Handlebars too wide?

[mimitabby]

i got smaller handlebars and it helped. but like Eden said, it might have more to do with the problem of a top tube that is way too long for your body.

[Kathi]

Cindywon,

The answer is yes, even if your bike frame fits you too wide handlebars can cause your hands to curve like that.

My handlebars were 38 cm, I rode with that size for years but I had problems reaching my brakes and shifters. I attributed it to small hands, and since my bike components were chosen for me I didn't even suspect the width of the handlebars.

I built a new bike last year and was searching for handlebars that would give me a better reach to the brakes. In the process of being measured I discovered that I needed a 34 cm handlebar. Mine were 38 cm. The only handlebar that I've found that small is the Modolo Venus.

I now have the smaller handlebars on both my bikes and what a difference! I no longer curve my hands to reach the shifters, I can reach the brake levers easily and I use Campy shifters which cannot be shimmed. And the handling of the old bike is better.

Another advantage of the Modolo Venus handlebars is their design. The bend comes in closer to the brake lever so short fingers can reach the levers.

If your having problems with lever reach even with shims I would look for the Venus bar or 3T Eva. Both are designed for better reach from the drops.

[KnottedYet]

I switched from 42 cm Cinellis to 40 cm Salsa Short and Shallows, and the difference was miraculous. Even a small change can do wonders!

[velogirl]

In addition to the narrower bar, you might consider shimming your levers (assuming you have Shimano components). It's difficult for many women (with smaller hands) to comfortably engage their brakes from the hoods, so adding shims will help (and will also improve your reach from the drops). You can puchase shims at the bike shop (and they can install them) or you can diy by installing adhesive felt furniture pads to the inside of the lever while it's open. You might need to adjust your brakes after doing this.

Hope this helps!

[cindywon]

Just an update... I went to a bike store today, and apparently I should be using 36cm handlebars, no wonder my handlebars (42cm) felt so uncomfortable!

Thanks for all the info