If you’ve been riding motorcycles for a while, you already know that the handlebars are more than just a place to grip. They are a crucial part of the bike’s ergonomics and style, significantly impacting both comfort and handling. The type of handlebars you choose can influence everything from your posture to how well you can control your bike. So, picking the right ones is essential, whether you’re looking to enhance performance, comfort, or just add some personal flair.
But before I’ll break down the 14 popular types of motorcycle handlebars, giving you a detailed look at their style, functionality, and what kind of riding they’re best suited for, allow me to first discern a general guide on how to choose the best pair for your needs.
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Handlebars
Choosing the perfect motorcycle handlebars involves balancing style, functionality, and comfort by considering their purpose, shape, material, and measurements to match your riding needs.
Purpose: Define Your Riding Goals
Why are you changing your handlebars? Are you looking for a specific style? Maybe you want to reduce weight, improve your posture, or gain better control. Keep in mind that handlebars are often a compromise—you might not be able to get everything in one set.
For example, a set of Ape Hangers might look fantastic but sacrifice some comfort and handling, whereas Drag Bars could improve performance at the cost of long-distance comfort.
Shape & Grip Position: Optimize Your Riding Posture
One of the first things you’ll notice about any set of handlebars is their shape and the position they put your hands in. Both directly affect your riding posture. A more aggressive, forward-leaning posture is great for sport riding, while a relaxed, upright posture is best for cruising.
The shape can also change how responsive the bike feels through corners and how much effort it takes to steer.
Control Length: Ensure Compatibility with Controls
Another important but often overlooked factor is the control length, which is the distance from the bend to the end of the bar. It dictates how much space you’ll have for things like switches, mirrors, and other controls.
The wrong control length can leave you crammed for space or, worse, unable to fit all your essential controls.
Material Choices: Balance Strength and Weight
Handlebars come in a range of materials, each offering different advantages. Steel is strong and affordable, while aluminum is lightweight but less durable. You can also find more exotic materials like titanium or carbon fiber if you want to reduce weight without sacrificing strength, though they can come with a hefty price tag.
Just be sure not to cut corners on quality—handlebars are not the place to go cheap.
Price Considerations: Invest Wisely
Speaking of which, price is always a consideration. A higher-quality handlebar might set you back a bit more, but it’s worth it for the durability, safety, and overall riding experience. Don’t risk buying a cheap knockoff from an unknown brand; it’s best to go with a trusted name when it comes to something as crucial as your handlebars.
Handlebar Measurements: Get the Right Fit
If you’ve been browsing handlebars, you’ve probably seen terms like “Pullback,” “Rise,” and “Width.” Here’s a quick breakdown of what those mean:
- Width: The distance from one end of the handlebar to the other.
- Pullback: The distance from the center of the bar to the end, measured straight back.
- End Rise: How high the bar rises from the base to its highest point.
- Center Width: The flat section of the bar in the middle before the bends.
- Rise/Height: Measured from the bottom of the handlebar to the highest point.
With these factors in mind, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect handlebars for your ride. Now, let’s get into the popular types of motorcycle handlebars and how they can enhance your bike’s style and performance.
14 Different Types Of Motorcycle Handlebars
| Handlebar Type | Best For | Design | Measurements | Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drag Handlebars | Street racing, café racers, bobbers | Minimal rise, straight design for aggressive posture | Width: 28"-32", Pullback: 0"-2", Rise: 0"-2" | Steel, chrome |
| Ape Hangers | Cruisers, choppers, Harleys | High-rise, dramatic design for custom styles | Width: 32"-36", Pullback: 5"-8", Rise: 10"-20"+ | Steel, chrome |
| Motocross Handlebars | Off-road, motocross, dual-sport | Wide, straight design with optional cross-brace for strength | Width: 28"-32", Pullback: 2"-4", Rise: 2"-5" | Aluminum, steel |
| Tracker Handlebars | Flat track, scramblers, café racers | Wide, flat design for better control | Width: 28"-32", Pullback: 2"-5", Rise: 2"-4" | Steel, aluminum |
| Z-Bars | Custom builds, choppers, bobbers | Angular "Z" shape for a sharp, aggressive look | Width: 28"-30", Pullback: 4"-6", Rise: 6"-12" | Steel, chrome |
| Clip-On Handlebars | Sportbikes, track racing | Low-profile, minimalistic design mounted directly on forks | Adjustable width, Pullback: N/A, Rise: 0"-1" | Aluminum, steel |
| Frisco Handlebars | Bobbers, choppers, custom builds | Minimalistic design, often taller for classic vintage style | Width: 28"-30", Pullback: 2"-4", Rise: 8"-12" | Steel, chrome |
| Mustache Handlebars | Cruisers, custom retro builds | Curved, mustache-like design for a vintage cruiser look | Width: 28"-30", Pullback: 6"-8", Rise: 2"-4" | Steel, chrome |
| Keystone Handlebars | Bobbers, choppers, custom bikes | Angular design with a boxy appearance for custom builds | Width: 28"-30", Pullback: 2"-4", Rise: 6"-10" | Steel |
| Chumps Handlebars | Daily riding, long-distance cruising | Moderate rise, comfortable for long rides | Width: 28"-32", Pullback: 4"-6", Rise: 6"-10" | Steel, chrome |
| Breezer Handlebars | Bobbers, choppers, cruisers | Swept-back, flowing lines for a clean, custom look | Width: 28"-30", Pullback: 3"-5", Rise: 6"-12" | Steel |
| Clubman Handlebars | Café racers, vintage sport bikes | Downward-sloping design for an aggressive café racer posture | Width: 26"-28", Pullback: N/A, Rise: 0" | Steel, chrome |
| H-Bars | Custom builds, choppers | Tall rise with a cross-bar for added strength and visual impact | Width: 30"-34", Pullback: 6"-8", Rise: 8"-12" | Steel, chrome |
| Window Handlebars | Custom builds, choppers, bobbers | Square, boxy design for a unique custom look | Width: 28"-32", Pullback: 4"-6", Rise: 8"-12" | Stee |
1. Drag Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Street racing, café racers, bobbers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-32″
- Pullback: 0″-2″
- Rise: 0″-2″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (usually minimal rise for a low, aggressive riding stance)
Drag handlebars, sometimes known as cafe racer bars, are all about speed and performance. Originally designed for drag racing, these handlebars make the rider lean forward, improving aerodynamics. They are now a common choice for bobbers, cruisers, and café racers but have found their way onto all sorts of custom builds.
Their straight, low profile provides excellent control, making them ideal for street riders who prefer a minimalist, sporty look. They’re simple to install, often allowing you to retain your stock wiring.
2. Ape Hangers
- Best Suited For: Cruisers, choppers, Harleys
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 32″-36″
- Pullback: 5″-8″
- Rise: 10″-20″+ (depends on height preference)
- Materials: Steel, chrome (more extreme rise for custom styles)
The name says it all—these bars are tall, wide, and have a backward sweep that makes you feel like you’re hanging, much like an ape. Ape hangers are all about style and are popular on cruisers and choppers, especially Harley-Davidsons. But they’re not the most ergonomic or comfortable for long rides, and controlling the bike can be more challenging due to the higher hand position.
There’s also a shorter version called Mini Apes or Baby Apes, which offers a bit more comfort without losing that iconic look.
3. Motocross Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Off-road, motocross, dual-sport
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-32″
- Pullback: 2″-4″
- Rise: 2″-5″
- Materials: Aluminum, steel (often with cross-braces for stability)
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As the name implies, these are standard on dirt bikes and dual-sport motorcycles. Motocross bars usually have a flat, wide shape with a cross-brace for added strength, ideal for standing up while riding and maintaining control on rough terrain.
4. Tracker Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Flat track, scramblers, café racers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-32″
- Pullback: 2″-5″
- Rise: 2″-4″
- Materials: Steel, aluminum (provides control, wide and flat)
Tracker handlebars, inspired by Flat Track Racing, feature a relatively flat, straight design that allows for an aggressive riding stance without the extreme lean of clip-ons or drag bars. Known for their versatility, they fit a variety of motorcycles—from café racers to scramblers—and offer a comfortable riding posture without requiring much modification.
5: Z-Bars
- Best Suited For: Custom builds, choppers, bobbers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-30″
- Pullback: 4″-6″
- Rise: 6″-12″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (angular “Z” shape for aggressive styling)
Z-bars get their name from their distinctive, angular shape, creating a zigzag profile. These handlebars are popular on custom motorcycles and choppers due to their aggressive, geometric look and modest rise. Plus, they don’t pull back toward the rider, keeping you in a more neutral position.
6. Clip-On Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Sportbikes, track racing
- Typical Measurements:
- Adjustable width
- Pullback: N/A
- Rise: 0″-1″ (minimal rise, often straight)
- Materials: Aluminum, steel (mount directly to forks for low-profile aerodynamics)
Clip-on handlebars are the go-to for sport bikes. Typically mounted directly to the front forks, they are positioned low, pushing the rider forward into an aerodynamic stance. These bars offer excellent control at high speeds, making them ideal for track riding or aggressive street performance.
Some bikes feature faux clip-ons, which mimic the look but don’t offer the same adjustability.
7. Frisco Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Bobbers, choppers, custom builds
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-30″
- Pullback: 2″-4″
- Rise: 8″-12″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (minimalistic look, vintage style)
Frisco handlebars are named after the custom bikes that originated in San Francisco. Similar to Z-bars but with smoother curves, Frisco bars offer a clean, classic look with a comfortable rise. They’re popular on custom builds, especially bobbers and choppers, providing a nice balance between style and comfort.
8. Mustache Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Cruisers, custom retro builds
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-30″
- Pullback: 6″-8″
- Rise: 2″-4″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (signature curved design)
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Mustache handlebars, as the name suggests, resemble a twirling mustache, curving outward from the center before bending back toward the rider. Their distinctive curved shape adds a touch of retro flair while offering a relaxed, comfortable grip. These bars are shorter and slimmer, making them a good fit for retro or custom bikes, especially when you don’t want to mess with the stock wiring.
9. Keystone Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Bobbers, choppers, custom bikes
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-30″
- Pullback: 2″-4″
- Rise: 6″-10″
- Materials: Steel (angular, aggressive design)
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Keystone handlebars are similar to Z-bars but with an inward curve at the top, giving them an extra touch of aggression. These bars are great for riders looking for a more commanding stance and a sharper look, which looks great on custom builds.
They work particularly well on shorter bikes where a more compact handlebar style is desired.
10. Chumps Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Daily riding, long-distance cruising
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-32″
- Pullback: 4″-6″
- Rise: 6″-10″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (moderate rise, comfortable position)
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Chumps handlebars are a versatile option that works well on a wide range of motorcycles. With a moderate rise and gentle curves, they offer a balanced mix of style and comfort. These bars are ideal for riders who want a laid-back look without going too extreme.
11. Breezer Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Bobbers, choppers, cruisers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-30″
- Pullback: 3″-5″
- Rise: 6″-12″
- Materials: Steel (clean, swept-back lines)
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Breezer handlebars are a more aggressive variation of chumps. They have sharper, jagged lines at the top of the rise, giving them an edgier appearance. After the rise, they dip slightly towards the rider, creating a more aggressive posture.
These bars are perfect for riders who want an eye-catching look with a little more attitude.
12. Clubman Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Café racers, vintage sport bikes
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 26″-28″
- Pullback: N/A
- Rise: 0″ (downward position)
- Materials: Steel, chrome (classic café racer style, aggressive posture)
Clubman handlebars are a one-piece variation of clip-ons, popular in the café racer scene. They offer a low-set, forward-leaning position that enhances aerodynamics and gives the bike a vintage, sporty look. These bars are great for riders who love the classic café racer aesthetic and aren’t afraid to lean into the wind, especially twisty roads.
13. H-Bars
- Best Suited For: Custom builds, choppers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 30″-34″
- Pullback: 6″-8″
- Rise: 8″-12″
- Materials: Steel, chrome (tall rise with cross-bracing for strength)
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H-bars are a high-rise handlebar design that includes a cross-brace, creating an “H” shape. The style offers excellent stability and durability, making it a good choice for riders who need extra support, especially on custom builds with narrow clamping areas.
14. Window Handlebars
- Best Suited For: Custom builds, choppers, bobbers
- Typical Measurements:
- Width: 28″-32″
- Pullback: 4″-6″
- Rise: 8″-12″
- Materials: Steel (square, boxy look with straight lines)
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Window handlebars feature a tall, rectangular design, with right angles forming a window-like shape at the top. They are often seen on custom motorcycles, offering a unique and structured look. These bars provide a tall, upright posture, making them ideal for riders who want to stand out with a bold design.
Conclusion: Find the Perfect Match for Your Ride
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to motorcycle handlebars. Your choice will depend on your riding style, the look you’re going for, and the comfort you need for those long hauls. Some bars, like the drag bars or clip-ons, are all about performance, while others, like ape hangers or mustache bars, are more about making a statement. No matter what, the right handlebars can completely transform both the look and feel of your ride.
So, whether you’re upgrading for performance, comfort, or style, I hope this guide helps you find the perfect set of bars for your bike. Keep in mind that installing new handlebars often requires adjusting other components like cables, controls, and wiring, so plan accordingly.
Got a favorite set of bars or a custom mod you’re proud of? Share your thoughts in the comments, and as always, keep the shiny side up!
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:
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