Bike Handlebar Width: What Size Is Right for You?

 When I first got into cycling, I didn’t think much about the width of my handlebars. I figured all handlebars were more or less the same. But after a few rides — especially on uneven terrain — I quickly realized just how important handlebar width really is. It directly affects how comfortable I feel, how well I control the bike, and even how tired my shoulders and arms get after long rides.

So, I decided to learn more about it — and in this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about bike handlebar width, how to measure it, and how to find the right size for your style and body.

What Does Handlebar Width Mean?

From what I’ve learned, handlebar width is basically the distance between the two ends of your handlebars. Depending on the type of bike — whether it’s a road bike or a mountain bike — this measurement might be taken from the center of one grip to the center of the other (for road bikes), or from the outer ends (for mountain bikes).

This width influences how far apart my hands are when I ride, and it can affect everything from steering control to shoulder tension. It’s usually measured in millimeters or centimeters.

Different Bikes, Different Widths

I discovered that road bikes, mountain bikes, and other types of bikes all come with different handlebar widths based on how they’re designed to perform:

• Road bikes usually have narrower handlebars, around 380mm to 460mm. They’re great for reducing wind resistance and riding fast.
• Mountain bikes, on the other hand, often come with much wider handlebars — usually between 700mm and 800mm — to give more control on rough trails.
• Gravel bikes and city bikes tend to fall somewhere in between, offering a balance of control and comfort.

Why Handlebar Width Matters (A Lot!)

At first, I didn’t think such a small detail would make a big difference. But it does. The width of the handlebars really changes how I feel and perform on the bike.

Here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Better control and stability: Wider handlebars help me handle bumps and turns more easily — especially on trails.
• Comfort: If my handlebars are the right width, my shoulders and wrists feel more relaxed during long rides.
• Aerodynamics: Narrower handlebars reduce wind resistance, which is great on road bikes when I want to go faster.
• Match for body size and style: I learned that people with broader shoulders usually need wider handlebars, while smaller riders might prefer narrower ones. If the fit is wrong, it can lead to discomfort or even injuries.

How I Measured My Handlebar Width

I tried both methods, since I ride both road and mountain bikes:

• For road bikes: I used the center-to-center method. I measured from the center of one grip to the center of the other while the bar was laid flat on a workbench. My road bike’s width turned out to be 420mm.
• For mountain bikes: I used the end-to-end method. I measured from the outside of one grip to the outside of the other. My mountain bike handlebar was 760mm wide.

I used a flexible measuring tape, and I made sure the bike was on a flat surface while measuring. It was pretty easy once I got the hang of it!

Choosing the Right Width for Me

To figure out what handlebar width suited me best, I looked at a few key things:

• My shoulder width: I used it as a baseline — roughly matching the handlebar width to my shoulders.
• My riding style: Since I ride cross-country trails casually, I found that something around 740mm felt great. If I were more into downhill or enduro, I’d go wider.
• How I felt on the bike: I did some test rides at a local bike shop. Trying different widths helped me figure out which one gave me the most control without tiring out my arms and shoulders.

Here’s what worked for me based on what I learned:

• Narrow shoulders (< 40cm): 700–720mm
• Medium shoulders (40–45cm): 740–760mm
• Broad shoulders (> 45cm): 780mm or more

What Happens If the Width Is Wrong?

When I tried handlebars that were too wide, I noticed my arms felt stretched out, and I got tired quickly. Too narrow, and my chest felt tight, and my wrists started to ache. That’s why getting the right width matters. Not only does it improve performance, but it can also make the whole ride feel smoother and more natural.

Can You Cut Handlebars?

Yes! Especially for mountain bikes. I learned that if my handlebars were too wide, I could cut them down a bit using the proper tools and following the manufacturer’s instructions. I wouldn’t recommend cutting road bike handlebars though, since it might weaken their structure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to cycling like me, don’t overlook your handlebars! The right width makes a world of difference — whether you’re riding around the city or bombing down mountain trails. By learning how to measure and adjust them, I’ve made my rides more enjoyable and less painful. Take the time to experiment and find what works for your body and riding style — you’ll definitely feel the difference.

Read Also: How to measure bike handlebar width.