aerobar or in the front fork: this allows you to drink in position without taking your hands off the rests, which gives a direct advantage on the cycling stage of a triathlon.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy a triathlon handlebar but are you not yet entirely sure which model best suits your wishes and needs? Then we are happy to help you further with all your questions. You can reach our triathlon specialists by phone via +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or drop by our triathlon shop in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about triathlon handlebars

What is the difference between a clip-on bar and an integrated time trial handlebar?

A clip-on bar, also called a clip-on aerobar or triathlon handlebar, is an extension that you attach to an existing road handlebar via a clamp. With it you keep your existing handlebar and mounting method and only add the aero position. An integrated time trial handlebar is a completely new handlebar configuration in which the handlebar, the armrests and the extensions are combined in one system. Integrated time trial handlebars are aerodynamically slightly more efficient and look sleeker, but are also more expensive, less broadly compatible and harder to transfer to another bike. For most triathletes who ride on a race bike or a triathlon bike with a standard handlebar, a clip-on bar is the practical and cost-efficient choice.

Can I mount a triathlon handlebar on any race bike?

A clip-on bar can be mounted on most race bikes if your handlebar diameter matches the clamp diameter of the clip-on bar. Most modern race bikes have a handlebar diameter of 31.8 mm, older models sometimes 25.4 or 26.0 mm. Check the diameter of your handlebar and choose a clip-on bar or bracket kit that is compatible with it. Besides the diameter there is also the width of your handlebar: the clamps must not overlap the shifters or the handlebar tape. Some sporty race bikes with integral brake levers or an electronic shifting system require extra attention with placement. If you are in doubt, consult a bike mechanic or our specialists before you order.

How do I set up a triathlon handlebar correctly?

Start with the height by placing the clamps so that your armrests are level with or just above the saddle plane: that is a neutral starting position. Then adjust the reach by sliding the armrests forward or backward until your shoulders are relaxed and your neck is not tense. Check whether your hips rotate comfortably while pedalling: if you sit too low, you notice it from tension in the lower back or an uncomfortable torso angle. A bike fitting with a certified fitter gives the most accurate result, but you can also go through the basic settings yourself by adjusting on feel and making short rides after each adjustment.

What is the function of a bracket kit on a triathlon handlebar?

A bracket kit is the attachment system that connects the aerobar extensions to the handlebar. It consists of a clamp that closes around the handlebar and a platform on which the extensions are attached. Some clip-on bars are delivered including a bracket; others are sold as extensions only, where you purchase the bracket separately. Bracket kits are also relevant if you want to transfer the clip-on bar to a bike with a different handlebar diameter, or if you want to adjust the width or tilt angle of the armrests without replacing the entire extensions. Take a look at the bike computers if you also want to mount a GPS computer on your cockpit: some triathletes mount the device centrally on the aerobar for a sleek, clear setup.

What is the difference between 340 mm and 400 mm handlebar extensions?

The length of a handlebar extension determines how far your hands extend in front of the handlebar and thereby how stretched your position is. Extensions of 340 mm are compact and suitable for athletes with shorter arms, a compact riding position or a less stretched aero position. Extensions of 400 mm give more reach and are used more often by taller athletes or athletes who want to ride as flat and stretched as possible. The length is one of the variables that you adjust together with rise and armrest position to optimise the position. If you replace the extensions, measure the length of your current extensions before you order so that you know what you are used to.