Guide: Choose the best handlebars for touring and bikepacking
What distinguishes the different handlebars for touring and bikepacking?
Choosing the right handlebar for touring is crucial to avoid hand and shoulder pain during long days in the saddle. Whether you are looking for an ergonomic handlebar for long-distance cycling or the best handlebar for bikepacking in demanding terrain, there are several models with unique features. In this buying guide, we review the five most popular options to help you find the right balance between control, comfort, and aerodynamics.
1. Drop Bars (Drop Handlebars)
The standard choice for faster touring and "randonneuring". Provides a sporty feel and reduced wind resistance.
- Multiple hand positions reduce the risk of numbness.
- Allows you to ride more aerodynamically into a headwind.
- Can feel unstable with a lot of weight packed at the front.
- Often requires more expensive controls (STI shifters).
2. Butterfly / Trekking Bars (Multi-Grip Handlebars)
A classic for European touring. The handlebar, which looks like a sideways eight, provides maximum variety for hand positions.
- Offers the most hand positions of all the models.
- Provides a very upright and relaxed riding position.
- Takes up a lot of space and can feel bulky.
- It is slightly more difficult to achieve a stable feel during technical riding.
3. Loop Bars (Cinelli Double Trouble, Jones H-Bar, etc.)
The new favorite in the bikepacking world. The unique design with a "loop" at the front provides both comfort and outstanding packing functionality.
- Extremely comfortable wrist angle (45-degree sweep).
- Plenty of space for mounting a GPS, lights, and accessories.
- Higher price than standard handlebars because they are produced in smaller batches.
4. Flat Bars with Bar Ends (Flat handlebar with bar ends)
A simple flat handlebar complemented by grips ("horns") on the sides for extra hand positions and relief.
- Best control on technical terrain or with a heavily loaded bike.
- Easy to service and find spare parts worldwide.
- Fewer hand positions than drop or butterfly handlebars.
- The wind becomes a bigger factor because you sit wide and upright.
5. Alt-Bars (Crazy Bar, Moloko Bar, among others)
These handlebars are hybrids designed specifically for expeditions and long-distance travel away from regular roads.
- Designed to provide a natural hand position over long periods.
- Integrated horns provide an "aero position" in the middle of the handlebar.
- Quite heavy compared with a classic flat handlebar.
- Uncommon in regular bike shops (often requires a special order).
Touring handlebar comparison
| Handlebar type | Control | Comfort | Number of hand positions | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Bar | Medium | Medium | High | Road & Gravel |
| Butterfly | Low | Very high | Very high | Classic Touring |
| Loop Bars | High | Very high | Medium | Bikepacking |
| Flat Bar | Very high | Medium | Low | Expedition & MTB |
| Alt-Bars | High | High | High | Long-distance / Off-road |
Find the right handlebar for your next adventure
We carefully select handlebars that we trust for long days in the saddle. Explore our range of quality handlebars and find the model that best suits your cycling style.
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