How to choose the best XC handlebars for your needs

When it comes to cross-country riding, having the right handlebars can make all the difference in your performance and comfort. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the important factors to consider when choosing XC handlebars, as well as give you a few specific product recommendations. By the end, you should have a much better idea of which type of bar is right for you.

Best XC Handlebars for your Needs

There are a few things to consider when choosing XC handlebars: width, rise, and sweep.

Width: The ideal width for XC bars is 640-680mm. Anything wider can make it difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, while anything narrower can be uncomfortable on long rides. If you’re unsure about which width to choose, err on the side of wider – you can always cut them down to size if needed.

Rise: The rise of your bars will affect your riding position and how much control you have over the bike. A higher rise will put you in a more upright position and give you more leverage for climbing, while a lower rise will allow you to get low and aerodynamic on flat sections or descents. Again, if you’re unsure which to choose, go with a higher rise – it’s easier to lower your bars than it is to raise them!

Sweep: The sweep (or bend) of your bars will also affect your riding position and how much control you have over the bike. A shallower sweep will keep you more upright and offer better control on technical sections, while a deeper sweep will allow you to get low and aerodynamic and is better for flat sections or descents. As with width and rise, if you’re unsure which Sweep angle to choose, go with shallower – it’s easier to make bars more swept than it is to make them less so.

Conclusion

Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing XC handlebars, let’s take a look at a few specific products. For budget-conscious riders, we recommend the Race Face Ride Wide Handlebar. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter weight, try the Easton EA70 AX Bars. And for those who want the absolute best performance possible, check out the ENVE M6 Handlebar. Whichever option you choose, we hope this blog post has helped make your decision process a little easier!