Question 1

How do I measure and choose the right road handlebar width?

Accepted Answer

A good starting point for handlebar width would be to measure the end-to-end width of your collarbone in centimeters or millimeters then find the correspoinding size bar. Personal preferences (more stability, more aerodynamic etc.) will help determine which bar width will work best for you. It's important to mention that current road bar widths are trending narrower than traditional widths. Ritchey offers widths from 38cm to 46cm on models like the Comp Streem to accommodate different riders. Learn handlebar terms and what they mean  and get some extra help deciding which bar is right for you.

Question 2

What types of handlebars does Ritchey offer?

Accepted Answer

Ritchey provides handlebars for various cycling disciplines, including road (Comp Curve), aero road (SuperLogic Streem), adventure/gravel (Comp VentureMax), mountain biking (WCS Carbon Trail Rizer), and clip-on aerobar extensions for endurance gravel and long-distance road rides.

Question 3

Are Ritchey handlebars compatible with clip-on aero bars?

Accepted Answer

Compatibility varies by model. Some, like the Comp Curve, are compatible with clip-on aero bars, while others, such as the WCS Carbon Streem, are not. Always check the product's technical specifications.

Question 4

What is the benefit of handlebar flare, and which Ritchey handlebars feature it?

Accepted Answer

Handlebar flare provides increased control and comfort on rough terrain by angling the drops outward. Several of Ritchey's handlebars are flared, like the Comp VentureMax handlebar, which features a notable 24-degree flare that's ideal for gravel and adventure riding, or the WCS ErgoMax, with its 12-degree flare for long-haul road rides on mixed paved surfaces.

Question 5

What advantages do carbon handlebars have over aluminum handlebars?

Accepted Answer

Carbon handlebars, like Ritchey's WCS Carbon Streem, offer lighter weight, enhanced vibration damping, and greater comfort over aluminum bars, making them preferred for performance-oriented cycling.

Question 6

How do I wrap handlebars?

Accepted Answer

Wrapping handlebars can be an easy and fulfilling task. Please see our video on how to wrap handle bars. Items you will need to wrap your bars: bar tape, scissors, finishing tape, bar plugs, and a rubber mallet (optional).

Bicycle Handlebars

Frequently Asked Questions