Why Do Some Motorcycles Have High Handlebars
Some motorcycles have high handlebars, such as mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, to provide better comfort on long-distance rides. However, if the handlebar height is above shoulder level, it can become uncomfortable to ride.
Sports bikes and café racers prioritize speed over ergonomics and comfort, which is why they often have lower handlebars. Cruisers, on the other hand, have higher handlebars as they offer an upright back and stretched arm position for a more comfortable riding experience.
The height of the handlebars can also affect the balance and handling of the motorcycle. Riders need to find a handlebar height that suits their comfort and riding style.
Handlebar Height And Comfort
High handlebars on motorcycles, such as mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, are designed to ensure better comfort on long-distance rides. However, if the handlebar height is above shoulder level, it can lead to discomfort while riding. Sports bikes and café racers, on the other hand, prioritize speed over ergonomics and comfort, sacrificing handlebar height for a more aggressive riding position.
Different Handlebar Heights For Different Motorcycles
The tall handlebars, including mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, are designed to ensure better comfort on long-distance rides. However, riding becomes uncomfortable if the handlebar height is above shoulder level. Sports bikes and café racers are designed to travel fast but at the cost of ergonomics and comfort. Cruisers have higher handlebars than crotch rockets because you sit up, lean back even. Bobbers tend to have low bars, though not as low as crotch rockets. Harley Davidson bikes are known for their high handlebars. Motorcycles with high handlebars offer a more relaxed and upright sitting position, reducing strain on the back and improving comfort during long rides. While high handlebars may not suit every riding style, they provide advantages for those seeking a comfortable and leisurely riding experience.
Safety And Comfort Concerns
High handlebars are a common feature on certain motorcycles, and they serve multiple purposes. One of the main reasons for having high handlebars is to ensure better comfort on long-distance rides. These tall handlebars, including mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, allow the rider to sit in a more relaxed and upright position, which can help reduce fatigue during extended rides.
However, it’s important to note that riding with handlebars above shoulder level can become uncomfortable and may even lead to safety concerns. Motorcycles with high handlebars often have low ground clearance, which can make it difficult to balance the bike, especially for shorter riders.
Another common issue with high handlebars is the discomfort and numbness that riders can experience in their hands, as well as sharp pain in the shoulder blade area. This discomfort can arise from the ergonomics of the handlebar position and the strain it puts on the rider’s arms and upper body.
Additionally, using handlebars to turn at high speeds can pose a risk. The higher the handlebars are, the more difficult it can be to execute tight turns and maintain control of the motorcycle.
Variations In Handlebar Heights
The tall handlebars, including mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, are designed to ensure better comfort on long-distance rides. However, riding becomes uncomfortable if the handlebar height is above shoulder level. Sports bikes and café racers are designed to travel fast but at the cost of ergonomics and comfort. Cruisers have higher handle bars than crotch rockets because you sit up, lean back even. Bobbers tend to have low bars, though not as low as crotch rockets. The first thing you will notice about a motorcycle with high handlebars is that they have low ground clearance which makes them difficult to balance during turns. Motorcycles vary in size, and the larger and heavier it is, the more difficult it becomes to propel the high handlebars, especially for short people.
Some recumbent bicycles have high bars so that the arms are horizontal and outstretched (example). The rationale here is that this position offers a relaxed riding position for the rider, while still providing adequate control and stability. Drag handlebars have variants which are termed as zero drag, low drag, and high drag. The latter two are raised incrementally as compared to zero drag handlebars, and they provide different riding experiences and aesthetics. Not only can handlebar height affect comfort and control, but it can also impact the aerodynamics of the motorcycle. Higher handlebars may increase drag and wind resistance, which can impact the motorcycle’s overall performance and fuel efficiency. Overall, handlebar heights vary depending on the type of motorcycle and the rider’s preferences for comfort, control, and style.
Factors Influencing Handlebar Height
High handlebars on motorcycles serve several purposes, including improved comfort on long-distance rides and a relaxed riding position on budget motorcycles. However, the height of the handlebars can also affect motorcycle handling and rider comfort.
The size and weight of the motorcycle play a role in the ease of propelling high handlebars, particularly for shorter riders. Larger and heavier motorcycles can be more difficult to maneuver with high handlebars, especially for individuals with a shorter stature.
When it comes to sports bikes and café racers, handlebars may be designed for speed and performance rather than ergonomics and comfort. These motorcycles prioritize aerodynamic positioning, which may result in lower handlebars.
Additionally, some motorcycles, such as Harley Davidson bikes and choppers, may have high handlebars for stylistic purposes. However, it’s important to consider both safety and comfort when riding with high handlebars, ensuring that the handlebar height does not impede visibility or cause discomfort during long rides.
Overall, handlebar height can vary according to the motorcycle type, size, and design, with different factors influencing the decision to have high handlebars.
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FAQs Of Why Do Some Motorcycles Have High Handlebars
Why Are Harley Davidsons Handles So High?
Harley Davidsons handles are high because it provides better comfort and an upright riding position, allowing for a stretched arm position and an upright back. This ensures a more comfortable ride for long distances.
What Is A High Handle Bar Motorcycle Called?
A high handlebar motorcycle is commonly known as a “chopper” or “cruiser” bike with tall and wide handlebars. They offer a comfortable riding position and a classic aesthetic.
Are Taller Handlebars Better?
Taller handlebars are better for comfort on long-distance rides, but if they are above shoulder level, riding becomes uncomfortable. Sports bikes and café racers prioritize speed over comfort. Cruisers have higher handlebars for an upright sitting position. Harley Davidson bikes have high handlebars for an upright back and stretched arm position.
Handlebar height should be based on individual preference and comfort.
What Is The Correct Height For Motorcycle Handlebars?
Motorcycle handlebar height varies depending on the type of bike and rider preference. Some motorcycles have high handlebars, such as ape hangers, for better comfort on long-distance rides. However, handlebars should not be above shoulder level as it can be uncomfortable and affect handling.
Sports bikes and café racers prioritize speed over comfort. Ultimately, handlebar height should be chosen to balance comfort and ergonomics.
Conclusion
Motorcycles with high handlebars, such as mini-ape handlebars and ape hangers, are designed to provide better comfort during long-distance rides.
While handlebar height above shoulder level may become uncomfortable, these high handlebars are favored by cruisers for their relaxed position.
However, they may not be as suitable for sports bikes and café racers who prioritize speed over comfort.
Ultimately, the purpose of high handlebars on certain motorcycles is to offer a more ergonomically friendly riding experience, but it is important to consider individual preferences and riding styles.
