Therefore, here we are going to see what the major classes of motorcycle handlebars are, and how they differ from one another:
Ape Hangers
With their heights generally between 12 to 16 inches, these ape hanger handlebars are mostly found on choppers. Typically these handlebars require you to keep your hands at shoulder level. This makes riding a whole lot easier for many riders. One thing that you should double-check before buying one of these re the cable lengths of the brake, clutch, and other components that are mounted on the handlebars.
Beach Bars
These are somewhat similar to the Ape as mentioned above Hangers. Except for one feature. Rather than going up these handlebars curve back towards the rider. These allow the hands of the rider to be in a much more relaxed position.
Buchhorn Bars
These handlebars are also very much similar to the Ape Hangers. They are structured to go up to a small height and then curve back towards the river. These again make the experience of riding a motorcycle pleasant. As they allow the rider’s hands to rest in a comfortable position.
Clip-on Bars
These handlebars are attached to the front forks of the motorcycle. These handlebars can be fitted above or below the triple tree. This makes them very easy for the rider to adjust them. They can also be mounted on the triple tree, in which case they become non-adjustable. These are mostly found on sportbikes. They are not that good for long rides. As they make the rider lean forward a little bit.
Clubman Bars
This is a one-piece handlebar that is mounted on the triple tree of the motorcycle. Their body leans forward, while their ends angle backward. These allow the rider to sit in a low or crouched position while leaning a bit forward.
Cruiser Handlebars
These are long, and rear sloped motorcycle handlebars. They let the rider sits in an upright position.
Drag Bars
These are also an example of a one-piece handlebar. They are nearly straight structurally with a slight backward bend. These make the rider lean forward. This, in turn, makes the system more aerodynamic. These can mostly be found on street races. Although they are not very uncommon among choppers.
Motocross Bars
These are straight, one-piece handlebars with a slight curve in the middle. They have a very recognizable cross-brace in the middle of the two handles. These handlebars are mainly found on motocross, off-road, and dual-sport motorcycles.
Z-Bars
These handlebars look like a “Z” connected to its mirror image. They are very angular and not too wide and tall. They are mostly found on narrower motorcycles. There are many varieties of this particular type, which are popular among custom bikes.
T-Bars
These are quite similar to drag bars, except for a built-in riser that makes them look like a “T”‘. They allow the rider to sit in a much more relaxed position.
