BMX handlebars are great for when you want to have a bike that is both functional and stylish. This can be difficult with mountain bikes because they’re designed more as an all-terrain vehicle than a bike.
The BMX handlebar on this article will make your mountain bike look like any other standard bicycle.
If you’re wondering if BMX Handle Bars will work as well as regular Mountain Bike handles in your city or town, then yes it can be done! It would just require some effort because the bicycle was designed for different types of bars altogether.
- Can You Put BMX Handlebars on a Mountain Bike?
- Disadvantages Of Using a BMX Handlebars On an MTB
- What are the differences between BMX and mountain bike handlebars?
- How do you install BMX handlebars on a mountain bike?
- What Are The Benefits Of Installing BMX Bars On an MTB?
- Can you change the handlebars on a mountain bike?
- Conclusion
Can You Put BMX Handlebars on a Mountain Bike?
Yes, you can put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. It is important to consider the comfort levels of your riding style before swapping handlebars. If you are racing with your bike and using it for different types of cycling, before you replace the handlebars, first consider the effects that the rise of different handlebars and shifters will have on your riding style.
New handlebars are more than just a higher-rise look; they affect how your bike rides – comfort levels are affected, control is affected, and safety is affected.
Disadvantages Of Using a BMX Handlebars On an MTB
The MTB Bike Geometry is Modified
There are a few disadvantages that come with using BMX handlebars on an MTB. The main one is that your bike loses its aerodynamic advantage. You will also be pedaling in a vertical back position instead of the more aerodynamic position that you’re used to.
This can make climbs and jumps more difficult as the handlebars are now closer to your chest. The taller your handlebar, the closer it sits to your chest and ribs, which can cause discomfort on longer rides.
Extra weight
BMX handlebars can be significantly heavier than MTB bars. This extra weight can make it more difficult to control your bike, particularly on steep or technical trails.
Race bars are often lighter than average MTB bars, but they still require a significant amount of weight to function effectively.
BMX race bars require less material (lower rise) and are often made of aluminum, which makes them more lightweight than freestyle models. However, this reduced weight can also make race bars more susceptible to damage in the event of a crash.
The Comfort levels are affected
The main disadvantage of using BMX handlebars on an MTB is the comfort levels are affected. The higher bars can make the mountain bike less aerodynamic and you have to reach up higher to account for the position of the handlebars on the bike stem.
Most people assume their MTB will be safe no matter what type of bars they put on it, but if you’re not used to steering an MTB with BMX handlebars, you might find it more difficult and it will take some time to get used to it.
Control is affected
One of the main disadvantages of using a BMX handlebar on an MTB is that it will affect the control you have over the bike.
The geometry of your bike will need to be changed if you want to use higher-rise bars, and this may require some extra effort on your part in order to control the bike.
Additionally, if you switch to new bars, you may have to do some extra work in order to keep the wheel spinning.
Safety is affected
One potential disadvantage of using BMX handlebars on an MTB is that it could affect safety. If you don’t have a lot of experience steering an MTB, you might find it harder to control the bike and end up in an accident.
Another consideration is the weight of the bike. Depending on which type of BMX bars you use, the weight of the bike could be affected.
What are the differences between BMX and mountain bike handlebars?
BMX bars are made to be more durable and can handle loads of abuse. They are typically wider than mountain bike bars and have a different shape that allows for tricks and stunts. Mountain bike bars, while not as durable, are better at navigating tight spaces and provide more stability when riding on rough terrain.
On the whole, BMX handlebars are better suited for tricks and stunts. They are thicker and more reinforced than mountain bike handlebars, making them more stable.
If you are nervous about converting your mountain bike to a BMX bike, know that there are some benefits to doing so. For one, you will have more control over your bike when riding. Additionally, you will be able to do tricks that you couldn’t do before.
How do you install BMX handlebars on a mountain bike?
Get the Right Size
It’s important to choose the right size BMX bars so they will safely attach to your MTB stem. The general rule is that if the bars are too big, they could slip out of the stem while you’re riding and cause an accident. If they’re too small, they could break.
There are a few different ways to measure BMX handlebars. The first is by width. Most BMX handlebars range from 22″ – 28″. The second measurement is by rise. This is the distance from the center of the bar to the top of it. Rise can range from 2.5″ – 4″.
The third measurement is by upsweep. This is the angle of the bars when viewed from the side. Upsweep usually ranges from 0° – 5°, with 2-3° being most common.
And finally, backsweep is the angle of the bars when viewed from behind. Backsweep ranges from 0° – 30°, with 8-12° being most common.”
Once you have your measurements, you can narrow down your search for new bars considerably!
Go for a Smaller Rise
When you are looking for BMX handlebars, you want to find a rise of 3 or 5 inches. This is because similar models are more common among the dirt jump crowd. You could also consider race BMX bars. Many models come with a 3-5″ inch rise.
Have Them Installed by a Professional
If you’re not confident in your ability to install BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, it’s best to take it to a professional.
They’ll be able to do it quickly and properly, preventing any accidents that could occur if you were to do it yourself.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing BMX Bars On an MTB?
1. Higher reach or better rise
When using BMX bars, you’ll get a higher rise which will make it easier for you to be in a more upright position. This can be beneficial if you’re looking to be more comfortable on your bike, or if you’re trying to avoid back pain.
Additionally, a higher rise will also give you better visibility when riding in traffic.
2. It makes your bike look cool
BMX bars can give your mountain bike a unique look that will make it stand out from the rest. They are easy to install and require no tools, so you can get them on your bike in no time.
BMX bars also provide a unique look for your bike that makes it easier to stop and control the speed while riding.
3. Extra Room For Accessories
You can install more accessories on your mountain bike because the bars are taller and the post is often thicker. You have a higher reach to the grips of the handlebars, but more space on the tall post to clamp on everything you might need on a mountain bike ride.
This can be especially useful if you’re going on a longer ride and need to bring along tools, food, water, and other supplies.
Can you change the handlebars on a mountain bike?
No, handlebars on a mountain bike are designed to slide in. However, you can change handlebars on a mountain bike if they’re too small or if they hold a thicker-sized bar.
It’s not recommended to do this because it could cause your bike to lose its stability and ability to turn correctly. You might also want to avoid doing this if you have smaller hands or if you’re not used to using bigger bars on your mountain bike.
Conclusion
After considering all the points above, it is ultimately up to you to decide whether or not you should put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. If you feel like it would be a beneficial change for you, then go for it.
However, if you’re not sure or are worried about any of the potential consequences, then it might be best to stick with the mountain bike handlebars.
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