Is your neck tired and achy? Is your back hurting? Loss of feeling in general? All of these symptoms indicate that your mountain bike’s handlebars are too low. Understanding how to raise handlebars on a mountain bike might be the solution.
Here, we will talk about how to raise the handlebars on mountain bikes and why you may have to. Let’s dive in!
Why Should You Raise Handlebars On A Mountain Bike?
Biking is a wonderful activity that is both enjoyable and exciting. If you enjoy riding your bike over the hills, you should learn how to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike.
There are multiple explanations why mountain bikers would want to raise their handlebars. It might range from personal choice to convenience and the greate
st possible bicycle performance.
In this part, we will go through all of the various reasons why you may have to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike. Have a look at the list below to obtain so
me of the main ideas, then continue reading for more information.
- Regifting the bike.
- To increase visibility.
- To guarantee your safety.
- To lessen the possibility of harm to enhance bike performance.
Adjusting The Handlebars
So now we have told you various reasons why someone would feel driven to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike, so get down to business and talk about how to do it.
The very first step in adjusting your handlebars is knowing the sort of mountain bike you own since not all mountain bikes get the same kind of handlebar. The Flat Bar is perhaps the most widely utilized handlebar on mountain bikes.
These handlebars are made to be entirely flat with a little slope toward the cyclist. They are commonly utilized because of their flexibility and the comfort they give the cyclist. These handlebars are also famous for their low weight and small size.
Once you’ve identified the kind of handlebar on your mountain bike, you’ll need to identify whether it has a Threadless Headset Stem or a Threaded Headset Stem. In this guide, we will show you how to raise handlebars on a mountain bike correctly.
How To Raise Handlebar On A Mountain Bike – Threadless Headset
Threadless Headset System:
It is the most common sort of system on recent mountain bikes. They are distinguished by a huge bolt on top and two smaller bolts at the bottom. Those bolts that do most of the attachment are used here rather than a long single metal piece that joins the handlebar.
Most professional riders like a low handlebar because it allows them to attain an aerodynamic squat. On the other hand, many newcomers like the handlebars to be aligned with or above the seat.
So, here are the steps to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike.
- Allow your body to choose which level is right for you. Preferably, your back should be straight, and your elbows moderately bent.
- It’s time to get your Allen key out and adjust the handlebars. Release the bolt on the stem cap with an Allen key.
- Take the bolt as well as the cap. Put down both things after the long bolt has been removed till you are ready to utilize them. Keep both in an easily accessible place.
- Loosen the two nuts on the handlebars with the Allen key. You don’t need to remove them totally; just loosen them slightly to take the handlebar and stem away from the tube.
- After removing the tiny bolts, you should be ready to detach the handlebars totally. Carefully detach the handlebars and stem from your mountain bike’s frame. Take extra caution not to harm the brakes or derailleurs. Elevate the handlebar to your preferred height.
- If this is insufficient, apply some spacers to lift them further higher.
- After that, tighten the bolts back into their original places.
- Shake the handlebar sideways to make sure it’s tight, and the front wheel and fork are positioned perfectly.
How To Raise Handlebars On A Mountain Bike – Threaded Headset
Threaded Headset System:
A threaded handlebar stem is distinguished by the presence of a single long piece of metal joining the handlebars to the mountain bicycle frame. There is just one stem cap bolt in this layout, which is located on the stem.
A threaded headset is found on 20 percent of mountain bikes nowadays, so there is one chance out of 5 that yours does as well. However, it’s the only headset system available for vintage mountain bikes, fixed-gear bicycles, and single-speed bicycles.
Let us tell you the steps to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike having a threaded headset.
- To unscrew the bolt, get an Allen key. Loosen the bolt using the Allen key to raise the handlebar height. You can unscrew the bolt whole or partially.
- Disconnect the bolt from the bike frame with a wrench. Bend the handlebar a little to make it easier to take out.
- If the stem is greasy, wash it with soapy water. Put a little grease to it and wipe off the extra if it is not properly greased.
- You do not like it to be so low that it interferes with your convenience and movement. That’s why it may take a few trials to get the handlebars set up properly.
- So, take out the stem to elevate the handlebar to a comfortable level, then replace the bolt and nut.
Frequently Asked Question!
How can you change the height of the handlebars?
In five simple actions, you may adjust the height of your handlebars. Step one is to figure out what you really want. Step two is to determine your comfort level. Step three: Remove the stem cap and bolts. Step four – Take out the stem and make any necessary adjustments to the spacers. Step 5: Tighten the stem cap and bolts again.
Is it possible to modify the handlebar height on a mountain bike?
The first and most basic method for adjusting handlebar height is to move the headset spacers. Headset spacers are installed on the steerer tube of the bike and aid in the pre-loading of the headset bearings while adjusting. Many bikes feature headset spacers that may be adjusted freely above and below the stem, ranging from 20 to 30mm.
Should I let my feet touch the earth while riding a bike?
The height of your seat is essential for a good riding posture and a secure riding style. As you sit on the seat, both feet must be on the ground, with the soles of your feet hitting the floor. Your bicycle’s handlebars can usually be in touch with or a little above the seat.
Final Words
Many people may believe that knowing how to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike is not important. However, despite the opinion, it is one of the most critical factors to take into account.
This article on adjusting your mountain bicycle’s handlebars is just all you have to make your trips more safe and enjoyable. Check to see if your bike’s handlebars are adjustable since certain manufacturers restrict modifications.
Well, at least you understand how to raise the handlebars on a mountain bike now, don’t you?