Types of Motorcycle Handlebars - MotorcycleZombies.com

Handlebars come in all sorts of different shapes and bends.

Some types are more common on certain types of motorcycles and some may be depended on whether you ride a metric or standard bike.

Handlebars can have a big effect on your riding position and the overall appearance of your motorcycle.

The most common types of handlebars you’ll find include:

If you’re getting new handlebars or grips, be sure to measure your handlebars first to confirm what size you need.

Ape Hanger Handlebars

Ape Hangers describe handlebars with a high ride and swept back profile.

These are common on choppers and cruisers, and feature a relaxed riding position with your arms at or above shoulder level.

Note that some states have limits on how high the handlebars can be.

Beach bars are like the handlebars you’d see on a beach cruiser bicycle. They feature little to no rise with a big pullpack.

This facilitates a very relaxed riding position.

Clip-in handlebars attach directly to your motorcycle’s fork tubes in two pieces rather than a standard connected handlebar on risers.

These are a popular modification for cafe racers.

They allow for a lower, more areo-dynamic riding position.

Clubmans are a single, riser mounted handlebar that feature a low and forward riding position like that of a clip-on set.

Drag bars are simple, low profile handlebars that are typically straight across with little to no bends.

Motocross handlebars are often lightweight and feature a crossbar between each side’s rise.

They facilitate a more upright seating position.

Rabbit Ear handlebars come straight up and straight back in a narrow position.

Popular on styles like Frisco choppers.

T-Bars mount directly to the triple tree rather than a riser.

These can feature a variety of different bends, and are common on metric cruisers.

Z Bars feature sharp 90 degree angles.

These typically feature a lower profile and facilitate a neutral riding position.

Another popular choice for choppers.