Triathlon bars

From Free net encyclopedia

Triathlon bars or aerobars include various styles of aerodynamic handlebars for racing bicycles. Included are narrow, bolt-on extensions that draw the body forward into a tucked position, bull horn bars that spread the arms of the rider but drops their torso into a slightly lower position, and integrated units that combine elements of both designs.

Triathlon bars are commonly used in triathlons and time trial events on road and track. However, they are illegal in most mass start road races because, while aerodynamically advantageous, they tend to draw the hands away from brakes and make the rider slightly more unstable on the bike. Further, they are not useful in sprints or long climbs where power is of greater importance than aerodynamics.