Mountain Biking - 3 or 5 degree sweep?

Just got my new flat bars today but they sent me 5 degree sweep instead of 3 degree which I ordered

Should I send them back and get the one I ordered or is the difference between them not very noticeable, and what difference would it make?

I got 3 degree cos i think they'd be the most comfortable.

Just got my new flat bars today but they sent me 5 degree sweep instead of 3 degree which I ordered

Should I send them back and get the one I ordered or is the difference between them not very noticeable, and what difference would it make?

I got 3 degree cos i think they'd be the most comfortable.

Take it you have changed from straight bars. A drastic change from flats to curved bars is going to feel strange, and for a good few weeks. I changed over about 4 years ago on one of my bikes and it took a lot of getting used to. I haven't ridden the straight bar bike for 6 months and I am now getting the same bars for that one too.

Degree of sweep does not matter, or it doesn't matter to me. Whether 3 or 5 won't matter at this stage, as they will feel strange for a few weeks until you get used to them.

I've never really had a preference for one or the other. I have used both with very little difference, IMO. If you do notice a difference and you are uncomfortable, you can:

1) Try a longer stem to make up for having the bar angled closer to you.
2) Rotate the bar in your current stem up or down to get a better angle.
3) Adjust your saddle slightly back more to compensate.
4) Return it for the 3 degree bar.

[QUOTE=stapfam]Take it you have changed from flat bars. QUOTE]

Other way around. From low riser to flats. I found the risers pressed on the outside of my palm too much and didnt feel very ergonomic. not like the flats on an old bike I rode a few years ago. I'm worried too much sweep will do the same.

[QUOTE=stapfam]Take it you have changed from flat bars. QUOTE]

Other way around. From low riser to flats. I found the risers pressed on the outside of my palm too much and didnt feel very ergonomic. not like the flats on an old bike I rode a few years ago. I'm worried too much sweep will do the same.

Then get them changed. If only for your own peace of mind.

The thing that kills me is that the natural sweep of the hands is closer to 15 degrees.

Stick your hands out in front of you like you're riding your bike. Close your eyes and imagine you're out riding on the trail for about 10 to 15 seconds (noises and jumps optional) Open your eyes and look how your hands are positioned. That ain't no 3 to 5 (or 6 to 9 for us riser folk) degrees

The thing that kills me is that the natural sweep of the hands is closer to 15 degrees.

Stick your hands out in front of you like you're riding your bike. Close your eyes and imagine you're out riding on the trail for about 10 to 15 seconds (noises and jumps optional) Open your eyes and look how your hands are positioned. That ain't no 3 to 5 (or 6 to 9 for us riser folk) degrees


If you hold your arms out straight it gives you about 15 degrees. bend your arms though with elbows out and it changes alot. (for me anyway)

If you hold your arms out straight it gives you about 15 degrees. bend your arms though with elbows out and it changes alot. (for me anyway)
I didn't say straight out. I said "like you're riding your bike"