In addition to handlebar width, another important aspect is the height. The correct measurement should be taken in relation to the height of the bottom bracket, because if we take this value from the ground it can change from bike to bike given the possible changes in the height of the bottom bracket (in a nutshell: the height of the bike from the ground ).
So it is useless to calculate the number of spacers between the pipe and the headset, or the value of the handlebar rise: from bike to bike you have to re-evaluate the measures. It must be said that this is a very subjective position and changes in relation to the type of bike you use: it is not certain that a certain height can be reported equal to your XC bike and then to the new all-mountain purchase from 150mm in 29 ″ and find yourself well.
So there is always a need for tests and trials, as in any adjustment we make on the bike and it is difficult to give a precise measurement but I will give you the advice, and any changes, to be affixed once in the saddle.
How do I lower / raise the MTB handlebar?
Simple: either by removing / adding the shims under the handlebar or by changing the handlebar model with different rises (the rise is the measurement that indicates the difference in cm between the support of the hands and the stem).
HOW WIDE DOES THE MTB HANDLEBAR GO?
CAUSE EFFECT
Higher handlebar
- A higher handlebar causes the center of gravity to rise and move backwards: we tend to go in this direction in the case of downhill bikes because it reduces the tendency of the bike to tip forward and allows us to have a more comfortable set-up in the steep downhill. This means that we will have a deficit in the steep climbs.
Lower handlebar
– A lower handlebar determines a lowering and a forward shift of the center of gravity: attitude followed by those who like the cross country because it has many advantages on steep climbs (the bike tends to wheelie less) and because we have a more pushed position on the quadriceps, tiring the lumbar less.
CLASSICAL QUESTIONS
I am unable to load the front, why?
The answer is simple: turn it down! On modern 29 "bikes, don't overdo it to raise the handlebar too much otherwise the bike becomes difficult to drive (difficulty in keeping the front loaded), unless we use it with an enduro racing perspective or on steep downhill terrain.
I have back pain on my bike, why?
The answer could be the handlebar too high (or the bike set-up too short): in this position it loads much more on the Lombards, a muscle that inflames easily. Then you try to lower the position a little and, if the pain continues, lengthen by changing the stem for a longer one.
I can not be aggressive on the handlebars nor by raising or lowering the handlebars, why?
Notwithstanding that it can also be a driving technique problem, beware that the rotation of the handlebar is also important, especially in models with a lot of laughs.
Try to rotate the handlebar forward so that it follows the direction of your shoulders well, do not go to close it too much by turning it towards yourself otherwise, indirectly, you will not be able to open your elbows well and to be aggressive on the handlebars and on the front.
PROJECTED IMPACT
I can't recommend a standard setup that works for everything: you have to go out on the bike, try to listen to the feedback that the bike gives you, and change the setup accordingly (based on the causes described above). With the right "clinical eye" you will soon arrive at your optimal position.
