Shame everyone cares so much about what's in and what's out nowadays. Always been a fan of bar ends. I build my bikes to my spec, don't let anyone else dictate your build, it's your bike!
For long distance riding on gravel (before you had to have one of those completely nonsensible "gravel" bikes), bar ends were great for comfort and relief from fatigue in the wrists.
First rule of biking is there are no real rules ride with what works for you. I have had bike techs tell me it cannot be done and I often reply “what about if I...” or “Watch me I have done it before!”
@@ivanandriyovych2416 In high traffic areas I generally have my hands on the other part of the grip closer to the brakes. In the city where I live we have paved trails and 200 miles of dedicated bike lanes.
@@ivanandriyovych2416 I've got inner bar ends (SQlab). They are perfect. I can still shift and break when using them, I'm more aero with a narrower body position, the narrow body position also puts less stress into my shoulders imo. And because I don't have round grips, but ones flaring out for the palms I can still grip on the outside as well.
I use bar ends as well while on my MTB. It is such a relive to be able to alter the position of my hands. Never ever would i ride without them any more. Cheers Oliver
@@JrKinabalu I set mine up roughly the same upward angle as my stem (assuming it's not a negative angle stem), so, 5-15 degrees upward is a good starting point. A lot depends on wrist angle, overall setup (upright vs low & aggressive), rider style, flexibility, etc.
I've been using bar ends since the late nineties. Luv them. They allow multiple positions for climbing, road riding, aero positions. They also keep my hands from going numb on my long commute to work. Don't get rid of them because someone says they're not fashionable!
I just bought bar ends for my hybrid. I have issues with my hands going numb with only one position to use. I would usually have to ball up my fists and steer with the edge of my palms until I got feeling back in my hands.
I use them on all my bikes , my hands and elbows tend to bother me a bit when I am biking and I find being able to switch my hand positions helps a lot .
I used to race XC in the 90s and bar ends really are helpful to minimize hand fatigue and help with climbing and getting a more aero position riding flatlands. I don’t get why people aren’t still using them? They were absolute musts back in my day.
I have bar ends and would like to use them for more of an aero position. The one big concern I have is that I cannot reach the brake lever in case I need to slow down. Is there a solution for that? Could I simply lower the angle of the bar-ends? Please advice. Thank you for the insights.
The only problem with bar ends is on MTB if you pass across some bushes. If they hold to them, it may causes us a crash. I love them for climbing and rolling
I had a flat-bar road bike a few years ago and had short bar-ends on it for two reasons. Firstly, I found it easier to climb using the bar-ends; secondly, being used to road handlebars, the bar-ends on flat handlebars gave me another position.
I had these on almost all bikes I had and I still use these today! So helpful up hill and really enjoyable especially when you need to change your hand position. I also have the foam handlebar grips on these for extra comfort.
Great video, I had never considered the wrist angle problem with flat bars before. Another advantage of bar ends,in my opinion, is the biomechanics. With your hands on bar ends, your arm is more pronated which allows the anterior muscles of the arm (I.e. Biceps) to be more engaged. These are powerful muscles that allow more control esp when climbing, descending and sprinting. If I could work out a way to brake on them I would be on bar ends permanently when riding. A flat bar is just poor ergonomics.
There were some companies during the 90s that made extended brake levers that had a 90 degree bend on the ends so they could be reached from the bar ends. They looked funny, but were functional.
Most people I know that talk so much smack about bar ends have never even tried them, nor do they even know how to set them up properly. First, if you try slapping them on your current bar you probably won't like the feel because the bar becomes to narrow. Second, don't point them toward the sky like the tweakers you see riding down the sidewalk. This video shows a great set up for bar ends. Road bars have at least 3 different positions to place your hands while riding which takes a lot of pressure off a single spot and allows greater leverage for sprints and climbs. Bar ends not only give added leverage like this video explains but also help to refresh your hands during long rides and climbs. Give them a try, you might be surprised at how much fresher your hands feel during and after a ride.
I just got my first MB in about 4 years and I'm waiting for bar ends in the mail, so right now I have none. I didn't realize they were out of style. 2 other plusses of bar ends are that they keep your grips from slowly sliding off the bar and they also make a great hanger for jugs and plastic bags on trips to the store.
I put some Ergon grips with integrated bar ends on my bike. I love the option to change my hand position and also they offer the perfect position for some aggressive climbing or sprinting. Personally I prefer three finger bar ends, but Ergon provides a large variety. They aren't cheap but they are high quality. Installing separate bar ends, like the ones in this video, is also a good way, especially a cheaper one. But you should definitely avoid buying cheap grips with integrated bar ends. The ones I've seen don't allow to adjust the angle of the bar ends and they always have a stupidly flat angle. When you have your palm rest at the correct position they are nearly horizontal and in most cases that's not good.
I think it's great to be able to change your hand position no matter what type of bike you're riding. It's a lot more comfortable and probably healthier in the long run.
Thank you so much for sharing the video on wrists movements for the bar ends and without one. I also use them on tarmac by resting my palm on the edge of the grips and rest 4 of my fingers on the bar ends. Really neat design but often overlooked at nowadaways.
I recently bought some bar ends to hopefully keep myself in a more upright position due to lower back issues. I'm planning to use them facing more upwards to keep me from having to bend too much
I notice all the newer bikes are without bar ends and bars are much wider. I suggested to a fellow rider that having narrower bars gives better clearance on tight single track but still good climbing position and leverage with bar ends. He thought bar ends were mostly for aero/road rides and agreed that the wide bars are more challenging on narrow technical trails. They are good for aero! And, as mentioned, good alternative grip on longer rides. They can reduce pressure on wrists and gives a little more custom look to a bike and add utility to the bars: better lean-against surface, secure easier from sway during transport, can loop a dog leash over them - of course, don’t ride with a dog leashed to a side of handlebars! I don’t see any negatives, except the additional weight; I’d rather have added weight in bar ends than with the much wider bars. As for trends, bar ends make sense and need to make a comeback! :-)
Very nice video, I did not catch your name but I want to thank you for promoting Bar-Ends. Amazing how Bar-Ends are still going strong since I invented them in 1986. Sincerely Dan Sotelo aka Mr. onZa
Is this why you invented them?: The forearm muscle tendon positions are in a much more natural state w/bar ends than w/o. (Handshake position vs computer mouse position). That inverted arm position can lead to, or further aggravate, repetitive action injuries such as medial and lateral epicondylitis. Otherwise known as: carpal tunnel, golfers elbow, or tennis elbow.
Thanks for coming up with these great accessories! Bar ends are de rigeur for me; but I’m an old school XC racer from back in the 90s. I wish more people would use them today.
@@MasterArmedforces You got it. Drop your arms by your side and they naturally go to the same position as used with bar ends. It’s a great position for relieving stress on the arms and wrists.
Bar ends are great, I got them on my commuter bike. But i will put them on my mountainbike as well. It's also great for the elbows, back, and shoulders. The breathing gets more effective also I believe.
One thing that I believe I missed is how good they are at giving you extra grip when going uphill. Personally it's like I'm not so much pedaling but instead grabbing the bike uphill. It's amazing how much more engagement of the upper body happens when using some good handlebar ends. I feel there's still so much engineering work that can be done on this alone if the cycling world wasn't so obsessed in cutting out weight.
I use bar ends PLUS. I have some 30ish year old one piece molded bars that curve like removable bar ends but keep going up and fwd and nearly join back together in an aero tuck position. They have many possibilities. I use many of the ways you do plus more.
I am like you in the way that I started riding decades ago (I am 51) and always had bar ends, had them on my Diamond Back, my Giant and now my Mongoose 29'er, mostly for inclines and to relax the wrist when I need to, also big goats are afraid of them....BONUS!!
Just bought bar ends for leisure-tourer bike, used for just eur1 - and I couldn't choose between straight beefier and shorter (I'm used to this size and shape) and thinner, longer curving well up and inwards. For this price I can try many of them!
Bar ends are useful when you want to turn your bike upside down. With bar ends turned slightly more upward, u won't need to remove your light, bicycle computer and bell that would get in the way and may get damaged when turning it upside down. U can safely rest the bike on the bar ends. Though such upward bar ends, would be useless, or at least not so effective for climbing, but still, it's good to have them on your commuter even just for the sake of turning the bike upside down.. I know a lot of people say: "Don't ever turn your bike upside down." But I don't have to listen them, because it's my own bike. So I do it a lot. Also the bar end can be a perfect place where to mount a side mirror. It gives to the mirror's arm a bit of more extension to bring it further forward so u have a good view from it.. I had it on my old commuter. A good convex mirror. And that was the only thing I little missed on my new bike which has sdi levers, and no good place to mount it. But actually, I can ride without mirror as well too. Just that, I can't admire my cool self from it, when riding or taking selfies from it. :P But that's good. I once almost crashed, when trying to get a cool selfy on my epic ride.. So I'm better without. :P Though it was really useful in city. On highways where cars go 90+ Km/h, the mirror was a bit too convex. When a car don't have headlights on, it would be already pretty close when noticing it from mirror.. or would not notice it at all.
When I first started riding a bike I won with bar ends I hated them but kept riding... by the time I got to where I was going I resided I liked them and on more that one build I have put them on my bike... almost all my newer builds still have bar ends including my newest build.
im 41 always have used bar ends , neck when i was 17 i had a black Fuji with bar ends, i had bar end brake lever extenders to. so I could brake from the bar end. Cant find them now they stopped making them. I prefer bar ends but that's just me.
For the road bike: Brake hoods For the mountain bike: Bar ends ....cause it provides more power (read uphill) and it's the hands' natural position. 3 points of contact for power and comfort = hands, feet, seat I'm 6'4". First thing I did with my mountain bike was switch the 680mm handlebars for Race Face 785mm and add bar ends.
I'd add another position - OFF the saddle riding, especially powering the higher gears. For this position, I have found that on my road bike, I have my hands on the FLAT portion of the bars, just before the hoods. (or, of course, down on the drops) It took me ages to realise that this is why I could not ride for very long off the saddle, on my mountain bike - I simply didn't have the ability to do that - my bar ends pointed up at an angle. So, I now have my bar ends perfectly flat, and it has made all the difference! Such a simple, small, tweak - I can't believe it. I do miss the standard, angled ends for climbing ON the saddle, but it's only a very minor drawback - the flat ends have more advantages than disadvantages. (I also like them for riding relaxed, on the saddle). I will now try to find a short "bullhorn" bar end, to restore the angled position for climbing on the saddle. (I don't really want to add two separate bar ends)
Enjoyed them from the day I got my first bar ends, so much so that I prefer the hand positioning that I am going full hog and transition all my bikes including mountain bikes to drop bars and levers. Problem is getting high rise stems to get similar body position while in the drops, and finding wide enough bars that most road makers top out at 46cm c-t-c when flat MTB bars start at 56cm.
On an xc, particularly, a bar end allows you to engage your bicep and tricep chain which helps when sprinting, and control generally. Road and track sprinters also use this hand position when putting out power.
I didn't know these were out of style. I just got a mountain for the cooler months here in Florida to do some trails and I love bar ends. I agree with some people on here that say who cares about what's in/out. It's your bike make it yours.
Bar ends are great, and not just on the trail. For a long time, I've been riding chopped flat bars with short bar ends on my fixed gear. I get odd looks sometimes, but functionally they're just great.
Hell yeah brother. Gotta be able to change hand positions once in awhile on those longer rides. Paul components makes the best bar end, called the chim chim. Pricey but they're awesome.
As a 70 year old, not having ridden for decades, I could not figure out what the horns were for having purchased used. Though I don’t believe I’ll be needing them for a grueling uphill, I do see another important feature, keeping my weaker, sweaty grip from sliding off the bar. I’ll be sure to see they are adjusted properly. Thank you. Steve, Plymouth MA USA
I had them on my mtb and got to close to the railing of a bridge. The bar end hooked and down I went landing on the other bar end that was sticking up. That was in 2005. It 2023 now and still have a scar where the bar end tried to hook my clavicle. i took them off before I rode it again and they've been hanging in the garage ever sense.
I love bar ends and find it useful. My twenty-year-old Merida MTB has been fitted since the first year and I use it. It gives similar holding position as the brakehood on the dropped bar. I wonder why I see it less and less on bikes with flat bar. Simply just it improves comfort and control....
I like them for the same reasons, more comfortable uphills or at high speed. but also it lets you change your grip & those changes help you be comfortable. Im buying some as I havent had any since I got my Voodoo Hoodoo about 6yr ago.
When you stand up , bar ends give you way better leverage and upper body points where you can push against. I also think the aero bars are good when you want an aero position .. I am going to experiment with that. Good video thanks.
I urban cycle in Bangkok where there are few inclines but hectic and rapid situations on both the sidewalks and the road. I use bar ends similar to the one he showed in the video in a near-vertical position to allow me to sit more upright on the bike. I install the left-hand (rear) brake lever onto the left bar end so when both hands are on the bar ends I will have immediate access to operating at least one brake. If I want use both both brakes, I bring my right hand down to it's normal position on the handle bar for both the rear derailleur shifter, the bell and the (front) brake. I've created a few custom handlebars from flat handle bars that incorporate both the near-vertical bar end as described above with drops. This allows me to have the advantage of three separate hand positions - vertical bar ends, normal flat handle and drop position. Unfortunately the drops would not have a brake lever, but I use drops so infrequently in urban cycling that it not that disadvantageous (except using drops usually implies higher speeds, but I can always raise one of my hands to a brake lever in an emergency stop).
I do bikepacking which involves A LOT of gear being carried on the bars & fork legs. Climbing, even on tarmac, can be brutal. With bar ends you get more control over the weight & it feels like you've got better leverage when moving the thing from left to right when climbing out of the seat. NICE old skool bikes SB!
Excellent summary! For me, the only downside is they can catch on vegetation on trails. But that's usually shrubs which is more annoying than anything else.
2020 and I still use em on my Giant Hardtail XC. Prevents your hands slipping off the grip if by chance your grips gave way and also protect my hands from impacts
Yes exactly for going off the seat and swinging left to right helps a lot and more confidence. Other is the fact the it gives an additional hand position for long rides. I usually use my MTB more as a one for long rides and less for mountain riding. I started using them recently because of ring finger numbness in my left hand. I hope it proves as a good solution.
Like yourself I have been around mountain bikes since the early 1990's when Onza Bar Ends became a must have item for all cross country bikes. Then the free ride trend hit along with the full suspension bike trend which had a duel impact on handle bars. There were so many heavy bad suspension bikes that couldn't climb out of the saddle the manufacters tried to mask this by using riser bars which forced riders to stay in the saddle which created the free ride movement which didn't last very long. Since the emphasis was going down hill rather then climbing bar ends basicly fell off the map. I think slowly low rise bars and bar ends will start to make a come back for the XC/Marathon set.
I agree with all your points. I think in the last decade or so the "trend" has become a little too obsessed with weight reduction and as such, see bike bar ends as an unnecessary weight addition. I for one am just getting back into riding from a long hiatus and I am shopping for some bar ends as we speak!
I have a buddy that's a weight weenie and he literally tried to take stuff off MY bike because he thought it was unnecessary and too heavy. I was like "Bro! It's MY bike! Everything there is there for a reason!" I had to say it like 5 times until he finally caught on haha.
The forearm muscle tendon positions are in a much more natural state w/bar ends than w/o. (Handshake position vs computer mouse position). That inverted arm position can lead to, or further aggravate, repetitive action injuries such as medial and lateral epicondylitis. Otherwise known as: carpal tunnel, golfers elbow, or tennis elbow.
Hi! Thanks for taking the time to do this video. I use bar ends as risers. Being tall I like to grip the upper portions while standing up. This offers support on one bad knee as it goes down I can sort of use this side of my handlebar riser as a cain you might say because unfortunately I have to favor one leg over the other due to many years of riding and physical trauma. I also like to use them on downhills in sort of skiers position standing upright and forward. I was surprised recently to read a popular articular rating these as one of the top trendy accessories of the past that are unnecessary and considered useless. That being said, I agreed with the author on one point; bicyclists will try ANYTHING. Take care my friend.
@@MrAngryCanadian Why would they suck, aren't they basically the same concept as bar ends? Anyway, I already bought a cheap set of bullhorn handlebars to try, I'll see if they suck.
Very nicely explained! I always wondered what those things were for. I thought they were there to keep your hands from sliding off of the end of your handlebars! LOL
It helps me when trying to sprint and very effective on brake away on tarmac situation. And most of all very effective if i crashed it saves may brakes and handle bars and frames tested and proven...
@@cannondany like a monkey climbing or the way humans hold a bottle of beer . Mine tilt about 10 degrees forward almost straight up . This allows for a a vertical or horizontal grip on the straight bar . I change my grip every couple of minutes and allows for a more upright position so you can check out your favorite sex in short shorts without pinching the nerve in your neck . A proper gel seat made biking so much more fun too .
Currently use them on way too wide 680 bars with a 110m -17° stem. will shorten to 600mm or even less(depends on how it handles). But love them for steep uphills. Made the same hill again without bar ends and my wrists were quite stressed and my arms felt stretched. Especially since i use a singlespeed, pushing hard without bar ends is really uncomfortable
Nice video, you did a good job at explaining. I see the benefit of those bar ends, when you are riding for long distances without many breaks, pain and freezing hands,change in hand position is a good idea,what I noticed what that when I let my arms hang down I start to get warmer,because of better bloodstream, same when I change hand position so similar position of what you do on bar-ends. but I only do this on safe flat parts,and then change back when I start get warm or the pain goes away. for long distance xc racers I see the benefit, but for trail/enduro you won't use it. even with wider bars I still see the benefit. I have never really properly tested out bar ends,and never used it on any of my bikes,but I don't need it for my use,because I ride some gnarly trails,were I have to be ready to brake. but I got no issues climbing,but some of the climbs I ride are not suited for bar-end use. But use what ever works for you,I don't care about those silly trends and magazine articles.
ergon horns on my 29er with 600mm HB. feels better than those superman posture 800mm HBs. i even have foam grips (cut open secured with cable ties) near the stem area of the bars - useful when having head winds
I for one really like bar ends. I can get into a much more comfortable position when aggressively climbing. I'm thinking about trying the ergo grip bar ends as I have always used the traditional ones like yours. Thank you for another great video.
Just gone back to bar ends after building a flat bar hybrid carbon fork gravel bike. It’s great, it’s like riding my old xc mountain bikes from 20 plus years ago but with modern equipment and geometry 😁. “Ribble hybrid 1x11 speed hydraulic disc brakes 700c gravel bolt through wheels” all for £600 new 😱
I had an accident decades ago and bar ends saved my hand from crashing to the wall. The first thing I do when I buy a new mt bike is to install bar ends.
I always used barends in the 90s. Just started riding again this year with my new bike 29er that didn't come with barends and caught myself constantly holding the tip of the handlebar as if I had barends due to discomfort in my hands and forearm. So I'm pretty sure they were invented for a reason. Just like road bikes give you two options for hand position (twisted forearm when on top and nontwisted in lower position), barends serve the same purpose. Bike industry, like all other industries, plays consumers like puppets by constantly changing things so they have to be replaced and keep people giving them money. I'll definitely get some barends on my bike again. At least now I have a freaking long handlebar that follows the bike fashion and provides plenty of space.
I keep my hand open, standing out if the saddle, and I push back and forth in the bar ends....using some if my upper body strength to get up hill. I don't know if it's 'good form' or whatever and I don't care...thats the most comfortable way for me to get up a hill quickly.
I always liked Cannondale's "longer" "twistier" bar ends. But, I did come a cropper about a year ago when I hooked a fence pole on a descent (my fault for losing control) and I went OTB big time. Fortunately I was wearing a hydration pack full of water, which I am convinced saved my bacon and cushioned the impact. Since then I've switched to some super stubby bar ends. I mean, they're really just rubber coated nubs. But they offer most of the benefits of a regular bar end, and are far less likely to hook something. Plus, I think they cost me US$8 bucks shipped! BTW: I love your Cannondale collection. I've had a few in my day - F 1000, Super V, an original Jekyll, and I still have an XS800 cross bike. Cheers
Have always used Bar Ends! I've been riding since the early 90's when like you said they were on pretty much every bike. I just bought a new bike and the shop owner discouraged me from installing or using them. I gave it a shot for a couple rides and didn't like it at all. Gotta have em for those long climbs!
I completely agree. Like you I started ridding mountain bikes in the 1990s and back then bar ends were almost mandatory - haha. BUT - Even in 2020 I swear to using bar-ends. Rocking the bike from side so side and going uphill is just more comfortable using bar-ends. I actually wondered why so few mountain bikers use them nowadays and I was afraid there would might be safety issues that I was not aware of, but it does not seem to be the case.
Hmm am currently using flatbars and i notice over the years as i am able to cycle further/longer my wrists do get numb! Now considering bike packing - would u say bar ends or butterfly bars are better assuming a MTB frame with MTB shifters/brakes
Set your own trends. I use bartends on my bike path / commuter bike the typical ride is 25 to 40 miles and the bar ends add another hand position or two. Have them also on my vintage hard tail . I dont however use them on my modern MTB’s because of tree branches, only been an issue a few times. Use what you like it’s your bike!!!
Can someone tell me how to mount bar ends to bars when my grips already have ends on them? I have Chromag Basis grips. Do I just have to get new grips? Do I use them without the end clamps?
I use them on three bikes. I find you can climb better with them when they are at 90 degree angle. Plus you can even get into a modified aero position that's better than on a road bike try it
@@francor2263 you place the bar ends at 90 degree meaning straight. When you use them bend your arms slightly and lower your arm while looking forward. You'll see the difference try it
I use bar ends because I do longer mileage than most MTB riders in my area. I use the same bike for commuting, bike packing on railroad trails, and the occasional trail ride after 10+ miles to reach the trailhead / bike park. If someone who probably drove their bike to my location mocks my bar ends I am not much troubled. I love them and many miles have proven their worth. Rocking Ergon GP2's here and it doesn't even bother me (much) that the GS2's were out of stock when I was shopping. Even the commuter version is great!
Shame everyone cares so much about what's in and what's out nowadays. Always been a fan of bar ends. I build my bikes to my spec, don't let anyone else dictate your build, it's your bike!
For long distance riding on gravel (before you had to have one of those completely nonsensible "gravel" bikes), bar ends were great for comfort and relief from fatigue in the wrists.
i like mine and use them all the time :)
First rule of biking is there are no real rules ride with what works for you.
I have had bike techs tell me it cannot be done and I often reply “what about if I...” or “Watch me I have done it before!”
I would like drop bars on my 29r mountain bike but it not practical so went for bar ends instead
I commute on a mountain bike hybrid and the bar ends allow me to change my hand position and helps with fatigue.
Exactly, I have RSI from my other hobby... RTS PC games, and barends really help.
What about when you need to brake quickly? It will take you much longer to find the brake when holding the bar extenders
@@ivanandriyovych2416 In high traffic areas I generally have my hands on the other part of the grip closer to the brakes. In the city where I live we have paved trails and 200 miles of dedicated bike lanes.
@@ivanandriyovych2416 this isn't a problem when uphill which is the main use for me
@@ivanandriyovych2416 I've got inner bar ends (SQlab). They are perfect. I can still shift and break when using them, I'm more aero with a narrower body position, the narrow body position also puts less stress into my shoulders imo. And because I don't have round grips, but ones flaring out for the palms I can still grip on the outside as well.
I use bar ends as well while on my MTB. It is such a relive to be able to alter the position of my hands.
Never ever would i ride without them any more.
Cheers Oliver
Thanks for sharing!
What is the best position when setting up the bar ends? 45 degree or lower than that?
@@JrKinabalu I set mine up roughly the same upward angle as my stem (assuming it's not a negative angle stem), so, 5-15 degrees upward is a good starting point. A lot depends on wrist angle, overall setup (upright vs low & aggressive), rider style, flexibility, etc.
Me too! I love 'em.
I've been using bar ends since the late nineties. Luv them. They allow multiple positions for climbing, road riding, aero positions. They also keep my hands from going numb on my long commute to work. Don't get rid of them because someone says they're not fashionable!
They actually look nice
@Fabian Ansteg lmao
I just bought bar ends for my hybrid. I have issues with my hands going numb with only one position to use. I would usually have to ball up my fists and steer with the edge of my palms until I got feeling back in my hands.
+Terran Hightower It was the same for me during long rides. The bar ends help and the softer or shaped grips can too. Cheers! Dany
Agree with both comments.
My hands go numb around 40 mile mark. Doesn't happen as much with comfort grip bar ends.
Now I can continue long spotives.
I use them on all my bikes , my hands and elbows tend to bother me a bit when I am biking and I find being able to switch my hand positions helps a lot .
I used to race XC in the 90s and bar ends really are helpful to minimize hand fatigue and help with climbing and getting a more aero position riding flatlands. I don’t get why people aren’t still using them? They were absolute musts back in my day.
I have bar ends and would like to use them for more of an aero position. The one big concern I have is that I cannot reach the brake lever in case I need to slow down. Is there a solution for that? Could I simply lower the angle of the bar-ends? Please advice. Thank you for the insights.
The only problem with bar ends is on MTB if you pass across some bushes.
If they hold to them, it may causes us a crash.
I love them for climbing and rolling
I had a flat-bar road bike a few years ago and had short bar-ends on it for two reasons. Firstly, I found it easier to climb using the bar-ends; secondly, being used to road handlebars, the bar-ends on flat handlebars gave me another position.
I had these on almost all bikes I had and I still use these today! So helpful up hill and really enjoyable especially when you need to change your hand position. I also have the foam handlebar grips on these for extra comfort.
Great video, I had never considered the wrist angle problem with flat bars before. Another advantage of bar ends,in my opinion, is the biomechanics.
With your hands on bar ends, your arm is more pronated which allows the anterior muscles of the arm (I.e. Biceps) to be more engaged. These are powerful muscles that allow more control esp when climbing, descending and sprinting.
If I could work out a way to brake on them I would be on bar ends permanently when riding.
A flat bar is just poor ergonomics.
There were some companies during the 90s that made extended brake levers that had a 90 degree bend on the ends so they could be reached from the bar ends. They looked funny, but were functional.
Most people I know that talk so much smack about bar ends have never even tried them, nor do they even know how to set them up properly. First, if you try slapping them on your current bar you probably won't like the feel because the bar becomes to narrow. Second, don't point them toward the sky like the tweakers you see riding down the sidewalk. This video shows a great set up for bar ends. Road bars have at least 3 different positions to place your hands while riding which takes a lot of pressure off a single spot and allows greater leverage for sprints and climbs. Bar ends not only give added leverage like this video explains but also help to refresh your hands during long rides and climbs. Give them a try, you might be surprised at how much fresher your hands feel during and after a ride.
I just got my first MB in about 4 years and I'm waiting for bar ends in the mail, so right now I have none. I didn't realize they were out of style. 2 other plusses of bar ends are that they keep your grips from slowly sliding off the bar and they also make a great hanger for jugs and plastic bags on trips to the store.
I put some Ergon grips with integrated bar ends on my bike. I love the option to change my hand position and also they offer the perfect position for some aggressive climbing or sprinting. Personally I prefer three finger bar ends, but Ergon provides a large variety. They aren't cheap but they are high quality.
Installing separate bar ends, like the ones in this video, is also a good way, especially a cheaper one. But you should definitely avoid buying cheap grips with integrated bar ends. The ones I've seen don't allow to adjust the angle of the bar ends and they always have a stupidly flat angle. When you have your palm rest at the correct position they are nearly horizontal and in most cases that's not good.
I think it's great to be able to change your hand position no matter what type of bike you're riding. It's a lot more comfortable and probably healthier in the long run.
Thank you so much for sharing the video on wrists movements for the bar ends and without one.
I also use them on tarmac by resting my palm on the edge of the grips and rest 4 of my fingers on the bar ends.
Really neat design but often overlooked at nowadaways.
I recently bought some bar ends to hopefully keep myself in a more upright position due to lower back issues. I'm planning to use them facing more upwards to keep me from having to bend too much
This is a fine use for bar ends too. Won't look that great but riding comfort matters way more.
It's 2018 and i just installed bar end on my XC bike lol.
it's 2019 and I'm thinking about reuniting with barends after more than 10 yrs..
The reunion will be beautiful
I notice all the newer bikes are without bar ends and bars are much wider. I suggested to a fellow rider that having narrower bars gives better clearance on tight single track but still good climbing position and leverage with bar ends. He thought bar ends were mostly for aero/road rides and agreed that the wide bars are more challenging on narrow technical trails. They are good for aero! And, as mentioned, good alternative grip on longer rides. They can reduce pressure on wrists and gives a little more custom look to a bike and add utility to the bars: better lean-against surface, secure easier from sway during transport, can loop a dog leash over them - of course, don’t ride with a dog leashed to a side of handlebars! I don’t see any negatives, except the additional weight; I’d rather have added weight in bar ends than with the much wider bars. As for trends, bar ends make sense and need to make a comeback! :-)
Very nice video, I did not catch your name but I want to thank you for promoting Bar-Ends. Amazing how Bar-Ends are still going strong since I invented them in 1986.
Sincerely
Dan Sotelo
aka Mr. onZa
Is this why you invented them?:
The forearm muscle tendon positions are in a much more natural state w/bar ends than w/o. (Handshake position vs computer mouse position). That inverted arm position can lead to, or further aggravate, repetitive action injuries such as medial and lateral epicondylitis. Otherwise known as: carpal tunnel, golfers elbow, or tennis elbow.
Thanks for coming up with these great accessories! Bar ends are de rigeur for me; but I’m an old school XC racer from back in the 90s. I wish more people would use them today.
@@MasterArmedforces
You got it. Drop your arms by your side and they naturally go to the same position as used with bar ends. It’s a great position for relieving stress on the arms and wrists.
Bar ends are great, I got them on my commuter bike.
But i will put them on my mountainbike as well.
It's also great for the elbows, back, and shoulders. The breathing gets more effective also I believe.
One thing that I believe I missed is how good they are at giving you extra grip when going uphill. Personally it's like I'm not so much pedaling but instead grabbing the bike uphill.
It's amazing how much more engagement of the upper body happens when using some good handlebar ends.
I feel there's still so much engineering work that can be done on this alone if the cycling world wasn't so obsessed in cutting out weight.
I use bar ends PLUS. I have some 30ish year old one piece molded bars that curve like removable bar ends but keep going up and fwd and nearly join back together in an aero tuck position. They have many possibilities. I use many of the ways you do plus more.
I am like you in the way that I started riding decades ago (I am 51) and always had bar ends, had them on my Diamond Back, my Giant and now my Mongoose 29'er, mostly for inclines and to relax the wrist when I need to, also big goats are afraid of them....BONUS!!
A useful tips you made...a nice demonstration. I will fix back my old bar-ends...yup! u r right looks comfortable! Thx.
Just bought bar ends for leisure-tourer bike, used for just eur1 - and I couldn't choose between straight beefier and shorter (I'm used to this size and shape) and thinner, longer curving well up and inwards. For this price I can try many of them!
Bar ends are useful when you want to turn your bike upside down. With bar ends turned slightly more upward, u won't need to remove your light, bicycle computer and bell that would get in the way and may get damaged when turning it upside down. U can safely rest the bike on the bar ends. Though such upward bar ends, would be useless, or at least not so effective for climbing, but still, it's good to have them on your commuter even just for the sake of turning the bike upside down.. I know a lot of people say: "Don't ever turn your bike upside down." But I don't have to listen them, because it's my own bike. So I do it a lot.
Also the bar end can be a perfect place where to mount a side mirror. It gives to the mirror's arm a bit of more extension to bring it further forward so u have a good view from it.. I had it on my old commuter. A good convex mirror. And that was the only thing I little missed on my new bike which has sdi levers, and no good place to mount it. But actually, I can ride without mirror as well too. Just that, I can't admire my cool self from it, when riding or taking selfies from it. :P But that's good. I once almost crashed, when trying to get a cool selfy on my epic ride.. So I'm better without. :P
Though it was really useful in city. On highways where cars go 90+ Km/h, the mirror was a bit too convex. When a car don't have headlights on, it would be already pretty close when noticing it from mirror.. or would not notice it at all.
+Hardi Erstu Cool man, thanks for sharing :)
When I first started riding a bike I won with bar ends I hated them but kept riding... by the time I got to where I was going I resided I liked them and on more that one build I have put them on my bike... almost all my newer builds still have bar ends including my newest build.
Great explanaition . I have an old Bridgestone MB1 with flat narrow bars and I'm putting the bar ends back on.
im 41 always have used bar ends , neck when i was 17 i had a black Fuji with bar ends, i had bar end brake lever extenders to. so I could brake from the bar end. Cant find them now they stopped making them. I prefer bar ends but that's just me.
SickBiker you nailed it great job! You just explained something I've been unable to for 10 years, and so simply!!! #FreeBarEnds
For the road bike: Brake hoods
For the mountain bike: Bar ends
....cause it provides more power (read uphill) and it's the hands' natural position.
3 points of contact for power and comfort = hands, feet, seat
I'm 6'4". First thing I did with my mountain bike was switch the 680mm handlebars for Race Face 785mm and add bar ends.
I'd add another position - OFF the saddle riding, especially powering the higher gears. For this position, I have found that on my road bike, I have my hands on the FLAT portion of the bars, just before the hoods. (or, of course, down on the drops) It took me ages to realise that this is why I could not ride for very long off the saddle, on my mountain bike - I simply didn't have the ability to do that - my bar ends pointed up at an angle. So, I now have my bar ends perfectly flat, and it has made all the difference! Such a simple, small, tweak - I can't believe it. I do miss the standard, angled ends for climbing ON the saddle, but it's only a very minor drawback - the flat ends have more advantages than disadvantages. (I also like them for riding relaxed, on the saddle). I will now try to find a short "bullhorn" bar end, to restore the angled position for climbing on the saddle. (I don't really want to add two separate bar ends)
Only reason i don't use bar ends on my MTB is that they tend to hook on bushes and low hanging branches. Really dangerous when descending at speed.
While you're crashing?
I used to use barends on my mtb in the middle as aero bars
Enjoyed them from the day I got my first bar ends, so much so that I prefer the hand positioning that I am going full hog and transition all my bikes including mountain bikes to drop bars and levers. Problem is getting high rise stems to get similar body position while in the drops, and finding wide enough bars that most road makers top out at 46cm c-t-c when flat MTB bars start at 56cm.
On an xc, particularly, a bar end allows you to engage your bicep and tricep chain which helps when sprinting, and control generally. Road and track sprinters also use this hand position when putting out power.
I didn't know these were out of style. I just got a mountain for the cooler months here in Florida to do some trails and I love bar ends. I agree with some people on here that say who cares about what's in/out. It's your bike make it yours.
Thank you! Very clear video, audio and angles you used to demo! I am a new to MTBs and immediately thought something was missing and bar ends is it.
Will get some for my Trek FX 3 when I collect it on Monday.Who cares about trendy !!!!Comfort is priceless!!
Bar ends are great, and not just on the trail. For a long time, I've been riding chopped flat bars with short bar ends on my fixed gear. I get odd looks sometimes, but functionally they're just great.
Thank You for Your video. Bar ends are good for climbing.
Bar Ends.. look cool and are totally essential for me..on my city and Mtb bike
I fall into the bar end camp, for much of the reasons explained in your video.
Love bar ends, trying to get a pair for my bike, miss them so much.
The fist thing I did when I bought a new bike was install bar ends. I won't ride without them.
Stubby bar ends are great on the flats and the climbs….got em on my 2015 Bronson cc 👍🏼
Riding multi days and hundreds of miles bar ends are a necessity for me. I also have started using Togs and they are fantastic.
Hell yeah brother. Gotta be able to change hand positions once in awhile on those longer rides. Paul components makes the best bar end, called the chim chim. Pricey but they're awesome.
As a 70 year old, not having ridden for decades, I could not figure out what the horns were for having purchased used. Though I don’t believe I’ll be needing them for a grueling uphill, I do see another important feature, keeping my weaker, sweaty grip from sliding off the bar. I’ll be sure to see they are adjusted properly. Thank you. Steve, Plymouth MA USA
I have an old rusty mtb with bar ends on it. I'm still using it to vary the grips.
I had them on my mtb and got to close to the railing of a bridge. The bar end hooked and down I went landing on the other bar end that was sticking up. That was in 2005. It 2023 now and still have a scar where the bar end tried to hook my clavicle. i took them off before I rode it again and they've been hanging in the garage ever sense.
I love bar ends and find it useful. My twenty-year-old Merida MTB has been fitted since the first year and I use it. It gives similar holding position as the brakehood on the dropped bar.
I wonder why I see it less and less on bikes with flat bar. Simply just it improves comfort and control....
I like them for the same reasons, more comfortable uphills or at high speed. but also it lets you change your grip & those changes help you be comfortable. Im buying some as I havent had any since I got my Voodoo Hoodoo about 6yr ago.
Bar ends are awesome period🤗
I agree with you so I will be putting bar end on my mountain bike 👍
When you stand up , bar ends give you way better leverage and upper body points where you can push against. I also think the aero bars are good when you want an aero position .. I am going to experiment with that. Good video thanks.
I urban cycle in Bangkok where there are few inclines but hectic and rapid situations on both the sidewalks and the road. I use bar ends similar to the one he showed in the video in a near-vertical position to allow me to sit more upright on the bike. I install the left-hand (rear) brake lever onto the left bar end so when both hands are on the bar ends I will have immediate access to operating at least one brake. If I want use both both brakes, I bring my right hand down to it's normal position on the handle bar for both the rear derailleur shifter, the bell and the (front) brake.
I've created a few custom handlebars from flat handle bars that incorporate both the near-vertical bar end as described above with drops. This allows me to have the advantage of three separate hand positions - vertical bar ends, normal flat handle and drop position. Unfortunately the drops would not have a brake lever, but I use drops so infrequently in urban cycling that it not that disadvantageous (except using drops usually implies higher speeds, but I can always raise one of my hands to a brake lever in an emergency stop).
I have a pair of Ergon GP3 grips. I was wondering if you can add barends with these grips?
I do bikepacking which involves A LOT of gear being carried on the bars & fork legs. Climbing, even on tarmac, can be brutal. With bar ends you get more control over the weight & it feels like you've got better leverage when moving the thing from left to right when climbing out of the seat. NICE old skool bikes SB!
Excellent summary! For me, the only downside is they can catch on vegetation on trails. But that's usually shrubs which is more annoying than anything else.
2020 and I still use em on my Giant Hardtail XC. Prevents your hands slipping off the grip if by chance your grips gave way and also protect my hands from impacts
Yes exactly for going off the seat and swinging left to right helps a lot and more confidence.
Other is the fact the it gives an additional hand position for long rides. I usually use my MTB more as a one for long rides and less for mountain riding.
I started using them recently because of ring finger numbness in my left hand. I hope it proves as a good solution.
Like yourself I have been around mountain bikes since the early 1990's when Onza Bar Ends became a must have item for all cross country bikes. Then the free ride trend hit along with the full suspension bike trend which had a duel impact on handle bars. There were so many heavy bad suspension bikes that couldn't climb out of the saddle the manufacters tried to mask this by using riser bars which forced riders to stay in the saddle which created the free ride movement which didn't last very long. Since the emphasis was going down hill rather then climbing bar ends basicly fell off the map. I think slowly low rise bars and bar ends will start to make a come back for the XC/Marathon set.
I agree with all your points. I think in the last decade or so the "trend" has become a little too obsessed with weight reduction and as such, see bike bar ends as an unnecessary weight addition. I for one am just getting back into riding from a long hiatus and I am shopping for some bar ends as we speak!
I have a buddy that's a weight weenie and he literally tried to take stuff off MY bike because he thought it was unnecessary and too heavy. I was like "Bro! It's MY bike! Everything there is there for a reason!" I had to say it like 5 times until he finally caught on haha.
The forearm muscle tendon positions are in a much more natural state w/bar ends than w/o. (Handshake position vs computer mouse position). That inverted arm position can lead to, or further aggravate, repetitive action injuries such as medial and lateral epicondylitis. Otherwise known as: carpal tunnel, golfers elbow, or tennis elbow.
I used bar ends for years until I bought a new bike and didn't bother putting them on. I now miss them and I will look for a new set.
Really handy and forgotten...
Its now 2024, I am still using bar ends even on flat asphalts road I still use it just changing the position of my hand and wrist in a long ride.
Thanks. I try bar ends with my merida speeder 500. probably it is works.
Hi! Thanks for taking the time to do this video.
I use bar ends as risers. Being tall I like to grip the upper portions while standing up. This offers support on one bad knee as it goes down I can sort of use this side of my handlebar riser as a cain you might say because unfortunately I have to favor one leg over the other due to many years of riding and physical trauma.
I also like to use them on downhills in sort of skiers position standing upright and forward.
I was surprised recently to read a popular articular rating these as one of the top trendy accessories of the past that are unnecessary and considered useless. That being said, I agreed with the author on one point; bicyclists will try ANYTHING. Take care my friend.
Will bullhorn handlebars have the same effect as bar ends?
Kind of but they suck in most people’s opinion and bar ends can be found in many different kinds and fits for different people.
@@MrAngryCanadian Why would they suck, aren't they basically the same concept as bar ends? Anyway, I already bought a cheap set of bullhorn handlebars to try, I'll see if they suck.
Very nicely explained! I always wondered what those things were for. I thought they were there to keep your hands from sliding off of the end of your handlebars! LOL
Bar ends are great on climbs. Very comfy on the wrists. Agreed.
It helps me when trying to sprint and very effective on brake away on tarmac situation. And most of all very effective if i crashed it saves may brakes and handle bars and frames tested and proven...
In your opinion what's the best angle for bar ends?
Depending on your saddle / bar height and your body - your wrist should feel natural on bar ends.
@@cannondany like a monkey climbing or the way humans hold a bottle of beer . Mine tilt about 10 degrees forward almost straight up . This allows for a a vertical or horizontal grip on the straight bar . I change my grip every couple of minutes and allows for a more upright position so you can check out your favorite sex in short shorts without pinching the nerve in your neck . A proper gel seat made biking so much more fun too .
When I ride further and further, I can't hold my hands on flat bar. Bar ends added now I am also adding Aero bar for long distance riding
that cannondale is a museum piece
Currently use them on way too wide 680 bars with a 110m -17° stem.
will shorten to 600mm or even less(depends on how it handles). But love them for steep uphills. Made the same hill again without bar ends and my wrists were quite stressed and my arms felt stretched.
Especially since i use a singlespeed, pushing hard without bar ends is really uncomfortable
Nice video,
you did a good job at explaining.
I see the benefit of those bar ends, when you are riding for long
distances without many breaks, pain and freezing hands,change in hand
position is a good idea,what I noticed what that when I let my arms hang down I start to get warmer,because of better bloodstream, same when I change hand position so similar position of what you do on bar-ends.
but I only do this on safe flat parts,and then change back when I start get warm or the pain goes away.
for long distance xc racers I see the benefit, but for trail/enduro you won't use it.
even with wider bars I still see the benefit.
I have never really properly tested out bar ends,and never used it on any of my bikes,but I don't need it for my use,because I ride some gnarly trails,were I have to be ready to brake.
but I got no issues climbing,but some of the climbs I ride are not suited for bar-end use.
But use what ever works for you,I don't care about those silly trends and magazine articles.
ergon horns on my 29er with 600mm HB. feels better than those superman posture 800mm HBs.
i even have foam grips (cut open secured with cable ties) near the stem area of the bars - useful when having head winds
I for one really like bar ends. I can get into a much more comfortable position when aggressively climbing. I'm thinking about trying the ergo grip bar ends as I have always used the traditional ones like yours. Thank you for another great video.
Just gone back to bar ends after building a flat bar hybrid carbon fork gravel bike. It’s great, it’s like riding my old xc mountain bikes from 20 plus years ago but with modern equipment and geometry 😁. “Ribble hybrid 1x11 speed hydraulic disc brakes 700c gravel bolt through wheels” all for £600 new 😱
I had an accident decades ago and bar ends saved my hand from crashing to the wall. The first thing I do when I buy a new mt bike is to install bar ends.
I always used barends in the 90s. Just started riding again this year with my new bike 29er that didn't come with barends and caught myself constantly holding the tip of the handlebar as if I had barends due to discomfort in my hands and forearm. So I'm pretty sure they were invented for a reason. Just like road bikes give you two options for hand position (twisted forearm when on top and nontwisted in lower position), barends serve the same purpose. Bike industry, like all other industries, plays consumers like puppets by constantly changing things so they have to be replaced and keep people giving them money. I'll definitely get some barends on my bike again. At least now I have a freaking long handlebar that follows the bike fashion and provides plenty of space.
I keep my hand open, standing out if the saddle, and I push back and forth in the bar ends....using some if my upper body strength to get up hill. I don't know if it's 'good form' or whatever and I don't care...thats the most comfortable way for me to get up a hill quickly.
I'm thinking about bar ends but i have a flat 9 degree backsweep handlebars isn't that impossible?
I always liked Cannondale's "longer" "twistier" bar ends. But, I did come a cropper about a year ago when I hooked a fence pole on a descent (my fault for losing control) and I went OTB big time. Fortunately I was wearing a hydration pack full of water, which I am convinced saved my bacon and cushioned the impact.
Since then I've switched to some super stubby bar ends. I mean, they're really just rubber coated nubs. But they offer most of the benefits of a regular bar end, and are far less likely to hook something. Plus, I think they cost me US$8 bucks shipped!
BTW: I love your Cannondale collection. I've had a few in my day - F 1000, Super V, an original Jekyll, and I still have an XS800 cross bike.
Cheers
If your hands are on the bar ends tho wont they be away from your brake levers?
Yes. I agree with you. That why I used bar end
Have always used Bar Ends! I've been riding since the early 90's when like you said they were on pretty much every bike. I just bought a new bike and the shop owner discouraged me from installing or using them. I gave it a shot for a couple rides and didn't like it at all. Gotta have em for those long climbs!
Hello I use them in my hibrid bike it helps in the climbing is more confortable for the lowback really helps, in my mtb í dont use them
I completely agree. Like you I started ridding mountain bikes in the 1990s and back then bar ends were almost mandatory - haha. BUT - Even in 2020 I swear to using bar-ends. Rocking the bike from side so side and going uphill is just more comfortable using bar-ends. I actually wondered why so few mountain bikers use them nowadays and I was afraid there would might be safety issues that I was not aware of, but it does not seem to be the case.
Hmm am currently using flatbars and i notice over the years as i am able to cycle further/longer my wrists do get numb! Now considering bike packing - would u say bar ends or butterfly bars are better assuming a MTB frame with MTB shifters/brakes
I just bought a new flat bar road bike, added bar ends for that very reason -- easier on the wrists when climbing.
been using the "Profile Design - Stubby" for more than 20 years , not for looks but for performance.
Set your own trends. I use bartends on my bike path / commuter bike the typical ride is 25 to 40 miles and the bar ends add another hand position or two. Have them also on my vintage hard tail . I dont however use them on my modern MTB’s because of tree branches, only been an issue a few times. Use what you like it’s your bike!!!
Can someone tell me how to mount bar ends to bars when my grips already have ends on them? I have Chromag Basis grips. Do I just have to get new grips? Do I use them without the end clamps?
I use them on three bikes. I find you can climb better with them when they are at 90 degree angle. Plus you can even get into a modified aero position that's better than on a road bike try it
How is the aero position? Please explain me
@@francor2263 you place the bar ends at 90 degree meaning straight. When you use them bend your arms slightly and lower your arm while looking forward. You'll see the difference try it
I use bar ends because I do longer mileage than most MTB riders in my area. I use the same bike for commuting, bike packing on railroad trails, and the occasional trail ride after 10+ miles to reach the trailhead / bike park. If someone who probably drove their bike to my location mocks my bar ends I am not much troubled. I love them and many miles have proven their worth. Rocking Ergon GP2's here and it doesn't even bother me (much) that the GS2's were out of stock when I was shopping. Even the commuter version is great!
can you explain the advantages of the ergo grips/ bar ends. thanks!
Thanks for creating and posting this informative video!