Best Carbon Fiber MTB Handlebars of 2024: Top Picks Reviewed

 As a mountain biking enthusiast, I’ve come to appreciate the many types of handlebars available, especially carbon bike handlebars. These come in two main varieties: Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike Handlebars and Carbon Road Bike Handlebars. When it comes to mountain biking, selecting the best MTB handlebars has a significant impact on my handling, stability over rough terrain, and even my overall fatigue levels. For those of us looking to optimize our rides, choosing the right carbon handlebar can make a world of difference. Whether it’s about the weight of the handlebars, ease of climbing, or their flexibility, finding the right fit is crucial. A good mountain bike handlebar can minimize vibrations, enhancing comfort on long or bumpy rides. Plus, the strength and durability of carbon fiber make it a top choice for riders who prioritize performance and reliability, making these handlebars a highly sought-after upgrade within the mountain biking community.

In this article, I’ll delve into Carbon MTB Handlebars and share insights that will help you make a quick and informed choice. Don’t forget to pay attention to how to choose the right mountain bike handlebar and the best grips for optimal riding. Additionally, the best MTB stem can significantly affect comfort and handling, so let’s get started!

Click here for details: Carbon MTB Handlebars: What You Need to Know.

What Are Carbon MTB Handlebars?

Carbon MTB Handlebars are crafted from carbon fiber to enhance performance, reduce weight, and minimize vibrations. Unlike traditional aluminum handlebars, carbon fiber absorbs impacts from rough terrain much better, which leads to smoother rides and reduced fatigue. These handlebars also allow me to maintain better control over my performance, making them a favorite for riders like me who thrive on challenges and seek improved comfort during rides.

Benefits of Carbon MTB Handlebars

Here’s what I love about Carbon MTB Handlebars:

1. Lightweight Advantage: One of the standout features of carbon handlebars is their lightweight design, which helps reduce the overall weight of my mountain bike. This lightweight characteristic means I can climb more efficiently and expend less energy.
2. Shock Absorption: The unique structure of carbon fiber absorbs vibrations from rough roads, which makes my hands less tired and more comfortable during rides.
3. Strength and Durability: Even though they’re lightweight, carbon fiber handlebars are impressively strong and durable, providing stability and safety when tackling rugged surfaces.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond functionality, carbon fiber’s sleek look enhances my bike’s appearance. For riders who value both style and performance, carbon handlebars are a great choice.

What to Consider When Upgrading Your Mountain Bike Handlebar

I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Carbon MTB Handlebars, including how to choose them and what factors to keep in mind. Many brands offer handlebars, but I’ve found Falcarbon Bike to be a solid choice. Let’s dive into the details to help you find the perfect handlebar.

Materials

When discussing handlebar materials, carbon fiber, aluminum alloy, and titanium often come to mind. However, the most popular options are aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. The damping properties of carbon fiber differ from those of aluminum, and the curves in carbon handlebars are typically better designed and more refined. While carbon fiber handlebars are lighter, they do come with a higher cost. They might not be as durable as aluminum, which usually doesn’t fail catastrophically. If you have high riding demands, carbon fiber could be the way to go.

Handlebar Rise and Sweep

The rise and sweep of handlebars dictate their shape and feel. The handlebar rise refers to the vertical distance from the center to the ends of the handlebar. Most mountain bike handlebars have a rise ranging from 0 to 40 mm or more. If I want a higher handlebar, it allows me to shift my weight back on steep and rugged terrains, enhancing control.

The bend of the handlebars can be split into an upsweep angle and a sweep angle. Typically, mountain bike handlebars have an upsweep angle of about 5°, with sweep angles ranging from 7° to 10°, with 8° being the most common. I’ve found that adjusting these angles can significantly affect comfort, especially when upgrading my handlebars.

Mountain Bike Handlebar Width

Handlebar width usually depends on the rider’s size. Shorter or more petite riders often prefer narrower handlebars, while taller riders opt for wider options. I personally favor a 760 mm width because I find it gives me excellent control during rides. While I’ve seen some riders using 800 mm handlebars, they’re not as common among professionals. Finding the right handlebar width is all about personal preference and riding style.

Clamp Diameter: 35 mm vs. 31.8 mm

Handlebars typically come in two clamp diameters: the classic 31.8 mm and the newer, preferred 35 mm. Each has its pros and cons. The 35 mm handlebars provide increased rigidity and strength, which enhances handling on technical terrain but can lead to more hand fatigue over long rides. On the other hand, 31.8 mm handlebars are more shock-absorbent and comfortable for long rides, though they may bend slightly under pressure.

My Preferences and Recommendations

When it comes to my choice in handlebars, I prefer a 760 mm width that keeps my backsweep and upsweep angles consistent, typically at 5° and 8°, respectively. I use different handlebar rises depending on my bike type. For my lightweight cross-country bike, I usually select a rise between 15–25 mm, while I opt for a 35 mm rise on my endurance race bike. This setup allows me to adjust the height for optimal control and comfort across different terrains.

Recommendations for 2024

• Best for Cross-Country (XC) Riders: The Falcarbon FH40M Integrated MTB Handlebar is perfect for XC riders who prioritize speed and efficiency.
• Best for Trail Riding: OneUp Components Carbon handlebars strike the right balance between comfort and control.
• Best for Enduro and Downhill: DEITY SPEEDWAY CARBON HANDLEBAR is ideal for aggressive riders needing durability without sacrificing performance.
• Budget-Friendly Option: The Race Face Next SL Carbon is a great choice for those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

To sum it up, understanding Carbon MTB Handlebars involves considering various factors like riding style, handlebar width, rise height, and maintenance. Each of these elements can significantly impact my comfort and performance on the trail. Weighing the benefits of carbon handlebars for my specific needs can greatly enhance my riding experience. By making informed choices, I can ensure I enjoy every ride to the fullest!