How to picking the right aerobars
Aerobars have been popular since the late 1980s. There are many different styles of clip on aerobars and picking the right set can be a bit confusing. The most traditional type is the “S Bend”. (Seen in the bottom of the photo below.)
S-Bend Aerobars are more typically used by time trialists than long distance riders or triathlonist. They are much less comfortable and the longer bars are used to pull up on as a way of stabilizing your upper body. This pulling action also provides more power. Keep in mind that S-bend areobars also offer the least amount of control over the bike.
At the other end of the spectrum of aerobars there are “Ski Bend”. (seen at the top of the image above) Ski bend aerobars do not provide the same amount of leverage that S do, but they put much less stress on your wrists. This is seen in the x-ray of a cyclist wrists using S vs Ski.
What Aerobars are right for me?
Almost any aerobar will put you into a narrower position and picking a set that is comfortable for you is the most important thing. Going to your local bike shop and trying different types will be the easiest way to accomplish this.
Remember that putting yourself into a more aggressive position than your body can tolerate can result in injury, or you just won’t use the aerobar as much despite them being installed.
