Category Archives for Bike Accessories

Getting the best handlebars for your mountain bike (MTB) is essential if you want to get a good ride. They’re a crucial part of controlling your bike and they have a significant impact on how your bike handles—essential when you’re dealing with all terrain surfaces.

Things to consider when shopping for the right MTB handlebars include the seat position, the width, the brake levers and hand position, whether you want backsweep, and the style itself like flat bars, riser bars, and drop handlebars. In most cases, you’ll be able to choose between titanium, aluminum, or carbon. Many pros consider carbon the best of the three because they are so lightweight, but you can get quality handlebars in any of these metals. They all have pros and cons, so you need to decide what’s important to you and go from there.

A few things about handlebar geometry you’ll want to consider:

The rise, which is the height differential between the center of the bar at the stem the center jut after the taper and the transitional bend, are often 0 or flat in MTBs. High rise bars are usually around 40 mm to 50 mm, which is two inches or less. Getting the rise right is usually based on your position when on the bike. Taller riders might feel like the flat rise is too low. Bikes for riding downhill also tend to have a slightly higher rise because it allows for more control. In general, riders just prefer what makes them comfortable, so there’s no right or wrong rise. Try out a few variations and see what makes you most comfortable.

Next, you’ll want to think about sweep. Upsweep is the vertical angle of the bars at the grip and affects the overall rise of the bars. It’s a separate measurement than rise, though. It really doesn’t have an effect on performance, aside from affecting how comfortable you are when riding. Most of the time it’s between four and six degrees.

Backsweep, the other type of sweep, is the angle at which the bars swoop toward the back of the bike. It can range from zero degrees to 45 degrees in specialty bars. Like upsweep, it’s all about comfort and has no bearing on a bike’s performance.

Next up is bar diameter. Mountain bikes are only available in one width at the grip, which is 22.2 mm. However, at the clamp, there are three diameters from which to choose, including 25.4 mm, 31.8 mm, and 35 mm. The clap diameter is the middle where the bar is clamped to the stem and larger clamp areas tend to be stronger and provide an increased surface area with the stem. The main thing you’ll want to know is that if you’re replacing your bars only, you’ll need to be sure what you buy matches your existing stem clamp diameter.

Width of Mountain Bike Bars

Now we’ll talk about the width of handlebars, which is arguably the most important consideration. The common belief is that wider handlebars are better. We tend to agree, at least, when it comes to modern riding and the need for steering control. It also makes your body mechanics better because the wider your arm and chest span with wider bars the easier it is for you to breathe properly when riding.

It’s possible to get handlebars ranging in width from 600 mm to 840 mm. Keep in mind that, despite the belief that wider is better, you still need to go with what makes you feel comfortable and secure. Also, remember it’s always possible to cut down wider bars. If you’re torn, invest in the wider option that you can try out for a while and cut down if necessary in the future.

​Metal

Finally, before we get to our recommendations for best MTB handlebars, we’ll take a look at the various metals used to make bars.

Aluminum bars tend to be the cost-conscious option. There are plenty of great aluminum options available, but they are the heaviest, so you’ll need to keep that in mind.

Titanium bars are the most expensive and still have the heaviest weight. They tend to give the harshest ride when it comes to vibration and impact.

Carbon bars, which are quickly becoming the favorite of many, are forgiving and lightweight. Some riders prefer the other options because they believe carbon isn’t as strong, but, in most cases, carbon bars are fine as long as they are made by a reputable manufacturer.

MTB Handlebar Recommendations

Now for our favorites:

LIBRA Sports LHB001C Carbon Fiber Flat Handlebar for Mountain Bike or Road Bike - 31.8 mm Diameter

This is a full carbon bar that’s ultralight at 145 g. It features a 720 mm length and 31.8 mm mounting diameter. We love its unique textured no-slip center section, as well as its UD matte finish with ghost black LIBRA Sports logo. This bar retails for around $50, so it’s a very economical choice.

Crank Brothers Iodine 11

This is also a carbon set of bars, making it super lightweight and flexible. They measure 30.7 inches wide with a 30 mm rise. They also have a nine-degree sweep and five-degree rise. These handlebars are perfect for all-mountain riding and feature a textured area on the stem for zero slippage. Its brilliant, low profile graphics look good and help make the bar a winner. These handlebars retail for around $120.

Spank Spike 777 FR Bearclaw Vibrocore Bicycle Handlebar

These handlebars are lightweight at 310 g and feature a 31.8 mm diameter. They have a shot peen-anodized finish with polish accents and decal logos and feature

Dual XGT, CNC Bending, Impact Ends, and MGR technologies. These handlebars retail between $90 and $100.

Race Face Atlas Riser FR

Another set of aluminum bars, these are 31 inches wide and have a 13 mm rise. There’s an eight-degree sweep and four-degree rise and they retail for around $75.

Renthal Fatbar

These handlebars are available in multiple configurations and come in carbon or aluminum. They consistently rank high among experienced riders. There’s also a light version that is also a couple of inches shorter in width.​

Mountain bike forks are used to help with travel, suspension working as “shocks,” stock, and weight on the bike. You have your choice of dozens and dozens of forks, so you’ll need to think about your specific preferences to narrow down your choices. Your riding style is one of the primary factors in choosing a mountain bike fork.

Mountain bike forks and fork legs are available in a variety of sizes and styles. You’ll also be thinking about how often you ride and what your style of riding is and how much they need to work as shock absorbers. Many of the same considerations you have when choosing the tires, the frame, the rear suspension, the wheel sizes and other components of your bike play a role in choosing a fork. You also have to consider what you are going to use the bike for. Are you looking to create a downhill bike, a cross country bike, or simply an everyday mountain bike?

Once you’ve narrowed down your specific needs, you can begin to comparison shop. We’ve assembled a list of some of the forks we think are the best on the market right now. What’s on our list?

SR Suntour Mountain Bike Disc Fork XCT 26”

This fork does offer travel adjustment of 80 mm or 100 mm. It fits a 9 mm axle, but only works with disc brakes. It has aluminum lower legs. This is an “entry level” fork and is not sufficient for downhill riding or extreme rides—it’ll perform best on simple trails and easier riding paths for beginner riders or those who are just not going hard at the time. It weighs about five pounds—so it’s a bit on the heavy side—and has a standard 1 1/8 inches steerer tube attached. This is one of the more affordable forks on the list, making it ideal for beginners. This fork retails for around $70.

Nashbar Rigid 26” Mountain Bike Fork

This is another affordable fork that offers solid quality for not that much money. This is one of the simplest forks on the list and it’s rigid and able to be customized. You’ll get extra clearance to keep out of mud and debris, but it’s not going to affect the handling of your bike. It features a 1 1/8” diameter steerer tube and is compatible with disc or rim brakes, as long as your wheels are small enough. Larger wheels need to use disc brakes—otherwise you won’t be able to clear the fork. This fork isn’t cut out for extreme riding but is a great option for beginning or intermediate riders. This fork retails for around $45.

RockShox 30 Gold TK Crown Adjust Solo 100 mm Air Fork

This 100 mm travel fork is very light (it weighs less than four pounds) and uses air to create a light feel as you ride. You’ll enjoy a smooth ride—even on extreme rides—with increased performance with this fork. We love this fork for its ability to absorb all of the bumps you’ll hit along the trail. It features a turnkey lock out. One of the downsides of this fork is its installation. It can be tough if you don’t have the tools you need and if you’re not experienced with installing forks. The travel on this fork cannot be changed. For a higher than average price, though, we think this is a great, high-quality option. This fork retails for around $300.

RockShox 30 Silver TK Fork: 27.5", 100 mm, Coil, 9mm QR, Crown Adjustment, 1-1/8" Alum Steerer, Disc Brake, A3, Gloss

This is a suspension fork that works with both disk and rim brakes. It features aluminum lower legs and weighs approximately seven pounds. It has a travel of 100 mm and is compatible with 9 mm front hubs. Its turnkey lock will last at least a year and is specifically designed to be long-lasting. This fork is also able to be modified to suit your specific needs, but keep in mind that you can’t adjust the travel on it. This model features a four piece bushing system.

You’ll get a long-lasting fork that provides smooth suspension for an affordable price. However, the added weight can throw off hardtail suspension bike and the weight exceeds competition limits. This fork retails for around $170.

DNM USD-8 Downhill Mountain Bike Air Fork

This fork is the one you need if you’re into extreme riding and love downhill on rough terrain. The DNM USD-8 is high quality, but you’ll pay for it. It features a long travel of 203 mm and is able to utilize a three-system damping and bottom out. It is truly the ideal fork for riders who love rough terrain, or who are looking for a race fork. It absorbs all impact and you’ll barely even notice bumps when you’re riding.

This fork is 29.6 inches long and weighs eight pounds, so it’s not lightweight by any means. It also only works with disc brakes. There are three adjustments possible, which include preload, rebound, and adjust high pressure. Despite the high performance of this fork, it’s not made for pro cycling. It’s also expensive, so it’s not going to be the first choice for many riders, especially beginners or novice riders. But if you’re looking for the highest quality fork that isn’t pro-approved, this is it. This fork retails for around $400.

ZOOM 565 Suspension Fork for Mountain Bike AL 80 mm Travel 1-1/8" QR Disc Brake(IS) and V-Brake

This fork is fit for 26-inch disc brakes or for a V-Brake Mountain Bike. It has a 15-inch travel length and weighs just under five pounds. It provides a powerful, functional riding experience and is a great option at a reasonable price. It retails for around $85.

XOSS MTB Front Suspension Forks, Replacement Bike Air Shock Aluminium Alloy Fork 26/27.5 100 mm Travel

This aluminum alloy fork is durable and lighter than many other fork options. It’s fit for 26''/27.5'' bike. It comes in two colors (black or white) and features an airspring, 100 mm travel, and adjustable travel valve. Its diameter steerer tube is 28.6 mm. It retails for around $135.

These are a few of the best forks available for mountain bikes. Take some time to think about what you need and how much you want to budget. You’re sure to be able to find exactly what you need for a price you find affordable.​

Spokes are one of three important parts of a bicycle’s wheel. Like the other two parts—the hub flanges and the wheel rims—if the spokes are not working properly or are of poor quality, it will affect the performance of the tire and of the entire bike. Spokes are responsible for holding the tire system together and allow the wheels to have strength.

There are three different types of bicycle spokes: the plain gauge spoke, the aero spoke, and the butted spoke. Plain gauge spokes are basic spokes that are used about 90 percent of the time for riders.

Bicycle spokes need to be able to withstand both constant and inconstant force. Some of the force is absorbed by other components of the bike, but spokes still need to stand up to impact. Different types of spokes stand up to force in different ways and all have their pros and cons. What should you know about the different kinds of spokes?

Butted Spokes

Butted spokes are some of the most common in use and within this category are a few different options. Laser spokes, made from a different type of stainless steel is a high-tension spoke. It makes bike wheels strong and stable. These heavy-duty spokes are right for most applications but are not recommended for high transmission riding.

D-Light bicycle spokes combine the benefits of racing spokes with laser spokes and it’s compatible with all of the same hubs and nipples. The final option is a super spoke that is made of stainless steel (so it’s strong), but it’s lighter than other types of stainless steel spokes. These spokes are produced by a specific company with a secret formula for the metal blend and they are very expensive and available only via special order.

Aero Spokes

Aero spokes are made from butted spokes, so you get the benefits of those spokes, but they also offer a variety of aerodynamic benefits. This improves the strength of the spokes and increases their lifespan. There’s also less spoke twist.

Keep in mind, the strength measurement of a spoke is not the overall strength, but a comparison of the strength of its central portion. The central portions on some spokes are slimmer which makes them look strong and offer greater strength than laser spokes despite looking weaker to the naked eye.

Considerations When Choosing Spokes

There are several things you need to consider when shopping for spokes, in addition to the basic type of spoke you want to buy.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand the differences in wheels. Front wheels carry less stress than rear wheels, so you need to make your decisions based on that knowledge. Front wheels don’t need spokes as strong as back wheels, which means if you want to enjoy the benefits of weaker spokes, you can do so by putting them on the front tire. You can also use fewer spokes on front tires.

Front bicycle wheels can usually be both radially or tangentially laced, so the spokes can either come directly out of the hub to the rim or at tangents to the hub. It can be tough to find exactly what you need if you prefer specialized builds, so you’ll need to shop around and look for a manufacturer that makes the spokes you want.

Also, keep in mind that re-lacing your spokes in a manner not conducive to what the manufacturer recommends because it can void warranties on the tires. Many experts recommend not using radial lacing because it causes distortion in the hubs and creates a weaker wheel and rougher ride. It’s also a stiffer lacing pattern, which is why radial lacing is done on the front wheels so often. If radial lacing is your preferred method, you can lace heads in or heads out, the former of which creates a stiffer lace and puts more strain on the spoke. If you have any doubts, your local bike shop will be happy to re-lace your spokes for you to ensure the perfect tension and an accurate lacing.

Despite advice against doing so, some people prefer radial lacing for aesthetic purposes. There are also some functional reasons you might want to lace your spokes in such a manner.

Choosing the Best Bike Spokes that Last

Now that you know a little about the different types of spokes and how they can be used differently on a bike tire, here are a few options for what we think are the best spokes available:

36pcs Steel Spokes Mountain Bike Spokes

These MTB 251 mm–268 mm W/nipples retail for around $10 for 36 spokes. They are made from #45 steel and have a diameter of 2 mm. These spokes are reasonably priced and strong enough to stand up to basic riding.

Standard J Bend Bike Spokes and Nipples

These UCP steel spokes come in silver and retail for around $7 to $12, depending on what size you need. You get a pack of 12 spokes and 12 nipples, which makes them a pretty good value for the quality spoke you’re getting.

36pcs Stainless Steel Spokes Mountain Bike Spokes MTB 258 mm–269 mm W/Nipples

These spokes are made from stainless steel and measure 2 mm in diameter. They come in a package of 36 nipples, 36 spokes and retail for about $15. The spokes come with a rust-free guarantee, so you can return them for your money back if they rust.

These are just a few spoke options available. You can get spokes in a variety of price ranges and a variety of sizes. Your best bet if you are serious about using spokes to change your riding performance is to try out a few different varieties and lacings. This way you’ll get a feel for what you like. There are many options that offer functionality and durability, so much of the decision comes down to personal preference.

On the other hand, if you just need to replace older spokes or you want something basic to work with, you can choose any of the spokes listed above. They are all durable and affordable, so you can’t go wrong with the standard choices available.​

Bike seat cushions might be overlooked when it comes to choosing the best bike, but it won’t be too many minutes before riders realize how important a good bicycle seat is, especially if you’re planning long rides. Not to mention bike saddles and the seat post that feels OK to begin with can gradually turn into a rock after a few hours of riding in Lycra bike shorts over long distances. Most avid bikers have at least one story about cutting a long ride short because their backside dictated it was necessary.

So, what should you be considering when it comes to upgrading your bicycle seat?

Everyone is different and is going to have different preferences, but if you consider some of the following factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices.

Construction

The materials made to construct bike saddles not only affect how durable it is, it also affects the comfort for distance riders. One negative aspect is that adding cushion material for superior comfort will add weight and must be taken into consideration if that is a factor. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to bicycle saddle construction with added cushion, but it’s best to start here:​

You’ll also want to pick a seat made of high-quality durable materials, which means paying a little more. Keep in mind, buying a cheap seat now could cost you more in the long run if you’re constantly having to replace it.

Shape

Next, you’ll want to look for a seat with a shape that suits your body. Most of the time, the best seats are anatomically shaped, as opposed to a flattened wedge shape. Better seats also feature a lot of padding and feature a high-density construction toward the back and becomes trimmer near the front.

Remember, a thick seat doesn’t automatically guarantee you’ll be comfortable. There are times when chunky seats are poorly designed and you’re better off with something with less cushioning. Ideally, your seat will combine the best of all worlds, and be well-designed ergonomically and be well cushioned.

Choosing the Best Bike Seat Cushion

Now that you have some idea of what goes into making a quality seat you can take on long rides, you can begin to look at your options. We’ve compiled a list of seats we love and hopefully, you’ll be able to find something from this list that works for you.

Zacro Gel Bike Seat

This is a gel seat made from anti-slip materials and features a drawstring that lets you secure it to your bike. It weighs just under three-quarters of a pound and works best on indoor bikes. It’s easy to install and is water-resistant, which makes it great for long, sweaty workouts. We love it for its extra soft gel support and good ergonomics.

This seat cushion retails from around $8 to $13.

Kyson 3D Soft Gel Cover

This seat cover is gel-based and made of breathable stretchy materials. It weighs half a pound and can be used on both indoor and outdoor bikes. It features anti-slip grip, dual gel pads, and an easily adjustable string. It fits most bike seats, so you don’t need to worry about getting something that needs to be returned because it doesn’t fit.

We consider this a great “compromise” option. It’s moderately priced and offers pretty much everything a rider could want, without a lot of extra bells and whistles. It’s a great option if you’re just getting into cycling or if you know what you like and want something tried and true.

This seat retails for around $11 to $13.

Fit Tek Gel Bike Seat Cushion

This cushion is best for outdoor bikes and features anti-skid materials and a soft gel padding. This seat cushion is versatile and fits most bikes. It’s easy to install and features a concave design that reduces pressure on the bottom and provides maximum comfort. It has a spacious central well and has a bit of a custom-made feel, which is surprising at this price point. Its slimmer front end allows for free legal movement without reducing comfort in any way.

This seat cushion retails from around only $4 to $6, making it a great bargain.

Domain Cycling’s Large Bicycle Gel Seat Cover

This seat offers both gel and foam, so you get maximum support. It has a non-slip underside, so you don’t need to worry about the cushion sliding out of place while you ride, even for long periods of time. It weighs one pound and can be used for indoor and outdoor bikes. We love it because it’s suitable for large bike seats and offers a great deal of support. It’s lacking in the sit bone support and padding, but overall we think it’s still a good choice.

This seat retails at the higher end at around $25 to $27.

Daway A33

This seat cushion is made from breathable silica gel and memory foam. It features anti-skid particles to prevent slipping and has an antibacterial outer layer. It weighs a little more than half a pound, so it’s one of the lighter options on our list. We love how comfortable it is and are impressed by its memory foam padding that maintains shape. It’s also easy to install, versatile, and functional. It also comes in fun colors, so you can add a little style to your ride.

This seat cushion retails for around $11 to $13.

Acacia 3D Foam Saddle Cushion

This seat cushion features high-bounce memory foam and a Lycra cover. It weighs just .02 pounds and can be used on both indoor and outdoor bikes. It features reflective stripes which makes it safe to ride outdoors at night and has a no-slide friction surface that prevents you from slipping and sliding. We love the fact that this seat is so durable with high-quality stitching and materials. It’s also available in five different colors.

This seat retails for around $10 to $12.​