Adjusting the handlebar: 3 steps to finding the right handlebar width

The right handlebar width ensures control, comfort, and a natural riding position. Too wide and your shoulders tense up. Too narrow and you lose stability. In just a few simple steps, you can find the ideal width and trim your handlebar cleanly and safely.

Handlebars that are too narrow force your upper body into a cramped position. Your shoulders will roll inward, and you'll start to feel pressure on your wrists and arms more quickly. While riding, the bike feels very agile, but also a bit twitchy – especially at higher speeds or on technical terrain, you lack stability and control.

On the other hand, handlebars that are too wide can cause your shoulders to be hyperextended and lead to tension in your upper back. The bike feels stable and composed at high speeds, but it feels noticeably sluggish in tight corners or winding sections. In addition, your shoulders and forearms get tired more quickly.

The ideal handlebar width lies between these two extremes. Keep your arms slightly bent and your shoulders relaxed. The bike feels precise but not twitchy – stable on downhill sections yet agile enough for winding trails. This is exactly where the perfect balance of control, comfort, and natural handling comes together.

• Tape measure or ruler
• Felt-tip pen or highlighter
• Pipe cutter or metal saw (for carbon: carbon saw blade or cutting disc) 
• Screwdriver/hex wrench for removing the attachments 
• Saw guide or vise with soft jaws
• Sandpaper (fine-grit, e.g., 240-grit) or a metal file / deburrer

Starting point: Body & riding style 

A good starting point is your shoulder width – it indicates where your arms should be in a natural position. Larger riders usually need wider handlebars, while smaller riders need narrower ones. 
Then your riding style matters: 

• Sporty & technical: go for a slightly wider model – more leverage, more control. 

• Touring-oriented & relaxed: choose a slightly narrower model – more stable, more comfortable. 

Start with the stock width of your handlebar and work your way toward your sweet spot in 5–10 mm increments on each side. 

Measure the desired new width from the center of the handlebar to both sides and mark it with a marker. Make sure both sides are symmetrical. 
Remove the grips, brake levers, shift levers, and end caps. 

Securely clamp the handlebar in a saw guide or workbench with soft padding. Now you have two options: 

• Using a pipe cutter (recommended for aluminum): Place the pipe cutter exactly on the mark, tighten it slightly, and turn it evenly around the handlebar. Make a slight adjustment to the blade with each rotation until the pipe is cleanly cut. This results in a precise, straight cut.

• Using a saw: Use a fine-tooth saw blade (for aluminum) or a special carbon blade. Saw smoothly and without applying pressure. 

Then smooth the cut edges with sandpaper or a deburrer. Now you can reinstall the grips, levers, and plugs – all done!

This guide cannot replace a professional bike fitting. If you experience persistent discomfort such as pressure points, numbness, or pain despite trying different saddle settings, you should seek advice. Replacing the saddle can help, as can adjusting the other contact points (handlebar/stem, crankset/pedals).